Hallelujah indeed. This is the update on Toms results from his operation in July last year.
For those who read my last blog on Tom, will know we were hopeful that the results of the 6 month Post op MRI scan would be good. Tom has had no pain since his recovery from the incredibly painful decompression of his hindbrain hernia.
The scan in February went well, and then Tom received a letter a couple of weeks ago saying he had to see his consultant in June.
He was slightly concerned they may be going to tell him bad news, as the consultant had hinted if all was well, he would just get a letter or telephone call to say so.
Both Jem and Tom were visibly upset, as they had hoped for confirmation that all had gone to plan as Tom had been feeling so incredibly well. Not a hint of a headache on sneezing, a miracle in itself.
However Praise God, another letter arrived Friday to say the "MRI had shown the decompression had caused a dramatic and gratifying reduction in the syrinx cavity (the fluid filled tubalar cyst that was caused by the Arnold's Charia, and was the situated at the hub of all main nerve endings at the top of the spinal chord.)
One resounding Hallelujah...what an amazing and miriaculous result...with this condition they offer the operation to decompress the hind brain hernia but there is never a guarantee that the procedure will work. It can take up to two years to reduce the syrinx but Tom felt better after only 6 weeks once the pain of the surgery had begun to subside
Sadly Sometimes there is no post op reduction and the patient has to be careful and the pain will continue for the rest of their lives. We praise God for the skilled surgeon that carried out the laser procedure with perfect results.
This means Tom can put the whole thing behind him and lead a normal life without risk assessing every activity he would like to do.
Looking back to this time last year..we could only trust with hope -
that as The Lord continued to preserve him and keep him from further deterioration - that all would
be well and the forthcoming operation in July would be a success.
We never know what the future holds but we trust God holds our future.
So today more than giving thanks and praise to Jesus for an amazing healing for Tom....I would like to Praise Him for walking with us and ahead of us on this journey, and grateful thanks that both our son and daughter in law believe in Our Lord Jesus Christ and had faith always in the perfect result for them both within God's will.
When Tom broke the bad news back in 2012, I wanted him to have the operation the following week. Hearing Tom say that he felt The Lord would keep him whilst he finished his degree, and if he did go to Heaven at any time that he would have enjoyed 21 wonderful years already, and he trusted in God's will for his life...was an incredible and heartwarming insight to the strength of our sons Faith.
I on the other hand was still feeling sick as his mother that I may lose a son if that was indeed God's will. But seeing The Peace that Tom had, I soon shared the same feeling as we waited for surgery.
The Lord went on to Bless him with a 2:1 maths degree, a beautiful wife and just recently a new career as a trainee accountant at Nationwide headquarters....and the icing on the cake - a letter of confirmation that he can live a 'normal' life without worrying about a sneeze that could paralyse his whole body in an instant.
The planned trip to Thorpe Park and that long awaited roller coaster ride will be a just part of the celebrations of The Lords Love and ongoing provision.
The famous poem "footprints" talks of Jesus carrying you when troubled times come...we cannot in
this fallen world travel unscathed...there will be times of stress, pain, anxiety and sadness but if we know Our Lord Jesus as our Saviour, that journey can be one of many Blessings and comfort as He does indeed pick us up and carry us through the tough times.
The parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27 talks of building your house on the rock (God) not the sand so when the storm comes the house still stands...Thank you Jesus for keeping
Tom and Jem safe in their 'Storm'...Amen x
We would like to thank all those that prayed continually and for all the positive thoughts from those who do not share Our Faith...for ongoing support and love ...We are eternally grateful to you all. X
Monday, March 16, 2015
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Post operation Praises..
Due to my SIM card breaking and no wifi in the hospital, I was unable to blog daily as I had intended to, during Tom's stay in hospital.
For those on Facebook I was able to keep them informed via my phone, on how Tom was progressing.
Toms operation for his hind brain hernia was on 23/7/2014, so this update is well over due - it seems a long time ago that we were on our way to Birmingham.
The Lord as promised went before us, and with us. Tom from that journey up through his stay and beyond was a star...always trusting in God, he was humbly brave, never complaining, always trying to smile...no matter how much it hurt.
