Hello from Shelly

Hi.

This is my first attempt at this, yet long over do. I appreciate so much all the support, love, concerns, cards and all your wonderful prayers.

As I went to the Dr. in Jan. he reminded me that amputation of my foot might still be a possibility. When he took the cast off my leg, we all noticed how dark it was. We got word out and the prayers began. Each day more and more color seems to be there. I see another sign of our prayers being heard. Thank you. I saw Bruce for the first time then I went home to my nursing home, pulled up my covers, squeezed a picture, I had of honey, and cried for 3 days. I didn't loose faith I just needed to grieve. There was no sign of my honey, not even in his eyes. That weakened me. At times like this I'm glad we are believers. There is nothing better then saying, hold me, pray with me, be my strength until I heal from the shock of our new journey. We will do whatever God asks of us even without understanding because we have the knowledge that our lives are designed to fulfill His purpose not ours. Someday this journey will become clearer to us but for now we draw our strength from our loving Heavenly Father, and our hugs from our family and friends, and warmth through the many cards and well wishes we are receiving.

Week number two, I saw Bruce. God blessed us with answers to prayers. Bruce gave me a glimpse that in our stare I saw Honey. Thank you God.

Week number three of our visit, he cried when he saw me. My Bruce knew me!!!!!! I wheeled up to him as he struggled to lift his hand to hold mine. Placing my hand into his and feeling his touch, warmth and recognition, I told him this was the best place in the whole world. Then we both cried. After that moment I handed him Posie, dressed in a Dr.'s outfit. He smiled and reached to hold her as memories began to flood his mind. Then I saw him get spoon fed, and sip from a cup. Please praise the Lord with me for this great progress. Bruce not only showed signs of improvement and facial expressions, he whispered to me. I couldn't stand to put my ear to his mouth, I couldn't lip read because Bruce has very little muscle control anywhere, yet after 5 tries I heard his first words to me.

"YOU SMELL NICE"

I cried and said, "Steegstra, are you flirting with me? I love you too!!!!!"

Everyone thank you for all your prayers and as we take this journey together remember through God all things are possible. My Honey is coming back. Thank you prayer warriors. Tomorrow I'm visiting Bruce again. He ran a fever today and test are showing he has an infection in his blood. They are working on this and removing lines that might have created this. By Wednesday they are hoping to replace his lines with new ones and start dialysis again.

Love,

Shelly