January 31st – February 17, 2009
By Janna Determan
Well, since my last blog, not much exciting stuff has happened. Andy’s days are filled with Physical & Occupational Therapy and attending some educational classes for spinal cord injury people. Andy is doing really well in therapy and looks forward to each session except when they’re scheduled for early morning.
Emily is his physical therapist. She’s petite and pretty and has a good personality. She likes to push Andy to the limit with whatever the goal is for the session. Andy doesn’t miss a beat, though, as he thrives on competition.
Gary is his occupational therapist. He’s a really nice guy and loves to give Andy a hard time in a joking way. He’s usually the one that wants to schedule Andy’s sessions early.
When therapy isn’t happening, Andy spends a lot of time in the recreation room where he challenges Tom & me to wii. It took him a little while, but Andy finally got the hang of the movements needed to offset the wheelchair hindrance. Needless to say, he usually whoops our butts!
Andy gets periodic visits from Dr. Crabb, a clinical psychologist, due to the extent of his injury. She usually asks us to leave the room for her sessions, because she wants Andy to feel free to answer her probing questions honestly about how he feels about what’s happened to him. After her latest session with him, she emerged from the room & made the comment to Tom that she’s really concerned that he hasn’t exhibited signs of anger or depression yet. When I heard that later, I just smiled. Andy isn’t experiencing those things, because he’s resolved that God is going to fully restore him!
He/We don’t know when God’s healing will manifest in his body, but we’re confident that just as Jesus has already paid the price by the agony He suffered on the cross, Andy’s body has to line up with the Word (Isaiah 53:5 – But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.)!
Well, it’s been a long haul over the last 49 days, but Andy is going home today, Tuesday, 2/17th. It will be so nice to have us all under one roof again and to sleep in our own bed!
The Lord has been so faithful to us in supplying all the items we’re going to need at home. Various people at Highlands Lake Center, my employer, have contributed to supplying us with different items. Maya, the Assistant Administrator, arranged to get us an electric hospital bed and trapeze bar at no charge. The Maintenance guys, James & Fred, have built us a ramp and installed grab bars & a hand-held shower head in Andy’s bathroom. John, the Customer Ambassador, worked to get us a $500 donation from an organization he’s affiliated with that enabled us to purchase a special shower chair & transfer bench combo.
Here’s the clincher, though…Mary Kay, the Staff Development person, donated her handicap van to us with the instruction to gift it to someone else once Andy is walking again & it’s not needed. Let me expand on that a little. Mary Kay’s husband died last year after a long battle with ALS. She originally gifted the van to another lady whose husband also had ALS, but when he died the lady gave it back to Mary Kay. Mary Kay told us that the van had been sitting in her garage for the past few months while she prayed and asked the Lord what to do with it. Wow, what a God we serve!
Not only did Mary Kay bless us with the van, but she has continually given us ideas on how to rearrange things in the house to make it more accessible for Andy, given us little incidental items to use in caring for him, cleaned the house in preparation for his home-coming, and oh so many other things.
We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family who have continually blessed us with food, encouraging words, etc. Most of all, though, we’re so thankful for your continued prayers in our behalf for Andy’s full recovery and for strength for Tom & I as we begin our next phase of taking care of him at home.
We love all of you and ask for God’s richest blessings to flood you!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Hello Family & Friends! Tampa is Just a Hop & Skip Away... says Andy
January 24 – 30th
By: Janna & Tom Determan
We apologize for the lengthy delay (& for the lengthy post) in updating Andy’s miracle life journey blog. The pace of restoration taking place in Andy’s body has definitely slowed down quite-a-bit in the natural or visual realm. So, with that said, more than likely the postings will go from being done daily to once or twice a week until further notice.
Andy had a big day last Saturday (Jan.24th), as he was transferred to Tampa General Hospital’s (TGH) Rehab Center and finally got away from the LRMC fiasco. TGH is a little less than 40 miles away from home when traveling one way. The daily trek has a tendency to get old really fast, so we looked into staying at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH). Our first attempt or contact with RMH fell on deaf ears, only because Andy is 18 years old; however, when we mentioned this to one of the doctors, Doctor Lawrence Neufeld, he made a phone call for us and wha-la, we’re in. Can you say, “That was easy!?”
So anyway, as of Wednesday this week we started staying there, completely enjoying the benefits of being close by. What a blessing it is, not just due to not having to drive back & forth every day, but the RMH furnishes breakfast & lunch items including a full kitchen with every appliance you can practically imagine at our finger tips.
We can help ourselves to anything we want, AND every night the dinner meals are personally prepared & brought in by one of the many volunteer families or groups. All of this is provided to family members of young children/young adults for just $5 per night! What a blessing this has become to us in a very short time! Now, everyone reading this blog needs to go to McDonalds for lunch today and tell them thanks (plus, put your change in the RMH kitty) for the RMH in Tampa, FL. If you do go, we certainly hope you enjoy yourself... ;-)
Andy is in a semi-private room near the window. His view is overlooking the Hillsborough River and he can see the hotel where the Super Bowl teams are staying. The river is quite busy right now with big yachts docking across the way to eat at some swanky restaurant; the coast guard has quite a few gunner boats patrolling the area due to the proximity of the SB players, I’m sure.
Currently, Andy is receiving 1½ – 4 hours of therapy each day depending on his vital signs; more specifically, whether or not his blood pressure & heart rate are cooperating. He is presently on blood pressure medicine to help keep the BP up where it should be; however, the med’s don’t always work like they should and Andy can’t sit upright. Evidently, after having been lying down for extended periods of time, getting up for therapy is quite challenging… even for Mister Competitiveness himself.
