Hold on to your seats ...
This morning Lindsay had her procedure which included the rinse and exploration of the mitral valve and some additional tests.
Dr. Emani reported that the mitral valve is now mild-to-moderate, which is a big improvement from SEVERE! He then shared that he is AMAZED at the way her heart is beginning to show signs of getting stronger!!!
There is a concern about the left lung, so pray about that as well as praying for the eradication of the infection. His theory now is that the infection could have caused the cardiac arrest.
Right now he is suggesting that they begin to back done the ECMO to see how much her heart can do. If this continues to improve, his recommendation is that they allow her to regain strength, and move towards doing the coronary bypass down the road and not even consider the Berlin Heart or transplant.
Laura and Jan said he kept using the word AMAZED and said we moved from the valley to the mountain. He was cautious to say we could be back in the valley in an hour, but he was encouraged.
Laura shared with him that her prayer has been that if God was going to heal Lindsay, that it would be to the AMAZEMENT of the the doctors and that they would be blown away. Jan shared that there are 1000's of people praying for Lindsay, but that we were asking everyone to pray for the doctors and nurses too! They said at that point he was very teary-eyed!
We give God the glory for what HE is doing in Lindsay's heart! Thank you for praying. Don't forget to sign your names!!!
Lindsay Alice Groen June 14, 2006 -- May 16, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Thursday morning update
This morning they are going to go back in to do another "cleaning" of the chest area, and the surgeon is going to check out the progress of the mitral valve surgery and explore some other options with the heart.
From my limited understanding of Jon and Laura's comment about Lindsay's being a "dire" situation, she cannot be on the ECMO machine for an indefinite period of time. Right now the team is thinking through every possible scenario because the clock is ticking.
The Berlin heart cannot become functional until the infection is completely gone. Until the infection is gone she is on the inactive list for a heart transplant. There was some talk about the remote possibility of doing some type of "bypass" surgery, which would obviously be better than a transplant.
This morning as I began my quiet time, I was crying out to the Lord for something fresh and new from His Word. These were the verses that God gave to me:
"The eyes of the ALL look expectantly to you." - Psalm 145:15. There are literally thousands praying for Lindsay from coast to coast as well as places like Tel Aviv, Israel - people we don't even know are praying for her.
"HE gives life, breath and all things. The Lord is good to all, and HIS tender mercies are over all HIS works. Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. The same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help? Behold as the eyes of the servant look to the hand of their masters, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God.
The Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him. It will be said in that day: 'Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for Him; we will rejoice and be glad in His salvation. If we hope for what we do not see, then we eagerly wait for it with perseverance." (Acts 17:25; Psalm 145:9; Matthew 6:26; Romans 10:12; Psalm 121:1; Psalm 123:2; Isaiah 30:18; Isaiah 25:9; Romans 8:25)
I trust this update will be helpful in your praying. Thank you to the hundreds of you checking the blog and meeting the Lord with us at the throne of grace. We are all humbled and amazed at this outpouring of love and concern.
From my limited understanding of Jon and Laura's comment about Lindsay's being a "dire" situation, she cannot be on the ECMO machine for an indefinite period of time. Right now the team is thinking through every possible scenario because the clock is ticking.
The Berlin heart cannot become functional until the infection is completely gone. Until the infection is gone she is on the inactive list for a heart transplant. There was some talk about the remote possibility of doing some type of "bypass" surgery, which would obviously be better than a transplant.
This morning as I began my quiet time, I was crying out to the Lord for something fresh and new from His Word. These were the verses that God gave to me:
"The eyes of the ALL look expectantly to you." - Psalm 145:15. There are literally thousands praying for Lindsay from coast to coast as well as places like Tel Aviv, Israel - people we don't even know are praying for her.
"HE gives life, breath and all things. The Lord is good to all, and HIS tender mercies are over all HIS works. Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. The same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help? Behold as the eyes of the servant look to the hand of their masters, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God.
The Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him. It will be said in that day: 'Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for Him; we will rejoice and be glad in His salvation. If we hope for what we do not see, then we eagerly wait for it with perseverance." (Acts 17:25; Psalm 145:9; Matthew 6:26; Romans 10:12; Psalm 121:1; Psalm 123:2; Isaiah 30:18; Isaiah 25:9; Romans 8:25)
I trust this update will be helpful in your praying. Thank you to the hundreds of you checking the blog and meeting the Lord with us at the throne of grace. We are all humbled and amazed at this outpouring of love and concern.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
From Boston.........
Tanner checking out Lindsay's Berlin heart, which arrived this morning courtesy of British Airways. Now we need Lindsay's infections to clear up. The doctor called her situation "dire" tonight, so we covet your prayers. We thank you all for the support you have all been this far and wil continue to be.
-Jon, Laura, Tanner & Lindsay.
Wedneday Noon Update
We continue to see progress. They are going to open her chest again and do a "clean and rinse" procedure and make sure there is no spread of infection. They seem to be getting control of the infection and there is no sign of any new infection.
The Berlin Heart as arrived and if they can get rid of the infection, they could hook that up as early as this weekend. Once the infection is under control, she will be placed back on the active list for a heart.
Thank you again for your love, prayers, encouragement, and for checking the blog. Don't forget to sign in and leave a message. If you need help with that, let me know! The kids read every one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Berlin Heart as arrived and if they can get rid of the infection, they could hook that up as early as this weekend. Once the infection is under control, she will be placed back on the active list for a heart.
Thank you again for your love, prayers, encouragement, and for checking the blog. Don't forget to sign in and leave a message. If you need help with that, let me know! The kids read every one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday Morning Update
Praise the Lord that Lindsay had a good night and there seems to be much improvement. Her kidneys are functioning well and she is eliminating more fluid on her own vs. having the ECMO machine do it. The doctors haven't seen the growth of the infection or any new ones. Praise the Lord.
Please pray for the little guy, Lance (7 years old) who is in the next room. He is not doing well and has no brain activity. The family is facing some major decisions in the next couple of days.
Last night one of Lindsay's nurses wrote on the blog. For some reason I missed the story until last night. This ANGEL was walking by when Lindsay was in distress last Tuesday, and saw the look of panic on Laura's face. She was the one who ran in pushed the alarm and started CPR on Lindsay. God used her to save Lindsay's life.
This morning in my quiet time with the Lord, I was reminded that He is the God who IS -- not just the God who was or will be. Here is what I journaled:
THE GOD WHO ISThis morning I have been overwhelmed with the wonderful reality that we have a God who IS - not just was or will be - but who is ... I am thankful for the verses that leapt off the page of the Word this morning that are in the PRESENT TENSE not just past or future tense. Think about them:
The Lord IS my Shepherd - Psalm 23:1
God IS my refuge and strength - a very PRESENT help in my time of trouble - Psalm 46:1
The Lord IS my rock and my fortress and my deliverer ... Psalm 18:2
The angel of the Lord ENCAMPS all around those who fear Him, and DELIVERS them. - Psalm 34:7
The righteous cry out, and the Lord HEARS them, and DELIVERS them out of all their troubles. - Psalm 34:17
The eternal God IS your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.-
Deut. 33:27
So we may boldly say: "The Lord IS my helper; I will not fear ...Hebrews 3:6
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you PRESERVE my life. - Psalm138:7
It is good to rehearse God's faithfulness in our lives in the past, but O how comforting and refreshing to know that our God is not just the great I WAS - He is the great I AM! Be comforted and encouraged today in the God who IS! -
Please pray for the little guy, Lance (7 years old) who is in the next room. He is not doing well and has no brain activity. The family is facing some major decisions in the next couple of days.
Last night one of Lindsay's nurses wrote on the blog. For some reason I missed the story until last night. This ANGEL was walking by when Lindsay was in distress last Tuesday, and saw the look of panic on Laura's face. She was the one who ran in pushed the alarm and started CPR on Lindsay. God used her to save Lindsay's life.
