Tuesday, June 06, 2006

The Wait Poem by Russel Kelfer

by Russell Kelfer

Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate...and the Master so gently said,"Wait."
"Wait? you say wait?" my indignant reply."Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!"Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard? By faith I have asked, and I'm claiming your Word.
My future and all to which I relatehangs in the balance and you tell me to Wait?" I'm needing a 'yes', a go-ahead sign.Or even a 'no,' to which I'll resign.
You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe, We need but to ask, and we shall receive. Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry: I'm weary of asking! I need a reply.
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate as my Master replied again, "Wait." So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut, and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"
He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine... and He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign. I could shake the heavens and darken the sun. I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
I could give all you seek and pleased you would be. You'd have what you want, but you wouldn't know Me.You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint. You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through clouds of despair; you'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there. You'd not know the joy of resting in Me when darkness and silence are all you can see.
You'd never experience the fullness of love when the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.You would know that I give, and I save, for a start, But you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
The glow of My comfort late into the night, the faith that I give when you walk without sight. The depth that's beyond getting just what you ask From an infinite God who makes what you have last.
You'd never know should your pain quickly flee, what it means that My grace is sufficient for thee. Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true, but oh, the loss if I lost what I'm doing in you.
So, be silent, my child, and in time you will see that the greatest of gifts is to truly know me. And though oft My answers seem terribly late, My most precious answer of all is still "WAIT".
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FW: Libby Paul--Day 6

Whitney Stallard and Robyn Palmer visited yesterday. Thank God for them! This report comes through them.

Amy

 

From: druandjoy@juno.com [mailto:druandjoy@juno.com]
Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2006 8:00 AM
To: jason.cole@oracle.com; brad.nauman@oracle.com; thomas.sopinski@oracle.com; mmsloan@hotmail.com; Leighann.Dull@uscm.org; dnelson6@sbcglobal.net; earlchar@comcast.net; cindypatricks@sbcglobal.net; karenschmidt1@juno.com; thecoolstewarts@yahoo.com; hksampson@everestkc.net; lsears9969@everestkc.net; ttpt@hotmail.com; aborberg@kc.rr.com; jabranson7@hotmail.com; SueBrawnerAtHome@aol.com; brethsinvt@adelphia.net; jenc432002@yahoo.com; taragallagher@cox.net; jgmd@kidzmd.com; mandy@everestkc.net; lm2hughes@aol.com; pattyj@heartlandchurch.org; tsjones@everestkc.net; benandvalerie@hotmail.com; jillkapple@yahoo.com; mmcclelland@kc.rr.com; reachjarrett@sbcglobal.net; kristenmeek@sbcglobal.net; montyfamily@sbcglobal.net; beverlynobrega@marykay.com; tmpdor@aol.com; tncpittenger@sbcglobal.net; tyler.pittenger@mail.sprint.com; risar@heartlandchurch.org; probinette@jurysync.com; onceuponapicture@comcast.net; megan_mann@hotmail.com; dseamon@kc.rr.com; seth.andrea@sbcglobal.net; Andrea.Sears@sprint.com; fshine2@hallmark.com; jendunc@comcast.net; Snmotley@aol.com; stouses@sbcglobal.net; nan_cee23@sbcglobal.net; ferndock367@aol.com; marknjoni@hotmail.com; ErinRehard@cox.net; annkans@aol.com; chrisln@aol.com; bob_cochran@sil.org
Subject: Libby Paul--Day 6

 

Dear Paul Prayer Partners,

Good morning!  Before I begin, just wanted to send a HAPPY ANNIVERSARY wish to Dorsey's parents, John and Ann Gay, who celebrated 40 years together yesterday!  God is faithful!!

Well, friends, this morning brought an early phone call from two special gals who went to visit the Paul's yesterday.  Looks like we need to keep praying!  Here's the latest:

Last night, Dorsey had a long talk with the night nurse.  Basically, LIbby is "awake" but not "alert" as we all know.  The nurse was telling Dorsey that typically brain injury patients will take anywhere from 7-21 days, just for this phase of healing, meaning Libby could be writhing and moaning, saying some words for days now.  Then the conversation went from there, including the long-term possibilities of extended therapy for both her body and her mind.

We have not yet talked to Dorsey or Troy this morning,  but they're again asking for prayer. Obviously, this news was profoundly disturbing to them, when they kept thinking Libby would just "wake up" and ask for something to eat.  A brain injury is just so very different, and there are still so many unknowns long term.  As a parent, your concern becomes for your child, like "What will their new personality be?" and "Will they ever be like they were before?"  I think the "Cloud 1,000" the Pauls were on feels more like "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" this morning!  They're realizing just how long this journey for them is going to be.  Not fun news!