Knowing so many faithful brothers and sisters were praying was an enormous help as we faced an unknown journey ahead.
We were shown into his own room (huge surprise and Blessing)... The ultra modern hospital almost felt like a hotel...the view from the fourth floor was incredible. Looking out you could see for miles...then right in the very centre high above the landscape of houses and trees was a church spire...
In my heart I felt it was Jesus reminding us that He was at the centre...always..of everything.
As I was smiling and feeling more Peaceful, I reached into my handbag to find my phone and pulled out instead a pack of cards (rarely in my belongings) ...they were in a 'dad's army' tin with "Don't Panic" on the front...now I was beaming from ear to ear....almost giggling at the way I felt The Lord
was reassuring me...I think until then I was panicking..lots.
The nurse came to settleTom in, completing paperwork, taking blood pressure etc, asking him what level of pain he was in.
This was the oddest thing about a hind brain hernia and syringomyelia - there is an ongoing risk of permanent damage, such as paralysis and huge pain on sneezing...but generally Tom was feeling perfectly healthy and well....so very different to the majority waiting for surgery.
Poor Tom knew he had to endure a pain level beyond his imagination...before he could be healed.
As Jemimah and I said goodnight Tom seemed settled, just a little anxious. The staff said he was on the list for the next day, but as he was not in any pain he would likely be the last to be done. They invited Jem and I to come and keep him company from 9 in the morning as he waited for his turn.
We left about 10pm to find our way to the relatives accommodation...which we were very grateful for. To be 'on site' and close by at a reduced rate was such a Blessing. It's available for relatives for those early days if someone is on the 'critical' list.
We drove the car from one multi storey to another. As we were getting out of the car in this fairly deserted cold concrete car park...opera music was echoing all around. We looked at each other quizzically and laughed...how obscure to be greeted by the beautiful sounds of opera...
A monster of a car appeared on the exit ramp, windows down, radio on full blast. Yes God's timing as always reminding us He truly is in every situation.
Feeling peaceful, we managed eventually to find our room.
It was basic but more than adequate for our needs. The twin beds were very close together so I had doubts that even the earplugs I had bought would not save Jem, my daughter in law, from my epic snoring. They didn't. Poor Jem had a sleepless night with the snoring vibrations, the incredible stuffy heat..there was no breeze at all and the anguish over her husband of ten months about to undergo
open brain surgery.
I managed some sleep, although I was conscious that I may keep Jem awake if I slept soundly.
By Gods Grace we managed a whole week sharing a bedroom, still best of friends and closer, having shared the journey with Tom together. We were acutely aware that we were not the only ones worrying...the families we were sharing the accomodation with ...were equally anxious as their loved ones were in critical care...it became a family atmosphere as we all shared and encouraged each other...Praise God.
The first morning we sauntered over in the bright sunshine about 830am...stopped off at the cafe for breakfast..sat outside as it was such a beautiful day..wasting time until 9am..enjoying tea, bacon and eggs in the warmth of the day.
At 8.55am we left to go up to the ward...Jem noticed a missed call from Tom and rang him back...no reply...panic set in as we virtually ran through the corridors..into his room..it was empty..the mobile bed gone. My heart sank...Jem nearly exploded...I ran to the nurses station..Tom had been changed to first on the list ..we had missed him by ten minutes.
I explained hurriedly that we had to see him, to pray with him..please...the nurse was awesome ...she saw the desperation in our faces and said "quick lets go"...
The three of us raced down the ward, jumping in the surgeons lift down to theatre.
My heart was thumping, praying as we went..horrific thoughts in my mind..what if we don't make it..what if Tom doesn't come through...he wouldn't have seen us to say goodbye...noooo
We whizzed through the doors, there were 5 people all masked up, around him, and they all stepped aside as we approached...they must have been pre-warned!
Bless him, Tom was tearful, he thought he wouldn't see us, and he was 'pooing' his pants, understandably. We were able to hug and pray with him. Jem kissed him goodbye and they wheeled him through the swing doors. That memory still brings a tear to my eye.
