Jacob's Journey: Steps of Healing

Jacob Rhodes was transported from the operation room to Pediatrics ICU at Duke Hospital last night at apprx 8:00pm. He was sedated good throughout the night and rested well with the occasional alertness to gesture for drink and pointing to the tubes. The procedure to intubate took two hours, so Medical Staff was prepared for the possibility of a challange with extubation. They called the team of fiber optic specialists, respiratory specialists, and anesthesiologist. After on a few moments, the nurse came to the hallway saying, "They're done. We even got a high five!" Praise the Lord! She said the team just stood by and watched as one removed it. I believe God had them to call the team to witness His Glory as HE removed it with such ease! Well, Glory to God!

Jacob does have a halo, and it will be necessary to have that for a couple of weeks. They expect to transfer him from ICU to a regular room tomorrow morning, if things continue to progress as they have so far. He has been able to eat some ice chips and sip some sprite. He is asking for hugs and prayers from Mom & Dad! He is just starting to say he does not feel well and has pushed the button for pain meds. Eventhough it is difficult to know he is experiencing the pains of the journey, we have grateful hearts that he is feeling this and responding appropriately! Again, Praise the Lord!

One more, of the many, God moment reflecting the favor of God the family has been experiencing. They had prepared to harvest bone from his hip to place in the back of his head. This was necessary to give the plate and rods something to attach to...BUT GOD...had enough in the bone bank that it was NOT necessary to touch his hip. Well, Glory to God, again!

Jacob still has a number of steps to complete healing, but we all know that God can make those steps strong and secure through HIS mercy, grace and love. Please continue to pray for strength for Jacob and the family as they continue on this journey.