This raises numerous questions, and we will continue to keep you posted.  This is all we know right now, but we wanted to "deploy the prayer troops" this morning, since we know literally thousands of people are receiving this news and lifting Libby up in prayer~ THANK YOU!!

Several people shared just yesterday how one of the names of God in Scripture is JEHOVAH RAPHA, the God who heals. We know that, and so let's prayer today that He will COMPLETELY RESTORE Libby Paul, mind and body.  We are willing to wait for His timing, but this is our heart's cry for the Paul's.  The verses that her mom friends who visited her shared with me were these: 

"WAIT for the LORD; BE STRONG and TAKE HEART and WAIT for the LORD." ~Psalm 27:14

Also from Luke, where Jesus tells his followers,

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.  Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.  Consider the ravens:  They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them.  And how much more  valuable you are than birds!  Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?  Since you cannot do this very little thing, who do you worry about the rest?"  ~Luke 12:22-26

I don't know about you, but this DOES cause me to start worrying, and my mind to have unrest.  These past few days have been like "auto pilot", going through the motions of my real life, but all the while not forgetting ONE MINUTE about Libby and her dire situation.  I think we're all there!  Anyone who is a parent or loves kids can't help but be consumed by this!

But here's the great news this morning:  Because of our continuous prayers, the nurse also told Dorsey that Libby should never be where she is right now!!  Her progress is already amazing the medical team there!  Isn't that good to hear?  Libby is continuing to heal!

Also, her friends reported that Troy and Dorsey have such UNITY right now in their marriage, so thank you for praying for their relationship.  We have a real enemy who is prowling around looking for a foothold to get in and tear them down.  Their friends told me there is no dissention between them, and they're just a STRONG UNIT, which is such a huge witness to the power of God in their lives and marriage.  Let's keep lifting them up today and asking the LORD to protect their marriage through all this stress!  As we all know, it's tough just to pack the family in the car for church or something without marital stress!! :)  Something like this can make or break them, and we KNOW that their marriage will be stronger than ever because of their complete dependence on God and our intercession on their behalf in prayer.

All this will make most of us want to scramble about and try to "fix" it or "do" something, which as we know is impossible.  I would encourage you to grab a Bible and pray Scripture for the Paul's, possibly starting in Psalms if you are short on words like I am this morning.

"BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD;  I WILL BE EXALTED AMONG THE NATIONS, I WILL BE EXALTED IN THE EARTH.  THE LORD ALMIGHTY IS WITH US, THE GOD OF JACOB IS OUR FORTRESS."     ~ Psalm 46:10-11

Thanks, team!  Couldn't be here without you all!!

Joy Shiner :)  

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Monday, June 05, 2006

FW: ways to communicate to the Paul's...

Updated Mailing Address….

 

Here is a summary of how to offer you support to the Paul’s:

 

You can send the following:

 

You can’t send any planets or flowers to them:

 

Send your cards and packages to:

Ronald McDonald House

Attention:  Troy and Dorsey Paul

4710 Waters Avenue

Savannah, GA    31404

 

All Email updates are being blogged @ http://libbypaulupdate.blogspot.com/

 

We will let you know of anything else that is they needed to help the Paul’s out.

 

Thanks for all your support and prayers….

 

Paul Schmidt

M: 913.269.8333

H: 913.390.8255

E: kujayhawks@comcast.net or paul.schmidt@fivestarspeakers.com         

 

 

 

Posted by at No comments:

FW: Libby Paul Update Day 5 Part 2

 

To God be the Glory, Great things He hath done! (and will keep doing!)

Amy

 

P.S.  New address where to send things….

 

From: druandjoy@juno.com [mailto:druandjoy@juno.com]
Subject: Libby Paul Update Day 5 Part 2

 

Hey Paul Prayer Partners,

I just spoke with Troy and here is the update from the later part of today (Monday):

As we reported this morning, the doctors reduced Libby's sedation drugs and removed the ventilation tube this morning.  The biggest challenge after that was keeping Libby from moving too much.  The back brace didn't arrive until around 5pm this afternoon.  Through much of the day Libby moaned and cried, although there were some definite bright spots. 

She cried out for Troy immediately after they removed her tubes.   She didn't say much more for quite some time.  Later in the morning she called out for "DADDY" again.  Troy said that this was very emotional for him.  That was the only thing he wanted to hear on Thursday morning when he found her at the bottom of the elevator shaft.  Hearing her call his name really encouraged and reasurred him.  She subsequently called out for "MOMMY" six more times throughout the day.  Beyond that, the sun was shining in her face through the window, and she said, "Close the..." She trailed off, but it sounded like "blinds".  So she recognized that the sun was shining in her eyes and how to solve that problem.  Such a simple thing, but such a great sign!