So, when he is able, he is receiving both Occupational & Physical Therapy.
Occupational therapy helps him learn how to do all the Activities of Daily Living, better known as ADLs. This consists of dressing, bathing, grooming, plus the more personal side to life, things like self-cathing & bowel care. Physical therapy teaches him wheelchair mobility, transferring from bed to chair, balance, etc.
Needless to say, he’s working really hard each day trying to increase his endurance & after a tough workout, he spends a lot of time in between sessions napping.
His endurance is getting better, but right now after having been flat on his back for almost a month, it is really taking a lot of strength to do the “simple things”. Even though he stays pretty pooped from all the activity, he’s actually glad to be getting therapy which will enable him to push his physical restoration along.
Today (30th) Andy had to have his 2nd thoracentesis done; not sure if I spelled that right, but he had fluid in his left lung cavity which was restricting his lung from fully inflating. They removed another 600cc just like last time. This is usually a simple procedure, but I (Janna) was a little nervous on this one. The person doing the procedure looked quite young & acted like he wasn’t sure of himself, so I was sitting in the corner praying for the Lord’s direction…whether that meant getting someone else or helping him do it. My prayer was answered and all went well. We believe this will be his last experience on these lines since he spends more time out of bed now which supposedly helps this condition from re-appearing.
As mentioned before, we’re now moving at a seemingly slow pace as far as seeing improvements, (that’s seeing things with a natural eye, but the real power is at work ‘behind the scene’ doing a far greater work than what we can see). Obviously, since Andy has always been so active, the day to day grind he’s experiencing right now seems to be wearing on him a little more than before.
Nevertheless, we are asking for your prayers to continue. Please continue to lift Andy up before the Lord. Andy’s spirits are good for the most part, but since he’s not seeing the rapid improvements as before, we’ve noticed that he’s getting a little down lately. We’re going to keep speaking God’s Word over him, letting him know that His healing power is at work on the inside of his body.
Now, here’s the downside to the better care he’s receiving in Tampa.
Because we’re not in Lakeland any more, the visitors have all but vanished. So, from a mother's perspective, let me be a little BOLD here, bold enough right now to request for anyone who can possibly come visit… to please come visit!
Visiting hours are 4-8 p.m. Monday – Friday and 11am-8pm on weekends. Andy really needs your support right now more than ever, so don’t let a few miles keep you away!!! Come on over for a big ‘Andy smile,’ one that will light up your day and God will bless you for making the extra effort… I promise. (Thanks to Kristen, Megan, Johnny, Joel, Chuck, Lizzy, & Andrew who came to see Andy this week! We (Mom & Dad) appreciate your sacrifice & love.)
Scripture Verse for the Day is Ephesians 3:20: Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask OR think, (here’s the catch) according to the power that worketh in us.
For Christians, that power is the power of the Holy Spirit. He (God the Holy Spirit) is able to perform the impossible… Is He working in you? Does He have a small corner in your heart or have you given Him free access to all the chambers and passage ways of your life?
Jesus IS coming soon; now IS the time to receive Him. It’s easy. Just ask Him (Jesus) to forgive you from all your sins. By doing so, you’ll have a wonderful new-life-experience that you never, ever thought possible. He’ll make all things brand new and one way you’ll know the change has happened is because your desires will be different than they were before. And you’ll want to talk about Jesus more too! Come on in, the water is wonderful!
By: Janna & Tom Determan
We apologize for the lengthy delay (& for the lengthy post) in updating Andy’s miracle life journey blog. The pace of restoration taking place in Andy’s body has definitely slowed down quite-a-bit in the natural or visual realm. So, with that said, more than likely the postings will go from being done daily to once or twice a week until further notice.
Andy had a big day last Saturday (Jan.24th), as he was transferred to Tampa General Hospital’s (TGH) Rehab Center and finally got away from the LRMC fiasco. TGH is a little less than 40 miles away from home when traveling one way. The daily trek has a tendency to get old really fast, so we looked into staying at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH). Our first attempt or contact with RMH fell on deaf ears, only because Andy is 18 years old; however, when we mentioned this to one of the doctors, Doctor Lawrence Neufeld, he made a phone call for us and wha-la, we’re in. Can you say, “That was easy!?”
So anyway, as of Wednesday this week we started staying there, completely enjoying the benefits of being close by. What a blessing it is, not just due to not having to drive back & forth every day, but the RMH furnishes breakfast & lunch items including a full kitchen with every appliance you can practically imagine at our finger tips.
We can help ourselves to anything we want, AND every night the dinner meals are personally prepared & brought in by one of the many volunteer families or groups. All of this is provided to family members of young children/young adults for just $5 per night! What a blessing this has become to us in a very short time! Now, everyone reading this blog needs to go to McDonalds for lunch today and tell them thanks (plus, put your change in the RMH kitty) for the RMH in Tampa, FL. If you do go, we certainly hope you enjoy yourself... ;-)
Andy is in a semi-private room near the window. His view is overlooking the Hillsborough River and he can see the hotel where the Super Bowl teams are staying. The river is quite busy right now with big yachts docking across the way to eat at some swanky restaurant; the coast guard has quite a few gunner boats patrolling the area due to the proximity of the SB players, I’m sure.