This morning in my quiet time with the Lord, I was reminded that He is the God who IS -- not just the God who was or will be. Here is what I journaled:
THE GOD WHO ISThis morning I have been overwhelmed with the wonderful reality that we have a God who IS - not just was or will be - but who is ... I am thankful for the verses that leapt off the page of the Word this morning that are in the PRESENT TENSE not just past or future tense. Think about them:
The Lord IS my Shepherd - Psalm 23:1
God IS my refuge and strength - a very PRESENT help in my time of trouble - Psalm 46:1
The Lord IS my rock and my fortress and my deliverer ... Psalm 18:2
The angel of the Lord ENCAMPS all around those who fear Him, and DELIVERS them. - Psalm 34:7
The righteous cry out, and the Lord HEARS them, and DELIVERS them out of all their troubles. - Psalm 34:17
The eternal God IS your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.-
Deut. 33:27
So we may boldly say: "The Lord IS my helper; I will not fear ...Hebrews 3:6
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you PRESERVE my life. - Psalm138:7
It is good to rehearse God's faithfulness in our lives in the past, but O how comforting and refreshing to know that our God is not just the great I WAS - He is the great I AM! Be comforted and encouraged today in the God who IS! -
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Tuesday evening update
Today started out as one of discouragement, but the Lord has given us some hope this evening.
Lindsay's response to the change in ECMO machines has been very favorable, and the increased blood flow is awesome. Her heart did work on it's own, but she needed some medication to control her blood pressure.
The bronchial scope was good and didn't show any major concerns. Praise the Lord.
Please continue to pray for Tanner. Jon and Laura had to sell their calves today because Lindsay cannot be around livestock after the transplant. Tanner and Lindsay became very attached to the calves in the short time that they had them. We still marvel at how well he has done being three and at the hospital all but one or two days.
Pray for a good night's rest for Laura, Jon, Tanner and Jan.
Thanks for all your prayers and words of encouragement.
Lindsay's response to the change in ECMO machines has been very favorable, and the increased blood flow is awesome. Her heart did work on it's own, but she needed some medication to control her blood pressure.
The bronchial scope was good and didn't show any major concerns. Praise the Lord.
Please continue to pray for Tanner. Jon and Laura had to sell their calves today because Lindsay cannot be around livestock after the transplant. Tanner and Lindsay became very attached to the calves in the short time that they had them. We still marvel at how well he has done being three and at the hospital all but one or two days.
Pray for a good night's rest for Laura, Jon, Tanner and Jan.
Thanks for all your prayers and words of encouragement.
Late Afternoon Update
Here is the latest ...
The bronchial scope was not going to be done until 3:30 PM. The plan was NOT to change the ECMO tube and put it in the neck, but to put her on a larger ECMO machine which would increase the flow. Putting her on the larger machine would mean that HER heart would have to do the work for six or seven minutes. That would give them some time to evaluate what HER heart can do.
Laura sounded much more upbeat on the phone this afternoon which is an answer to your prayers.
As I hear information, I will get it on the blog. Thanks!
The bronchial scope was not going to be done until 3:30 PM. The plan was NOT to change the ECMO tube and put it in the neck, but to put her on a larger ECMO machine which would increase the flow. Putting her on the larger machine would mean that HER heart would have to do the work for six or seven minutes. That would give them some time to evaluate what HER heart can do.
Laura sounded much more upbeat on the phone this afternoon which is an answer to your prayers.
As I hear information, I will get it on the blog. Thanks!
Tuesday Afternoon Update
Here is what I know at this point:
1. They are calling the infection a "fungal" infection and working hard at treating it with the right medications.
2. They are contemplating moving the ECMO tube from the chest to the neck.
3. At 1:00 PM they were do a scope of the lung through the nose to see what was happening in the lungs.
4. The Berlin heart has been shipped, but I am not sure that they can do that procedure until the infection is cleared up.
