[The Mayor]

This E-mail just came moments ago..

Russ is stabalizing nicely and they have decided to go in and remove the L1 section of his spine. They will implant a metal box there where it can begin to re-generate and hopefully he will have some movement from this area. the L1 area controls everything from urinating to walking, there are no guarantees how many functions he might get back. His brain activity went from 4 to 7 today (14 is the highest). He is able to take food intrav. which is surprising, most head traumas like his go 4-5 days before the body will take the food.

The outpouring of emotions and prayers is moving. Please do not be offended if I do not return a phone call or email. Between the hospital and the kids I don't have enough time.

The kids are doing OK. Danielle knows that all of this is serious but does not realize how life and death all of this actually is. I told her that she probably saved Russ' life b/c she was the one who heard him outside. She is holding on to that and thankful that he is alive. Rebekah is carrying around a shirt of Russ' that smells like him and takes it everywhere. She swings between being a happy 4 yr old to crying that she misses Daddy. Noa is not as emotional as Rebekah, but misses prayer time with Daddy at night and I think she senses that something serious is going on.

Our pastor has informed me that the Charismatic Episcopal Church is getting together a fund in Russ' name and that is being arranged by the Bishop and Patriarch of the Church. Also I have heard that some dear friends of Russ' are planning a benefit. Words can not express how much I am touched by all of this.

I am comforted by the fact that my heavenly Father knew when he created me and Russ what was ahead of us. And he designed us able to handle what we need to. The balance of what we need comes in the free gift of grace, for which I am exceedingly thankful. Russ has a foundation of faith the God could put a building on and for that I am relieved.

God is good and I am standing on that.
Under His Wing,
Dawn

[LadyX]

Dear Lord, please embrace Dawn and Russ and their children this very moment and fill them with Your Love and Grace and healing power...

We realize all the more how relentless the evil one is in trying to bring down those who are close to You, and that we must appreciate that each moment is to be lived fully, in step with You.

You are indeed The Way - The Truth - and The Life.

Amen.

[Mama_Bear]

Thank you for passing on this e-mail. I can't imagine how hard this must be for those who love him. My heart goes out to them. I will continue to keep your friend and his family in my prayers.

[Aquamarine]

Thanks for the update. Still praying.

[deadhead]

My Thoughts and Prayers are with Russ and his loved ones.
Thank You for the update, Mayor.