Currently, Andy is receiving 1½ – 4 hours of therapy each day depending on his vital signs; more specifically, whether or not his blood pressure & heart rate are cooperating. He is presently on blood pressure medicine to help keep the BP up where it should be; however, the med’s don’t always work like they should and Andy can’t sit upright. Evidently, after having been lying down for extended periods of time, getting up for therapy is quite challenging… even for Mister Competitiveness himself.
So, when he is able, he is receiving both Occupational & Physical Therapy.
Occupational therapy helps him learn how to do all the Activities of Daily Living, better known as ADLs. This consists of dressing, bathing, grooming, plus the more personal side to life, things like self-cathing & bowel care. Physical therapy teaches him wheelchair mobility, transferring from bed to chair, balance, etc.
Needless to say, he’s working really hard each day trying to increase his endurance & after a tough workout, he spends a lot of time in between sessions napping.
His endurance is getting better, but right now after having been flat on his back for almost a month, it is really taking a lot of strength to do the “simple things”. Even though he stays pretty pooped from all the activity, he’s actually glad to be getting therapy which will enable him to push his physical restoration along.
Today (30th) Andy had to have his 2nd thoracentesis done; not sure if I spelled that right, but he had fluid in his left lung cavity which was restricting his lung from fully inflating. They removed another 600cc just like last time. This is usually a simple procedure, but I (Janna) was a little nervous on this one. The person doing the procedure looked quite young & acted like he wasn’t sure of himself, so I was sitting in the corner praying for the Lord’s direction…whether that meant getting someone else or helping him do it. My prayer was answered and all went well. We believe this will be his last experience on these lines since he spends more time out of bed now which supposedly helps this condition from re-appearing.
As mentioned before, we’re now moving at a seemingly slow pace as far as seeing improvements, (that’s seeing things with a natural eye, but the real power is at work ‘behind the scene’ doing a far greater work than what we can see). Obviously, since Andy has always been so active, the day to day grind he’s experiencing right now seems to be wearing on him a little more than before.
Nevertheless, we are asking for your prayers to continue. Please continue to lift Andy up before the Lord. Andy’s spirits are good for the most part, but since he’s not seeing the rapid improvements as before, we’ve noticed that he’s getting a little down lately. We’re going to keep speaking God’s Word over him, letting him know that His healing power is at work on the inside of his body.
Now, here’s the downside to the better care he’s receiving in Tampa.
Because we’re not in Lakeland any more, the visitors have all but vanished. So, from a mother's perspective, let me be a little BOLD here, bold enough right now to request for anyone who can possibly come visit… to please come visit!
Visiting hours are 4-8 p.m. Monday – Friday and 11am-8pm on weekends. Andy really needs your support right now more than ever, so don’t let a few miles keep you away!!! Come on over for a big ‘Andy smile,’ one that will light up your day and God will bless you for making the extra effort… I promise. (Thanks to Kristen, Megan, Johnny, Joel, Chuck, Lizzy, & Andrew who came to see Andy this week! We (Mom & Dad) appreciate your sacrifice & love.)
Scripture Verse for the Day is Ephesians 3:20: Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask OR think, (here’s the catch) according to the power that worketh in us.
For Christians, that power is the power of the Holy Spirit. He (God the Holy Spirit) is able to perform the impossible… Is He working in you? Does He have a small corner in your heart or have you given Him free access to all the chambers and passage ways of your life?
Jesus IS coming soon; now IS the time to receive Him. It’s easy. Just ask Him (Jesus) to forgive you from all your sins. By doing so, you’ll have a wonderful new-life-experience that you never, ever thought possible. He’ll make all things brand new and one way you’ll know the change has happened is because your desires will be different than they were before. And you’ll want to talk about Jesus more too! Come on in, the water is wonderful!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Good Days Are Here Again… PTL!
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
January 21, 22, 23, 2009
By: Tom Determan
This blog entry will include information for Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday.
Andy had a very good day on Wednesday; as a matter of fact, it was his best day so far in this particular trauma ward. Once the staff figured out that he indeed had a UTI and began treating him with antibiotics, the fevers pretty much have subsided; allowing him to catch up on his rest.
Thursday was a very successful day. After multiple attempts on multiple days, Andy finally made it back into the wheelchair for the first time in a week. The prior attempts were thwarted by the fevers and the therapists trying to move from lying down to sitting straight up in one step causing him to get light headed & seeing stars. Once the fevers stopped and we convinced the therapists to move him up in increments, he succeeded!
We knew Andy had lost some weight, but once he made it into the wheelchair yesterday, it really hit Janna how much weight he had lost. She said that he looked like he had spent time in a concentration camp! Of course, it’s only been in the last couple of days that his appetite has truly returned – returned to the point where he will actually finish an entire sandwich. Normally, you wouldn’t think that’s a big deal for teenagers, only because they are so active and love to eat sooo much. But now, we are seeing things in a very different light.
Friday has been a rather unusual day also. I’ve been at Andy’s bedside since 3:30PM and he’s been sleeping ever since. Right now it is 8:45PM and Andy hasn’t spoken hardly a word (except when the nurses have had to ask him something).
At 2:00PM today, I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Jim & Trish Feijo of [Daniel Chapter One.com]. Jim & Trish happened to be in Lakeland today doing a live radio broadcast at WWAB (Praise God!).