Jan said that Laura was really discouraged today. I think that is where we all are at the moment. It doesn't change our confidence in our great God, but our "human" side sometimes gets in the way.
I know what a blessing it is for me to see your comments, so know that for the kids, it means so much. I know that hundreds of people are visiting the site. If you haven't left a message, please do so. Type your message and sign your name in with your message and then click the button marked "anonymous."
1. They are calling the infection a "fungal" infection and working hard at treating it with the right medications.
2. They are contemplating moving the ECMO tube from the chest to the neck.
3. At 1:00 PM they were do a scope of the lung through the nose to see what was happening in the lungs.
4. The Berlin heart has been shipped, but I am not sure that they can do that procedure until the infection is cleared up.
Jan said that Laura was really discouraged today. I think that is where we all are at the moment. It doesn't change our confidence in our great God, but our "human" side sometimes gets in the way.
I know what a blessing it is for me to see your comments, so know that for the kids, it means so much. I know that hundreds of people are visiting the site. If you haven't left a message, please do so. Type your message and sign your name in with your message and then click the button marked "anonymous."
Mid-morning update
Jan just called and said the infection seems to be worse. They are looking at something with the lung now, so she requested prayer. I will keep you updated as I get information.
Tuesday Morning Update
"But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift up their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the son]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint, or become tired." Isaiah 40:31 -- The Amplified Bible
This is my prayer for Laura, Jon, Tanner, Warren & Phyllis and Jan for today. I could really sense the weariness in their voices this morning when I called for the update.
Late last night they had to do a procedure to further check out the chest and infection. The doctors called the kids for a consent to proceed and then called back to say that everything went well.
We praise the Lord that Morrah (not sure of the spelling) is her nurse today. She is super and was with Lindsay right after her open heart surgery.
The infection is in her blood and will require stronger antibiotics. The infection is more serious than what they first suspected yesterday. They are also needing to change another one of the tubes today.
Needless to say, the battle is going to be long and intense. Would you join me in praying not just for healing, but for strength for today for the family.
I don't want to sound like a broken record, but please know that your prayers and encouragement on behalf of Lindsay is much appreciated. Thank you!
This is my prayer for Laura, Jon, Tanner, Warren & Phyllis and Jan for today. I could really sense the weariness in their voices this morning when I called for the update.
Late last night they had to do a procedure to further check out the chest and infection. The doctors called the kids for a consent to proceed and then called back to say that everything went well.
We praise the Lord that Morrah (not sure of the spelling) is her nurse today. She is super and was with Lindsay right after her open heart surgery.
The infection is in her blood and will require stronger antibiotics. The infection is more serious than what they first suspected yesterday. They are also needing to change another one of the tubes today.
Needless to say, the battle is going to be long and intense. Would you join me in praying not just for healing, but for strength for today for the family.
I don't want to sound like a broken record, but please know that your prayers and encouragement on behalf of Lindsay is much appreciated. Thank you!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Monday afternoon update
Lindsay has developed an infection in her chest and is now on antibiotics. This means that she will now have to be on the inactive list for a transplant until the infection clears up. We are not certain how this affects that the Berlin heart. We will keep you updated as we hear information.
Thanks for praying!
Thanks for praying!
Monday morning update
Good morning. Here are several updates for prayer:
1. Lindsay's blood sugar is a little high so she is on a small amount of insulin. Pray that they can regulate it.
2. She has developed some air around the left lung and they are trying to take care of that this morning.
3. She needed platelets last night and there didn't seem to be a change. However the her friend in the next cubicle had them also and there wasn't a change. They are checking that out this morning as well.
4. Please pray that the Berlin heart will arrive this week. Here is a clip about the heart. http://www.allkids.org/body.cfm?id=396&action=detail&ref=57
5. Pray that God will miraculously provide Lindsay's new heart either by healing the "old" one or through the transplant.