Jem and I headed for the Chapel, where we stayed a while quietly praying. It was possibly the longest few hours of our lives. We had been given the telephone number of critical care, and when it was 1 minute past the time they estimated he would be there...I called them. No he had not arrived.
2 long hours later, we had sauntered down to Critical care waiting room, stalking anyone who looked like they may have news. Eventually they came out to tell us he had arrived and they were sorting out the machines etc..
That took an hour, but it was the hugest relief that he had come through the operation. Hallelujah.
We breathed freely again. It was so good to go in and see him...he was pretty knocked out...still very handsome..we agreed between us..he reassured us with a wry smile.
They had to wake him up every 15 minutes to ask him 3 questions to ensure there was no brain bleeding going on. Poor Tom had the hugest indescribable pain in his head and nausea ...trying to be sick whilst not being able to sit up was difficult. The nurses were excellent and it was a comfort to
know he was under such close vigilance.
We reluctantly left as visiting ended at 8pm...well I had gone off to give them time together ...and Jem hadn't realised (neither had I) that there were set times...eventually they hinted strongly at 9pm..and Jem said goodnight to Tom, leaving him in good hands.
It was so hard for her to leave, me to, but Jem's heart was breaking seeing her husband in agony and not being able to stay by his side.
We prayed alongside many faithful brothers and sisters scattered far and wide that The Lord would keep him safe, which Thank God, He did.
The first three days were truly agonising for poor Tom..the wonderful staff were both vigilant and reassuring. Tom was blessed with his own room for the whole time. This made a huge difference to us visiting. We think it was because this operation was renowned for the excruciating pain from severe headaches..that he was afforded the peace and tranquility away from the wards of 4 occupants.
Tom was a hero in my book. Accepting this was how it was, trying his best to stay positive...but Jem and I had to stifle any giggles and talk only in whispers around him.
Due to a slight mix up on my part, Tom had a visit from each of the three chaplains 'in situ' ...the Priest first, then the Church of England..he arrived when Pete and Andrew were visiting...slightly awkward prayer time ensued...and finally the Pentecostal lady who was on the same 'wave length' as Tom. All prayer is precious...it was just a shock for Tom when the Priest arrived on the first day lol. He suspected I had been involved somewhere along the line.
Gradually the nausea and headaches subsided a little, and with every passing day, Toms risk of a big brain bleed was reduced. No pain killer had been strong enough to remotely touch the pain, or stop the incessant nausea.
This had made it impossible for Tom to eat, so he did lose a few pounds...a 'silver lining' he didn't mind.
Jem was awesome, being all that Tom needed her to be. It could not have been more heartbreaking watching your husband of ten months suffer. A loving wife, she sat hours silently, holding his hand, reassuring him, encouraging him, praying with him.
As it was so hot and stuffy, we were able to go in a lot earlier than visiting times to 'fan' him with a homemade paper fan. Jem spent hours waving a folded magazine page up and down.
She did manage a sneaky cuddle on the bed before being caught by the staff...apparently that was breaking the rules.
He started to sit up a little more, then progressed to the armchair next to the bed, then a wheelchair ride to Costa, down in the foyer.
He was given the 'sign off' and a week and two days post op he walked very slowly, out of his room, hand in hand with Jem, thanking all the lovely staff as he went. Holding his head still, as his neck had stiffened, his scar healing nicely already - we all waited for the lift for the last time.
Awesome....totally on cloud nine ...Tom was on his way home..Hallelujah.
He managed to sleep for most of the journey, and him and Jem settled into a bedroom at our house, with twin beds. One of them was the mechanical bed my mum had bought when she was undergoing chemo several years before. It's such a blessing with the remote control ...making it easy for Tom to rest in bed, watching TV, or to read a book.
His first few days were still slow, trying to increase the movement in his neck. Ten days later when he had his stitches out he was walking more normally, and the constant headache was less severe.
I hadn't realised how much of a 'cloud' on the horizon this operation had been over the past two years, lots put on hold as we awaited 'the date'. It was the very best feeling to be 'this side' of it and Tom recovering so well.