I first heard of Jim's program nearly 1 1/2 years ago and decided to get their natural products for nearly all our daily health needs. As a matter of fact, one of their products called, 7 Herb Formula, is what the Lord used to heal my body of Psoriasis... a semi-serious skin condition I battled for many years. Anyway, I was able to discuss Andy's condition with them and they were kind enough to give me a list of products that will help hasten Andy's healing & restoration.
Thank you Jim & Trish. Everyone reading this blog should visit their website at: http://dc1pages.com/danielchapterone and find whatever you need for healing in your body... no matter what traditional medical wisdom says.
Now back to our daily journal. The day nurse, Nicki, came into the room a few hours ago to tell me that Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has a bed opening tomorrow and they have accepted Andy & he’ll be transported there tomorrow (Saturday) AM. TGH has a higher accreditation for patients with a spinal cord injury, which simply means that the care they provide will be better than the care he has received here at LRMC. Plus, the fact he’ll begin his rehab there too.
We trust all is well with you and your families this wonderful New Year. God’s mercies are new every day and we are extremely grateful for all your prayers and for the time you’ve spent reading our blog about Andy’s life being spared and how the restoration process is giving us more time together here on earth. God Bless!
January 21, 22, 23, 2009
By: Tom Determan
This blog entry will include information for Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday.
Andy had a very good day on Wednesday; as a matter of fact, it was his best day so far in this particular trauma ward. Once the staff figured out that he indeed had a UTI and began treating him with antibiotics, the fevers pretty much have subsided; allowing him to catch up on his rest.
Thursday was a very successful day. After multiple attempts on multiple days, Andy finally made it back into the wheelchair for the first time in a week. The prior attempts were thwarted by the fevers and the therapists trying to move from lying down to sitting straight up in one step causing him to get light headed & seeing stars. Once the fevers stopped and we convinced the therapists to move him up in increments, he succeeded!
We knew Andy had lost some weight, but once he made it into the wheelchair yesterday, it really hit Janna how much weight he had lost. She said that he looked like he had spent time in a concentration camp! Of course, it’s only been in the last couple of days that his appetite has truly returned – returned to the point where he will actually finish an entire sandwich. Normally, you wouldn’t think that’s a big deal for teenagers, only because they are so active and love to eat sooo much. But now, we are seeing things in a very different light.
Friday has been a rather unusual day also. I’ve been at Andy’s bedside since 3:30PM and he’s been sleeping ever since. Right now it is 8:45PM and Andy hasn’t spoken hardly a word (except when the nurses have had to ask him something).
At 2:00PM today, I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Jim & Trish Feijo of [Daniel Chapter One.com]. Jim & Trish happened to be in Lakeland today doing a live radio broadcast at WWAB (Praise God!).
I first heard of Jim's program nearly 1 1/2 years ago and decided to get their natural products for nearly all our daily health needs. As a matter of fact, one of their products called, 7 Herb Formula, is what the Lord used to heal my body of Psoriasis... a semi-serious skin condition I battled for many years. Anyway, I was able to discuss Andy's condition with them and they were kind enough to give me a list of products that will help hasten Andy's healing & restoration.
Thank you Jim & Trish. Everyone reading this blog should visit their website at: http://dc1pages.com/danielchapterone and find whatever you need for healing in your body... no matter what traditional medical wisdom says.
Now back to our daily journal. The day nurse, Nicki, came into the room a few hours ago to tell me that Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has a bed opening tomorrow and they have accepted Andy & he’ll be transported there tomorrow (Saturday) AM. TGH has a higher accreditation for patients with a spinal cord injury, which simply means that the care they provide will be better than the care he has received here at LRMC. Plus, the fact he’ll begin his rehab there too.
We trust all is well with you and your families this wonderful New Year. God’s mercies are new every day and we are extremely grateful for all your prayers and for the time you’ve spent reading our blog about Andy’s life being spared and how the restoration process is giving us more time together here on earth. God Bless!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Andy's Update - Day 21
Tuesday: January 20, 2009
By: Tom Determan
We finally have figured out that Andy has a UTI and that, most likely is what has caused his multiple fevers that we’ve reported about in previous posts. We’ve been told that Andy will be “shipped out” to a rehab center in the next few days, most likely to Tampa General Hospital (TGH).
We are beginning to hear several good things about the TGH facility and another big plus about this place (besides it being the closest rehab facility to Lakeland), is there is a Ronald McDonald House for parents close by. If that proves to be accurate, then Mom & Dad will have a place to stay as often as needed, which will allow us to be there with Andy throughout a good portion of his physical therapy.
In the meantime, though, Andy had over 600cc's of fluid removed from the cavity around his left lung today. The chest tube that had been recently removed was taking fluid out of his right lung, which reportedly, has nothing to do with this fluid build-up.
Almost immediately, Andy felt the difference in his ability to breathe. The doctor said that this fluid was probably caused by the surgery, so hopefully he won’t have this same scenario happen again. He has this breathing exercise thing they call an I.S. that he’s supposed to use multiple times per hour to help keep the build-up to a minimum also, but it’s incredibly painful for Andy to do as it expands his lungs against his broken ribs. However, I think he’s finally realized that the pain is worth it if it helps his lungs get healthy.
Well, as you know, as of 12:00PM today, we will have a new president. President Obama has unbelievable challenges ahead of him and he definitely needs our prayers. Our nation needs our prayers. As a matter of fact, this is a day when our nation must come together and pray or else the consequences in the years to come will be worse than we can even imagine. Of course, God is able to protect His people in any circumstance; no matter what seemingly impossible situation will arise in our nation or in our lives.
