Wednesday, February 5, 2014 9:30pm

LIFE IN REHAB IS WINDING DOWN or GEARING UP FOR HOME



Last Friday's retirement celebration was fantastic!  There were 25 people gathered in the hospital conference room/family room - most of them family and the others we consider family.  The biggest surprise was when Elisa, Stephen and the four kids walked in - just after driving from Utah!!  It was so wonderful! My sister made cupcakes and veggie tray; we had a little ice water and lemonade - all very stylishly served on the conference table and decorated with balloons.  John was out of his gym shorts and dressed for the occasion wearing his cargo shorts and customary black preaching shirt and cross.  There were good stories, funny moments, reading some greetings, and prayers of thanksgiving for John and his life and ministry as well as hope and belief in the future.  It was just the kind of event John wanted.  Just enough. 






Last Wednesday, John and I went on a recreational outing to the Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden.  This is required therapy to experience going in the wheelchair on the bus, in public, dealing with a crowd, being "looked at" and feeling "different".  It was a perfectly beautiful afternoon and thoroughly enjoyable - but there were challenges.  Being in a wheelchair, unable to do little for yourself, is a very vulnerable feeling.  Being the spouse makes me very protective.  There was a special exhibit by Dale Chihuly - extraordinary, vibrant  works of blown glass art.  I hope you enjoy the pictures I have included.

The weekend was full of fun as we spent time with Elisa's family.  The kids were great when they visited Grandpa and had lunch in the dining room - they entertained everyone!  We had walks in the hospital Renewal Garden.  On Sunday we enjoyed attending Horizon Presbyterian where my brother and sister-in-law are members.  Their pastor, Ron Hawkins, has been a faithful and encouraging friend on weekly visits.  Stephen attended the Super Bowl Party at the rehab with John; Elisa and the kids and I enjoyed our time at home.

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Most of John's time and energy has been spent on building strength and skills for coming home.  Together we have accomplished the goals that were set - tomorrow we will get "tested" and signed off in the different areas.  This picture shows John "transferring" from the bed to the chair - a skill necessary for his mobility and self-care.  The transfer in and out of the car is the biggest challenge. He gets stronger and better at all of it everyday... so, friends and family, we approach the long-awaited day of discharge. 

John is coming home on Friday!  It has been 110 days since John arrived at the emergency room in Chandler.  I think the house is a ready as I can make it right now.  Paul arrives Thursday night and will help us through the weekend.  John knows well that there is still a long road of recovery and hard work ahead, but he is ready for it.  He will continue to work in therapy on an outpatient basis 2-3 times a week for many months.



Thanks for sticking by us - for holding John and me up in your prayers.  We felt each and every one of them.  We read and re-read your notes.  The Lord continues to be gracious and generous with his blessings.  We'll continue to post this blog as we continue the journey.