In-Patient Physical Therapy

Answered prayer! Tim checked into a Dallas hospital yesterday to begin his inpatient physical therapy. We are guessing he will be there 2 weeks, but that has not been verified. Praise the Lord that all of Tim’s past scans have been clear. Tim, however, has slowly become isolated at home due to the decline in his health from the steroids and low platelets. This isolation has contributed to his feeling disconnected from people. His brain surgery inhibited his speech and ability to communicate well. We are hoping that the therapy will help stimulate his brain to reconnect his thought and speech processes. The therapists will also be setting goals for him to determine his ability to walk unassisted for more than a few steps.

How can you help? Email Tim and Janice an update of you family happenings, like a year-end letter you might receive in a Christmas card. This will help him stay connected to his friends and church family.

Tim is down to 4 milligrams of steroids starting today and they plan to decrease it 1 mg a week until he is off completely. He will be more tired than usual as he comes down off the steroids so therapy will take all of his effort. Two weeks ago, when they reduced his steroids, he experienced seizures. The decreasing in medication and therapy will be a delicate balance. Please pray for:

· no seizures as his system is adjusting to the decrease each week

· his body to be strengthened through his physical therapy

· his speech therapy and occupational therapy to show continued improvement

· that he will supernaturally surpass their goals for him

· ultimate healing and restoration

· Janice to feel rested and rejuvenated

· blessings over their finances

· protection over their mental stamina during this season

· many people to write and keep him connected to their lives

· prayer, prayer, and more prayer. Please pray each week at meals, with friends and in small groups.

Gary Hutchison has asked that we step-up prayer for Tim over the next 2 months, to have a focused prayer time each week. Philip Pfanstiel, a member of Grace, was impressed by the Lord to begin organizing structured prayer time. More to come on that later.

Prayer sheets will be updated and placed in the HOP and lobby weekly.