This spring we were about to embark on a trip to VA to encourage the ministries there, deliver some intl'l Bibles, do some support raising and visit Abby and Nick. God had other plans. Richard had noticed a dramatic change for the worse in his ability to walk around the block, we have good hills here. Testing and subsequent meetings with a cardiologist confirmed that he needed some attention. So instead of traveling, Richard checked into St. Francis Hospital. It was an interesting 2 days but we felt that God has kept us safe in His hand as circumstances swirled around us. The initial outcome of the angiogram was uncertainty. The Dr.'s consulted and decided that they could, after all, put stents in 2 arteries (blockages of 95% and 87%) and avoid by-pass surgery. This was a great relief. They did the stents successfully the next day. So far recovery seems to be going well. This abrupt change in plans required undoing a schedule and walking in uncertainty, except for we know who is walking with us and He is FAITHFUL!
One of the interesting stories is that a couple from our church was in the same area of the hospital for a different procedure at the same time. It was a blessing for all 4 of us to have the mutual encouragement of "family" as we all had to deal with unexpected difficulties and changes in plans (ours, not God's). Also, Richard had the opportunity to share several times with the "technician" who provided the muscle power transportation to and from the OR. The extra day gave extra opportunities. It was interesting too because this fellow was sure he recognized Richard. Interesting. ***So please keep Luis in prayer.***
Time is blurring for me. We are making adjustments, Richard is healing well and gradually adding to his physical activity. We definitely have work to do on stress and diet issues. The Dr's have limited our travel abilities which has already helped with some of the stress issues. However, we had hoped to be in CO for our staff conference the end of June. Since we cannot travel by air, and tickets had been purchased in April for this purpose, we have some prayer needs
*We are praising God for all that He has done in and through us during this adventure!*** Please pray for the healing to continue and for the adjustments we have to make as Richard recuperates.