After they put the back brace on her, they said she calmed down almost immediately and began to rest better.  Tomorrow they will completely remove her from her sedation drugs.  This will really allow her to "wake up", and they should be able to get a better handle on where she is at overall.  As reported earlier, the doctor said that given the state of the damage seen on Thursday morning, she looks and is recovering at a very accelerated rate given other children with similar injuries.  The doctor is visibily surprised by her recovery to date.

They will also do an addtional X-ray of her back in a seated postion tomorrow.  This should give them a clearer picture of the extent of the ligament damage to her back and just how stable her spine is.  She may also have another CT scan of her brain.

The doctors have said that the next two weeks are the next big watermark.  The rule of thumb is that the level of recovery in the first two weeks relates directly to the long-term affects of the injury. 

I continue to be overwelmed with a thankful heart for the miracle we are seeing unfold before our very eyes.  Please pray with us that tomorrow Libby shows additional progress in all these areas. 

One last thing: Here is the address to the Ronald McDonald house where the Pauls are staying.  Let's flood them with cards, pictures, Scriptures, thoughts, stories, etc. over the next few days.  I know they'd love to hear from everyone.  It sure beats reading another magazine!

                Ronald McDonald House

                Attention:  Troy and Dorsey Paul

                4710 Waters Avenue

                Savannah, GA    31404

Thankful,

Dru 

Posted by at No comments:

FW: Libby Paul--Day 5

 

Here is the latest!

From: druandjoy@juno.com [mailto:druandjoy@juno.com]
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 12:11 PM
To: jason.cole@oracle.com; brad.nauman@oracle.com; thomas.sopinski@oracle.com; mmsloan@hotmail.com; Leighann.Dull@uscm.org; dnelson6@sbcglobal.net; earlchar@comcast.net; cindypatricks@sbcglobal.net; karenschmidt1@juno.com; thecoolstewarts@yahoo.com; hksampson@everestkc.net; lsears9969@everestkc.net; ttpt@hotmail.com; aborberg@kc.rr.com; jabranson7@hotmail.com; SueBrawnerAtHome@aol.com; brethsinvt@adelphia.net; jenc432002@yahoo.com; taragallagher@cox.net; jgmd@kidzmd.com; mandy@everestkc.net; lm2hughes@aol.com; pattyj@heartlandchurch.org; tsjones@everestkc.net; benandvalerie@hotmail.com; jillkapple@yahoo.com; mmcclelland@kc.rr.com; reachjarrett@sbcglobal.net; kristenmeek@sbcglobal.net; montyfamily@sbcglobal.net; beverlynobrega@marykay.com; tmpdor@aol.com; tncpittenger@sbcglobal.net; tyler.pittenger@mail.sprint.com; risar@heartlandchurch.org; probinette@jurysync.com; onceuponapicture@comcast.net; megan_mann@hotmail.com; dseamon@kc.rr.com; seth.andrea@sbcglobal.net; Andrea.Sears@sprint.com; fshine2@hallmark.com; jendunc@comcast.net; Snmotley@aol.com; stouses@sbcglobal.net; nan_cee23@sbcglobal.net; ferndock367@aol.com; marknjoni@hotmail.com; ErinRehard@cox.net; annkans@aol.com; chrisln@aol.com
Subject: Libby Paul--Day 5

 

OK, everyone!

Good Monday morning!! I just got off the phone with Dorsey, and it's been an eventful morning.

Libby's sedation medicine was lowered from a level 3 to a level 1 to start the waking up process.  Dors was surprised, since she thought it wouldn't be until the afternoon.  She has been measured for her back brace, which will be made and flown back in to the hospital this afternoon.  Normally it would be tomorrow, but Libby is moving quite a bit, and they want to keep her asleep as much as possible until her back is in the brace.  The doctor told them not to stimulate her.  Her instinct upon waking up would be to sit up, so they're staying right beside her bed so that if she moves, they can hold her down.

Also, Libby's tubes were removed this morning.  Troy and Dorsey left the room for mere minutes, and the process was complete.  Now for the exciting part:  Libby was writhing around on her bed, crying and moaning.  Troy and Dors were talking to her, and Libby rolled over and said, "D A D D Y!!!!"  Then she said, "I want some..." and they know she wants water.  Her mouth is extremely dry!  This is HUGE news in my mind, because the left side of the brain involves memory, and I know so many are praying that Libby's memory won't be affected.  In this small way, it was GREAT to hear that Libby recognized their voices right away. 

The doctor asked them if they were ready to work--Libby must be held down until the brace arrives, hopefully by 5 or 6 tonight. The doctor told them this morning a little more about brain injury patients.  He said  brain injury patients wake up EXTREMELY irritable.  Dors asked him if it was like when you wake your kids up from a deep sleep, and he said, "Yeah, but times 1,000!"  yikes!  Libby may be very irritable for days, weeks, we don't yet know.  The doctor did tell them, however, that she had a "really bad" brain injury.  Dorsey said he'd never told them that before today.  BUT, he added that Libby has always LOOKED better than her scan looked.

