Tracy's Trip To The Hospital

Just in case anyone wonders!

2009-12-16T12:25:00.000-08:00

I got to thinking that I left our story without letting you guys know how much I've fully recovered. I now only have a tiny bit of tumor left and was cleared for a year... I go back in April of 2010 for another MRI. I also have almost all of my facial movement back. I have just enough paralysis left to remind me of how good God has been to me.

I want to post a current picture so you can see the change. (We'll see if I can figure it out ;0) Anyway .... just didn't want to close the book on our story without telling you how well I'm doing. I sure am thankful to be alive and each day is a beautiful blessing. It's a lot easier to "not sweat the small stuff"... brain surgery puts things in perspective really quickly. Love, Tracy

I Made It!!!!

2008-05-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

I made it to Christopher's wedding - I WALKED down the aisle and stayed up late!!! (stayed until 9:30pm!!!) Just thought if anyone is still checking they'd like to know that it was an incredible night watching my oldest marry his sweetheart. God is so GOOD. Thank you, Lord.
I will try to get Jeff to post a picture from the wedding later.

End of the Road

2008-04-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well... never thought I'd be a blogger but stranger things have happened (esp. in the last few months!!)I am on the mend and don't want to continue boring you with little details so this will be my last blog. I still look forward to your visits and phone calls though!!

I have been overwhelmed with the love and support we have received through this journey. I know I've said it before but THANK YOU all for all you have done. I look forward to seeing what God has in store for me next. Maybe we will write a book!!! There is so much I want to share and am still processing myself. I hope that in the next few months I can share with others just how awesome God has been - as I know you know that. I keep looking in the mirror and thinking here I am "God's modern day miracle" - When I get discouraged I just remember that "I am fearfully and wonderfully made" -the healing process is a miracle in itself. In that sense we really ALL are His miracles - He has made us so incredibly. To think I have a big ole hole in my head and my brains aren't leaking out :) Some of you may question that but it's the truth.

It's funny how the little things have come to mean so much. A quiet dinner, a ride to town, a friend's phone call, reading the Bible, journaling, visiting with family and friends - things I have taken for granted or crammed into a busy schedule. I hope and pray God will never let me forget the things I've gained from this experience. Maybe my scar will serve to remind me. (His nail scarred hands remind us of all we gained at His expense) Well, I feel like I am babbling so.... just remember how much you mean to me. We have copied the whole blog and I've saved every card and email and will enjoy going back through them all. Thanks again, precious ones. I love you. I'll be seeing you around. Love, Tracy Ann ;>)

I'm sure Jeff will have a farewell blog too so hang tight

just a little something

2008-04-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

Hey guys - if I get started I will never stop so for now know that all is well in this little world of mine. thanks to those who have called, stopped by, brought dinner etc. It does help break up my day and every day I am getting stronger and back to my old self (oh no!!!) As soon as this eye starts to blinking I think I will be able to do a lot more. i am typing with my glasses on and a bandana over my right eye so I can focus -things are still blurry from the gel I put in my eye. I can't wait to see all of you. Thanks for being a part of this miracle with us. You are precious to us. Love, Tracy :)

Like Mother Leaving Her Child at School the First Day

2008-04-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

That is what I felt like today. I left about 4:30 a.m. to get to Austin. I stayed there all day, well until about 2:00 p.m. anyway. But when I called at 7:10 a.m. to make sure Bethany was up and going (I knew she would be), I felt...well... distant. I know that sounds like a pun, and technically, it is, but I felt the distance. All I could do was talk on the phone. Anything that happened, good or bad, would be beyond my ability to do anything about. (You know, you just can't write that sentence without putting the preposition at the end and it still sound right! Sorry grammar teachers of America.) (I know, I know, I could rewrite the whole sentence, but come on...).

And besides, Tracy's great Mom was taking care of things. But, mothers, you know it doesn't matter how much someone can show you that things are taken care of (oops, another misplaced preposition. I think the rules need to change.) you still feel what you feel. Oh my gosh, I'm turning into a woman! Aaaaggghhh. If you were in my Sunday School class Sunday, you would have heard me talk about mothers who say, "I'm a mother" to justify their worrying. Ok, now look, I wasn't really worrying. I just wanted to be there to take care of her. When I called about 1:00 p.m. and she hadn't eaten lunch and wasn't sure what she would do, (She can make it well enough, but there are potentials for problems there, you know.) I wished I was there to just take care of it. That's not worrying, it's just love. There, that ought to get me back in line a little ... yeah right!

She really did fine. She wrote a few of thank you notes and slept. We have learned from our experiences, and from some of you, that she's gotta sleep a lot right now. That's ok. She is really doing great. She walked on the treadmill again tonight and she went a least a mile if not longer.

She takes naps during the day, but call her if you can or want to. She will be home alone mostly. That may not be all bad, but she still can't do a whole lot for very long without wearing out. It makes for a long day.

Man, I forgot something I wanted to say to you. Oh well. In the immortal words of my mother, "Well, it must not have been very important." Goodness a mercy!

Hi Dad!

Jeff

Perspective

2008-04-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

We have a friend, a friend of Tracy's from college, who has an illness that keeps her in constant pain, real pain, unbearable pain. It started with an accident probably 10 or more years ago. Doctors can't stop the pain. Nothing works, spinal blocks, nothing. She lives that way every day. Committed Christian family. Pain all day, every day, doesn't stop. It has changed her. How could it not?

My dad: back and neck problems so severe, he is never out of pain and he can't work; came from that pull-yourselves-up-by-your-own-bootstraps-take-care-of-yourself-make-your-own-way generation; proud man who lost the opportunity to engage that which his generation said is what gives you pride. Then he gets throat cancer and loses his vocal cords. Then, essentially home bound, he is one of less than a hundred in Texas to get West Nile Virus. What in the world? Now, he requires assistance for basic tasks.

You know this page could be chock full of more examples.

"There but for the grace of God...".

"I complained about having no shoes until I saw a man with no feet".

I'm sure there are more maxims, but you get the point. Tracy and I have been blessed by God and man for the extreme circumstances we have been through. Admittedly, they are extreme in the sense that it is a relatively rare occurence. It is life changing, dramatic, traumatic, time and energy stealing, debilitatingly expensive, emotionally and spiritually challanging and so much more.

Our experiences, however, have been easy. They have been easy, because God allowed it to be easy and you have supported us in every way. We have been complimented on how well we have dealt with this event. We are not heroes of faith. We have been carried through this whole deal by God through your prayers. We have ridden on a wave of God's love expressed in and through His people. What if God gave us the harder path? What would we do, what would you do, if this went on for 10 years? What would I do, what would you do, if for the next many years, Tracy required constant attention? And what if she had a bad attitude about it, because that was just part of it? How long before it got old? How long before the help and assistance offered got to be a burden? What about those people whose challanges are not physical but emotional? What about those who have weak characters - they drink too much or gossip or are stupidly arrogant because they are so ego needy - because somewhere in their lives, they were hurt, and they have not accepted the strength to overcome it, yet. What about those who live in fear and those who love their things?

Are we blessed because we believe? What about those who believe, but do not receive the blessings? It is the Daniel vs. Jeremiah condition? One, an exalted prince, the other a prophet in a dungeon. Which servant of God would you choose to be?

Forgive me, please. You can see I am rambling some. But we are not special. We are just one of the many who have needs...and our needs are not so pertinent as some...and we have been incredibly provided for by this family of God in ways that make this easy, not desireable, but manageable. Tracy said the other day that she was concerned that she was forgetting to consider God, not in an eternal or angry sense, but because of the difficulty of the constant irritations of her eye, not being able to bend, being tired all the time, spinal fluid leaking, and all the stuff with which she must attend to with this condition. It must be a literal, active effort to "keep your eyes on Jesus" when it hurts, or it's hard, or you keep losing ground or get beat down by life, health, work, parents, whatever anyone's particular struggles are.

Everyone has something. And everyone's something is as bad for them as someone else's something is for them. That may sound kind of weird, but the point is our tragedies are relative to our ability to handle them and what we are given to handle them with. For instance, Tracy and I have been held gently in your praying arms and thus our struggles are lighter. But, you know that not everyone gets that. Jesus said, "the poor will always be with you." I think Matthew 25:31-46, the parable of the sheep and goats, shows us that this is true about the sick, the hungry, the imprisoned, etc. also. There will always be those with needs, of some kind. And Scripture also shows that not every believer lives as an exalted prince during their time on earth.

So, what is this all about, Jeff? I'm not exactly sure, except that for the last 3 weeks I have had all my focus on handling our issues. And as we begin to surface, I see everyone else... Oh, wait, a weird image popped up: The Titanic is sinking. I put all my effort into saving my family and other people help me. That is my whole world until I have them essentially safe. Then I look around at all the other people bobbing in the water and know they are struggling, too. Imagine the scene: some are just floating in the water; some on wrecks of wood, or whatever; some in lifeboats; some to afraid to jump from the sinking ship, and on and on in your own imagination. Remember Francis Schaffer's question: How shall we then live?

Maybe I am feeling a little guilty, because we got it so good. We don't deserve it this way. We didn't do anything to merit this abundance. Once again, it sounds a lot like salvation. But there are others who don't get to have it this way. I don't know why. It just is.

Here is what I know. Tracy and I have been extremely blessed; by God and by His people, we have been given the light burden (Matthew 11:28-30). We have believed His word and lived in the promises of His peace and strength. We lose sight sometimes, but God has never lost sight of us. So what do we do? Love God and love our neighbors as ourselves. This sums up the Law and the Prophets.

I could go on and on, but it's afer midnight and sometimes you just gotta stop.

See you guys Sunday, I hope.

Jeff

Ophthalomogy Report

2008-04-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. Horton saw Tracy today and she was so very kind and sweet. She knew immediately what to do for Tracy. I was not there (I am a little frustrated by that - bad decision making on my part), but Tracy and her Mom did fine without me, of course. First, Dr. Horton said use only eye drops that are preservative free. Secondly, any eye drop that has Benzalkonium chloride is a no-no. Don't use it. Actually, that is what was causing Tracy's blurred vision. Get this. The vision was blurred because of the chemical irritation of those drops and from exposure.

So, Dr. Horton has Tracy putting a lot more of the Lacrilube in at night and during the day if she needs it. That can't be overdone. Also, she wants a much tighter and bigger patch at night. She also said she had no concerns for Tracy to get a lazy eye and not to worry about it.
If these procedures don't work well enough, some more extreme measures can be taken. They might include a contact that would hold the moisture in once the eye drops were put in the eye; suturing the corner of the bottom eyelid to the top eyelid, which would help it close; and a water chamber, which is some kind of instrument that would actually keep the eye hydrated.

Tracy says her eye all ready feels one hundred percent better.

So, Tracy had a big day today. She'll be pretty tired tonight. Her mom took wonderful care of her while they were out and about today. She had to be out a lot and it was comforting to know her mom was there.

Kinda short today, but got to get to bed to get up early for work. However, I am coming back home early tomorrow.

Jeff

Doctor's Report

2008-04-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

We went to see Dr. Oghalai today and got the stitches out. While we sat in the office waiting for him to come in, we came up with about 16 questions for which we wanted answers. So when he came in he started right away looking at the incision to take out the stitches and commented that the incision looked great (emphasis on the great). While he was doing that, Tracy started asking questions. Now, that's a good thing, but it wasn't in the order that I wrote them, so I had to scramble around on my notes to write out the answers. As a result, I didn't get to see him take out the stitches!! What a drag. They came out so fast.
He didn't take the stitches in the ear out. They are made out of gut, so they will eventually dissolve. (I wonder how many other people thought, "Whose gut did they come from?" or Maybe it was cat gut and that's why Tracy wants to be petted all the time. heehee)

One of the questions was whether or not Tracy could go swimming. It's funny because I can't remember the last time Tracy even wanted to swim, but we asked it anyway. Not for another 3 weeks is the answer. And actually, that is the time frame for about anything else like bending down, or any strenuous activity. The numbness in her head and ear (which she says feels like rubber) will go away when the cutaneous nerves grow back or are revitalized. We asked about doing something to stimulate function on the right side of her face. He said there has to be motion before exercise of the muscles can do anything. But we could try massages, lymphatic massage. Some people think it helps, but there is no medical support for it. The facial muscles will return slowly. It is gonna be like watching for your child to take their first steps. I can imagine that some time in the future we will write a blog like, "She moved her right cheek 3 times" announcing it like a proud parent. There is a scale used to rate movement in facial paralysis from 1 to 6; 6 being none. Tracy has been a 6, but today, Dr. Oghalai said he would consider her a 5. He didn't see movement, but he felt that her face looked more toned or taut. It could be just that the swelling is down and we are seeing more of her natural face, but he still put her at a 5.

Now for the fun stuff. We asked about the hole made in her head for the surgery. Does she have a soft spot? Where is it? How big is it? The hole is essentially under or behind her ear. Uhmmm, like if you stuck a pencil in your ear (don't do that!!) going towards the center of your skull. That is what I mean by behind or under, not in back of or below, but towards the epicenter of her head. The hole is a little bigger around than a jumbo egg from the supermarket. So, there is no bone on that part of her head. That is where they put the fat they took out of her belly. They just shoved it into the void left by the tumor. Eventually, the fat will harden up a little, a dural layer will cover it and some scar tissue, which will give it some rigidity, but there will be no bone. Dr. Oghalai pointed out that it is not really important for there to be bone there unless (this is kind of weird, but funny) she got shot by an arrow at that point. There would be nothing to stop it. Well, we're sure gonna be looking out for that! Now, the void is really deep. It goes all the way to the middle of her head, essentially.
We got to look at the post-op MRI and here is what we saw. A lot of you have probably seen some kind of x-ray picture of a skull. There is it's familiar skull shape. You can make out where the eye sockets are and see some bone, and see the two lobes of the brain in the middle surrounding the brain stem, etc. Well, in Tracy's head the left side has a brain lobe in it. The right side has a bunch of fat. It is a large dark spot that takes up the majority of the area on that side of her head. Did they cut out her brain? No, the brain is still in there, but it was compressed, or squished, and it is mostly going to stay that way. For all practical purposes, Tracy really does have a big hole in her head...with fat in it. Does that make her a ... she said it first ... I didn't even think of it ... a ... fat head? Now, the hole is sort of in the shape of an egg, so she could be an egg-head. I didn't come up with that one either.

