Fri. 4/25 - update

This time of year always brings back vivid memories for me (especially here in Lubbock with the dust and wind) 2 words.....track season! Didn't particularly like it, but none the less participated in it for 6 years. Some events varied, but the ones that stayed the same were the relays. A very important element to those races was the "passing of the baton." Countless practices were centered strictly around that very thing. If you dropped the baton, you were out of the race regardless of how fast you were running. Now, you're probably wondering what a relay race has to do with Caed and our current situation. It's an illustration my dad has used numerous times to describe the way the Lord provides. God uses His children to be vessels to provide for others in times of need. We have found ourselves in that place now. We are in awe at how the Lord continues to provide for us (in various ways) through the body of Christ. YOU are our fellow teammates in an exciting race called life. YOU have the baton and are handing it off to us. We have been reminded and challenged to run hard until we see the next runner (in need). It is then that we hope to "pass the baton" onto them. We are so blessed to be running this race with all of you! Let's finish it well...

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
(2 Timothy 4:7)

This morning was very difficult for Caed. He began throwing up as soon as he woke up and continued non-stop for several hours. Dr. G came in and wanted his G-tube (stomach) drained continually. She also stopped his intestinal feedings for a few hours. (just to give his system a break) The vomiting lessened as the day when on. She also wanted an x-ray of his stomach. (to make sure nothing "new" had happened in the last 48 hrs.) She told Caed that he is really making her use her brain! (his condition is not textbook!) Currently, his intestines seem to be ok, but it's his stomach now that is having problems. She reminded us that his condition has been going on since birth. But, it took this trauma to really discover it. She said his digestive system is healing in stages. It will probably take a very long time for it to be back to "normal." (maybe even years) They have a plan in place right now with the feedings and drainings. Please pray that his little body can slowly start healing properly. Pray for patience for us. It's easy to get discouraged. There might be several good days and you feel like everything's getting back on track. Then, some difficult days like this week occur, and it sure sets you back. Pray that we will learn to take one day at a time and remember it will be a long process.

Today I was able to "get out" for a few hours (during daylight!! ha!), and boy was it nice. Of course, my mind was on Caed the whole time, and I felt guilty for being away. However, it was a good (needed) time with my mom. We went shopping and did lots of talking. Mother, thank you for that time! I have missed it. Also, thank you Daddy for staying at the hospital and allowing me to have a break.

Todd and Reagan are doing fine. Todd has a lock-in tonight and Reagan will be sleeping over at a good friend's house. She was very excited! I know this has been a special time for just the two of them to be together. However, we are VERY ready for them to get back to Lubbock.



Winnie-the-Pooh made a surprise visit to
Caed's room today.