Dad's Update

Entry From Rob's Dad

Denise called the hospital at 4AM and got a report that Rob had high blood pressure but that the blood chemistry was looking better. Rob had warmed up to the point that he was providing most of his own body heat.

I called this morning at about 7:30 and was told that his blood chemistry still looks good but that his blood pressure was now low. The surgeon, Dr. Coselli was already in and had ordered an echocardiogram to see if there were any problems in his chest. We will see Rob at 10 and our hearts are filled with hope that all will be fine and that his recovery will proceed as hoped.

I visited a small area in the hospital which is a tribute to the doctors, staff, researchers, and patients of the Heart Institute. there is a precious little glass heart that was crafted of broken pieces. The little statement next to it says, "Life breaks us all and we heal stronger in the broken places." I was very touched by the sentiment because we have all felt a deeper love of life and appreciation for health as we suffer our various challenges in life. I have been so filled with gratitude for all of the wonderful people that have joined us in many special prayers for Rob. We have been comforted by the Lord through so much of this time.

My mind has been filled with the thoughts of the great life that Rob has enjoyed to this point because of so many of you. I remember all the prayers for his other operations. I remember mom and dad caring for him and trying so hard to help him gain weight by feeding him gravy and potatoes, which he loved. I always felt safe for Rob to go out as a young boy with his cousins because I knew no one would mess with him - if they had - Jon and the boys would have made it the last time. I think of the hundreds of times that he ate at the Duncombe's because Mary and Gordon always made him feel so welcome. I draw on the strength of each of you. What a blessing we have had in our lives because of closeness to family. I think now how special it is to have my wife and children here. What a blessing we have to be close and caring and that we are each others' best friends.

My heart is so full as I think of the great blessing Rob has to have Marla in his life. Last night as Marla and I walked back to see him in the recovery room, after she had been at the hospital for fifteen and a half hours straight, she looked at him in the bed with only his head visible and his nose with a tube going down to his stomach, a ventilator coming out of his mouth, his head wrapped with tape to keep all the brain wave sensors in place, and bloody tape across his face to hold the tubes in - with love she said, "look how cute he is." I, too, think he looked cute because we "know Rob." He is a cute, fun, caring young man that is so much in love with his beautiful wife.

Denise and I want to thank all of you again for your prayers and support. We appreciate your continued prayers and thoughts for a great recovery for Rob.