The pathology report is complete and her tumor is classified as a benign grade 1 meningioma. Benign means it's not cancer. Grade 1 means it is the most benign kind. That is a great thing.

So, speaking of the tumor and its growth, we also saw on the MRI the bits of tumor left in there. Dr. Oghalai pointed out that one part was left in because it was crowded around a major blood vessel. The other chunk was around nerves 9, 10, and 11. Of the most significant was the swallowing ability, which is covered by those nerves. Part of the reason we did not have such intensive rehab (and you know, Tracy has not required any) is because they did not mess with the tumor around those nerves. BUT it can still grow there. If it does and it destroys those nerves or they have to go in there and destroy those nerves to stop the tumor, will she have to have a feeding tube installed and live that way forever? No (this is really cool), they will let the tumor slowly destroy that nerve. WHAT??!!! Yeah, and as it does it, the brain will kind of match it step for step and compensate for what is being lost so that by the time the tumor has done its dirty work and it is time to take it out, Tracy's brain will have all ready shifted responsibility for the swallowing function away from the nerve that is being attacked and established it somewhere else (I assume just on the other side of the symmetrical brain). It's like a chess game or some kind of tactical warfare in a science fiction story. Pretty neato.

Though we don't go back to Dr. Oghalai until July 23rd for another MRI and evaluation, we are not done yet with working on the effects of the operation, or tumor, or whatever. (By the way, of the tumor that was left in there, Dr. Oghalai believes that it will be smaller when we see it in July, because it has lost so much of its mass and nutrition supply.) Tomorrow, Thursday the 17th, Tracy will see an ophthalmologist to see if there is anything that can be done for her right eye. Her vision is blurry and, of course, we have mentioned too many times how much trouble she has with it as it does not produce tears. Dr. Oghalai mentioned putting a gold weight under the eyelid to help it close all the way. Pretty weird. Anyway, I hope the ophthalmologist can help. Dr. Oghalai did say he doesn't want any procedures done on Tracy, however, because he does not want to impede the healing of her brain.

We decided that she can't be at the revival, being that it is outside. Someone smarter than me also mentioned Tracy's vulnerable condition to contagions from crowds of people, like a cold or something. That's something I didn't consider. More than anything though, it would not be good for Tracy to be outside for any period of time.

Ok, lots of words here. Tomorrow, I hope I can take some time to deal with a little more of our heart and daily struggle stuff; to provide some direction for praying.

Gotta go to bed. Everybody keep looking ahead. It's the only way to go.

Jeff

Here’s Somethin’ We haven’t Talked About

2008-04-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

But you gotta hear.

We have talked about how God has blessed Tracy physically and us spiritually, how He has answered prayer, and how He has shown Himself to us. We have alluded to the struggles ahead and our intentions, (and requests for prayerful support) to meet them with faith that God is in control and we can submit to Him in confidence.

But here’s another part of this grace adventure you gotta hear. What about the financial!? As you may have guessed, this has been and continues to be a very expensive process. By the time we are done, the bills will top $200,000. We don’t have insurance. We are not independently wealthy. How in the world will it get paid for?

These are questions we had in the beginning and our conversation with God went something like this, “God, you allowed that tumor to be in there. You gotta give us a way to get it out. We can’t do it ourselves.” He said, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And I am faithful. I will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. And if you are tempted, I will provide you a way out so that you can stand up under it” (1 Cor. 10:13 written in first person from God’s point of view). If you want to know how this is about temptation, come to Sunday School this Sunday.

So, since we obviously have had the surgery (and the hospital and surgeons were telling us we could not proceed until we had the money), how did God do it?

Well, it started last year when we refinanced our house to have money to make some kind of investment. We did lots of looking and researching and each time we were about ready to sign our name on the proverbial dotted line, neither Tracy nor I believed it was God’s leading and we stopped. Of course, we owe a lot more on the house, but we had some money to take care of several medical and dental needs that were pressing for attention. And of course, that money became instrumental in proving to the necessary parties that we would pay for our services. We borrowed some money to make some down payments in order that we could maintain some operating capital from the money that we got from the refinance deal. See, we thought we were getting some money to make more money. But God was providing for the future that we could not see.

We don’t have insurance, but we are involved in a group called Samaritan Ministries. It is a group of I-don’t-know-how-many- thousands of Christians who pay each other’s medical bills. It has standards and limits, and rules about what is covered and what is not and it is a strong and viable system of taking care of our medical needs. We have been provided for through this organization several times all ready. Instead of us sending a check to an insurance company, we send a check to a person who has bills to pay for their medical care. The process is efficiently organized and directed by an administration and it is incredible how well it works. It is very personal and it provides for, and encourages, each member to be involved spiritually. As a matter-of-fact, the fella who handles our account from the Samaritan Ministries business office has called more than once to pray with us as we have gone through this process. How cool is that? However, it still means that we are paying cash for our medical needs.

In recognition of the fact that we would never be able to pay what all this costs, we applied for financial aid at Methodist Hospital and got…are you ready…are you sure…ok, here goes… about an 85% discount on hospital services. You do the math and you will find that we have been blessed with well over a hundred thousand dollars of assistance. Folks, that’s a miracle! Seriously, that is not just a good thing or a, “Wow, that’s incredible” thing. No, that is a "God thing" as He provides for us in our time of need. Additionally, we were instructed to inform other professional service providers of the hospital’s provision and they would provide significant discounts as well. Based on the fact that we are cash paying customers, we have been blessed to see discounts with other service providers also.

With the financial aid, the discounts, the money from our refinance and Samaritan Ministries, we should be able to cover all the bills. (Did you catch that; “all the bills”?) The money we borrowed, we can pay back quickly. You know what that means? God provided; through all kinds of different avenues and ways. He was never concerned about it. He had already said, “Do not worry…” You just have to stop a moment and read Matthew 6:25-34. It’ll just sit you down and pull tears out of your eyes to know that He keeps His promises and His word is true. You can see it is true in the descriptions of His interaction in our lives.

And here’s a way He has provided that may be the most humbling: YOU. We have received money, gifts, time, resources, advice, wisdom, love, patience, kindness; things material, spiritual, emotional and beneficial in all kinds of ways…and a lot of it. It would take a whole ‘nuther (and longer) essay to describe what you have given, how much and how valuable it has been. The material is obviously a financial blessing. It also is a spiritual and emotional blessing as it provides us with less stress and greater peace and an experiential assurance of the family to which we belong. But I want you to know that the non-material, though a blessing in itself in so many ways, is also a financial blessing, because it allows us to be at peace and to make good decisions and to use our resources wisely.

Guys, God is at work in Tracy physically. And through that He has been at work in so many other ways. He has answered your prayers to our benefit. We, (you also who have shared) have grown so much in so many ways because of this experience we get to have (and it ain’t over). God has provided for us in this time: not me, not insurance, not any of our ways, but His. We can’t claim any brilliance or work ethic or effort for what He has done and what you have given. We have merely received. Sounds kinda like salvation, doesn’t it? All we can do is receive. And when it is all said and done, we owe everything to Him who gave. And so we live in honor of that gift and the gifts that keep on comin’.

Last thing; in spite of how much I have written here tonight (oh for crying out loud, it’s morning now…oh well) there is more. I’ll have to tell you about it later, but God has provided in even more ways. Amazing, isn’t it? I think so. And I’m glad, because God is amazing.

Thanks for listening.

Jeff

Tracy Walked A Mile

2008-04-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tracy walked a mile on the treadmill tonight. She walked for 24.45 minutes at speeds between 2 and 2.7 mph. What do you think of that? I'll tell you though, she was wiped out afterwards. She is asleep now, of course. It's after 10:00 p.m.

She was tired a lot today. She was surprised this morning when she woke up that she still felt really tired. So, after breakfast, she took a nap. She looked tired and I think she really just needed more sleep. Remember, she went to church yesterday and had a visitor and some phone calls. Don't let this stop you from calling to talk or schedule a visit. She'll tell you what she can and can't do. We like you guys.

Today she called a couple of doctor's offices to get bills straightened out while I was picking up Bethany from school. Yes, the bills have started coming in. Just for grins, the OR (operating room) alone was $30,000+. Isn't that nuts? (Hey, I've got an idea! I'm gonna rent out my house as an operating room. That could pay some bills.) Ah well, that doesn't even touch the value of Tracy. So, as I see it, we still got the better deal getting to keep her around.

Tomorrow, Tuesday the 15th, I'm going to go in to work. I'll take Bethany to school, stop back by the house and then go on in. Ann, Tracy's mom, will come in and be with Tracy. I'm going to be able to take off in time to pick up Bethany. Then, Wednesday we go to the doctor in Houston, which will turn into an all day affair. Starting Thursday, I should be back at work on a regular basis, though I will be close to home. Normally, I am at work by 5 or 5:30 a.m. and home any time from 4 to 7:00 p.m. or so. Kind of depends on where I have to be. My work can routinely be up to 200 miles away. For the next couple of weeks, I believe I will be allowed to be close. But Tracy is doing so well and we have a humongus support network, so we'll see.

So, we will be doing something new; at least in light of the last 3 weeks or so. It will be interesting to see how we do things with me back at work. I don't want Tracy thinking she needs to start taking responsibility for doing the clothes, dishes, recycling or whatever we all have to do everyday to keep our houses in order. I think she pretty well knows her limits and respects them. She is pretty bright that way. She teased me about how I would be if our roles were reversed, basically saying I would not respect my limits very well. I'm afraid she's probably right and it is something for me to think about. In the meantime, however, I want to make sure she is comfortable with just taking care of what she needs to do to stay healthy and healing. If you would make this aspect of our journey a matter of your prayers, we will be stronger for it; that we would handle these new roles and situations with wisdom, patience and love.

Did you know that washing clothes is like pulling weeds? They just keep coming back!

Enjoy the adventure,

Jeff

Tracy Went to Church

2008-04-13T17:11:00.001-07:00

Man! I should have taken a picture. But we were in church, after all. Of course, when she came in and sat down, she got lots of hugs and hellos. Lots of smiles and comments like, "She's doing so well." And she is. It did wear her out, though. She came home and took a much needed nap immediately after lunch.

Later in the afternoon, she had a visitor and it was a great time. (I went to another room, but could hear them and it was wonderful to hear them just talking like good ol' friends.) Thank you gals for coming over and calling. Have you ever been tired, but it was a good kind of tired; the kind of tired that when you get to rest, you sigh and slink comfortably into your couch, or recliner and as you close your eyes you are thankful for the work that got you that tired? That is what I see in Tracy after getting to be with kind people.

I said I should have taken a picture, because at church, Tracy's eye started bothering her, so she put on her sunglasses. She has these big ol' sunglasses and she was wearing her little soft cap that covers her cut. She looked like a movie star who was trying to be disguised in public. It did help her eye well enough, so we didn't care about the look, but it was a fun moment.

BUT never fear, we got a picture at home. What a gal!!!
Bethany takes the pictures and I told her that there was a star in Tracy's glasses and wondered if there was a way to get it out. She said, "No, it belongs there. Mom's a star." What a cool kid.

Still no leak from the cut. That's a good thing. We go Wednesday to the doctor to get the stitches out and ask lots of questions. Still sleeping in the chair and on the couch. Will probably stay that way until we see the doctor so he can belay any fears or issues we have.

Oh, I meant to tell you that when you call, a lot of times we have the phone on the speaker. Sometimes, it is just easier for now. That may not really matter to anybody, but it seems like you ought to know.

I'm trying to get Tracy to speak to the adult Sunday School class on Sunday morning of the revival. She hasn't said no, but she did say, "I better start resting up." She's a little apprehensive right now and understandably so. Right now, it's a we'll see.

Thank you for writing us back in the comments. We are so encouraged after we read them.

Because you guys are great,

Jeff

The leak has stopped!

2008-04-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

For now, anyway. We took the compression bandage off at about 11:30 a.m. No leak. We had several visitors on Friday. It was so nice for Tracy to get to see people. She is really nervous about getting outside during this beautiful spring.

Tracy did a bunch of stuff around the house today. Those mundane chores that have to be done. She is always going forward.

She hopes to make it to church tomorrow.

Just kind of wanted to give you the little latest.

Jeff

Living in the Kingdom Family

2008-04-10T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hello, Saints!

When I go to town to take Bethany to school, or pick her up, or run errands or whatever, I see people who know what is going on with us. Inevitably, they smile, hug me and say how amazed they are that Tracy is doing so well. They say they have been praying and they read the blog all the time to see what is happening. Today, someone told me that they happened to see a friend of their's from the past who said their whole Bible study group was praying for a girl in Chappell Hill who had a brain tumor and what was her name? Isn't that crazy? These are people who we don't know from anywhere or any time and they have been beseeching God on our behalf. How did they find out? What investment do they have in us? Now, I am going to be rather specific here, but she didn't say they prayed. She said they were praying. That is a present condition, having begun in the past, which continues into the future. People are praying all the time! Who is praying? The family is praying. What family? The family of God is praying.

I enjoy an image in my head of God listening to the prayers of His children. As He listens, He keeps hearing Tracy's name. The more He hears it, a little grin wrinkles his cheeks. He hears it again and again, and from so many different places, and the grin stretches uncontrollably into a smile. Her name keeps coming and coming from all over the earth and a chuckle that crescendos to a hearty laugh of absolute, thrilling happiness that His Tracy is being loved and cared for spills out of his heart. His eyes gleam and sparkle and He can't wait to send Tracy the blessings and love that have been lifted up just for her. WHOOHOO!!! Man, just writing it gets me all kinds of happy.

