Mid-Week Update--Tia Focused

Quoted from Barb:

Late Friday, Tia’s tummy began acting up again. Throughout the weekend, her tummy hurt, but she was able to eat and have a few visitors. By Monday afternoon she was in a lot of pain and began vomiting. Persistent and frequent waves of nausea and vomiting continued throughout the night and into Tuesday. Trying to uncover the cause of her sickness, several tests were ordered. She had a CAT Scan to check for possible effects due to her brain injury which came back “clear.” She was tested for pancreatitis which was ruled out. Blood tests revealed no imbalances in her system. By Tuesday evening, the terrible abdominal pain began to subside, and she was able to keep small amounts of liquid “down.” Wednesday morning she had a test of the upper-GI which showed she had no obstruction or abnormalities of her digestive system—everything is working normally. During her severe sickness Monday afternoon, the feeding tube was expelled. It was quickly decided to leave it out until she was past this illness. That did mean, however, that they had to start an IV in order to keep her hydrated since she was unable to keep anything in her stomach. It also meant that she missed many of her medications, and there was some concern that this could set her back and cause other negative side-effects. Not having the time or energy to send out a full report and request for prayer, I asked a few people that I spoke with to pray. Tia’s tormented tummy settled down and for the first time in many days she had no pain and was able to eat food and feel good! As far as this “setting her back,” wrong! As soon as she was able, we resumed her therapy sessions and her posture, cognitive, motor and communications skills had improved significantly! The therapists were dumbfounded—to God be the glory.

I must share that this amazing little girl’s tender heart and sweet personality shone through, even while doubled-over with abdominal pain and throwing-up. During a brief pause in her nausea, I dozed off in the chair next to her; I startled when she began throwing-up again, and she apologized for waking me! She was polite with the myriad of doctors as they questioned, poked and prodded always saying “thank you” and “please.” The doctors were astounded—to God be the glory.

Late Tuesday after her tummy seemed to be settling down and while resting quietly, a series of questions tumbled from her mind to her lips. Having been well coached and counseled, I was as prepared as I could be to help her when the questions came. We have been answering just the question she is asking at the time with simplicity, yet honesty. Up to this point, she knew her family was in a plane crash and everyone was hurt. Since Summer had visited, she understood her injuries, and since she had talked with Daddy, we had discussed his injuries. She also knew Mommy and Austin were in the accident and had been hurt badly. Now, her questions explored deeper. As she learned of the deaths of her mom and brother, we cried and held onto each other. Because she is not only my niece but also my sister-in-Christ and knows Jesus personally, we were able to talk about heaven and that Mom and Austin were there, and we’d see them again. While this truth cannot completely take away the pain, loss and grief, it can bring a measure of relief. We’ve had “tender heart” moments throughout the day, and we’ll continue to walk at her pace—to God be the glory.

It was only days ago that some doctors, due to the extent of Tia’s brain injuries, felt her condition may not improve and gave little hope of a “full” recovery. Today, I watched Tia stand with very little assistance and support and walk across a room with a walker smiling proudly at her accomplishment. Today, we talked about deep and complex things that she was able to understand as much as anyone her age. Today, during an assessment of her cognitive skills, I observed her following multiple verbal directions with ease. Today, as every day, I experienced love beyond comprehension. Today, as every day…to God be the glory.

Summer’s healing is no less a testimony to the power of prayer. Last Thursday following her physical therapy, she visited Tia. She was quick to remind me that I promised to take her for a pedicure when she could bend her knees. Friday morning, we not only got pedicures but manicures as well—a girl has to look good! Then, it was a trip to the mall but not before a few detours to pet and salt water aquarium stores—Summer loves animals! We had a delightful day and reminisced a bit about Mom over lunch. Today, following her appointment with the orthopedist, she stopped by to visit Tia and was given the clearance to begin bearing weight on her legs and using a walker. She and Tia are planning “walker races”! Summer has been the perfect, supportive and loving big sister, and Tia can’t wait until Summer comes to visit. Last night, Summer, Tia, Ashley and I had a “pizza party.” Summer and Tia sat next to each other in Tia’s hospital bed eating pizza and cinna’sticks while watching Hannah Montana. Knowing the power, bond and gift of sisterhood, I thankful they have each other—to God be the glory.

Greg continues his road to recovery as well and heading home gets closer every day. We know this transition will hold its own measure of joy and pain as we continue to uphold “Job” with our love and prayers—to God be the glory.