While we are encouraging folks to visit Laura, Jon, and Tanner, it is important that you be well. Lindsay is very susceptible to infection.
1. Lindsay's blood sugar is a little high so she is on a small amount of insulin. Pray that they can regulate it.
2. She has developed some air around the left lung and they are trying to take care of that this morning.
3. She needed platelets last night and there didn't seem to be a change. However the her friend in the next cubicle had them also and there wasn't a change. They are checking that out this morning as well.
4. Please pray that the Berlin heart will arrive this week. Here is a clip about the heart. http://www.allkids.org/body.cfm?id=396&action=detail&ref=57
5. Pray that God will miraculously provide Lindsay's new heart either by healing the "old" one or through the transplant.
While we are encouraging folks to visit Laura, Jon, and Tanner, it is important that you be well. Lindsay is very susceptible to infection.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Sunday Evening Update
Here is the update for Sunday evening:
Praise the Lord that Lindsay has responded by eliminating fluids to the pleasure of the the nurses.
The transplant team thinks that the Berlin Heart may arrive on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Laura and Jon have requested prayer for the two young boys on either side of Lindsay. 7 year old Lance is in very serious condition and needs a heart and lung transplant. They have been testing him throughout the day and he has little or no brain activity, which would disqualify him for the transplants. Please pray for Lance's family.
Pray for 10 month old, Logan, who has had three open heart surgeries. He is doing quite well. Pray that Laura and Jon can be an encouragement to this family.
Pray for Grandma Groen (Phyllis) who is not feeling well and had to stay home today.
We covet your on-going prayers and encouragement!
Praise the Lord that Lindsay has responded by eliminating fluids to the pleasure of the the nurses.
The transplant team thinks that the Berlin Heart may arrive on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Laura and Jon have requested prayer for the two young boys on either side of Lindsay. 7 year old Lance is in very serious condition and needs a heart and lung transplant. They have been testing him throughout the day and he has little or no brain activity, which would disqualify him for the transplants. Please pray for Lance's family.
Pray for 10 month old, Logan, who has had three open heart surgeries. He is doing quite well. Pray that Laura and Jon can be an encouragement to this family.
Pray for Grandma Groen (Phyllis) who is not feeling well and had to stay home today.
We covet your on-going prayers and encouragement!
Sunday afternoon updates
Praise the Lord for several churches that shared about Lindsay and mobilized people to pray. We appreciate that.
They changed the tube today to the heart and lung machine to give better flow. The main prayer request for today is that they would be able to get rid of the excess fluid she is retaining. Jan said her face was puffy today.
Thanks for praying and partnering.
They changed the tube today to the heart and lung machine to give better flow. The main prayer request for today is that they would be able to get rid of the excess fluid she is retaining. Jan said her face was puffy today.
Thanks for praying and partnering.
Sunday Morning Update
There really is nothing new to report this morning, but I was impressed to write the words of this old hymn for Jon and Laura this morning (yes, your father is getting old!) ...
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for FEAR.
He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what HE deems best
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.
Every day the Lord HIMSELF is near me
With a special mercy for EACH hour.
All my cares He fain would bear, and cheer me,
He whose name is COUNSELOR and POWER!
The protection of His child and TREASURE (Lindsay Bear)
Is a charge that on HIMSELF He laid;
"As your days, your strength shall be in measure,"
This the pledge to me (Jon and Laura) HE made.
Help me then in every tribulation
So to trust YOUR promises, O Lord.
That I lose not faith's sweet consolation
Offered me within Your holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
E'er to take, as from a father's hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till I reach the promised land.
The verse under the title of the song is "My grace is sufficient for you; for MY strength is made perfect in your weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9
That's my prayer today for Jon, Laura, Tanner, Warren, Phyllis and Jan as they stand watch at the hospital today.
As of this morning there were 500+ people who visited the blog yesterday! You have NO IDEA how humbling and encouraging that is. We love you all.
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for FEAR.
He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what HE deems best
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.