That’s it for now and we humbly ask that you continue to lift Andy up in your prayers, especially during the next phase of his restoration. We sincerely thank you for your prayers & we’ll pray for God’s richest blessing to be upon you & your family.
By: Tom Determan
We finally have figured out that Andy has a UTI and that, most likely is what has caused his multiple fevers that we’ve reported about in previous posts. We’ve been told that Andy will be “shipped out” to a rehab center in the next few days, most likely to Tampa General Hospital (TGH).
We are beginning to hear several good things about the TGH facility and another big plus about this place (besides it being the closest rehab facility to Lakeland), is there is a Ronald McDonald House for parents close by. If that proves to be accurate, then Mom & Dad will have a place to stay as often as needed, which will allow us to be there with Andy throughout a good portion of his physical therapy.
In the meantime, though, Andy had over 600cc's of fluid removed from the cavity around his left lung today. The chest tube that had been recently removed was taking fluid out of his right lung, which reportedly, has nothing to do with this fluid build-up.
Almost immediately, Andy felt the difference in his ability to breathe. The doctor said that this fluid was probably caused by the surgery, so hopefully he won’t have this same scenario happen again. He has this breathing exercise thing they call an I.S. that he’s supposed to use multiple times per hour to help keep the build-up to a minimum also, but it’s incredibly painful for Andy to do as it expands his lungs against his broken ribs. However, I think he’s finally realized that the pain is worth it if it helps his lungs get healthy.
Well, as you know, as of 12:00PM today, we will have a new president. President Obama has unbelievable challenges ahead of him and he definitely needs our prayers. Our nation needs our prayers. As a matter of fact, this is a day when our nation must come together and pray or else the consequences in the years to come will be worse than we can even imagine. Of course, God is able to protect His people in any circumstance; no matter what seemingly impossible situation will arise in our nation or in our lives.
That’s it for now and we humbly ask that you continue to lift Andy up in your prayers, especially during the next phase of his restoration. We sincerely thank you for your prayers & we’ll pray for God’s richest blessing to be upon you & your family.
God's Miracle Working Power
Monday: January 19, 2009
By: Tom Determan
... Is at Work For Us & In Us
Praise God for a good report of His awesome working power on our behalf. This afternoon our family was gifted a handicap equipped van to help us get Andy around during his restoration period. What a wonderful gift of love given to us by one of Janna’s co-workers, whose name is Mary Kay M. Thank you Mary Kay & may God richly bless you for your generous gift of love towards our family.
Andy’s Daily Update
Today has been another trying day for Andy in battling fevers. Occasionally throughout the day, his temp would be 103 with a spike to 104. Last night at around 10:00PM, I mentioned to the charge nurse that we had noticed that the catheter hadn’t needed to be emptied since 2:00PM and there was hardly any fluid in the bag. Well, nearly 7 hrs later, 5:00AM this morning, they came in to change the Cath because they found out that there was a block in it after all.
After it was changed, Andy immediately released 500cc’s of fluid, then they had to stop the flow for nearly an hour to prevent bladder spasms. Once the flow resumed, he release another 500cc’s… for anyone who doesn’t know how much fluid that actually equates to, it amounts to a total of 32 oz that had been retained in his bladder all night. Wow, that’s a lot of fluid for any person to have in their bladder at any one time, especially for one who has no feeling in that area.
Now regarding spiritual things here is what I perceive in the spirit realm.
In the book of Romans chapter 7, Paul writes about a certain type of warfare that the believer is engaged in. He says, (beginning in verse 22) For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into the captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Now, what I am going to write in the next few lines may not line up exactly with what your pastor has preached regarding these passages of scripture, but since you’re not paying to read this blog, I figured I’d give it a shot anyway.
In verse 22, Paul says that he delights in the law of God after the inward man. Here is what I see at this time. The law of God is freedom, peace, love, wealth, health & pure victory in the spirit; something that is to be delighted in for sure. The law of God is certainly this and much, much more.
Now, the other law that is trying to bring us into captivity is the law of sin & death. This law wants to keep us subdued, held captive and under its authority… much like what is currently going on in Andy’s body. Paul’s cry in verse 24 is the same cry I have for my son… who shall deliver him from the body of this death (lifeless immobility)?
The answer is in the next verse that Paul writes. He states it this way; I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Jesus Christ the anointed one, the One who is Lord over any and all situations. That’s who! He is the One who will deliver my son from this ordeal that was orchestrated by the enemy of God’s elect.
Praise God from whom all blessing flow! We will receive our victory in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen? Amen!
By: Tom Determan
... Is at Work For Us & In Us
Praise God for a good report of His awesome working power on our behalf. This afternoon our family was gifted a handicap equipped van to help us get Andy around during his restoration period. What a wonderful gift of love given to us by one of Janna’s co-workers, whose name is Mary Kay M. Thank you Mary Kay & may God richly bless you for your generous gift of love towards our family.
Andy’s Daily Update
Today has been another trying day for Andy in battling fevers. Occasionally throughout the day, his temp would be 103 with a spike to 104. Last night at around 10:00PM, I mentioned to the charge nurse that we had noticed that the catheter hadn’t needed to be emptied since 2:00PM and there was hardly any fluid in the bag. Well, nearly 7 hrs later, 5:00AM this morning, they came in to change the Cath because they found out that there was a block in it after all.