I gotta kinda come down off that mountain a minute. Whoooooo. Ok, ahem, ahem, cough, cough. Ok. Ok.
A wonderful fella of experienced faith through tragedy shared something with me on the day of Tracy's surgery. He was preparing to teach on prayer and he found Daniel's experience with the angel who was delayed from coming to Daniel's aid for twenty-one days. Listen to chapter 10, verse 12 of Daniel: "Then he said to me, 'Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words'...." Consider "from the first day", and "because of your words". God hears us the first time and He answers because we call on Him. You know, you have His attention the very moment you call on His name. What beauty! I can't leave this without appreciating that the angel recognized Daniel's condition as he sought God: He set his "heart to understand" and "humbled[d] himself before God". We have to be sincere. God is real and so must we be also.

It's getting late and Tracy is waiting for me to turn out the light. I should be more diligent in getting this done. She walked on the treadmill again today. Another 1/2 mile in 15 minutes. She's great. She was kind of cranky (in a fun kind of way, but still cranky) today; kind of funny and encouraging, because it means she wants more than she's got...and she's gonna get it.

One of you asked what could be done since you can't get over here, books on tape etc. She has been given a couple of tapes and actually plans to start one tomorrow. We did the bills today. It took a couple of different sit down times, because she got really tired. (Tracy has been our house and home administrator for years and years. Since she is able, it is better for her to direct these chores than for me to try and take them over...and mess them up.) She's not really ready to go out to eat. We did stop at a restaurant on the way back from the doctor the other day (using a gift card provided by one of you). She was freshly bandaged in the princess-one-bun-aunt-Jemima style and it took a little gumption to be that public, but she had to eat (we had been in the doctors office through lunch and breakfast was hours earlier). She's got gumption, though.

What you can do is call her. Talk to her. The sweet calls break up the day. If you're long distance, call us and we'll call you back. When we figured out that we would be going to surgery and expected to be in the hospital for 6 to 8 weeks, we got a land-line phone plan where all the long distance calls are covered by the established monthly fee. We may not be in the hospital, but the phone plan can't change, so let's use it. Also, if you use cingular wireless for your cell phone service, your wireless call to our land-line number will not count against your minutes. That's just part of the package. (sounds like an ad for Cingular doens't it?) Look forward to hearing from you.

Livin' in the family and lovin' it.

Jeff

I don't know if you guys have noticed, but the time on this thing is way off, about three hours. It's after 10:30 p.m. now. Oh well, probably doesn't matter.

Another Day

2008-04-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well, another day of life after brain surgery. I think that is a fair representation of the way Tracy feels. It's the drudgery of feeling the effects of everything all the time. The surgery, the medicine, the dry eye and the long days of not being able to do anything but sit in a dim room.

Now, that sounds pretty depressing, and it is, but she's pushing on. She's antsy for more out of her life. She doesn't give up or give in. She is feisty. That's why she feels the way she does. She lives life.

Oh, you want proof. Ok, you know how I've been saying that she can't really walk around outside because of her eye? So, I picked up a treadmill and set it up in the living room. Now, she didn't feel well today, because of the new medicine she is taking (we think), not drinking enough water (bad, bad girl - I was gone a little today [when the cat's away...]) and the ever aggravating eye. So, after a meal literally laid out as if for royalty (and extremely tasty), provided for us and delivered by three ladies with smiles I will not soon forget, Tracy wanted to "get out of the house". We took a little road trip to her parents house (a couple of miles away) and stayed for about 15 or so minutes before her eye started itching like nuts. We came home and took some allergy medicine and put some allergy drops in her eyes and she rested. THEN she got on the treadmill and walked about 1/2 a mile at 1.6 mph for about 15 minutes.

WHAT?? Jeff, let that girl rest! She is...now. I guarantee it. Hey, Dr. Oghalai said she could sweat. Now we're not sweatin', but she did say she was getting hot on her walk. We turned on the fans and she finished what she wanted to do. I'm telling you, this girl is an inspiration. Listen, I guess I'm saying this because I see her feelin' icky and just dealin' with it. I love her, you know?

A little technical stuff. The medicine she is taking is like a diuretic, so it works to get water out of her body. That is what will help reduce the production of spinal fluid and allow the incision to heal. Well, since that is what the medicine does, she needs to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. You know that when you don't get enough water in your system, you get fatigued and you just feel icky. Water is important to the body; 70% of our physical self is water, so....

We're back in the chair and couch for a while. It's just more comfortable and less intimidating than the bed.

I've talked to some of you on the phone who have said you have been waiting to visit because you don't want to overwhelm her and tire her out. Go ahead and call, so you can set a time to come. Her days get long and boring. I should be back at work next week and there will be people here or "on call", but call and see what you can do, if you want to.

Ok, I'm gonna sign off. You guys have a good evening or day or whatever when you're reading this.

Jeff

Never say die! As day closed into evening and Tracy was getting ready for her bath, she was complaining of her vision being blurry and just an overall odd feeling. I looked in her eyes and noticed that her pupils were different sizes. I got a flashlight and checked dialation reaction, which was fine. But I couldn't explain what was going on, so I did like any red-blooded, American male would do...I called my mom.

Now, to be fair to me, my mom was an intensive care nurse for something like 13 years and worked for the Texas Board of Medical Examiners as an investigator after that. She was a coroner and worked with dialysis and breathing machines later. So, she is a resource we have always used before we jumped into any serious medical situations. I imagine she has saved us a bunch of money and a lot of aggravation.

We talked about what was going on and she gave us some advice about Tracy's odd sensations, but said we should call Dr. Oghalai for the pupil problem. We did and after exchanging some information he figured out that the allergy eyedrops we had put in Tracy's eye caused it to dialate. Mom, later pointed out that we would never have noticed had we put the eyedrops in both eyes. Dr. Oghalai also told Tracy to stop taking the Acetazomid (Diamox) as he felt as if the compression bandage was doing the job it was supposed to do, because the incision was not leaking so far as we could tell. The Diamox has some uncomfortable affects on some people and he said as long as the bandage is working, she didn't need the Diamox. Tracy was glad for that. She did not like the way that medicine made her feel.

So if the incision is still leaking after Saturday, we will go back in on Monday and have another compression bandage put on. I asked him if he would consider stitching it up tighter and he said he didn't want to, because what needs to happen is for the fat to fill the hole and stay there. That is the goal of the repairative procedure; that the fat would act as a plug. So, the compression will keep it in there tight enough until it stabilizes and stays on its own.

So, the nights always end up late, 'cuz we just don't have enough fun during the day. Different sized pupils is a bad deal, but in this case, it was, again, not a big deal. It did require some attention, however.

Ah well, it's what makes life interesting and keeps the adventure alive. Sorry this is so long. Hope you don't get bored.

Jeff 2

WE SPRUNG A LEAK!

2008-04-08T18:08:00.000-07:00

But it's ok. Last night we noticed that some kind of liquid was trickling out of Tracy's incision. We called Dr. Oghalai and he told us to come in around noon the next day (today). Turns out it was spinal fluid that was seeping out of the incision. Sounds important, but not a big deal. In Dr. Oghalai's words, "In consideration of what could be happening and what didn't happen [that we expected to happen], this is nothing".

So, he put another compression bandage around her head (like the one she had on after surgery) and told her to keep it on for four days. Tracy said her head felt better even before we left his office. He made the bandage wider so it would not dig into her skin like the first one did. On a lighter side, she looks like princes Leia having lost one of her hair buns serving pancakes with Aunt Jemima.

He also gave her some medicine that will help to dry up the excess fluid. She'll take that for the next two weeks. If this doesn't work, he will put her on Prednisone and he may want to put in a couple more stitches to tighten up that incision. We are now supposed to get the stitches out next week on Wednesday instead of this week on Thursday.

He also said that the headaches were probably from the spinal fluid and not from sinus. He had her do some facial movements and commented that he was surprised that there was no movement on the right side. But, it may take weeks, months or... to get function back in that area.

We were gone all day today, so if you tried to call for a visit, I am sorry.

I asked about the void left in her skull from the tumor. Will the brain expand to fill it? He said the brain will expand some, but the void will also be filled in by the fat they took from her tummy and the spinal fluid will fill up the rest.

There is still more to do tonight and Tracy is really tired. Long day for her. A couple of nice visits and a wonderful meal, which was great since we were in Houston for the day.

Always in appreciation,
Jeff

Visitors Welcome!

2008-04-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

Of course, you don't all have to be doctors. Tracy has enjoyed several visitors over the weekend and is looking forward to seeing you. Just give us a call to make sure we are ready and plan on a fairly short, quiet visit. Sometimes Tracy will perk up when you come and other times she is just tired, but she is always the lady. Don't worry, she will let you know how she really feels.

Please pray for Tracy's eye. Her right eye is probably the thing that bothers her the most right now. I'm sure I've said it to many times, but that eye doesn't produce tears. It doesn't really close all the way. At night, we still put some Lacrilube in it and tape it shut. She puts artificial tears in it all day long to keep it moistened. But it is still aggravating. She once said it was like having your eyeball scratched. (I've done that and it is constantly irritating.) She is also pretty sensitive to the light. So, the flashing images on TV, the strain of reading and the intensity of light outside are hard on her. Unfortunately, that leaves her sitting in the living room not doing anything. She will do a little of each, but not for too long.

We walked around outside today twice. Each time we walked around the house and down the driveway a little ways. The second time, we got her sun glasses out of the car and hopefully that helped a little. As soon as we got inside, we put drops in her eye. In the evening, I drove her to her mom and dad's house, just for a get out of the house trip and it was nice. Ann got to nurture her baby a bit and Ken was blessed to see Tracy out and about. It was good, but the rocky, dirt road was bothersome and, of course, that eye needed attention.

She slept in the bed last night. She got up several times and didn't sleep well, but she did go back to bed after breakfast this morning and probably slept for 3 or so hours. I may have said that we think sinus has been some of the pressure in her head when she lays flat.

She is kind of sore all over, you know like when you have been sick in bed for several days and your body just aches from that bed or chair or whatever even though you're getting better from whatever illness put you there in the first place. Problem is, Tracy can't really do a whole lot of movin' around to get that soreness out. She is working on it, though. A little movin' around for us is a lot for Tracy for now. I know it's frustrating for her. Today, she sat on different chairs and in different positions to try and counteract some of this soreness.

Hey! By the way, she has been off the codeine for today and yesterday. She is taking regular Tylenol to keep the pain and discomfort at bay. It certainly is not as strong, but she doesn't have that "codeine" feeling.

We are on the upside of this tumor resection, but please continue to pray for us to maintain our faith and appreciation of God's perfect will. Oftentimes the more traumatic and dramatic events are easier to handle than the many little pains necessary to accomplish an ultimate goal.

This experience has been challenging and tiring, but it has also reaped some rewards that are not worth trading out. Bless the Lord for He is good!

Jeff

A Little Surreal

2008-04-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

Well... don't you think it is about time I get off my duff and let you know how brain surgery feels a week into it? This whole "ride" has been so surreal but I have felt such an amazing constance of God's prescence. A lot of things stand out in my mind the first being able to lay in the hallway for an hour or more, looking into the operating room being prepared for me and having an INCREDIBLE peace that passes understanding. I sure didn't make that up but it was so amazing to be so calm - God IS GOOD - the other thing I've been amazed at is when the doctors came into check on my responses time after time they would ask me to raise my arms then turn my palms upward. When it hit me they are putting me in position to praise my Lord- they told me I wouldn't be able to do that I was humbled. God was with me and even now in the days ahead when I push too hard or too little and get discouraged there He is in a phone call, soft touch, yummy meal etc. Thank you guys for all you're doing for us. We feel wrapped in His love. ( I'll entertain you with some brain surgery humor later but... am tuckering out. ) I love you so much. Tracy Ann

April 5th end of the day

2008-04-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day. Tracy spent all of the day taking only Tylenol and stayed off the codeine. We had a fair amount of visitors today and by the end of the day she was pretty tired. She took the pain medicine for the evening. She will sleep in the chair for a while. Someone mentioned that maybe the change in barometric pressure from the cold front blowing in might have added to her headaches. I'll bet that was true. However, we have to remember that there is a fairly large void in her head from where the tumor was and until her brain expands to fill that space again (or whatever fills that space) she will have some issues. This is one of the things we will talk to the doctor about on Thursday when we go to get the stitches out. Hopefully, we will have written down all our questions and get some better information.

Visitors today allowed me to do a little yard and house maintenance work. Thank you, thank you. It was good to get outside. It was beautiful today. I had a little time to exercise this morning as well - needed that, too.

Tracy is moving around really well. Not so many episodes where she feels a little dizzy while standing or walking. Still, she needs to rest and nap. What looks like a little effort for her is actually quite strenuous. Not the kind of strenuous where she is sweating and out of breath, but just out of energy. The visitors today were great for her. Short and sweet seems to be what she handles best.

She actually thought about going to church, but the positive stimulation today revealed to her that she needs to wait a little longer. We watched a movie last night, but it is not as enjoyable for her, because all those images flashing on the screen are hard on her eye and it takes a lot of energy to process it all. May sound a little extreme to talk about the energy required to do a passive activity, but it is real.

Great meal tonight, and the provider was so kind and sweet. I don't know how to communicate that sentiment without it reading or sounding like a dutiful acknowledgment, but I mean what I say in the sincerest terms. Sure, I'll say the thanks necessary, but we are seeing the best you guys are. I don't think anyone ministering to us is having to work real hard at being beautiful, because it is what they all ready are. I've known this about this fellowship in my heart. I really never expected to have to know it in my experience, but here it is and it is the family of God as He means for it to be. Way cool!

Jeff

Took a Little Trip

2008-04-04T15:07:00.001-07:00

Today has been a pretty active day for the little lady. We only got up once last night, but we are sleeping in the living room. Tracy is in the chair. Reclining instead of laying prone seems to be better right now. I am on the couch (never fear, the relationship is ok).

