Storytime Tapestry Newsletter

The newsletter devoted to spreading love and cultural awareness throughout the world.

Special Treat – Ginger Boda

June 13, 2006

Hi Everyone,

Just an update here on Mark's dad, Mel.  I haven't written lately, because so much has happened with him and things were changing day by day.  But I have to thank you all, again, for all your support and prayers ... they continue to reach God's ears!

Last week, the doctors told us that although Dad was starting to eat, and all the tubes were taken out of his lungs, and the surgery was successful, there was nothing more they could do for him and if he stayed there, like he was, he most likely "wouldn't make it."  He was still on 23 liters of oxygen, and an IV of saline, and they said he had lost over 20 lbs.  It didn't look good.

A suggestion to transport him to a Rehab hospital, called "Kindred" came to the forefront.  This is a 50 room hospital that specializes in Respiratory, Pulmonary, and Cardiac Care, as well as infectious diseases.  That is ALL they do, and they have a great reputation.  The only negative is that it is located in Phoenix, about 100 miles from Mom and Renee'.

Dad felt hopeful, once again, that he could be helped ... as we all did.  So the plan was set in motion.

Last Thursday he was taken by Ambulance to Kindred Hospital.  Mom and Renee went on Friday and stayed the weekend in a nearby hotel.  The new doctor found that Dad did not need 23 liters of oxygen, nor did he need the face oxygen mask.  It was too much.  He is now on only 3 liters of oxygen, with the nose apparatus only!!  Apparently the saline solution that the other hospital had him on was not needed, as well, and was putting excess fluid into his lungs, so that was stopped.  The gurgling in his chest subsided.  Dad started eating and even got up to take a shower and shave early this week!!  We were amazed to hear that! 

There is a team of five assigned to care for Dad and evaluate his progress and treatment.  They are just taking such good care of him.  And Dad is really doing good!  A couple of days ago, they had him up and he walked 100 steps, as they began his rehab. His weight was accurately measured at 125 lbs, so he has only lost about 8 lbs since the onset of this crisis. A much different story than we were told before!

 This new hospital is designed specifically for acute patients and long term care but the normal stay is about 25 days They really know what they are doing, so we are praying again that he might at least get to go home one day, God willing.  Dad, bless his heart, told Mom that he was going home today ... but of course that was just wishful thinking.  Can't blame him for that, however, we know that the road to getting his strength back is going to be a long one. For now, we were so elated to hear of his progress!

Needless to say, this emotional rollercoaster we have all been on has been unbelievable, with the miracle we witnessed, after Dad's surgery, to the following days of bleakness and having to saying Good bye, to waiting by the phone for that dreaded call, to embracing hope again.  But we truly want to thank you for your prayers for Mel and for all of us, and ask that you continue to lift him up, asking that God would bring healing and strength to his body, perseverance to his soul and hope to his spirit.  God only knows the number of our days, and I am thankful that Dad is in HIS merciful hands.  We are just so grateful that Dad is doing better these days, and we are convinced that your prayers are the biggest factor. 

God bless you for caring about our family.  I will keep you updated.

Love, Mark & Ginger

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