That, my friends, is the direct result of prayer.  So keep it up!!  When the doctors are amazed, we know God is at work!

Dorsey told me about Libby's doctor.  Please add him to your prayer list by name--Dr. Tom McKee.  I am blown away by this~ I guess this man "walks on water" to all who know him.  He is their "pediatric intensive", meaning he's the lead doctor, one week on, one week off.  He is an absolute expert in his field, to the point that the staff looked at the Pauls are said, "You have no idea how amazing this man is!"  When a critical patient is admitted, they'll call down to ask, 'Is McKee in?'  Their favorite nurse, Renee, told them that literally, this man is NEVER wrong.  In all the years she's worked for him, he continually makes the correct diagnosis.  She told them to go with whatever decision he makes,  because invariably, he's right on.  After thinking a minute, who's surprised?  He's probably one of the most PRAYED FOR men alive!  We've all been praying for wisdom for the doctors, so it's the LORD's wisdom, which IS right all the time!! :)  Anyway, he has a huge history with brain injuries, so that is near and dear to his heart.  So thanks for lifting Dr. McKee up in prayer!

Wasn't it great that Libby "just happened" to arrive on his week?  God is faithful!

Final thought:  My devotional this morning was right on, too~ ("Becoming the Woman I Want to Be~ A 90-day study by Donna Partow ~ Day 81)  It's no accident that this morning's message fell on today's date--it's perfect!  I just had to share it with you all:

"The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.  He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom.  He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."  ~Isaiah 40:28-31

Attitude Adjustment:  LESSONS WILL BE REPEATED UNTIL LEARNED.~Cherie Carter-Scott

Every morning when you wake up, you have two basic choices.  One is to refuse to get out of bed. The other is to get up and face the world.  Ideally, on most days, you will choose to get out of bed.  Then you have a new set of choices to make.  You can grumble your way through the day, mumbling about how "nothing ever changes." Or, you can keep hope alive.  You can say to yourself, "No matter how yesterday turned out, I am hoping for better things today."  God wants you to live hopefully, expecting the best.  Yes, there will be disappointments in life, but God will get you through those.  In fact, even the most disappointing turn of events may hold important life lessons fundamental to your Christian maturity.  If you find yourself facing the same disappointments over and over again, you should stop and ask God to show you what He's trying to teach you.  Maybe you can't move forward to "Victory 201" until you've mastered "Dealing with Disappointment 101."  Learn the lesson so you can move on.

Isn't that great?  Enjoy today, and we'll keep you posted!

Blessings,

Joy Shiner :)

 

 

 

 

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Sunday, June 04, 2006

FW: Libby Paul Update - Day 4 Part 2

 

Sorry if this is a repeat…I am noticed duplicate addresses in the list I merged…

 

From: Paul Schmidt [mailto:pschmidt72@comcast.net]
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:42 PM
Subject: Libby Paul Update - Day 4 Part 2

 

Here is the latest update on Libby….

Hey everyone,

I just got off the phone with Troy and all I can say is PRAISE GOD!  They completed another CT scan and everything is unchanged in Libby's head.  That is the best news possible.  The thing that has really blown me away though is that they have not found ANY additional broken bones as originally thought!!

I have no where to file this one except in the MIRACLE category.  The attending general surgeon that did the original evaluation of Libby when she arrived at the hospital identified that her hip, shoulder plate, clavicle, and upper arm were most likely broken along with two separate places in her back-- T6-7 and T8-10.  The evaluation was based on external signs, fluid retention, etc. consistent with broken bones.  They only confirmed breaks are T9 & T10.  The unbelievable thing is that they are clean breaks.  No fragments, only slight ligament damage.   Taking into consideration that she fell an estimated 25 feet to a concrete floor and also the extent of the skull fracture, this is an absolute miracle!

Now the next big step is waking up Libby.  We have talked about it a ton, but tomorrow or Tuesday is the most important hurdle to clear.  They will "wake her up" from the chemically induced sleep she is in.  We are praying that that goes smoothly, with no complications and as little stress on Libby as possible.  Then the doctors will be able to start a battery of tests that will assess the amount of brain damage, etc.  Based on those results, a long-term prognosis, care plan, etc. will be discussed. 

I can honestly say that I am humbled by an Almighty and Powerful God.  In my little mind/intellect, I really struggled with anything but the worst case scenario.  Watching God here on the "front lines" has challenged my faith and perspective of God in my life.  We know it has done the same with so many others as well.  Pray with us that she will be fitted for her back brace quickly, and that when she "awakes" she will have all of her faculties and no brain damage.  

Humbled,

Dru 

 

 

Posted by at No comments:

Libby Paul Update - Day 4 Part 2

Here is the latest update on Libby….