Tracy made her own breakfast this morning and then took a nap. I left to run errands while she slept and she did well for that time. I think she even got up while I was gone. She is up and walking, but a little activity wears her out a lot.

After another little nap, a little lunch and a bath, she rode into town with me to pick up Bethany. We knew it would be hard, but she wanted to try. Just as we were about to leave, it started to rain again and pretty hard. But we got a big umbrella and continued on our way. She did well, but was ready to rest when we got home. At the school, a whole bunch of kids whom she had taught years before came running to the car to say hi. It was sweet.

The dinner brought to us tonight was wonderful. Some magnificent flavor, mmmhhmmm. I think if I ever played and won the lottery, I would hire a chef.

A couple of people I have seen have asked about providing a meal. That is so thoughtful and I am finding the value in it. Please call Judy Jackson, 836-4149.

I may be able to get back to work Monday. We are trying things out these next couple of days. Tracy is doing really well. she tires easily and has spells where she feels kind of faint. She is trying to move around, but it is an effort and about all she can do is walk around the house. We have teased about getting on the Gazelle (exercise machine). There are little nuances that need to be payed attention to; she can't bend down, medicine at certain times, eye drops, being careful walking around, etc. We will see.

I want to clarify something about Tracy's facial paralysis. I said the Drs. were not concerned about it right now and that more than likely, it will come back on its own in time. However, I should add that the Drs. also said that if it didn't, they would be able to do some surgery to facilitate that motor control. So, we don't want that to happen, but the future is yet to be.

We saw the sign at S&S realty that said, "Welcome home Tracy. God is Good." Yes He is. I saw Bobby and Rita Meaux at the store this afternoon and they were both so sweet. She said that Bobby told her that this experience of Tracy's is "in your face" God's doin'. I think so, too.

Thank you for your comments, encouragement, advice, humor and love.

Jeff

1st Meal at the Table

2008-04-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

Welll..... it's me and it has taken me five minutes to find the computer keys - like my head is off center or sometgbubg - I left that word fir fun!! Notice this is my furst meal at the (Jeff is taking over now while I dictate - the power!!!) table.
I want to draw attention to my head support. They implanted notebooks in my head in case I lose any brain power. Well.... I am just kidding, but if you stare at this long enough, my head does have some unusual properties, ie. the bar. Suffice it to say it is my photographer, there is no bar there.

Thanks for the continued prayers and support. I had a much better day today and am moving around a lot more. It feels good to be home.

Jeff here. Tracy got tired out. Doesn't take much right now.

Last night when we lost power, Tracy was feeling pretty bad. She voiced that she wished she had some Sprite. Matthew had recently gotten home and made himself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a glass of milk, which he had just sat in front of to eat. At his mom's mention of Sprite and my response that we didn't have any, he jumped up, leaving his dinner, and said he would get it. Tracy, of course, started saying check with this person, call that person, but Matthew said, "I got it, Mom" and was out the door. When he got up to the stores on the highway, they were closed due to the power outage and he took off to Brenham. She got her Sprite through the sweetness and love of that boy (whoops, 20 year old young man).

Later, as Bethany and I were saying goodnight, we heard guitar playing in the living room. Matthew had asked Tracy if she wanted to listen to him practice for his class. She said she would. He was quiet and gentle, playing by candlelight while she relaxed in the chair. It was a nice moment to see.

Man, we got sweet kids. Christopher called from Lubbock this a.m. just before his physics class to check on the ol' girl. Feels good to receive such love and attention from these kids.

You see I mentioned those two boys, but what about Bethany? Like she needs anything said about her sweetness. She's the angel-girl all the time.

We just got our first meal, as you saw, and I think we might need to learn to cook, because what we've been doing doesn't taste as good as what we had tonight.

I gotta get. I'm trying to get some things done before dark and it is comin' fast.

Thank you for staying in touch. Your support is strength.

Jeff

Hard Day

2008-04-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not getting anything in the blog after yesterday morning. The power went out last night around 7:30 p.m. or so (we think a substation caught on fire and a lot of people had no power) and did not come back on until 3:30 a.m.

Yesterday was a difficult and strange day. Tracy woke up dizzy and felt bad most of the day. About 3:00 p.m. or so she perked up, seemed to feel better and was more interactive and alert. Then maybe after 6:30 p.m. or so she crashed and felt bad again, saying she hurt all over. The power went off, which meant we had no water, so we were pretty well shut down for the night. We used what water was left in our well to brush teeth, etc and eventually went to bed, though it was late because Tracy did not feel well enough to move around a lot. After some pain medicine at 2:20 a.m. we moved back into the living room about 3:30 a.m. so she could lay in the recliner. She felt like she would be more comfortable there. She slept there seemingly well enough. That may be what we have to do. Her head hurts a lot right now. Our guess is that her body is coming awake, so-to-speak, to all that has been done to it as well as the inactivity, which keeps the rest of us lubed up and functioning.

In answer to the questions about facial paralysis, the doctor said it would take weeks, if not months, for function to return. It is common and expected to occur in surgeries of this nature and they are actually not concerned about it for now. The biggest part of the maintenance, because of this, is her right eye, which does not produce tears. We put eye drops in often during the day. At night a lubricant is put in the eye and we tape it closed. She is swallowing well enough, but cannot yet tolerate crunchy, hard, grainy stuff, like a breakfast bar. She did eat some apple with her chicken salad yesterday and had some rice flour toast with her homemade tomato soup, so she is doing well.

We trudge on. Talk to you again soon.

Jeff

Meals for Kampraths

2008-04-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

Judy Jackson has graciously volunteered to coordinate meals for the Kamprath family. If you would like to provide a meal for them, please contact Judy Jackson at 979-836-4149.

Posted by Brad

1st morning home

2008-04-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tracy woke up a little dizzy this morning. we surmise that it is probably more a light-headedness due to her laying in a more prone position than a reclined position on the hospital bed. She is also really tired. She slept another 3 or 4 hours after getting up this morning and is feeling a little weak. We got up once last night for bathroom and medicine duty around 3 a.m. and then Tracy talked for a while about this experience. She has eaten a couple of times this morning and that seems to help for a little while. She is feeling things a little more intensely. That is a good thing in spite of the fact that it is discomfort and pain. Whereas, at the the hospital she would say her head was numb, now she says the whole thing feels bruised. She felt achy this morning all over. Her head, neck, arms and back are all kind of sore. At the moment she is resting in the chair in the living room with lights out and blinds drawn up (kind of sensitive to light; it's just intense). The ceiling fan is circulating quietly and the air conditioner is on. She is listening to soft Christian music on the big Ipod speaker system Troy gave her. It is very nice. I hope she is relaxing - seems to be.

Now all you house ladies and metro-males. Lord have mercy, I have gotten Bethany to school, made two breakfasts, made three beds, washed and folded 4 loads of clothes, taken care of
Tracy's needs at different times in the morning, cleaned up the kitchen, worked on Bethany's closet, and the whole time I'm thinking, "I'm tired and I want to take a nap"! The afternoon, I think is relegated to bill paying and managing mail and house stuff. Going back to work might just be a vacation. (Kind of teasin', but there is not a lot of sit down time.)

I look forward to your calls. You guys are somethin' else.

Jeff

WE'RE HOME!!!!!!!

2008-04-01T16:12:00.001-07:00

Look, look, we're home!!! Can you believe it? The faithful are saying, "Of course". Yeah, but well, hooray! Tracy is really tired and needs some time to acclimate. We are so happy to be home, but not ready yet to become hosts, you know. I hope ya'll will help us. Give us a couple of days and call before doing anything, so I can sort of get some order to everything. Can we have Wednesday, at least, to sort of be home and be quiet? So, if you guys can start calling on Thursday, maybe (of course, not all at once, for heaven's sake). We're home, but Tracy still has a lot of healing to do.

Lots of you have offered food and we want it, but call me 'cuz I need help organizing it. Also, here is a kink in the program. Tracy is gluten intolerant. Which means she can't eat anything with wheat in it. Cindy Beckworth knows about it and can help if you need her to. Also, you can check on the internet for things. It's kind of crazy, 'cuz things like Soy Sauce and some salad dressings and soups have wheat in them. Weird, huh?

Man, I'm tired, so I hope you will forgive me if I haven't answered some questions or given some important info. Let me know in the comments and I'll speak to it. Gotta do some stuff.

Indebted in love,
Jeff

What Happened?

2008-03-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

I thought you guys were going to be in intensive care for a week and then in a regular room for a week and then in a rehab hospital for 4 to 6 weeks.

So did we all.

Well so, what happened? God happened.

Yeah, but really, I mean, did God perform a miracle or something? I mean, like, was the tumor gone or something?

Here's the physical reality. The tumor was eyebrow raising big even to the ones who see these everyday (one of the biggest seen). It was pressing into the brain stem, which would eventually be fatal. It was (and is) wrapped in and around the cranial nerves. Removing the tumor from around these nerves would cause several temporary (potentially permanent) disabilities requiring significant rehabilitation. It had invaded and destroyed the bones and function of the right ear (which have been removed [not the exterior ear, just the inside parts]). She is now completely deaf in her right ear. Its physical character was such that it was considered to be very "sticky" (meaning it would be very difficult to get off of the brain). It had to get big somehow, so it was thought it had a lot of blood in it (that is why we had the angiogram first, to block off the blood supply).

Here are some physical things that happened that may allow us to go home so much earlier (we're not home yet). The tumor turned out not to be very vascular (not very bloody). as a matter of fact the radiologist came out after having started the angiogram to get the MRI films because he could not find any problematic veins or vessels. After studying the films he went back and embolized one small place near the tumor. Secondly, the tumor, in spite of its shape and character was not very "sticky" at all and came right off the brain. Thirdly, enough of the tumor was removed from around the brain that it was decided it would not be necessary to endanger potential physical functions provided for by those nerves enmeshed in the tumor. Since 90% of the tumor was removed, the other 10% is not likely to grow. That being the case, nerves were not destroyed, because they were functioning fine.

So, how did God happen? Where is He in all this?

He is at the beginning and the end of it. But to be more specific, people have prayed for a speedy recovery. One prayer requested of God that when the surgeons got in there, they would, say "Hey! Somebody has been in here before us." Well, the angiogram found almost nothing to embolize. This made it much easier to work on the tumor. What happened to the blood supply that grew that tumor so big? God. Secondly, the MRI shows with obvious detail that the tumor had a "sticky" character. It wasn't sticky; should have been, but it wasn't. Why not? God. The tumor has invaded the cranial nerves responsible for facial motor function, swallowing and some others that have been mentioned in the pages of this blog somewhere. Removing the tumor from them would be destructive and require weeks and weeks of rehabilitation. It was not necessary to remove the tumor from around those nerves, so Tracy has pretty good function all around. I have explained before that enough of the tumor was removed that what is left is kind of isolated and it would be difficult for it to grow. This outcome is different than the pre-op plan based on the gathered data - God. Tracy had all the mechanism for hearing and balance removed from the right side of her head. There is nothing with which to hear or provide equilibrium for her. It was taken out. That is like a balance scale with all the weight on one side. But she has no significant dizziness. Now that makes no sense. Think about it. She ought to be falling over to the left all the time or falling everywhere and throwing up forever as the fluids in her left ear try to shift around to keep her steady (to follow the balance scale analogy - to shift weight back over to the other side of the scale). She isn't. Why not? God.

God had a will when he created Tracy - that she go through this event. The prayers of His people were for mercy. God never changed His will (He never does), but He listened to His children and responded. It was your prayers and love that inspired us to remain faithful to receive the most God had to offer. When Abraham asked God for leniency on Sodom for the sake of Lot, God gave it, but never changed His will. He still destroyed Sodom and Gomorah, but honored Abraham's faith as well. So often, we try to bend God to our will; do this for me, change that, intervene here because I want it that way. We have no authority over God, no power to tell him what to do. It is for us to find God's will and get in line with it. We pray for intervention that we might receive the highest good God has available, but ultimately, in all things, God's will is done.

It's like a junior high basketball team. Oftentimes, there are many more players than positions. Some teams have to divide up into an A nd B team and still have too many players. Who get's to play? Everybody equally is socialism and doesn't capitalize on the particular assets of the team, nor does it consider effort and attitude on the part of the player. Only the best players is dictatorial and ignores the value of the team as a whole and has no plan for the future or potential losses of the best players. The answer is those that put out the most effort with the best attitude. They are showing the coach that they will do whatever it takes to play in the game. The more they do and progress, the greater potential for game time. The more we petition God, the more He will acknowledge our faithfulness to Him (Luke 18:1-8). We are not manipulating Him, getting Him to change His plans for our desires, or perceived needs. We are asking for Him to provide for us while we travel down the road towards which he has directed us.

Tracy's road was and is rather dramatic, and all the prayers, love, and Spirit of God in His saints have blessed us with just what has been asked of God. Tracy and I have talked and wept for those persons that face this kind of path without knowing God and being a part of His people. Do you understand how magnficent, how secure, how comfortable it is to be in this family? We have some struggles ahead and they belong to us and we will go through them, but we have been blessed physically, materially, emotionally, spiritually and so many other "-allys". Thank you saints of God. We will live in honor of your love for God.

All right, I'm sure you will appreciate Tracy's blogs again when she gets back to it and can get away from mine that can go on and on and on and on and on...well, you probably get the idea. Hopfully, the next blog will be a picture of home.

Thank you over and over again.

Jeff

From Tracy

2008-03-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

I know I don't have to say this BUT...I could never be where I am without all of you. God has taught me so much about His beautiful body and how the tiniest thing can be so meaningful. I'll never be able to repay you all, but I do understand about paying it forward now. Thank you for teaching me about love. Thank you for being Jesus' hands and feet and laughter and tears.

Miracle of miracles, I may be home tomorrow, but it is April Fool's. Can you trust me?

I love you all with overwhelming love.