Gradually he returned to working with Pete. He had been working with his dad in the office at home whilst waiting surgery...learning the basics of running a business. He was studying his accountancy exams at the same time. Only a few weeks after, he felt able to go back to study and booked an exam date for the next module. He passed with flying colours...great evidence that no damage done to the brain at all.
Tom then applied for some jobs, got offered interviews and started at local accountancy practice just two months after surgery. This makes me really cry...not because I'm going to miss Tom being around in the office, but because so many prayers have been answered.
Tom was told it would be up to 6 months to recover...but The Lord made that 6 weeks...
Thank you all for your ongoing prayers, thank you Jesus for being with us all, and especially Tom as he underwent major brain surgery.
Tom and Jem have been through a huge emotional adventure, always the depth and maturity of their love shone through...it was such a Blessing to see them together, trusting in The Lord Jesus Christ.
Praise God they can now look forward to the future...in a few months Tom will have an MRI scan to see if the operation has been a success in order that he can lead a normal life. He has hardly any pain when he sneezes now...an excellent sign that the results will be good.
Amen :)
For those on Facebook I was able to keep them informed via my phone, on how Tom was progressing.
Toms operation for his hind brain hernia was on 23/7/2014, so this update is well over due - it seems a long time ago that we were on our way to Birmingham.
The Lord as promised went before us, and with us. Tom from that journey up through his stay and beyond was a star...always trusting in God, he was humbly brave, never complaining, always trying to smile...no matter how much it hurt.
Knowing so many faithful brothers and sisters were praying was an enormous help as we faced an unknown journey ahead.
We were shown into his own room (huge surprise and Blessing)... The ultra modern hospital almost felt like a hotel...the view from the fourth floor was incredible. Looking out you could see for miles...then right in the very centre high above the landscape of houses and trees was a church spire...
In my heart I felt it was Jesus reminding us that He was at the centre...always..of everything.
As I was smiling and feeling more Peaceful, I reached into my handbag to find my phone and pulled out instead a pack of cards (rarely in my belongings) ...they were in a 'dad's army' tin with "Don't Panic" on the front...now I was beaming from ear to ear....almost giggling at the way I felt The Lord
was reassuring me...I think until then I was panicking..lots.
The nurse came to settleTom in, completing paperwork, taking blood pressure etc, asking him what level of pain he was in.
This was the oddest thing about a hind brain hernia and syringomyelia - there is an ongoing risk of permanent damage, such as paralysis and huge pain on sneezing...but generally Tom was feeling perfectly healthy and well....so very different to the majority waiting for surgery.
Poor Tom knew he had to endure a pain level beyond his imagination...before he could be healed.
As Jemimah and I said goodnight Tom seemed settled, just a little anxious. The staff said he was on the list for the next day, but as he was not in any pain he would likely be the last to be done. They invited Jem and I to come and keep him company from 9 in the morning as he waited for his turn.
We left about 10pm to find our way to the relatives accommodation...which we were very grateful for. To be 'on site' and close by at a reduced rate was such a Blessing. It's available for relatives for those early days if someone is on the 'critical' list.
We drove the car from one multi storey to another. As we were getting out of the car in this fairly deserted cold concrete car park...opera music was echoing all around. We looked at each other quizzically and laughed...how obscure to be greeted by the beautiful sounds of opera...
A monster of a car appeared on the exit ramp, windows down, radio on full blast. Yes God's timing as always reminding us He truly is in every situation.
Feeling peaceful, we managed eventually to find our room.
It was basic but more than adequate for our needs. The twin beds were very close together so I had doubts that even the earplugs I had bought would not save Jem, my daughter in law, from my epic snoring. They didn't. Poor Jem had a sleepless night with the snoring vibrations, the incredible stuffy heat..there was no breeze at all and the anguish over her husband of ten months about to undergo
open brain surgery.
I managed some sleep, although I was conscious that I may keep Jem awake if I slept soundly.
By Gods Grace we managed a whole week sharing a bedroom, still best of friends and closer, having shared the journey with Tom together. We were acutely aware that we were not the only ones worrying...the families we were sharing the accomodation with ...were equally anxious as their loved ones were in critical care...it became a family atmosphere as we all shared and encouraged each other...Praise God.