Hey everyone,

I just got off the phone with Troy and all I can say is PRAISE GOD!  They completed another CT scan and everything is unchanged in Libby's head.  That is the best news possible.  The thing that has really blown me away though is that they have not found ANY additional broken bones as originally thought!!

I have no where to file this one except in the MIRACLE category.  The attending general surgeon that did the original evaluation of Libby when she arrived at the hospital identified that her hip, shoulder plate, clavicle, and upper arm were most likely broken along with two separate places in her back-- T6-7 and T8-10.  The evaluation was based on external signs, fluid retention, etc. consistent with broken bones.  They only confirmed breaks are T9 & T10.  The unbelievable thing is that they are clean breaks.  No fragments, only slight ligament damage.   Taking into consideration that she fell an estimated 25 feet to a concrete floor and also the extent of the skull fracture, this is an absolute miracle!

Now the next big step is waking up Libby.  We have talked about it a ton, but tomorrow or Tuesday is the most important hurdle to clear.  They will "wake her up" from the chemically induced sleep she is in.  We are praying that that goes smoothly, with no complications and as little stress on Libby as possible.  Then the doctors will be able to start a battery of tests that will assess the amount of brain damage, etc.  Based on those results, a long-term prognosis, care plan, etc. will be discussed. 

I can honestly say that I am humbled by an Almighty and Powerful God.  In my little mind/intellect, I really struggled with anything but the worst case scenario.  Watching God here on the "front lines" has challenged my faith and perspective of God in my life.  We know it has done the same with so many others as well.  Pray with us that she will be fitted for her back brace quickly, and that when she "awakes" she will have all of her faculties and no brain damage.  

Humbled,

Dru 

 

 

Posted by at No comments:

FW: ways to communicate to the Paul's...

Friends-

 

Here is a summary of how to offer you support to the Paul’s:

 

You can send the following:

 

You can’t send any planets or flowers to them:

 

Send your cards and packages to:

Troy & Dorsey Paul

C/o Backus Children’s Hospital Memorial Health University Medical Center

4700 Waters Avenue
Savannah, GA 31404

 

We will let you know of anything else that is they needed to help the Paul’s out.

 

Thanks for all your support and prayers….

 

Paul Schmidt

M: 913.269.8333

H: 913.390.8255

E: kujayhawks@comcast.net

 

 

 

Posted by at 2 comments:

FW: Day 4 Libby Paul update

Hi Westminster Families and others,

I have decided to begin forwarding Joy’s e-mails directly, since they are getting so much detailed information. Dorsey wanted me thank all of you for praying, saying, “I can really feel everyone’s prayers!” 

She said she knows that God is and will continue to be glorified in all this. Their faith is very strong!

Whitney Stallard talked to her this morning, and said that there was joy in Dorsey’s voice! She will be taking a day trip to visit and pray with them tomorrow – such a comfort!

Amy

 

From: druandjoy@juno.com [mailto:druandjoy@juno.com]
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 2:06 PM
To: jason.cole@oracle.com; brad.nauman@oracle.com; thomas.sopinski@oracle.com; mmsloan@hotmail.com; Leighann.Dull@uscm.org; dnelson6@sbcglobal.net; earlchar@comcast.net; cindypatricks@sbcglobal.net; karenschmidt1@juno.com; thecoolstewarts@yahoo.com; hksampson@everestkc.net; lsears9969@everestkc.net; ttpt@hotmail.com; aborberg@kc.rr.com; jabranson7@hotmail.com; SueBrawnerAtHome@aol.com; brethsinvt@adelphia.net; jenc432002@yahoo.com; taragallagher@cox.net; jgmd@kidzmd.com; mandy@everestkc.net; lm2hughes@aol.com; pattyj@heartlandchurch.org; tsjones@everestkc.net; benandvalerie@hotmail.com; jillkapple@yahoo.com; mmcclelland@kc.rr.com; reachjarrett@sbcglobal.net; kristenmeek@sbcglobal.net; montyfamily@sbcglobal.net; beverlynobrega@marykay.com; tmpdor@aol.com; tncpittenger@sbcglobal.net; tyler.pittenger@mail.sprint.com; risar@heartlandchurch.org; probinette@jurysync.com; onceuponapicture@comcast.net; megan_mann@hotmail.com; dseamon@kc.rr.com; seth.andrea@sbcglobal.net; Andrea.Sears@sprint.com; fshine2@hallmark.com; jendunc@comcast.net; Snmotley@aol.com; stouses@sbcglobal.net
Subject: Day 4 Libby Paul update

 

Dear Paul Prayer Partners,

Time again for another update ~ I've talked to Dorsey twice today- first thing this morning before church, and then just got off the phone with her.  Here's the scoop:

She and Troy had their hopes up that today would be the day the tubes would be removed from Libby since she's so responsive, even while being sedated.  But it appears that God is teaching them patience. :) (Dorsey laughed--"Imagine me, of all people, the person who can't wait for anything, needing to learn patience!!") They found out that it might not be until late tomorrow or Tuesday.  The reason is because her back needs to be in a brace.  The nurses are just as anxious to see Libby wake up, to the point of calling medical professionals at home today to try to get someone in to measure Libby so that this brace can be made sooner.  The brace would be something that could be worn outside her clothes and would be removable. (Dors was happy about that because of the possibility of swimming for Libby this summer!)  Dorsey directly asked the question, "Are you waiting to wake Libby up because of her back or her brain?" The doctor(s) told her it was just her back, that her brain is fine and ready to wake up.   Her back has a confirmed fractured at T9 and T10 with some ligament damage, so the issue is it being a "stable vs. unstable fracture". 

THAT is a clear answer to all of your prayers!  Thank you, LORD!!  So brain-wise, she's ready!  The doctor even said that years ago, they would have just "woke that kid up", but now they're a lot more cautious.  There are a couple concerns with WAITING to wake her:  First of all, they had to insert a feeding tube last night, which after being x-rayed, was in the wrong place, so they had to reinsert it. (not fun!)  Also, there's the risk of other complications, the biggest being pnemonia from all the tubes.  So that's their request for prayer today and tomorrow, that there will be no further complications of any kind resulting from Libby's sedation.

I guess Libby's nurses are amazing, too,  Dorsey said they're all anxious to have Libby wake up on their shift, since they're 3 on, 4 off.  They are really taking care of her.  Her night nurse bathed her last night, finished untangling her hair, and even braided it.  That meant so much to Dors that they care so deeply for their patients.  Dors and Troy were able to go out to eat a couple times, and have had some good time together last night and today.  They've been singing and praying beside Libby's bedside, and have been so blessed with unexpected visitors coming to visit for the sole purpose of praying for their family.  Some of these are people they do not even know or are acquaintances.  It's amazing how many people are burdened to pray!

Libby will get another CT scan sometime this afternoon between 3 and 4:00 as far as they know now.  We've reached the critical 72-hour mark, and we've seen a positive sign at every turn.  We know it is the direct result of the healing hand of God on Libby Paul.

Dorsey was talking to me, with Troy adding things in the background, and she said they felt like they were on "Cloud 1,000" ~  Who would have thought we'd be so encouraged so soon?  They said they're seeing firsthand the power of prayer and feeling God's peace in a very real way. They are hearing story after story of how the LORD is already using this tragedy to literally change lives.  It would seem unreal or exaggerated if you do not believe that God holds all things in His hands, and He uses our disasters to bring glory to His name.  He is not limited by our definition of time, or our limited medical knowledge.  He is God, and we are not.

In hearing all your stories over the past three days, I am reminded of the worship song that says "You are the LORD, the Famous One, the Famous One; Great is Your name in all the earth.  The heavens declare You're glorious, glorious; Great is Your fame in all the earth."

Blessings,

Joy Shiner :)

 

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Saturday, June 03, 2006

FW: Libby Paul Update

Here is a note from Mark Davis who was with the Paul’s tonight.  Mark was in the area on business and took time out prior to coming home to stop by and see Troy and Dorsey.  Special thanks to you and the Van der Ark’s who took time out also to comfort the Paul’s.

 

We are apart of a special community.  Have a good night and continue to stand in the gap for the Paul’s

 

Paul

 

 

From: Mark Davis [mailto:jmarkdavis@gmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, June 03, 2006 10:28 PM
To: 'Tony Felich'; 'Nathan Currey'
Cc: 'Paul Schmidt'; 'Amy Schmidt'; shellydavis@kc.rr.com
Subject: Libby Paul Update

 

I sat with the Pauls for a few hours this evening, and during that time some test results were delivered. Libby is serious but stable. Her TC scan showed reduced swelling around the brain, which is contrary to expectations. Her skull fracture is temple to temple along the hairline, which actually permits the skull to expand slightly and relieve the swelling. As a result, she didn’t require any surgery to relieve pressure on her brain. Praise God for that.

 

The MRI that was to have been performed last night was performed today. In this case, the point of the MRI is to assess soft tissue damage along the spinal column. There are no bone fragments in the spinal column, and the spinal column appears undamaged. Her neck is fine. There is inflammation around the 10th vertebra. Her back has at least one fractured vertebra, the 10th, but the fracture is minor enough that a back brace is still being debated. She shows no signs at all of paralysis. Praise God for that.