Tracy

P.S. My bandage is off. The cut is a perfect "C". Christopher is claiming all the glory. Sandie M., I am one ahead of you in the body art department. haha. beat that.

I love you guys.

Tracy. :0>

2008-03-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

This our goal today. For those of you who don't know, this is Tracy's nephew. You kind of have to decide for yourself what it means.

Now, be sure and look below for pictures of Tracy if you haven't seen them.

Tracy has walked twice today in the hall. She also ate real food for lunch: fish, baked potato and turnip greens. Wonderful, wonderful girl.

Heeeeeerrrrreeeee's Tracy

2008-03-31T06:21:00.000-07:00

Monday Morning first thing

2008-03-31T05:26:00.000-07:00

Tracy slept well last night, though of course she had to wake up a couple of times. Dr. Zafero came in about 6:30 a.m. and said she is progressing really well, just what they want. He wants her to walk around the halls today; wants her to get up and move around. Head bandage may come off today or tomorrow. It is about 7:30 a.m. now and Tracy is sitting up in the chair all ready and eating breakfast: A banana, a soft fruit plate, light vanilla yogurt, cottage cheese, grits with brown sugar and butter, grape juice and milk. Sounds like a feast, huh? She probably will not eat it all. Too bad, Josh Johnson is not here to help finish it off. He said he was jealous that he was not getting to chow down on all that hospital food.

Look for a picture coming. You can see how far she has come.

Jeff

Sunday Night Successes

2008-03-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

It's been quite a day here at Lake Wobegon. Tracy is in her own room and ate more lemon yogurt than she wanted and some mashed potatoes that were probably made in a laundry room and drank like a regular human being all day. She sat in the chair for hours at a time. She walks herself to the bathroom. And she tells funny stories. Now, this is great, but she also feels crumby, her head hurts a lot when she coughs, (and she must cough to clear out those lungs) and, of course, she has some significant pain. The right side of her face still doesn't work and her right eye doesn't produce tears. So, she sleeps with some lubricant in it and a patch over it to keep it closed.

I am on a chair/bed next to her in the room. It is nice to be near her. We had some time alone together tonight just talking gently and quietly about what she wanted to talk about; nothing real significant, just being together without having to pay attention to essentials and other people's needs or personalities. It was serene. There is a shower stall in the bathroom and the practical care assistant said I could use it. What a treat! I'm clean, wearing night clothes and can actually sleep in a prone position tonight.

I want to be sure and say thank you to all of you for allowing me to communicate with you through this blog and not on cell phones or visits right now. I have tried to tell or read to Tracy some of the comments, but it is too much right now. Too many words and too much to process. So, I just kind of tell her who wrote and the shortest summary I can think of . Even then, sometimes she says, "not now". I know why she feels that way, because I know that girl. She wants to receive these comments in her heart. She doesn't want to just hear it. I am trying to get all of the emails copied onto a word document so she can read them when she is able. I have 28 pages so far.

She said something interesting tonight. She said, "God is good. Today, while you were gone I was able to meet with God. Before now I have just been to out of it." I was so glad to hear that because we (Tracy and I) have not been able share our faith and dependence on God with each other. You know, even the un-spoken communion that one has with their spouse, we couldn't have while she has been so out of it.

It's about 11:30 p.m. and the night nurse just came in to introduce herself and do a little assessment so she could know about Tracy. So, in another 30 minutes or so, Tracy should be free for the night to sleep.

One last story that Tracy was telling to make everybody laugh. Her nurse last night was a fella named Curtis and he was a nice enough guy, except that he was not amenable to letting me spend any time with her in the middle of the night. Tracy said he talked to others about how he had to get her husband out of the room. (Harumph) Well, anyway, Curtis told Tracy how his shoulder was hurting so badly. He thought he may have broken his clavical while he turned in his sleep. Tracy said she was thinking, "Why are you telling me this? Why don't you try having a tumor removed from your brain?" She said she thought she should publish a list, "Things You Don't Talk About With a Person Who Just Had a Tumor Removed From Their Brain". She's a crack-up.

Things are looking really good. God answers the prayer of his faithful. And you have been faithful. Thank you for your love.

Jeff

2008-03-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

CALLING/VISITING TRACY 3:30 p.m.

I've been asked to ask everyone NOT to call the room, but please get your information from the blog or a family member. Tracy's not up to talking on the phone, and there are still so many family members coming in and out that this is about as much company as she can handle right now. We'll be sure to let you know when she's ready for more. Jeff's mom

2008-03-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

Tracy's in room 432, eating, sitting up in the chair, entertaining (and I do mean entertaining!!) guests. She still doesn't feel so hot, but tons better with every passing hour. Jeff's in Chappell Hill taking care of business and helping Bethany with her math if she doesn't have it done yet. He should be back later this afternoon. She hasn't had significant dizziness, can walk around the room. I'd be surprised if she even has to spend any time in rehab. It looks like, right now, she might be able to go straight home from the hospital (with someone with her 24/7). Everything's looking better all the time. Jeff's mom

Going to a regular room

2008-03-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

Tracy is being moved to a regular room. We are told it is #432. Haven't gone yet, so... we'll see. Also, when she sat in the chair this morning between 10 and 11 or so, she ate a whole cup of yogurt and had a large cup of what looked like weak iced tea to drink. She wasn't coughing or clearing her throat. This is a good thing. She felt a little dizzy, but my sister pointed out that the codeine could do that, also.
Gotta go.

Jeff

8:30 a.m. Sunday Morning

2008-03-30T06:30:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone. Tracy sat in the chair again this morning about 6:00 a.m. The night nurse, Curtis, was not so amenable to my presence and thus I was not allowed to stay in the room for more than a hello, how ya' doin'. I asked to be allowed to come back in when the Dr's did their assessment, and he said he would ask them. Tracy said she would, too. I guess he said no. But, I made it in before the doctor left and was able to talk to him. He feels Tracy is doing very well, but will probably not move her until tomorrow morning to a regular room (SEE BELOW). This is Dr. Zafero. Tracy is to try sips of liquid today, water or juice, and soft foods like pudding, while she is sitting in the chair. He wants her in the chair a couple of times today, at least. I asked if getting up and moving around could be overdone and he said no, she could do as much as she felt like doing. So, I'm bringing in Richard Simmons (for you literalists, that's a joke).

Mary, the day nurse (had her once all ready - good nurse) asked if there was an elixer pain reliever as Tracy did not like the "drugged" feeling of morphine. Dr. Zafero ordered some Tylenol with Codeine, I believe. Tracy told me she had been asking for only 1/2 the morphine and I asked if this would impede her progress. Mary said, no, she wasn't getting enough morphine for it to matter. She wasn't even sure how the morphine Tracy was getting was controlling any pain. To me that's a good sign, because, on some level, Tracy is managing the pain. She still has some, and only she knows how much, but it just seems to me like she is doing fantastic. Facial swelling is really going down, still there, but not as much. Right side of the face is still non-reactive. Not so much a problem with double vision this a.m. and Dr. Zafero said they were not really concerned about that.

HEY, WAIT A MINUTE. DR. ZAFERO JUST CAME IN AND SAID HE TALKED TO DR. OGHALAI (THE BIG CHEESE) and he said he wants Tracy to go into a regular room. That means no more waiting rooms, for the most part, and visiting hours might be a little different. I don't know which room, but he said it would be on the same floor right around the corner (pretty much where we were on Wednesday after the angiogram). They will move her in a couple of hours. Stay tuned for updates. I aske if she could take a few steps and He said she can, but she would need assistance. We'll see. This is not something we need to be in a terrible hurry about. All right.

You know, it's crazy. When I left Tracy about 8:30 a.m. I needed to go to the bathroom, but I wanted to do this blog first, in spite of nature's strong urging. Had I been in there I might have missed Dr. Zafero. The crazy part is feeling like you can't ever leave, because you're going to miss somebody or something. Truth is, that has happened to me twice all ready and when it does happen, it just feels terrible like I let Tracy down or just missed something for which I am supposed to be responsible; like the pitcher who throws a ball that is hit for a homerun or the fielder who misses the fly ball that decides the game. I don't think it's guilt so myou much, but I guess it can't be anything else. Well pooh, you gotta do what you gotta do.

More when it comes.

Jeff

funny little momma!

2008-03-29T21:20:00.001-07:00

well as you have all heard she is doing very well!
when i went to see her today,she was pretty funny...and i think without fail she asks for chapstick everytime one of us goes in.hehehe... i told her "you are doing very well"and her response to that was "well i dont feel very well.." - sweet little momma!<3
there were other funny little things she said too but i think i will let my dad tell all of you them because he will be writting what has currently been going on ,later ,and explaing things.
I'm not sure if my dad has told you all that when my cousins and uncles went to see her,one of my cousins said that she had A-LOT of hair left and my momma said "punkrocker" hahaha shes so funny and she also said that she wants to dye her hair pink!!!!
well i think i'm going to head to bed now.
thank you all for your prayers :]
*bethany*

Last update for the night, Saturday 3/29

2008-03-29T21:02:00.000-07:00

Well, Tracy sat in the chair only once today until this evening. The nurse on duty allowed Tracy to just sit up in the bed and figured that may be good enough. But actually getting out of the bed to sit in the chair allows for more muscle movement all over, so I spoke with Tracy about the need for this and also for being willing to take authority for her care and make decisions that she can require the nurses to follow through with. I also talked gently with the nurse that Tracy would like to sit in the chair for another hour. Tracy's temperature was back up to 100.6 so she was getting some Tylenol (in a place where she doesn't have to swallow, ahem). So we decided to wait about 30 minutes. We assume that the fever may be coming from the lung condition. They just need a good workout, relatively speaking.

About 30 minutes later, the nurse came into the waiting room to get me, saying that Tracy wanted to see me. I hopped up and went back in and she had been sitting in the chair for about 20 minutes. She is something else. She doesn't feel good, but she is trying.
It was funny when I was telling her all this stuff, trying to be gentle, but insistent at the same time, she eventually said, "Ok, Jeff" in that tone that means "I got it. You can be quiet now." If I were a goofy teenager, this is where I would write LOL (which for the rest of you old geezers means "laugh out loud" in textspeak). She's all there. What a grand ol' girl.

Now, Here is a great story. While she was sitting up, she did her breathing exercises and did wonderfully well. She is supposed to do 10 an hour. She stopped at 8 and said that was enough. I encouraged her to do the last two and she did 'em. She sat in the chair for about an hour and so there was a lot of time of just looking at each other and I tried to think of things to tell her about all you guys and just the "goings on". I told her that I knew my voice gets kind of loud, or raspy or just annoying or I use too many words and she should tell me if I am causing her stress. She said I was fine but me and grannie had bad breath! Now here is the good part. She smiled the first smile I have seen. And though you couldn't really hear a chuckle, you could see it. He shoulders shrugged up and she shook a little. She was really proud of herself for her little funny. And she showed it. She felt it. I'm glad, because this is the first real humor I have seen her appreciate.

Earlier I had told her how wonderful I thought she was doing and how proud of her I was and though she might be feeling crumby, she was making me feel great, because of all her effort and good spirit and how much I loved her. She said weakly, "K". That was it. That was funny.

She is having some problems with some double or fuzzy vision in a different place than earlier. Her right eye has a tendency to stay open and she seems to let it do the job of seeing as she doen't open the left eye. I brought this to her attention and she said when she opens both eyes, she feels cross-eyed. So, we will make sure the Dr. who does the assessment in the morning is aware of this. In the meantime, we talked and figured she should try to open both eyes or close both eyes. The nurses are supposed to put some ointment on her eyes at night because the right one is not producing tears. They're supposed to tape it shut at night to protect it.

Grannie had a good plan that I go to the motel for a couple of hours; get a little rest, get cleaned up and then come back for the rest of the night. Good plan. So I am here in the waiting room and every now and then go in and check on her.

She looks really good. She doesn't feel all that well, but she is improving.

Thank you guys.

Jeff

Speech Pathologist Vist

2008-03-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

The speech pathologist came in about 1:00 p.m. or so. She checked how well Tracy could purse her lips, smile and open her mouth. She had Tracy swallow some ice chips, water and vanilla pudding. Then while she was swallowing, Sara, the speech pathologist, would listen to her throat with a stethoscope. Then she would listen to her throat while Tracy breathed. The decision is to keep her on ice chips today and maybe even tomorrow. Sara said Tracy's tongue is working well, though it is weak. Her lips and throat are weak. So, when she swallows stuff, there is likely some trickling down her windpipe. So, solid or pureed foods or liquids other than water would be a bad thing. In spite of this, it is believed that Tracy is doing really well.

Now I'm gonna tell you that every time I have gone in to see Tracy today, she has looked better. I think the swelling is going down and she seems more alert, even though she still sleeps most of the time. That may sound kind of odd, that she seems alert while she sleeps, but it is true. I think she has a little more color to her as well.

When she got up to sit in the chair, she did it on her own; she got into the chair herself. It is expected that she would be dizzy and nauseous. Well, if she was dizzy, it was not so much that she would throw up. This is really good. Most people, apparently do throw up.

Another interesting thing for the sake of perspective; today, Saturday, is considered to be day 1 from the surgery. Monday would be day 3. That is significant, because we had asked about nutrition intake, as there has been none. Dr.'s won't really be concerned about that until day 3. In the meantime, she will suck on ice chips. If the doctors think she can handle it, they may allow her to drink clear liquids. If she is still clearing her throat after swallowing something (evidence that some is trickling down the wrong pipe, but good that she is able to clear it herself) then on Monday, she will have a barium test. Swallow some barium while x-rays are being taken so that they can see exactly what is happening.

