Several weeks have passed since
I last updated this blog, and I have been getting some subtle reminders so I
guess I’d better get into it! Thanks to you all for your continued interest,
concern and prayers. It means a lot to know that although Brian and I have to
take a quieter profile, you haven’t forgotten about us.
Over the last couple of weeks
there have been some delightful surprises, including:
·
A packet of licorice tea to enjoy (nearly as refreshing
as licorice ice-cream)
·
A packet of new Lindt Sea Salt Caramel
chocolates to taste-test – an interesting taste sensation
·
A lovely visit from Simon & Caitlin
·
A veritable army of helpers to help us prepare for
and celebrate Adrian’s 30th birthday.
·
And even a glorious autumn day today to enjoy a
drive with Brian around Bridgewater Bay and along dirt roads through the native
bush at Mt Richmond.
Adrian’s birthday party provided a wonderful example of
the amazing community of family and friends who surround us. All it took was
the suggestion, and friend Jen took off with the idea and became my hands and
feet in pulling together an open lunch after church on Sunday! The hall was
decorated in red and blue (Adrian’s cricket club colours), delicious food was
supplied by numerous wonderful friends and over 50 people enjoyed lunch, games
and a chat, and duly celebrated the occasion. I felt so unbelievably blessed
last night as I reflected on this. Perhaps I can even say I am thankful for the
ways Brian and I have been forcibly disabled, because this has highlighted the generous
and servant hearts of those around us. I thank God for them all.
Another proactive effort for me has been to finally get
my act into gear and organize to go twice a week to the swimming pool for
exercise. It must be doing some good as I am quite stiff afterwards, despite
the gentle nature of the exercises. It is quite good to be in the heated pool
as the water gives buoyancy and support, and I can exercise different muscles. Between
swimming and my twice-weekly exercise program I have never in my life been so
proactive about exercising! Considering my otherwise enforced inactivity, it
must surely be helping??
Health-wise, nothing much has changed. My oncologist roared with laughter after chatting
with me about my recent visit to the orthopoedic surgeon when I commented about
her possible intention to inject concrete into my compromised pelvic bone – cement is the word, not concrete! I’m on a steep learning curve!
In the meantime I am being referred to a neurosurgeon to
investigate how my spine can be stabilized. I haven’t heard yet when this
appointment will take place but after exploring several possibilities, we will
be seeing a neurosurgeon from St Vincent’s hospital – Mr Tiew Han – who travels
to Warrnambool to consult with patients. This would be a huge help for us - if
surgery is required it would take place at St Vincent’s but all pre and post
appointments would be much closer to home. Interestingly, Tiew Han is the same
surgeon who operated very successfully on Brian’s neck 4 years ago (inserting a
plate and 6 screws) so we feel quite happy about that as we were happy with his
professionalism and care.
In the meantime, on Wednesday this week Brian will
undergo a procedure here in Portland hospital which we hope may help with his
debilitating bladder problem. It is just a day procedure, but we are praying
for anything that will help relieve some of his uncomfortable symptoms.
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| Adrian's birthday - Sonya I need you, I'm getting too short!!! |
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| Don't photos make great cakes! |
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