Every day the Lord HIMSELF is near me
With a special mercy for EACH hour.
All my cares He fain would bear, and cheer me,
He whose name is COUNSELOR and POWER!
The protection of His child and TREASURE (Lindsay Bear)
Is a charge that on HIMSELF He laid;
"As your days, your strength shall be in measure,"
This the pledge to me (Jon and Laura) HE made.
Help me then in every tribulation
So to trust YOUR promises, O Lord.
That I lose not faith's sweet consolation
Offered me within Your holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when toil and trouble meeting,
E'er to take, as from a father's hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till I reach the promised land.
The verse under the title of the song is "My grace is sufficient for you; for MY strength is made perfect in your weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9
That's my prayer today for Jon, Laura, Tanner, Warren, Phyllis and Jan as they stand watch at the hospital today.
As of this morning there were 500+ people who visited the blog yesterday! You have NO IDEA how humbling and encouraging that is. We love you all.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Saturday evening update
Laura and Jon met again with the transplant and were given much information to process. The paperwork has been filed to start the search process for a donor heart. Now we wait on God's perfect timing for this provision.
Jan's sister and brother drove to Boston today and their car broke down right off the Mass. Turnpike, and they had to be towed to the garage. They drove in from Lancaster, so needless to say that they were frustrated with the delay.
Jan checked in with them after lunch and Jeanne said that they knew why they broke down when and where they did. Jan assumed it was a mechanical issue that was revealed, however it was another "Wow-God" moments.
While waiting for their car to be fixed, a tow truck brought in another man's vehicle that had also broken down. They engaged in conversation and the man asked where they were from and why they were in Massachusetts. They shared that they were from Lancaster and here to visit their great niece who was facing a heart transplant. He asked what hospital and Lindsay's age.
Turns out this man is from New Hampshire, and has a three year old daughter who had a heart transplant at 22 months, and the surgery was done at Boston Children's Hospital. He told them how pleased they were with all that took place and that things were going to work out for Lindsay. Coincidence? I don't think so.
Pray now that God will provide the RIGHT heart as soon as possible.
Pray that the Lord will open some short-term housing that will be needed after Lindsay has recovered and can leave Children's but cannot travel far.
Pray for on-going peace for Laura and Jon.
Thanks again for praying. We are humbled and amazed at how many people have visited the blog today!!! We love you.
We remain IN HIS GRIP!
Jan's sister and brother drove to Boston today and their car broke down right off the Mass. Turnpike, and they had to be towed to the garage. They drove in from Lancaster, so needless to say that they were frustrated with the delay.
Jan checked in with them after lunch and Jeanne said that they knew why they broke down when and where they did. Jan assumed it was a mechanical issue that was revealed, however it was another "Wow-God" moments.
While waiting for their car to be fixed, a tow truck brought in another man's vehicle that had also broken down. They engaged in conversation and the man asked where they were from and why they were in Massachusetts. They shared that they were from Lancaster and here to visit their great niece who was facing a heart transplant. He asked what hospital and Lindsay's age.
Turns out this man is from New Hampshire, and has a three year old daughter who had a heart transplant at 22 months, and the surgery was done at Boston Children's Hospital. He told them how pleased they were with all that took place and that things were going to work out for Lindsay. Coincidence? I don't think so.
Pray now that God will provide the RIGHT heart as soon as possible.
Pray that the Lord will open some short-term housing that will be needed after Lindsay has recovered and can leave Children's but cannot travel far.
Pray for on-going peace for Laura and Jon.
Thanks again for praying. We are humbled and amazed at how many people have visited the blog today!!! We love you.
We remain IN HIS GRIP!
Saturday afternoon Update
The family is meeting now with the transplant team. Lindsay's request has officially been posted.
Will update as I get more information.
Will update as I get more information.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Friday Evening Update
There is much to tell you tonight, but I will try my best to keep it short, as well as explain it to the best of my ability.
The heart cath revealed that there is major damage to the left side of the heart, which explains the pumping issues. In one sense it shows that this was more serious than we realized.