So, don't know where we will be tomorrow. I'll let you know. Brad and Jessica Bevers brought us Asian wraps and gourmet cookies from Shlotzky's. Yummy, yummy, yummy. Great folks.
Jeff

Tracy Sat up for an Hour

2008-03-29T09:39:00.000-07:00

We went in to see Tracy about 11:00 a.m. and Mary, the nurse, was getting her situated in her bed. Tracy had been sitting up for an hour and is plum wore out. She also did some breathing exercises. Do you remember the movie "The Right Stuff"? The astronauts in training were required to suck on a machine that held a ball in suspension at a certain level for so long a period of time. That is the same kind of machine that Tracy is using. She is supposed to do it 10 times an hour. She has to suck hard enough to raise the indicator to 1500 ml. She had done it at 10:30 a.m., but she showed us what she had to do and got to 1000 ml, then 1250, then 1500 ml. Third time's a charm. Then she decided she was done. The nurse said that was fine because it wasn't time for her to do it anyway.

Tracy is doing what she is supposed to. It is hard and she is challenged, but she is willing. I told her that probably when she's able to sit in that chair well enough and is using that breathing apparatus effectively they will probably be more willing to move her into a regular room. She said flatly, sarcastically, "Yippee". I explained that then we could be in a room together and she didn't say anything. It's hard and she is becoming more aware with every moment of what she is facing.

Ann is in with her now just sitting beside her as she sleeps.

Jeff

Dad forgot ...again.

2008-03-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

I forgot to tell everyone that Dr. Cristobal said that the m.r.i. confirmed that 90 percent of the tumor is gone and this is very good news. We will be able to visit with her after 11 a.m.... signing off for now.
-Matt

Saturday Morning Assessment

2008-03-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

Last night I stayed in the motel room as per discussion with Tracy. This morning when I sneaked into NICU to be with her, she said, "Don't leave at night." She said she didn't have a bad night, in terms of pain or difficulties. She just didn't want me to leave. So, we have some logistics to figure out.

She had a fever last night and this morning, 100.1 to 100.8, probably due to her inactivity and laying flat such that her lungs are not being significantly stimulated. Dr. Cristobal said it is not uncommon for someone in her situation and it is not likely an infection. In his assessment, he had her squeeze his hand with each of hers. Then she was to clap her hands twice turning one over to clap with the back of her hand after two claps; each hand each way a couple of times. He had her wiggle her toes. He moved to her face and had her smile, pucker her lips, raise her eyebrows and follow his finger as he moved it around. He used a penlight-like instrument for her to follow with her eyes. She has some double vision sometimes when the instrument was held in a horizontal position, but not vertical. It was inconsistent, however. Dr. Cristobal said this had to do with the 4th cranial nerve. The inconsistency is odd, so this will be something to watch. The right side of her face is not really active. So, when she smiled and raised her eyebrows, it really only happened on the left side of her face. Dr. Zafero came in as well and they both discussed everything. The incision made in her belly for the fat graft looks good according to them (I didn't see it, of course).

The goal for her today is to sit in a chair. When they told Tracy this, she said, "No." They explained how important it was and she readily agreed. Sitting up in a chair will allow her lungs to work properly as well as being to reduce the swelling in her face. Her "no" was a statement of her desire, not her intention. Later, she told me, "I'm scared." I think she is afraid of being dizzy and throwing up and just...well...the whole thing; being in the condition she is in and maybe being alone. Maybe on a level that wouldn't necessarily be communicated, the idea that when it comes right down to it, recovering is going to take a huge amount of effort and motivation that is more than she can muster on her own. She wants to get better, but accomplishing it looks like swimming the ocean right now. It's hard to feel good about reaching for a goal that can't be seen. She told the nurse she wanted me to stay, and Mary (the day nurse today) let me, but said I would have to leave after a bit. They really didn't want me back in until visiting hours started again at 11:00 a.m. They want to give her a bath and try to get her to sit in a chair, among other things.

The practical result of this morning's assessment is that she will stay in NICU today. She might go to a regular room tomorrow, but that can't be decided until tomorrow. Sitting in the chair successfully, it appears, will be a major determinant of this decision. They will try clear liquids today instead of just ice chips. She still asks for chapstick everytime I come in. I'm going to have make something of that later, something funny.

I think that is it for the technical side of things, other than it is good to see her stressing a little bit over what she must do to get better, because that means she is actively engaging her life. Now, I want to be there for whatever she needs to have peace for her journey, whether it be whipping boy, audience, cheerleader or coach.

Now, here's a story. This morning after I had to leave her bedside and was in the waiting room working on this blog, I enjoyed a conversation with the lady who came to clean it. Her english was better than my spanish, but we talked each using words and phrases in the other's language to get our ideas across. She told me she saw on TV that some fella is pregnant. This fella used to be a women, and no doctors are wanting to attend to him/her. (just a weird part of our conversation) Anyway, when she left, she said she would pray for Tracy and that God would take care of her. I told her thank you and gave the thumbs up sign. She began to leave and as she went through the doors to another hall, she began praying, right then, out loud. I heard her as she went down the hall. She was speaking in spanish, but the little familiartiy I have with spanish and her tone and vocal inflection confirmed for me that she was praying and praying sincerely and passionately. It was wonderful. I felt so special, so loved; and by someone I don't even know. You see, kids, that is the family of God. That is true community. That is a true heart. I am dancing in a field of daisies.

I want to preach and exhort, but when I try to think of what specifically to present, I can't choose, because the whole truth is real, important and worthy. The visual image in my head is that of giving the whole Bible to someone who asked me to tell them what verse, adage, or truth inspires me. Living in Christ is so much more than talking about Him, or the church, or Christianity. It is being more than doing. Of course, doing comes from being. And you know whatever you really are determines what you do, or at least the sincerity of what you do. Ok, ok enough with the philosophy. For those that endured my verbosity, thank you. There are so many of you who have said things, written things, done things, shared wisdom, practical advice, shoulders and time to whom I want to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude and let you know how important you have been; the little things and bigger things. Somehow, some way, some day I will tell you or show you. thank you.

3:30 p.m. and Waiting

2008-03-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

It has been several hours since I have updated the blog. Truth is we are waiting for Tracy to get out of an MRI. However, she has done really well. This morning all of the family members got to see her, one or two at a time. Though she was very tired, of course, she interacted with everyone. Even being part of a practical joke on Byron, saying to him as he came in, "Now who are you?". Earlier when I had asked my kids what they thought her first words to me were, Bryon could hear over the phone and answered that her first words to me were, "Where's Byron?". Truth is, her first words were, "Chapstick."
The speech pathologist came in to assess Tracy's ability to swallow. She let her sip from a straw, which Tracy could do, but since the right side of her face doesn't really work yet, it was difficult to get good suction on the straw. But she did swallow, though weakly. Next she gave her water in a spoon, which Tracy swallowed weakly. Then she spooned in a couple of spoonfuls of applesauce. Tracy swallowed that also, but afterwards she cleared her throat and coughed. So, she can swallow, but her throat muscles are weak. It is very good that she can swallow as she does, but she needs to be able to do so safely. She must be able to keep her airway clear. The decision then is too allow ice chips today, reassess tomorrow for clear liquids. Dr. Oghalai came in while I was gone, but Grannie was there and she said that Dr. Oghalai said he was very pleased with the results. He is planning on a feeding tube through the nose tomorrow, if the reassessment does not improve. She will need to have nutrition by tomorrow somehow.

Hey guys, I took a break for a minute because Tracy was back in her room. She is fast asleep; looks very peaceful and I think she is at peace. Jessy said Tracy has been very cooperative and good with everything she must do or endure. Her face is swelling up quite a bit. That is to be expected. Think of when you bump your knee and you say, "Ow!" and rub it, but you don't see anything. The next day, there is a big blue bruise there. Same kind of thing.

Tracy is doing great. We know she is bouyed by everyone's prayers. What a blessing.

Your comments on the blog are an anticipated blessing. Please be sure and sign your name. The blog will only recognize you as anonymous. There are many of you writing and we love it, but a couple have come without a signature and we don't know who sent it.

We'll update again later.

Jeff

Talked with Tracy at 8:00 a.m. Friday

2008-03-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Wanna smile? I talked with Tracy. Talked, like you and I having a conversation. Respitory therapists took the breathing tube out after 7:00 a.m. sometime. Made a huge difference. She looks better and is coherent and interactive. When I saw this was the case, I began telling her abput the blog comments you guys have made and different emails that have been sent and about the visitors yesterday. Then seeing that she was more than just hearing, I began telling her how the surgery went and the positive outcomes we are seeing. She nodded her head in understanding. She, using her voice, asked for chapstick and pursed her lips when I applied it. She said, in a quiet voice, that her neck didn't feel supported. I told Jessy, the day nurse, and she folded up a towel and told Tracy to lift her head. She did and Jessy slid it under. A minute later Tracy wasn't happy with its placement and Jessy repeated the process. I am giving you all these details so that you get a sense of how coherent she is. She is actively thinking, feeling and making decisions.

Now, she is in some discomfort, of course, so she was given more meds to get her to sleep. Jessy said this is a day Tracy needs to rest. Last night, she was given a lot of meds and had a lot of discomfort (a more pleasant word for pain,I guess)If any of the family sees her, they really need to just see her and let Tracy sleep.

At present, the right side of her face is not strong. Muscles do move, but they are sluggish or too weak to move much at all. Should improve. Jessy said that all the patients with similar surgeries come in this way. Jessy was very positive and upbeat, while still being firm about her expectations. She has said that Tracy is doing very well. I understood that too mean, beyond normal recovery.

It is a beautiful thing.

Here is the verse apropos for today, so far. Ephesians 3:20 "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever! Amen.

Got to see Tracy

2008-03-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it's 1:30 a.m. and everyone is somewhere asleep. We sat in the waiting room until about 10:30 p.m. when we finally went to find out what was going on and it turns out Tracy had been moved at 9:00 p.m. to the NICU. Frustrating, but understandable (big hospital, lots of major and serious surgeries going on all the time almost day and night). Also, (continuing the glass half full perspective) it probably would have taken about as much time to get Tracy situated and allow the nurses to become familiar with her needs, etc., such that when we did come by, it would be easy...and it was.

Teri is the nurse tonight. She's special; very sweet, compassionate and prays for her patients. Handled me just right when I came in to see Tracy after learning we had been forgotten about. This one faux paux does not negate the very positive experience we have been having here. Magnificent, in spite of this little booboo.

Tracy has a huge, white gauze bandage over her head with a lot of padding on the right side. Her face is somewhat swollen, of course, but she looks good in light of what she has been through. She is pretty uncomfortable with the breathing tube, but she is pretty heavily sedated and receiving pain meds. Her arms are strapped to the rails of the bed so that she does not dislodge or damage the breathing tube. She writhes around quite a bit, when the medicine wears down, but that is the time evaluations can be made of her abilities. She has already held up 2 fingers when asked. That is pretty significant when you consider what she has endured and all the tubes and wires sticking out of (or into) her now. They are actually going to try and take out the breathing tube in the morning.

We are so blessed by the many visitors and commments to the blog. Getting the comments is like getting a present everytime we look at the blog. Wonderful people showed up today, just to sit for a while. We know that took time and resources out of each one's day and we are blessed. Thank you, thank you.

Now, visits are probably not beneficial to either you or us. You can't really see Tracy while she is in NICU and there is not much room to handle lots of people in this part of the hospital. It is kind of around the corner and far to the back. Very quiet back here.

So please talk to us; email us, comment on the blog, call us to see if we are available for a visit, but please be aware that the next few days are pretty seclusive for Tracy.
I gotta try and get some rest. I appreciate you guys so much.

Cool promise from God: Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm, plans to give you hope and a future.

Brad Bevers fixed the Devotion video

2008-03-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

I messed up putting the video on the blog earlier. Brad got it going. Simple mistake. He's a genius. Scroll down and watch it. The words will make better sense when you watch it. I hope you enjoy.

SHE'S DONE!! SURGERY IS DONE!!!

2008-03-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

HEAR YE, HEAR YE AND PRAISE THE LORD!!!! Good news. Good news. Dr. Oghalai came in about 7:10 p.m. and said, "It went well". He was very pleased. They feel they got all the tumor away from the brain stem and away from the jugular bulb. They left about 5% to 10% around the nerves that we have been talking about; basically those that control swallowing and facial motor control. They figure that they were able to get so much of the tumor out that there is a good chance the blood supply is effectively cut off and thus the tumor will not grow anymore. By leaving the nerves in tact, the chances are much better that she will not suffer significant loss to them. The nerves have worked by being stimulated with an electrical impulse and that is real good news, but they still have to work on their own. However, the chance is much better that full recovery can be accomplished and much more quickly. The chances are much better that she will make the wedding and make it with good function.
Recovery and rehabilitation may be easier and faster. Her equilibrium will be all messed up due to the resection of the inner ear. She will be dizzy. Tomorrow, she will probably throw up a lot. Doctor Oghalai is thinking that she will not have to have a feeding tube. He hopes to take the breathing tube out tomorrow. He was careful to make sure that we heard, "We will have to see" when questioned about what Tracy will be able to do and when.
He is pleased with the results, but it was still a very aggressive, invasive procedure.
Speaking of aggressiveness, he said this tumor was a classic meningioma and was not any bigger than they expected it to be. Future stereotaxic radiation treatments will likely be effective if necessary. It will be necessary for us to monitor the tumor for the rest of our lives. MRI's every year and intervention as needed.

We are now on the working side of this event, so please continue to pray on our behalf for our strength, patience, and God's mercy on us. Also, please pray for us to be able to communicate effectively the testimony of God's presence.

I'll tell you moer as it comes in. Thanks for your interest guys.