 

Libby’s hemoglobin dropped during the course of her hospitalization, which caused some concern. Reduced hemoglobin can be a sign of internal bleeding, but the CT and MRI show no new bleeding. There hasn’t been any new bleeding in the cranium, and bleeding from a ruptured organ in her abdomen stopped shortly after she was admitted. Therefore, the apparent causes of the hemoglobin drop are dilution from administered fluids, frequent blood tests, and “wastings” at IV changes. Praise God for that.

 

The doctors are keeping Libby in a drug-induced sleep, which affects her ability to breathe on her own. She’s on a ventilator, but only because the medications used to keep her still enough to heal also impair her ability to breath. The medications will be lifted, at least temporarily, on Monday to assess her condition, and her doctors will begin to plan a timeline to send her back to KC. Praise God for that.

 

The Pauls are in good spirits. They appreciate the loving attention they’ve received from the body of Christ in Kansas. They’re checked into the Ronald McDonald house for an extended stay. It’s right across the street from the hospital, and much cheaper than a hotel. News from tests has been good of late, and the demeanor of the attending nurses has changed radically from stoic in the first 12 hours to elated in the last 24. Although Libby’s still not out of the woods, her trend is positive, and the prognosis is immediately good. The extent of her brain injury is still the big question. Although it’s too early to say so definitively, some of the nurses are confident that Libby will start Kindergarten in the fall. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

 

His Servant and Yours,

Mark

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RE: Libby Paul --Day 3, Part 2

 

 

From: Paul Schmidt [mailto:pschmidt72@comcast.net]
Sent: Saturday, June 03, 2006 11:03 PM
Subject: Libby Paul --Day 3, Part 2

 

 

This email came from our friends the Shiner’s @ 8:45 pm tonight. It gives an update on Libby status as well as providing some good news.  Read On

Hello, Paul Prayer Partners,

Just talked to Troy and Dors, and while we were talking to them, Libby was trying to open her eyes!! So they had to go quickly!  She is really trying to wake up, but the doctors are keeping her asleep until Monday so the healing can progress.

It's 8 p.m. here in KC and just wanted to update you on the MRI today.  They heavily sedated Libby for the procedure, but Dors said Troy had to hold her down still.  A third-year resident gave the MRI, so could not interpret the results like Troy and Dors had hoped.  The doctor who can will be back tomorrow, Troy said, so they'll hear more then.  BUT, they did find out that there is no spinal cord injury.  No fragments are floating around in the spinal column, so that's great news! They did confirm a break of vertebra T-10 and a possible break in T-8 and T-9.  The MRI is really to check out soft tissue rather than bones.

Libby thrashes around quite a bit from time to time, and you can tell sometimes she's trying to talk or trying to open her eyes.  The night nurse they really liked is on night 3 tonight of her shift (they work in 3 night shifts with the next 4 off).  She is encouraging the Pauls to spend the night at the Ronald McDonald house tonight to catch up on their sleep a bit, although Dors is hesitant to in case Libby wakes up for some reason.  (The hospital DID get them a room at the area Ronald McDonald house, which is great.  They have their stuff moved there.) Dorsey's family all flew home this afternoon.  Troy said the RM house is right across the street, which is a great convenience.  It's complete with sleep number beds, a big, full kitchen, laundry, computers and cable, a grill!, laundry facilities, and meals delivered ~ WOW!!  So they're in really good spirits and send their love to everyone.  They continue to be so grateful for the amazing outpouring of love from each one of you through prayer, calls, cards, and gifts.

We mistakenly sent the wrong email link to the hospital earlier, so here's the right one to send cards, etc.:

 

http://www.memorialhealth.com/universitymedical_2/cards_gifts.html

 

 

Libby has a CT scan tomorrow between 4-5 (which is 3-4:00 our time).  Troy said it was huge, so they need prayer.  They'll get more answers from that tomorrow regarding broken bones.

Monday morning is still the big moment when they'll attempt to remove all the tubes, where they'll have Libby breathe on her own, and when they'll try to wake her up to see her reflexes and responses.  Based on the hospitals subsequent tests they will have a much better understanding of what they are up against and the overall road to recovery.  Please pray that this process would not be overly stressful for Libby and that all will go smoothly.  It's hard to believe it's only been 3 days!

Another quick technical note.  When you are sending text messages to Troy's phone, make sure you sign/end the message with your name.  His phone for some reason is not showing the sender and he is having a hard time figuring out where some of the messages are coming from.  Thanks.

Way to go, team!  Let's keep pulling together!  Thanks for forwarding this on to your loved ones in support of the Paul family.

Attached are two pictures of our precious Libby, the object of all our thoughts and prayers.  One is a little old of her playing in their swimming pool and really shows her personality.  The other one is from today at the hospital.  We will get updated photo's, etc. out as they become available.