The plan is still to proceed with a heart transplant. They are ordering a "Berlin" heart from Germany which will be attached to her from the outside until her new heart is available. This will allow her to be out of bed and to do some regular things, but she will need to remain in ICU until after the transplant.
It could take from 24 hours to six months to find a heart, and obviously to get a heart means that someone else's child has to die. That is a hard thing to face.
So how can you pray?
1. For continued strength and peace for Laura and Jon, as well as Jan and the Groen's. We are in this for the long haul.
2. That they will know clearly how to provide Tanner some form of "normal" during the long haul.
3. That God will provide a healthy heart as soon as possible.
4. That God will keep Lindsay's lungs, kidneys and liver functions safe during the waiting period.
5. That Laura and Jon can be a testimony to the staff and other families.
Laura and Jon had several friends from MOPS today. They were so blessed with their visit!!! Please know that visitors are a good thing right now.
There have been some questions as to how to leave your name on your blog entry. To leave your name, type it in with your message in the blog dialog box.
We love you and thank you again for your prayers and encouragement.
The heart cath revealed that there is major damage to the left side of the heart, which explains the pumping issues. In one sense it shows that this was more serious than we realized.
The plan is still to proceed with a heart transplant. They are ordering a "Berlin" heart from Germany which will be attached to her from the outside until her new heart is available. This will allow her to be out of bed and to do some regular things, but she will need to remain in ICU until after the transplant.
It could take from 24 hours to six months to find a heart, and obviously to get a heart means that someone else's child has to die. That is a hard thing to face.
So how can you pray?
1. For continued strength and peace for Laura and Jon, as well as Jan and the Groen's. We are in this for the long haul.
2. That they will know clearly how to provide Tanner some form of "normal" during the long haul.
3. That God will provide a healthy heart as soon as possible.
4. That God will keep Lindsay's lungs, kidneys and liver functions safe during the waiting period.
5. That Laura and Jon can be a testimony to the staff and other families.
Laura and Jon had several friends from MOPS today. They were so blessed with their visit!!! Please know that visitors are a good thing right now.
There have been some questions as to how to leave your name on your blog entry. To leave your name, type it in with your message in the blog dialog box.
We love you and thank you again for your prayers and encouragement.
Friday Afternoon Update
Lindsay's CT scan came back normal! The EEG came back normal. Her coloring is so much better today. The cath will be sometime between 3-4. They have also done three EKG's and they have all be good. The transplant team is meeting now.
I will let you all know about the results later on this afternoon.
I will let you all know about the results later on this afternoon.
Friday Morning Update
First of all, we want to thank you again for the many thousands of partners now circling the globe who are praying for our kids, and especially Lindsay Bear. What a privilege to be a part of God's family. It is amazing and humbling to have this outpouring of love and prayer support in the midst of this trial.
Lindsay had a peaceful night. They did not back down the heart and lung machine, but have opted to do a Ct scan of the brain and also another procedure that will check out the circulation, and get inside the heart to see what is actually going on.
God has been giving us HIS peace in indescribable ways -- "far and above our human comprehension and understanding."
Today I journaled on my daily Freedom Fighter blog what God has been teaching me. Check it out: http://www.americaskeswick.org/freedom/
I will update the blog as soon as I have information. Please know that the kids are know able to read your comments right away since someone provided a wireless card for them.
God bless you!
Lindsay had a peaceful night. They did not back down the heart and lung machine, but have opted to do a Ct scan of the brain and also another procedure that will check out the circulation, and get inside the heart to see what is actually going on.
God has been giving us HIS peace in indescribable ways -- "far and above our human comprehension and understanding."
Today I journaled on my daily Freedom Fighter blog what God has been teaching me. Check it out: http://www.americaskeswick.org/freedom/
I will update the blog as soon as I have information. Please know that the kids are know able to read your comments right away since someone provided a wireless card for them.
God bless you!
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