Jeff

6:00 p.m. Update

2008-03-27T16:36:00.000-07:00

Praise the Lord for his guiding hand! All right fellas and fellettes, here is the latest and it is good news. I happened to be unavoidably out of the waiting room at the time Dr. Yosher, the neurosurgeon, came in to give us the latest news. Here is what I gather from the ecstatic group in the waiting room. Some of Dr. Yosher's part is/was the brain. That is what they have been working on so far. This tumor has been pushing its way to the brainstem, actually compressing that area about more than twice the normal space. Dr. Yosher said they have gotten everything away from the brain stem and any vital (life sustaining) areas. Now they are going to get to work on the jugular bulb, which is Dr. Oghalai's part for the time being. They are going to leave some of the tumor around the nerves controlling swallowing and facial motor control in order to save those nerves. What that means is Tracy will potentially have better recovery and rehabilitation success. Her face is not likely to droop meaning there would not have to be a follow-up surgery to try and connect or rebuild nerves. She will likely still have difficulty swallowing due to trauma to the area as they worked around it. However, trauma is better than destruction; there is expected rehabilitation. It is also important to appreciate that the nerves mentioned are working "now". But we're not done yet.
The inscision was much longer than anyone expected, about 2" or 3" down the neck. Apparently, this tumor is now recognized as "the biggest" that some of the doctors have ever seen. However, everything seems to be working for the good (sounds familiar, doesn't it - Romans 8:28).
More good news; Christopher and Rachael just arrived. Gotta go give hugs. Tell you more if you're waiting up.

Jeff

This Morning's Devotion

2008-03-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

Grandad suggested we all say the 23rd Psalm. Deidre decided to film it while we did it. This moment in time is a great picture of how the Bevers live. What a grand family to be a part of. This morning was a very special moment as we all held hands and recited God's promises together. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.

1:30 p.m. update

2008-03-27T12:37:00.000-07:00

Debbie the nurse called and said that eveything was going ok. Tracy is doing fine. They are still drilling into the bone and encountering a lot of tumor as they drill. Apparently, drilling into the bone takes hours. Debbie sweetly reminded me that this procedure will take hours longer and asked if I had eaten lunch. So thoughtful and considerate.

Before I could finish writing in the Blog, the Harbor Lights Choir of the Salvation Army came in and sang accapella and prayed with everyone in the waiting room. It was incredible and awesome. What a prayer! There was not a dry eye in the room and we were all about to start jumping pews, if there were any. Man, so cool.

2008-03-27T09:19:00.000-07:00

This is Tracy before surgery about 6:00 this morning. What you see is what you get. She has been at peace this morning. As a matter of fact, when the nurse came out at 11:00 a.m. to talk to us, she said that Tracy was very calm and sweet in the OR before going under.

11:00 a.m. Update from the OR

2008-03-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

The nurse is getting to take a break from the operation. She is wonderful; beautiful smile and sweet. She said everything is going well. She emphasized several times that this is going to take a long time,...a long time. The surgeons are doing bone work right now. They have already taken the fat graft. This is a a procedure in which some fat is taken from the belly to use a plugs for the holes that are drilled in the skull to get to the tumor inside. That part is done microscopically. So, the bone work involves cutting out the bones that service the right ear (remember the hammer, anvil and stapes from science class)and drilling the holes in the skull to prepare for the microscopic work.
Paul and Shirly Johnson shared a verse that I think is really cool.
It is II Chronicles 16:9. It says, "The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." Ths sounds like Tracy to me. Rock on, guys.

Tracy is in Surgery

2008-03-27T05:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Everybody!
Last night we read about Shadrach, Meshack and Abednigo in Daniel. When Nebuchadnezzar told them he would give them one more chance to bow to his image they told him you don't have to ask us. Our God will deliver us. (and here's the neat part) But even if he doesn't, we still will not bow. God is God regardless of our circumstances. Cool beans!
Well, we were up about 4:30 this morning so Tracy could take a shower before everyone showed up to see her off and she went into surgery. About 5:30 a.m. David Beckworth and Kelly Bevers showed up. Minutes later, Troy, Tracie, Dedrie, Travis, Ken, Ann, Byron, Kacie, Brad, Jessica and, of course, Matt and my Mom were all in the room. It was crowded and wonderful. We prayed, sang, read Scripture and visited. Tracy was in good spirits and smiling all the way to the elevator.
Tracy had me read these Scriptures to everybody this morning. They were very important to her.
Isaiah 57:18-19
I have seen his ways, and will heal him; I will also lead him, and restore comforts to him and to his mourners. "I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near," says the Lord, "And I will heal him."
Isaiah 58:8-11
Then your light shall break forth like the morning. Your healing shall spring forth speedily and your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, "Here I am." If you take away the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, if you extend your soul to the hungry and satsify the afflicted soul, then your light shall dawn in the darkness, and your darkness shall be as the noonday. The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.
And lastly;
Ephesians 3:16-21
That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height -- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church of Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Ok, so here we are in the ICU waiting room with family and friends. Sandy Bingham showed up with stuff and gifts, games and kleenex and anything that you could think of that we might need in our situation. What an angel lady.
I will write more as it comes up.
Jeff

News about The Big Surgery

2008-03-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, we just finished talking to Dr. Oghalai. He has a great bedside manner. Here is some kind of gist as to what he said.
The tumor is not considered to be largely vascular. That means there will not be a lot of blood loss. Dr. Oghalai's feeling is that the angiogram confirmed that the tumor is not a paraganglioma and is likely a meningioma. It is compressing the brain and invades the jugular foramen and the nerve to the throat and ear particularly. Tracy will have a near total resection of the tumor. That means the intention is to get as much of the tumor out. She will most likely have a feeding tube for 6 to 8 weeks, possibly a trachiotomy (Dr. Oghalai does not want to do one, so he is going to try and keep that from happening), certainly a breathing tube, for a couple of days, shoulder might be weak and tongue could be weak. She will feel like she is spinning when she tries to stand because she will not have the mechanism in her ear to keep her balance. She is to expect clumsiness. She will always have some meningioma in her head and may have to have radiation treatments in the future to knock it out if necessary. It is expected right now that she will be in some kind of hospitalization for about 2 months. Unfortunately, that is knocking on the door of, and actually passing the date of Christopher and Rachel's wedding on May 17th. But hey, we are gonna just have to see. Pray for us folks so that Tracy can recover miraculously quickly and effectively.
As has been stated before, Tracy will lose the function of her right ear, so she will be deaf forever in that ear. The muscles to the face and throat are likely to be damaged and will cause her face to droop and make it such that she can't swallow. She will have to learn how to swallow again and may have to have further surgery to restore some function to the right side of the face.
Other nerves that could be affected (but are not expected) are the right eye which would cause it not to move to one side (thus, Tracy would be able to look straight ahead and to one side, but looking to the other side, the right eye would not follow); she may lose sensation to the face; and she could have a major stroke, which of course could be disabling or fatal. Now, remember, the eye, the face and the stroke are not expected.
Dr. Oghalai does not want Tracy in a drug induced coma, but she will be in a light sedation. She will be groggy.
Visitors can't really expect to see Tracy probably through the end of this week at the least. She will be in NICU working on recovering and will be groggy at best. She could be in NICU even two weeks, but it could be just a week.
We have had lots of family visitors today. What a blessing.

OH HEY! Tomorrow if you decide to come to the hospital tomorrow, you know you won't see Tracy (Her surgery starts at 7:00 a.m. and will not finish until even after 10:00 p.m. But I understand a lot of folks are coming by to show their support and love. It will be a long wait in the neurosurgery waiting room. That is on the 3rd floor of the Dunn tower, which is between Methodist Main building and Fondren. When you come into the lobby at Methodist, take the escalators at the back (east side) three floors up, turn to the right and you are facing the waiting room. OR just ask the information desk where the neurosurgery waiting room is.
I'll write more as I find it out. Praise the Lord! He is good.

Jeff

In a room for the night

2008-03-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

All right fellas and fellettes. We are in room 413. We expect to only be here today and tonight. After the surgery in the morning, the great Tracy will be moved into ICU. I'll tell you about that when I know more. Phone signals are not real good in the hospital, but they come through sometimes.

Jeff

First results of the angiogram and embolization

2008-03-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody!
Well, the doctor just came out and told us that he had finished the angiogram. He had come in earlier to get the films. We didn't know why and that was ok. It turns out, he couldn't find anything at first of a vascular nature. After looking at the films, he went back and found only a very small part that need embolizing. Thus, this tumor is not significantly vascular. What that should mean is that it is mostly tissue and not blood. The surgery should be cleaner in regard to blood flow. So, for the time being we are waiting for her to be moved to recovery and then we should be able to see her. She still has to wake up.
That is all to tell right now. You're getting this info pretty much on the minute.
Tomorrow, her surgery starts at 7:00 a.m. She will stay in the hospital tonight.
More to come as it develops.

Jeff

Waiting on God

2008-03-25T15:11:00.000-07:00

"This is the day which the Lord has made; I WILL rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 - Rejoicing gets harder as the day nears but... I WILL choose to rejoice even though I don't feel like it. A verse I am remembering is Proverbs 3:24 "When you lie down, you WILL NOT be afraid; when you lie down your sleep WILL be sweet." I don't like the thought of being stared at and not knowing what is going on for days while I sleep but I am clinging to God's promise that my sleep "WILL be sweet". :)

Thank you ALL again for the prayers, encouragement, cards, phone calls, prayer times, hugs, laughter and tears. I love the body of Christ - YOU are His hands and feet and it's really hard to imagine that He loves me more than I've been loved lately. I only hope and pray that you know how much I love you all too.

I am still waiting on the miracles of God to bowl us over - He's been doing that and He WILL continue as we walk this life together. He is FAITHFUL - He is AWESOME and miracles ARE happening. Thanks for finding them with me. I love you so much. Talk to you after my "sweet sleep".

Keeping You Posted

2008-03-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

While I am out of commission Jeff will be updating the blog. Thankfully, the hospital has internet service for us so he can update the blog as we progress.

Thanks for hanging in there with us. I was so thankful to get to attend Easter services with my family (Chris and Rach are still home) - it's getting scary but I will keep looking to the One in Charge. Love, Tracy

Roller Coaster Ride

2008-03-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been saying this time in my life is like a ride on a roller coaster and... I am seeing how appropriate the analogy is so... here I go blabbing on to you guys. On a roller coaster you get in and simply trust. You have NO CONTROL over where you go, how fast you go, or any part of the ride. The only thing you have control over is your emotions and mental state. You can complain, cry, scream but it only makes you miserable or you can just laugh and hang on tight.

Why even get on in the first place? Roller coasters are exhilarating, thrilling, terrifying, and have non-stop suspense. You never know what' s around the next bend. Well... I'm sure you can guess where I am going can't you? I've said I wouldn't trade this experience- sounds weird but the ride is thrilling and when I am terrified I just put my eyes back on the one who has ALL CONTROL and it's not me(fancy that)- praise the Lord. I would probably have it stop mid-ride and I would be left hanging upside down not knowing how to get off. You see, it is simple just sit back and trust the One in control and experience the thrills of life. Trust His promises, take Him at His Word - He is faithful!!!

One of the neatest, thrillingist, funest, :0) experiences I've had on this ride is at the "P.J. and Praise Party" my church sisters had for me on Thursday. What a blessing - we had wild, crazy fun coupled with tender moments that I will cherish always. Christ was in our midst (Matthew 18:20) and He was honored by the faithfulness of the ladies that orchestrated the evening. One of my favorite moments was taking the Lord's supper - it was Thursday evening before Good Friday - how appropriate that we remembered our Saviour in this way.

I want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to those who came and got crazy with me - they wore me out but it was a real good wearing out. I felt like I was in heaven - praising God with my sisters. My Dad heard us singing, from the other room, and said it sounded like angels singing. I have to believe there were angels singing with us!!! Another HUMONGOUS THANK YOU is for the gifts of love you gave me and my family - I was OVERWHELMED at the outpouring of your love. I have never had so many gifts and cards to open at once. I felt like it was such a representation of that wonderful verse in Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly BEYOND all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to HIM be the glory IN THE CHURCH and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever." He did beyond what I could think or imagine for the evening through His Church-YOU, my sisters!! "Blessed be the Lord God, God of Israel, Who alone works wonders..." Psalm 72:1 What a wonder He worked!!!!

New Email Address

2008-03-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

Hey guys - I have a new email address if you're interested. I will still use the old one for about a month or so. The new one is jtkamp@live.com .

We are counting down. Had a great weekend with wedding showers and a wonderful family dinner. My emotions are on the surface so... you never know what you'll get when you talk to me. :0) RANDOM!!! It can be fun but.... a little scary. I feel like Peter when he stepped out of the boat onto the water. When he looked around he went down (fast!!) but the second he looked back at Jesus things were okay again and I mean down to the second. I am realizing it IS a choice I have and it's a simple one but... it does take stepping out of the boat.

Jeff, Matt, and Bethany will go with me on the 26th for the preliminary tests - we are praying the doctors just won't find that sucker!! Then, that evening Jeff's mom and my parents will join us. Maybe I'll be checking out instead of in to the hospital. Wouldn't that just be amazing to see God show His glory before anyone touches me? !!!

Thanks again, mighty prayer warriors, you bless me beyond belief. Your faithfulness to pray for us leaves me speechless. I love you guys. Tracy

Leaving comments

2008-03-19T16:27:00.000-07:00

Some of you have said you are having trouble leaving a comment. Just click on comments - write your message then sign your name in the body of your comment(if you want). Then, click anonymous for the user name and that should do it. Thanks.

On the Downhill Side?

2008-03-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well - post-op meetings went well. They sure asked a lot of questions and drew a lot of blood. One of the nurses said that now we are "on the downhill side" - I thought that was kinda funny since I haven't even had the surgery yet. Maybe she knows more than she is letting on - preparing may be the most exhausting part of all of this- wouldn't that be great?!! The director of anethesiology and his nurse were remarkably kind. He told me that brain surgery really doesn't hurt as bad as other things will and explained that since the brain isn't a part of the body that moves- it doesn't hurt as much as another part would that moves with daily activity. That's good news but... I wanted to ask him if he had ever had brain surgery. Didn't think that would be appropriate but... it is a valid question. I am going to take these guys at their word and hope and pray for the best. Of course, I am still praying for divine healing (pre-surgery would be awesome). If God chooses to heal me through surgery then I like where I will be. They are very compassionate people.

