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.
I have had a mild bleeding stroke and a complete recovery. Our prayers are with you and your family. God bless you and yours.
God bless you all, especially Rick and may he achieve recovery with little or no residual effects.
Prayers lifted Michael.
You and your family are in our thoughts. Very glad to read your update, btw. Things sound promising.
He is young, and his fighting back already is a great sign. We'll keep your brother in our prayers. You and the rest of your family are in them as well.
Prayers, and spreading the word for more.
God bless Michael and his family in this time of need. Hang in there Mike.
You and your family have my sincere and fervent prayers. And thank you for the update!
God bless you.
What a wonderful story Mike! From many miles away that sort of thing does your heart good.. and for your dad.. well , like a double shot of B-12.
Please feel our love & please keep us posted
I wish the very best for your brother. It sounds as though he has a good prognosis and a wonderful supportive family to care for him. You be sure that you take good care of yourself through all of this!
Prayers Mike
For a peace that others could never understand.
Father is with you!!!
Prayer for your brother and your entire family. Please update us from time to time.
Prayer for your brother Mike.
Prayers for you and your family as well.
Your brother and your family have my prayers. I suspect he's a strong man and he will pull through.
Prayers up, Mike ...
There's plenty of prayers here headed your way and for your brother, his family, and your parents. You can add my prayers to everyone else's.
Please post your replies to mhking
Please know that I am praying. May God provide healing for Rick and comfort as needed.
Blessings,
trussell
If you want on/off my prayer ping list, please let me know. All requests happily honored.
Prayers
Mike, please know that you, your brother, and your family are in my prayers during this time of need. May God bless you all.
Mike, we join in prayer for Rick and your whole family.
Matthew 18:20
Lord Jesus, please lay Your nail scared hand on this man and comfort his family and friends, too. In Your name we pray, Amen
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