Jacob's Journey: Steps of Healing

Since Thursday, Jacob has been stepping a bit everyday as he recovers from his surgery. Each day he has eaten a little more...each day he has needed less pain medication...each day he has worked with physical therapy and occupational therapy to prepare for home...and finally the day arrived that he asked for his DS game! It was in the hotel room, and I'm sure Daddy sprinted all the way there to get it for him! Donna has always given him time limits of how long he can play it, so I asked her if she allowed him play it as long as he wanted. She said yes but only until he returns home! What a wonderful mother she is to love enough to teach him discipline. Jacob has taken these steps like a cowboy, as I overheard a true cowboy from Tanglewood Church encourage him to do - "Cowboy-up" was the phrase of encouragement and THAT Jacob has certainly done! Wow! God has amazed us all with the amount of strength and stamina for the journey He has given to this precious boy.

Donna sent me a text message yesterday afternoon saying she was weary, teary and ready to come home. My heart hurts for my friend and the fact that, being two hours away, I was unable to sit down and cry with her. In the same way, I was unable to jump up and down with excitement with her when she heard the news this morning that Jacob is homeward bound! She sent a text message saying plans, at this point, are for discharge shortly after lunch. Please be in prayer that the ride home will be comfortable for Jacob as he learns to adjust to the halo. Well, actually as they all learn to adjust to the halo. Some adjustments will be necessary at home to make Jacob comfortable for the next month until the halo is removed. Pray for the family's safety and the days of the journey ahead.

The Rhodes family paced through the valley, climbed over a few hills, and now the mountaintop is just in sight! More steps and struggles are in store before they take the summit, but there is no doubt that our Lord and Savior will be leading them every trek of the way. May all glory and honor be given unto HIM!