   "From Heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from His dwelling place He watches all who live on earth--He who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do...the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love, to deliver them from death...We wait in hope for the LORD; HE is our help and our shield.  In His our hearts rejoice, for we trust in HIs holy name.  May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in You."           ~Psalm 33:13-15, 18-22

Blessings,

Joy Shiner

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Day 3 Libby Update

 

I talked with Dorsey last night, and have an update as of this morning too.

 

Libby is still stable and awaiting the MRI. Last night, she was ready for the MRI, but the machine broke.

She is still sedated and asleep, which is really hard for Dorsey and Troy, but right now, she can heal better if she’s asleep. The doctors will probably wait until Monday to wake her.

 

Dorsey said that the respiratory therapist is a dynamite Christian who keeps affirming that Libby will be completely healed. Dorsey and the night nurse took great care in washing Libby’s face, rubbing lotion on her feet, etc. This level of care from the nurse really touched Dorsey.

 

Libby’s hemoglobin was dropping somewhat, starting from about 9 to 7 to 6.3. Her blood is being transfused. This is typically from internal bleeding, but it is not from her brain. They don’t know where the bleeding is coming from – just the trauma or other things. Dorsey said she would heal quicker if this level comes up.

 

She also mentioned that Libby would likely be in a back brace for up to 6 months.

 

Mitchell and Duncan are flying back to K.C. with Troy’s extended family. Mitchell got to see Libby this morning. He held her hand and said “It looks like she’s dead, but she’s not, right mom?”

 

I will let you know how we can all help with the boys. Our friend Joy Shiner is going to be in touch with the family and figuring out how to best help them. For right now, just keep praying.

 

The hospitals website is www.memorialhealth.org.

You can also send cards, etc. to

Troy & Dorsey Paul

C/o Backus Children’s Hospital Memorial Health University Medical Center

4700 Waters Avenue
Savannah, GA 31404

 

Some of you did not receive yesterdays e-mail, and some of you got them twice. I am so sorry for this. Mark and Paul tried to figure out the best way for me to access the Westminster e-mail list, an we had a few glitches, but  Paul figured it out today. Thanks for your patience.

 

This is an amazing body of Christ! To God be the Glory!

Amy

 

P.S.  If you don’t receive one of Amy’s email updates on Libby and the Paul Family, Amy’s emails will posted on this blog site http://libbypaulupdate.blogspot.com/

 

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Libby Paul_Westminster Update

From: Amy Schmidt [mailto:onceuponapicture@comcast.net] Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 12:21 PMTo: 'onceuponapicture@comcast.net'Subject: Day 2 Libby update

Here is an update of what we know so far:

Libby is still stable. She woke a little this morning and was wiggling around, which is a good sign. They are keeping her immobilized and sedated.
She will be having a CAT scan and MRI at 2:00 today, and we are hoping for no change in swelling, bleeding etc.

Keep praying for her full recovery, for peace for Dorsey and Troy, for God to send His strong protective arms around them and their family.

Ours is a God worthy of our faith, belief and trust.

I want to share a story with you. It has been difficult going on with daily tasks, knowing this beloved family is in crisis. Things like laundry and dishes are so insignificant right now compared to what they are going through. After much prayer, I struggled to take care of some tasks. I had one lady I had to call about details surrounding my mother’s birthday party. I had call waiting come through concerning Dorsey so I got off the phone quickly. When I called her back, I wanted to explain the urgency. I didn’t even know if this lady was a believer, but I shared the story and asked her to pray. She said “I don’t believe this, but I JUST received an e-mail about that little girl this morning. I will definitely pray!” What a blessing!


After Jesus was crucified, buried and risen, he appeared to his disciples in this way:

“Simon Peter, Thomas, Nathanael from Cana in Gallilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. ‘I’m going out to fish,’ Simon Peter told them, and they said ‘we’ll go with you.’ So they went out and got into the boat, but that night, they caught nothing. Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize it was Jesus.

He called out to them, ‘Friends, haven’t you caught any fish?’ ‘No,’ they answered. He said ‘Throw down your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.’ When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

Then the disciple whom loved Jesus said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord!’” John 21:2-7.

Amidst uncertain times for these men, they went on with their fishing tasks, and they were blessed. I hope you can find comfort in this. We can pray on the way. Then we too can cry out “It is the Lord!”

Amy Schmidt
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Libby Paul_Prayer Request

Sorry if you received this twice. An Additional prayer request...that Dorsey and Troy get in to the Ronald McDonald House. Right now it is full and they have to wait until other guests leave before there will be a space for them. They have a high priority due to how far they are from home and the extent of Libby's injuries. Also, as of yesterday, Mitchell and Duncan are to be flying home today with Troy's parents and hopefully Dorsey's mom, if she can get on the plane. Dorsey asked that if families are doing something, like going to a movie, Chuckecheese, the zoo, etc....that maybe an invitation could be extended to the boys. THanks, Maria Ianni
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