After it was changed, Andy immediately released 500cc’s of fluid, then they had to stop the flow for nearly an hour to prevent bladder spasms. Once the flow resumed, he release another 500cc’s… for anyone who doesn’t know how much fluid that actually equates to, it amounts to a total of 32 oz that had been retained in his bladder all night. Wow, that’s a lot of fluid for any person to have in their bladder at any one time, especially for one who has no feeling in that area.
Now regarding spiritual things here is what I perceive in the spirit realm.
In the book of Romans chapter 7, Paul writes about a certain type of warfare that the believer is engaged in. He says, (beginning in verse 22) For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into the captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Now, what I am going to write in the next few lines may not line up exactly with what your pastor has preached regarding these passages of scripture, but since you’re not paying to read this blog, I figured I’d give it a shot anyway.
In verse 22, Paul says that he delights in the law of God after the inward man. Here is what I see at this time. The law of God is freedom, peace, love, wealth, health & pure victory in the spirit; something that is to be delighted in for sure. The law of God is certainly this and much, much more.
Now, the other law that is trying to bring us into captivity is the law of sin & death. This law wants to keep us subdued, held captive and under its authority… much like what is currently going on in Andy’s body. Paul’s cry in verse 24 is the same cry I have for my son… who shall deliver him from the body of this death (lifeless immobility)?
The answer is in the next verse that Paul writes. He states it this way; I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Jesus Christ the anointed one, the One who is Lord over any and all situations. That’s who! He is the One who will deliver my son from this ordeal that was orchestrated by the enemy of God’s elect.
Praise God from whom all blessing flow! We will receive our victory in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen? Amen!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Hospital Challenges – This Too Shall Pass
Saturday/Sunday: January 17-18, 2009
By: Tom Determan
The last two days have proven to be rather challenging for Andy (& us) to say the least. Saturday was a somewhat difficult day because while trying to get him into his wheelchair, he was rushed into a sitting position after having put his back brace on.
This led to a significant drop in blood pressure (something like 68/38) and seeing him while he was sitting in the wheelchair at that moment, simply was not very enjoyable at all. With that being said, he wanted to get out of the chair and back into bed, thinking Sunday would be a better day to try again.
On Sunday morning, Janna & I got to go to the 9:00AM service at Family Worship Center along with Myranda & Meridyth (they’re Andy’s friends from Florence, SC who he met while at summer church camp nearly three years ago & who drove to Lakeland to visit with Andy). As nice as it was going to church together, it was a seemingly costly move for Andy for the following reason.
After service, Janna decided instead of eating a quick Sunday lunch, she felt prompted to go immediately to the hospital after changing clothes. When she got to Andy’s room, the thermostat was set to a frigid 55 degrees and Andy’s teeth were chattering because he was so cold. I guess someone was trying to battle a fever by adjusting the room temperature.
Later that afternoon when I arrived, he was under the cover of five blankets and said he still felt cold. Now tonight, he had a temperature of 102.6, but the medications are starting to kick in and his temp is finally going down. Much of this is due to the difficulty he is currently experiencing with his lung injury.
Please agree with us that he will have completely healthy lungs in Jesus’ name (along with the rest of his healing). Now, Janna & I are nearly resolved to be here 24/7 until this phase of the restoration is fully behind us. Typically, as it stands, I spend evenings & nights with Andy and Janna comes in around 9:30AM to spend days and afternoons with him.
But the good news is this… According to God’s Word in the book of Hebrews 13:5, Jesus is here all the time! He says He will never leave us or forsake us.
Hallelujah! Praise be to God for completing the work He has already begun in Andy’s life. Amen.
By: Tom Determan
The last two days have proven to be rather challenging for Andy (& us) to say the least. Saturday was a somewhat difficult day because while trying to get him into his wheelchair, he was rushed into a sitting position after having put his back brace on.
This led to a significant drop in blood pressure (something like 68/38) and seeing him while he was sitting in the wheelchair at that moment, simply was not very enjoyable at all. With that being said, he wanted to get out of the chair and back into bed, thinking Sunday would be a better day to try again.
On Sunday morning, Janna & I got to go to the 9:00AM service at Family Worship Center along with Myranda & Meridyth (they’re Andy’s friends from Florence, SC who he met while at summer church camp nearly three years ago & who drove to Lakeland to visit with Andy). As nice as it was going to church together, it was a seemingly costly move for Andy for the following reason.
After service, Janna decided instead of eating a quick Sunday lunch, she felt prompted to go immediately to the hospital after changing clothes. When she got to Andy’s room, the thermostat was set to a frigid 55 degrees and Andy’s teeth were chattering because he was so cold. I guess someone was trying to battle a fever by adjusting the room temperature.
Later that afternoon when I arrived, he was under the cover of five blankets and said he still felt cold. Now tonight, he had a temperature of 102.6, but the medications are starting to kick in and his temp is finally going down. Much of this is due to the difficulty he is currently experiencing with his lung injury.
Please agree with us that he will have completely healthy lungs in Jesus’ name (along with the rest of his healing). Now, Janna & I are nearly resolved to be here 24/7 until this phase of the restoration is fully behind us. Typically, as it stands, I spend evenings & nights with Andy and Janna comes in around 9:30AM to spend days and afternoons with him.
But the good news is this… According to God’s Word in the book of Hebrews 13:5, Jesus is here all the time! He says He will never leave us or forsake us.
Hallelujah! Praise be to God for completing the work He has already begun in Andy’s life. Amen.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Day Seventeen
Friday: January 16, 2009
By: Tom Determan
Friday’s entry will be rather sparse only because it seems like the day came and went with nothing out of the ordinary happening in the natural realm. Andy spent much of the day in bed resting up from the busy day he had on Thursday with his Grandparents.
