Posted on 01/24/2007 10:24:26 PM PST by mhking
As most of you know, my time is generally not my own these days -- I am a web producer for the NBC station in Atlanta, plus at this time of year, I'm also a tax preparer for H&R Block. Plus I always keep a side-hustle of some sort or another (I've been doing a lot of mystery shopping the past year or so)...
In any event, sometimes God reaches out and rattles the cage to remind me who's truly in charge.
I received a phone call yesterday that truly rocked my core.
My 42-year-old younger brother had suffered a stroke. My dad called me at work with the news, sounding so much older and weary than I had heard him in many years. He and my mom were at the hospital in Chicago, along with my sister-in-law and her entire clan.
Thankfully, I had enough presence of mind not to jump behind the wheel, realizing that I was in no condition to try to go home. After a silent prayer, and a rushed phone call to my wife, I threw myself into my work, trying to get through the night.
He has no movement on the right side of his body. He cannot speak. But, my dad says, he has recognition of those around him. He's able to nod and shake his head yes and no.
The doctors say that with what they called aggressive rehab and therapy, that he should regain the vast majority of what he's lost. They say that his age is in his favor.
A good sign is that he has been fighting to try to move his right foot and hand.
A CAT scan today showed no blood or fluid buildup in his brain. An MRI tomorrow will look a bit deeper, to be sure.
The physical therapist came in to see him today, and said that Rick was trying to pull himself up with his left arm, and using that arm to pull his right arm across, which, too, is a good sign.
I'm in Atlanta, and my sister is with her husband in San Francisco. We figure we'd be in the way if we tried to go home now, so we are waiting a bit -- perhaps until he comes home. We figure there will be more of a need for us to help out then.
And while I'm praying real hard for him, I can always use more hearts praying for him. And for myself for that matter. I'm not being selfish; I just need to have more strength to endure and be strong for everyone else.
Our family -- blood and extended -- is a strong one, and we're all there for each other. I just know that extra prayer is always in order. I thank you all in advance, folks. And God bless each and every one of you.
Michael, prayers for your brother Rick and for the rest of your family. The stroke is not good, but I can't help but think how fortunate he is to be close to an area where he can get such superb care, even down to the "big and tall" bed! God is good.
In Jesus name, amen.
5.56mm
Prayers up Michael! I missed your announcement the first time around. Sounds like your brother is exactly where he needs to be! *HUG*
Prayers for you and your family Mike. Thanks for the good news!
Howlin, thanks for the update ping.
Prayers are up for Rick, you, and all the rest who love him.
Thanks for ping Howlin - had no idea of this.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, your brother and entire family.
...Just know that God can heal him.
Continuing to pray.
My prayers going out for your brother, your family, and for a complete recovery.
Very sorry to hear... Dear Lord I pray for Rick, that he is granted Your Grace and Mercy, May Rick's family know Your Comfort and Peace.
A candle for you and yours will burn brightly tonight!
Prayers up for both you and your brother!
[FYI: My husband suffered an hemorrhagic stroke 6 years ago, from which his doctors thought he would never recover (he was also in his 40s) . . . Today, he is 200% of what he was -- 100% more brilliant! The only residual effect of his stroke: a slight blurring of his peripheral vision . . . God does answer prayer!]
hOW WONDERFUL THIS NEW IS
Thanks for sharing Mike & you can all hopefully breath a little easier & sleep a little better tonight.
And Hmmm the rehab oplace for th Bears,, guess he will be in very good hands!
Prayers continue and please have the updates continue also
Prayers sent.
Thanks for the ping, Howlin!
Michael, warm thoughts and prayers for you, Rick and your entire family. God be with all of you!
In the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy SPirit, Amen.
Thank you for the update and this positive news. You have an awful lot of friends around here, and now, so does your family. All the best to you.
Prayers up for you and your family. My mother suffered an aneurysm/stroke in July, she is only 57. She has made remarkable recovery since then. She completely recovered the use of her right side.
Always think positive, it goes a really long way. I'm a Chicago FReeper so let me know if you need anything up this way.
RC
Thanks for the ping Howlin. Prayers up for you and your brother Michael.
prayers for you and your family.
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