I was happy to learn that we can get internet in the hospital too so... I can keep on checking in with everyone ( when I am not sleeping!!) All the activity to prepare IS exhausting so I am looking on this as a vacation. :0) You wouldn't believe how manic you become when you know you'll be out of commission awhile - cleaning out the fridge and oven(in case someone looks in there), getting gifts and cards for upcoming birthdays etc., buying everything you can in bulk (problem is my family keeps using stuff up before surgery), and any other crazy thing you can think of. I DO need a vacation - from my craziness!!

I get to go to two wedding showers this weekend for my beautiful daughter-in-law to be, Rachael. It will be so much fun being a part of the celebration. I am thankful to God for His timing. I haven't missed anything - I get to celebrate Easter right before going into the hospital too - Now think on the significance of that will you? What glorious hope!! Man, God is GOOD!! Thanks for hanging out with me for awhile. Love you guys!!

Latest Update

2008-03-10T19:37:00.000-07:00

We had a really neat prayer service last night. It blessed me so much. Thursday of this week (3/13) we go to Houston for post-op meetings and to give blood. Just wanted to let you know what is going on. :0)

Just Checking In

2008-03-08T08:19:00.000-08:00

Good morning friends -thanks for keeping us in your prayers - we really feel it! Gave blood this week and it wiped me out for awhile but I am feeling great this morning. I have a whole new perspective on Christ giving His blood on the cross but... I will save the sermon for later. Hey I am reading some great books if you are interested. "Heaven" by Randy Alcorn is really neat and "Divine Healing" by Andrew Murray is very thought-provoking. God has been challenging the limitations my mind has put on Him. Just wanted to check in with those who are keeping up with this "nail-biting" ;0) blog. This has been one of the most rewarding times of my life - growing closer to my Lord, reconnecting with old friends, and growing closer to friends and family. Thanks be unto our Lord.

Hey - another awesome bit of media is a DVD by Louis Giglio called "How Great is our God" - it will just blow you away - I promise!! ( See I am having a "vacation" of sorts)

FYI- We go on the 13th to finalize plans for hospital and give more blood. Thanks for standing beside us. I love you guys. Tracy

It's No Secret

2008-02-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hey guys - I just have to let you in on one of the "mysteries" of Christ" (Ephesians 3:4) - Some have said that they are amazed at my strength or whatever and though I appreciate their kindness I HAVE to tell you it is really NOT me. Those of you that know me well KNOW that for a fact. My nature is to worry, fret, take charge but... I am a new creature in Christ
(2 Corinthians 5:17 NAS) "Therefore if ANYONE is IN Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold new things have come." You see the word ANYONE - that's all of us!!! I heard recently that we should pay attention to the prepositions in the Bible - see the word IN Christ - it's not in ourselves - praise be to God we can be new IN HIM!! I am awed and amazed at what He can do and is doing in this stubborn, self-centered OLD gal - He is making me NEW.

In Philiappian 4:6-7 it says, " Be anxious for NOTHING, but in EVERYTHING by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace OF GOD which surpasses ALL comprehension WILL guard your hearts and your minds IN Christ Jesus." Wow upon Wow - I don't have to worry at all - He is my peace. Oh, friend of mine do you know that peace? I long for you to know it too. Call upon our God, our Saviour, our Friend and He will save you. He will be your peace too. Romans 10:11 and 13 " For the Scripture says, WHOEVER believes in Him will not be disappointed," and "WHOEVER will call upon the name of the Lord WILL be saved."

Thank you, dear saints that are praying for me and my family. We feel it in the peace of God. You are so faithful and you are being used by God to teach us how to love and pray. You are the biggest blessing He has given us after the blessing of Himself. We love you so, so much. Thanks for letting me "preach" awhile. My "cup runs over"!!

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NAS)

2008-02-24T13:24:00.000-08:00

"Now to Him who is able to do FAR MORE ABUNDANTLY BEYOND all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to HIM be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. AMEN!!" Ephesians 3:20-21

OKAY- HERE IT IS

2008-02-22T16:17:00.001-08:00

Well... we heard and the surgery is scheduled for MARCH 27th - I will go in on the 26th for some pre-surgery procedures. We were really hoping it would be sooner but I can already see the benefits of it being later - I have time to buff up my body :), will get to see Chris and Rach on Spring Break, will be able to go to Rachael's showers, will be home for Matthew's and Mom's birthdays, spend spring break with Bethany and so... I guess it's more of the waiting game. I do have to go in and do some pre-op stuff and still have people I need to contact like the radiologist etc. So... please continue to keep us in your prayers as we wait. Pray that we won't give in to the spirit of discouragement -after all God is still in control and He is not bound by time - thanks for caring.

You Can't Outgive God

2008-02-22T10:39:00.000-08:00

God is so good - you know that too don't you? He just continues to amaze me -He has shown us the "incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus." (Eph. 2:7)- He has orchestrated so much so as we wait for Him we won't" grow weary." No news on a date - hoping to hear today. We have gotten the green light from the hospital and are amazed at how smoothly and abundantly God has made that path. Also, had some major answers to prayers in other areas of daily needs. Thank you, prayer warriors. I know God is hearing you and honoring your faithfulness. I will let you all know as soon as we do on the date. Thanks for caring so much. We are blessed to call you our family and friends. Love, Tracy

Making Headway

2008-02-15T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well, one thing I've learned is you don't rush down to the local Wal-mart and get yourself a "brain surgery"!!! I didn't realize how much time it takes and how many people will be involved before this is all said and done. This week we have seen and/or talked to 5 different doctor's offices and talked with a counselor at the hospital. For those of you who know me well you can imagine how much I have enjoyed being on the phone or driving to Houston most of the week. I have a new respect for all the different roles people play to help us get good medical care. I imagine they deal with stressful situations and difficult people most of the week. There have been some really helpful, kind-hearted people along the way.

Anyway, to cut to the chase, still no date but we are getting close. We are waiting on the okay from the heart doctor (to determine if I have the heart for this surgery :) We expect I will get a green light from him some time mid-week. Next, we are waiting on the hospital to say okay bring her in. Lots of paperwork etc. there also. I hope to hear from them mid-week too. After that, I am assured a date will be set so... sometime next week I will post the date for all of you who are following this riviting story. Never thought I'd have my name in writing for all to see but stranger things have happened. ;)

Just want to say thanks again for all of you incredible, supportive people. I have had a foretaste of heaven in the fellowship, prayers, etc. I can't wait until we can all be together in that glorious place but... for now know that I love you all more and more every day.

The Latest

2008-02-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

Today I heard back from the hospital's office. We are still working out details but no date set yet - really glad to talk to a person today not just leave a voice mail. When I was getting discouraged that the time is dragging on someone reminded me that God's timing is perfect. I keep forgetting He is in charge of all this. Thanks for the reminders of His love and care. We'll let you know more first of next week (hopefully)

Don't Get Me Wrong

2008-02-06T10:13:00.000-08:00

Thought I would update those that are reading this - no date for surgery yet - trying to work out logistics of it all - long, complicated process. Just wanted to let you know that even though I have "the faith of a mustard seed"(so it seems) at times I am just plain overwhelmed and exhausted by all of this. But... then I am reminded that I am under God's wing of protection (Psalm 36:7"How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.") I also remember that "When I am afraid, I will trust in you." Ps.56:3 - Yes, I have fears - lots of them but "He hasn't given me the spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind." - Thank the Lord for all the ones who encourged me to memorize scripture because His word is "alive and active". Just wanted to thank you guys again for the encouragement - especially reminding me of His word - Hebrews4:16 says, "Let us then approach the throne of grace WITH CONFIDENCE, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." I am His daughter and I will be confident in Him. Thanks for constantly reminding me of this truth. Pray with me for the doctors, hospital and others that they may see and know the Living God that we serve - He is Mighty to deliver.

Here's a Hug

2008-02-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

I want to say thanks to all the incredible people who are ministering to us at this time(in prayer,words of encouragement, offers of help etc.)- my heart overflows with gratitude. As I think about how my body will have to "learn" to function for the parts that won't work so well after surgery I have realized that it is a neat illustration for the way the body of Christ works. You guys are showing me how the body of believers were meant to function - thanks for giving me a living example of Christ here on earth. My "cup overflows" - I love you - consider yourselves hugged. :)

I STAND AMAZED

2008-01-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

Well, I am finally posting my very first blog - thanks to my incredibly smart nephew, Brad, I haven't had to set all this up... just blogging is enough for this technically challenged lady.

Don't want to bore you with tons of details about visit to nuerosurgeon - (we went Tues 1/29) - he said basically the same thing as the other doctor - will be long and hard. I was kinda discouraged the rest of the day but... God had some talking to do to me. He led me to I Corinthians 2 and 3:16-23 and also Psalm 118 and 116. Here's a brief (hopefully) summary of what He reminded me:

1. I have the mind of Christ(I Cor. 2:16-"But we have the mind of Christ") - He is the Great Physician - dwelling inside me (great mystery- see I Cor. 3:16-"...you are the temple of God and the Spirit of God dwells in you") and He will direct me and my loved ones to the proper places, doctors etc. I have peace that He has put us where we should be.

2. He reminded me that I AM ALREADY HEALED ( not physically but spiritually- see Psalm 116:8"For you have rescued my soul from death...") - WOW - I don't have to fear anything - not this tumor - not death - not the thought of who will care for my loved ones .

3. On that note He reminded me that HE is GOD and I am not- He can and WILL take care of my precious ones before, during, and after all this is over. (Remember He took care of Matthew (my son) when he was held at gunpoint a few weeks ago- He was there watching over him - not me- Jer. 29:11- "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.")

4. I have an eternal gift - SALVATION-Psalm 118: 14-"The Lord is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation."

I have a lot more I'd like to share but... I need to do some work. Thank God for my sweet parents ( I work for them) - they are supportive of me doing this at work -Thank God for Jeff's Godly boss and his sweet wife - they support him in being there for his family. God is amazing and He is providing for all we need. Thank you, sweet loved ones for your prayers, love, support, and concern - we are in a blessed place. I love you dearly. ( That's all for now - I'll be back to give you more than you ever wanted to know!! :)

Intercessory Prayer at First Baptist in Chappell Hill

2008-01-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

At the 11:00 service on Sunday, the 27th there was an intercessory prayer service for Tracy at First Baptist Chappell Hill. Thank you to all who were able to make it and for those who weren't able thank you for your prayers.

Prayers and Petitions

2008-01-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

This post is primarily for family and friends to make their prayers to God public to encourage Tracy and her family. Hopefully it will also serve to strengthen this community of people who care about Tracy and her family. Please leave your prayer on the comments section of this post.

"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst."
Matthew 18:20

Doctor's Visit on January 23, 2008

2008-01-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

From: jtkamp@computexas.net
To: fbcchpray@googlegroups.com
Subject: Tracy's tumor
Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2008 21:24:34 +0000

Hi First Baptist Family.

Below is fairly detailed summary of our visit with the doctors today and the situations we will be in for the next few months. For my ADD buddies and buddettes, the short of it is that Tracy's tumor must be removed by surgery and there will permanent losses to hearing in the right ear and possibly some facial nerves. Rehabilitation and recovery will take 4 to 6 weeks in a rehabilitation hospital. For more info read below and we'll see you on Sunday. Love you guys. Really glad you're there.

Jeff

Tracy’s tumor

We went to the doctor today – the Bobby Alford Neurosensory Center of Houston. We first saw Dr. Alford. He is the chancellor of the Baylor College of Medicine. Look him up on the Internet and you can find his bio. He has been doing this for 52 years, really nice man. Then we went to Dr. Oghalai. He is a neurotologist specializing in otology (of course) and skull base surgery. Next week sometime we will see Dr. Yosher. He is the neurosurgeon. We spent about 3 hours with Dr. Alford and Dr. Oghalai today. Somehow we have kind of ended up with some of the best of the best.

So what’s the skinny?

The tumor is believed to be a meningoma. It is very large, though not the largest anyone has seen (but “getting close”). It is inside the skull, but not attached to the brain. It is pressing against the brain. Tracy has not suffered any motor or neurological losses to this point. The tumor is aggressive, but slow growing. Aggressive because it branches out like tentacles and takes up whatever space it finds. As a result, as it will have originated in the meninges (sp?), but it found spaces to invade through the hypoglossal and jugular foramen canals. These are holes in the sk! ull where these nerves pass through. The tumor found these holes and squeezed through them to begin growing on the other side of them. That is how it got to the eardrum and made doctors think it would be a glomas jugular or glomas tympanicum.

So, and…

Well, we must have the thing taken out. Radiation is out of the question because it is too big. Waiting to see what happens means death in about 5 to 10 years because the growth would eventually squish the brain stem and essentially suffocate it, so to speak. Thus, surgery in 4 to 6 weeks, or as soon as Dr. Oghalai and Dr. Yosher can get a day together. The surgery will take between 12 and 16 or so hours. She will be kept asleep for a day, or so. She will be in ICU for a week, or so. Then she will be in a rehabilitation hospital for 4 to 6 weeks, or so. All the “or so’s” beca! use recovery and rehabilitation depends on lots of factors that no one can predict.

She will lose the mechanisms for hearing in her right ear and they will close it off. Can’t be avoided. She will likely have facial nerve damage on the right side permanently. She could have trouble with her right shoulder temporarily as well as her right arm and leg. She may need a walker for some time, even as long as a year, depending on recovery and rehabilitation progress. She will lose the ability to swallow for a while and must have a feeding tube, either in her stomach or up her nose. She will likely have a tracheotomy until she can learn to swallow so that her saliva does not leak into her windpipe and cause her to have pneumonia.

The surgeons cannot get the entire tumor out. It is impossible. So, there will be remnants left. MRI’s to follow in the months, and years after will direct other treatments, which may include radiation. Though the tumor will still be in there, it is not expected to grow to a dangerous level again in her lifetime.

There may be more info, but it’s late, I’m tired and my brain is begging me to stop. Tell you more when it becomes significant.