Frankly, I seem to be a little more tired than usual and that has had an adverse effect on my praying & praising. But I trust the Holy Spirit to call upon other faithful prayer warriors to help us bridge the gap for Andy’s healing when needed... Are you one of the faithful? Please say yes.
Brother Wiley, from Family Worship Center stopped by late Thursday afternoon to pray & he also dropped off a couple of CD’s and a few books for Andy (and me) to read. One of the CD’s is the “Healing Scriptures” narrated by Kenneth Hagin Sr., which for me is a special blessing getting to hear Bro. Hagin’s voice again.
You see, I had gotten saved when I was eighteen years old and I used to love listening to Kenneth Hagin’s radio program, “Faith Seminar of the Air.” Every day, while hard at work driving my dump truck on Hwy 60, I looked forward with great anticipation to tuning my AM radio to hear Bro. Hagin’s program.
Also included in the healing gift package, was a book called “Understanding the Healing Power of God” written by Doug Jones. Doug graduated from Rhema in 1975 and has been a full-time minister for over 30 years, including 9 years as the Director of the School of Healing at Rhema.
So in another words, the information that Doug talks about in his book, is based on the Word of God, but also on Holy Ghost revelation knowledge. Plus, Doug's writings include many direct experiences in praying for many hundreds of people as well. As I read each chapter, I am beginning to see a new dimension of God’s goodness and faithfulness to us, His people.
James 5:16 says, “Confess your faults one to another, AND PRAY ONE FOR ANOTHER, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. KJV – capitalization added to emphasize our need for your prayers on Andy's behalf.
By: Tom Determan
Friday’s entry will be rather sparse only because it seems like the day came and went with nothing out of the ordinary happening in the natural realm. Andy spent much of the day in bed resting up from the busy day he had on Thursday with his Grandparents.
Frankly, I seem to be a little more tired than usual and that has had an adverse effect on my praying & praising. But I trust the Holy Spirit to call upon other faithful prayer warriors to help us bridge the gap for Andy’s healing when needed... Are you one of the faithful? Please say yes.
Brother Wiley, from Family Worship Center stopped by late Thursday afternoon to pray & he also dropped off a couple of CD’s and a few books for Andy (and me) to read. One of the CD’s is the “Healing Scriptures” narrated by Kenneth Hagin Sr., which for me is a special blessing getting to hear Bro. Hagin’s voice again.
You see, I had gotten saved when I was eighteen years old and I used to love listening to Kenneth Hagin’s radio program, “Faith Seminar of the Air.” Every day, while hard at work driving my dump truck on Hwy 60, I looked forward with great anticipation to tuning my AM radio to hear Bro. Hagin’s program.
Also included in the healing gift package, was a book called “Understanding the Healing Power of God” written by Doug Jones. Doug graduated from Rhema in 1975 and has been a full-time minister for over 30 years, including 9 years as the Director of the School of Healing at Rhema.
So in another words, the information that Doug talks about in his book, is based on the Word of God, but also on Holy Ghost revelation knowledge. Plus, Doug's writings include many direct experiences in praying for many hundreds of people as well. As I read each chapter, I am beginning to see a new dimension of God’s goodness and faithfulness to us, His people.
James 5:16 says, “Confess your faults one to another, AND PRAY ONE FOR ANOTHER, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. KJV – capitalization added to emphasize our need for your prayers on Andy's behalf.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Family Times
Thursday: January 16, 2009
By: Tom Determan
Today, Andy got a special visit from Grandma & Grandpa C. They were very excited to see the progress Andy has made since the day they were here last -- January 1st; the day of his operation. Andy was also excited about seeing them because today was the day for him to get into the wheelchair for the very first time.
When his Grandparents arrived, Andy had already worked his way into the wheelchair was ready to get out of his room. Eventually, they made their way down to the cafeteria to get some lunch. While there, we were told that Andy’s aunt and uncle have filed for a divorce. Divorce is always sad, but especially when 3 very precious teenagers are involved who are just a few years younger than Andy.
We (& Andy) ask you to say a special prayer for them (Marla & Darrell), asking God to heal their marriage and deliver this family from the works of the enemy. The healing needed in this marriage is in no way any less than the healing Andy needs in his body.
All I know is that God is able to set the captives free in all types of situations. Jesus is the Great Physician and His healing power is able to reach into the natural realm to heal broken bodies just as it is able to go into the spiritual realm and heal broken marriages. People need both. Our family needs both. Praise God from whom all mercy flows and from Whom the anointing flows that destroys every yoke.
Psalms 112:1-3 says, Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth; the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
By: Tom Determan
Today, Andy got a special visit from Grandma & Grandpa C. They were very excited to see the progress Andy has made since the day they were here last -- January 1st; the day of his operation. Andy was also excited about seeing them because today was the day for him to get into the wheelchair for the very first time.
When his Grandparents arrived, Andy had already worked his way into the wheelchair was ready to get out of his room. Eventually, they made their way down to the cafeteria to get some lunch. While there, we were told that Andy’s aunt and uncle have filed for a divorce. Divorce is always sad, but especially when 3 very precious teenagers are involved who are just a few years younger than Andy.
We (& Andy) ask you to say a special prayer for them (Marla & Darrell), asking God to heal their marriage and deliver this family from the works of the enemy. The healing needed in this marriage is in no way any less than the healing Andy needs in his body.
