May 17, 2010

Jessi and I got to spend a couple days with mommy and Garrett this weekend and are now back, getting ready for work and school again. It was a good few days, though, but just too short. We took a little walk at a nearby pond and just enjoyed being together while he's feeling good. He had some pretty wicked nightmares again this weekend, but we worked through them by watching baseball or rodeo like we always have until he could fall back asleep. As the week progressed, he's bound to get more anxious about the procedure/biopsy surgery. I'd sure be grateful for any extra prayers you have laying around for him, Jessi and Kathy. This will be a long week and weekend until we get the results early next week. Garrett made me promise at least 4 times that I'd be back with him in time for surgery.

His last checkup before surgery was this morning. Everything still looks pretty good. He's lost a little weight, but not much. Although there was no change in his echo, it's good because it didn't get worse. His bloodwork is still all over the map and while we want to know why, we're hoping it's just because his body is trying to heal. When they run the double biopsy this week, they'll get a real good look at this kidney function and we'll know more.

I tried to break up the monotony this weekend by building the kids a roping toy from PVC tubing. It'll give him something to do in the backyard. But I don't think it was near the hit that his other surprises were. He got a box full of goodies from some great folks, including a bunch more baseball cards (he loves those), books, signed Boston BBall and even a rugby ball from a couple in Australia! The love this little guy has garnered is really amazing. Folks are so kind.

When we know more, I'll be sure to post something. I've added a picture tonight of the bracelets his little friends Chris and Joe designed. I'm told they are a big hit in the area and really make Garrett feel "special" to know folks are wearing them for him until he can come home. He really has some tremendous friends, all good soldiers of the Cross, too.

While you're taking time to pray this week, please ask God to comfort the family of Dale Goodell. Dale was a good man and friend of mine whom God called home early this morning. He and Garrett shared similarities, too, as Dale was a bone marrow transplant recipient. He finally lost a lengthy battle that he fought so well for so long. He's at peace now, but those of us left behind will miss him dearly.

This week is a big one. There will be lots of big prayers for the King of miracles to heal a little cowboy so he can come back home with his family. The victory is His, and we ask for understanding and grace as we try to accept His will.

God bless,

JD