All I know is that God is able to set the captives free in all types of situations. Jesus is the Great Physician and His healing power is able to reach into the natural realm to heal broken bodies just as it is able to go into the spiritual realm and heal broken marriages. People need both. Our family needs both. Praise God from whom all mercy flows and from Whom the anointing flows that destroys every yoke.
Psalms 112:1-3 says, Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth; the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
When Does an Inch Seem Like a Mile
Wednesday: January 14, 2009
By: Tom Determan
Andy was suppose to get into a wheelchair today, but the nurses mistakenly left his back brace on all night, which we found out, is something that shouldn’t ever happen.
Instead, Andy got to do some balancing exercises when sitting upright, and the nurse told him that most people don’t get to that level until the third day of working on these maneuvers… hearing this, made Andy very happy knowing that he was ahead of schedule.
The good news today is that the demarcation line of feeling has dropped nearly an inch and a half down his chest. We estimate this is nearly two vertebrae farther down his spinal column than yesterday. Praise God!
As you can imagine, we are grateful for the healing power at work in Andy and we are standing on God’s Word that he will continue to regain more & more feeling every day until the healing is 100% complete.
Thank you for standing strong with us in believing God & praising Him for Andy’s full recovery in Jesus name.
By: Tom Determan
Andy was suppose to get into a wheelchair today, but the nurses mistakenly left his back brace on all night, which we found out, is something that shouldn’t ever happen.
Instead, Andy got to do some balancing exercises when sitting upright, and the nurse told him that most people don’t get to that level until the third day of working on these maneuvers… hearing this, made Andy very happy knowing that he was ahead of schedule.
The good news today is that the demarcation line of feeling has dropped nearly an inch and a half down his chest. We estimate this is nearly two vertebrae farther down his spinal column than yesterday. Praise God!
As you can imagine, we are grateful for the healing power at work in Andy and we are standing on God’s Word that he will continue to regain more & more feeling every day until the healing is 100% complete.
Thank you for standing strong with us in believing God & praising Him for Andy’s full recovery in Jesus name.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
A Day of New Beginnings
Tuesday: January 13, 2009
By: Tom Determan
Andy has been doing so well lately that the doctors have agreed to remove his chest tube today. This is very good news! Once that tube is out of the way, the body brace will get fitted and Andy will be able to sit up in bed to feed himself again. Mom & Dad were doing a pretty good job, but needless to say, that was kinda tough on him.
Daily Update…
Okay, the chest tube was removed shortly after noon and the brace is now on. They had to make some adjustments on the brace because it was riding too high on his chest. This is another very big step in the progression of healing that we are seeing in his body. Andy still doesn’t have any feeling in his legs or actually below his chest, but that too will change in Jesus’ name.
Viva Room Change
Now that Andy is off of the majority of the medications, and the chest tube has been removed, it’s time to get out of TICU (Trauma Intensive Care Unit). Andy’s new room is W475 at LRMC. So, when you come to visit, (you know he wants you too) it’s best to park in the A parking lot and come in through the south entrance. Once inside, make your way to the “A” elevators, then go to the fourth floor and navigate to room 475 via the black phone.
I promise you that Andy will greet you with a big smile that will make your day & light up the room when you visit. Tonight Andy’s nurse is Lori who is from Missouri. She is very nice and enjoys talking to Andy about various topics.
Good News – by Andy’s Standards
Now that Andy is in a private room & out of the TICU ward, he can use his cell phone to text messages to his friends. I imagine the key pads will be worn thin in no time. For those of you who have been avid texters with Andy in the past, get ready because I perceive a high volume of text messages coming your way.
We serve an awesome God!
PS. I am still debating on whether or not I should release some of the accident photos... would you like to see some of the pictures I took of the vehicle to see how God spared Andy's life?
By: Tom Determan
Andy has been doing so well lately that the doctors have agreed to remove his chest tube today. This is very good news! Once that tube is out of the way, the body brace will get fitted and Andy will be able to sit up in bed to feed himself again. Mom & Dad were doing a pretty good job, but needless to say, that was kinda tough on him.
Daily Update…
Okay, the chest tube was removed shortly after noon and the brace is now on. They had to make some adjustments on the brace because it was riding too high on his chest. This is another very big step in the progression of healing that we are seeing in his body. Andy still doesn’t have any feeling in his legs or actually below his chest, but that too will change in Jesus’ name.
Viva Room Change
Now that Andy is off of the majority of the medications, and the chest tube has been removed, it’s time to get out of TICU (Trauma Intensive Care Unit). Andy’s new room is W475 at LRMC. So, when you come to visit, (you know he wants you too) it’s best to park in the A parking lot and come in through the south entrance. Once inside, make your way to the “A” elevators, then go to the fourth floor and navigate to room 475 via the black phone.
I promise you that Andy will greet you with a big smile that will make your day & light up the room when you visit. Tonight Andy’s nurse is Lori who is from Missouri. She is very nice and enjoys talking to Andy about various topics.
Good News – by Andy’s Standards
Now that Andy is in a private room & out of the TICU ward, he can use his cell phone to text messages to his friends. I imagine the key pads will be worn thin in no time. For those of you who have been avid texters with Andy in the past, get ready because I perceive a high volume of text messages coming your way.
We serve an awesome God!
PS. I am still debating on whether or not I should release some of the accident photos... would you like to see some of the pictures I took of the vehicle to see how God spared Andy's life?
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