The first morning we sauntered over in the bright sunshine about 830am...stopped off at the cafe for breakfast..sat outside as it was such a beautiful day..wasting time until 9am..enjoying tea, bacon and eggs in the warmth of the day.
At 8.55am we left to go up to the ward...Jem noticed a missed call from Tom and rang him back...no reply...panic set in as we virtually ran through the corridors..into his room..it was empty..the mobile bed gone. My heart sank...Jem nearly exploded...I ran to the nurses station..Tom had been changed to first on the list ..we had missed him by ten minutes.
I explained hurriedly that we had to see him, to pray with him..please...the nurse was awesome ...she saw the desperation in our faces and said "quick lets go"...
The three of us raced down the ward, jumping in the surgeons lift down to theatre.
My heart was thumping, praying as we went..horrific thoughts in my mind..what if we don't make it..what if Tom doesn't come through...he wouldn't have seen us to say goodbye...noooo
We whizzed through the doors, there were 5 people all masked up, around him, and they all stepped aside as we approached...they must have been pre-warned!
Bless him, Tom was tearful, he thought he wouldn't see us, and he was 'pooing' his pants, understandably. We were able to hug and pray with him. Jem kissed him goodbye and they wheeled him through the swing doors. That memory still brings a tear to my eye.
Jem and I headed for the Chapel, where we stayed a while quietly praying. It was possibly the longest few hours of our lives. We had been given the telephone number of critical care, and when it was 1 minute past the time they estimated he would be there...I called them. No he had not arrived.
2 long hours later, we had sauntered down to Critical care waiting room, stalking anyone who looked like they may have news. Eventually they came out to tell us he had arrived and they were sorting out the machines etc..
That took an hour, but it was the hugest relief that he had come through the operation. Hallelujah.
We breathed freely again. It was so good to go in and see him...he was pretty knocked out...still very handsome..we agreed between us..he reassured us with a wry smile.
They had to wake him up every 15 minutes to ask him 3 questions to ensure there was no brain bleeding going on. Poor Tom had the hugest indescribable pain in his head and nausea ...trying to be sick whilst not being able to sit up was difficult. The nurses were excellent and it was a comfort to
know he was under such close vigilance.
We reluctantly left as visiting ended at 8pm...well I had gone off to give them time together ...and Jem hadn't realised (neither had I) that there were set times...eventually they hinted strongly at 9pm..and Jem said goodnight to Tom, leaving him in good hands.
It was so hard for her to leave, me to, but Jem's heart was breaking seeing her husband in agony and not being able to stay by his side.
We prayed alongside many faithful brothers and sisters scattered far and wide that The Lord would keep him safe, which Thank God, He did.
The first three days were truly agonising for poor Tom..the wonderful staff were both vigilant and reassuring. Tom was blessed with his own room for the whole time. This made a huge difference to us visiting. We think it was because this operation was renowned for the excruciating pain from severe headaches..that he was afforded the peace and tranquility away from the wards of 4 occupants.
Tom was a hero in my book. Accepting this was how it was, trying his best to stay positive...but Jem and I had to stifle any giggles and talk only in whispers around him.
Due to a slight mix up on my part, Tom had a visit from each of the three chaplains 'in situ' ...the Priest first, then the Church of England..he arrived when Pete and Andrew were visiting...slightly awkward prayer time ensued...and finally the Pentecostal lady who was on the same 'wave length' as Tom. All prayer is precious...it was just a shock for Tom when the Priest arrived on the first day lol. He suspected I had been involved somewhere along the line.
Gradually the nausea and headaches subsided a little, and with every passing day, Toms risk of a big brain bleed was reduced. No pain killer had been strong enough to remotely touch the pain, or stop the incessant nausea.
This had made it impossible for Tom to eat, so he did lose a few pounds...a 'silver lining' he didn't mind.
Jem was awesome, being all that Tom needed her to be. It could not have been more heartbreaking watching your husband of ten months suffer. A loving wife, she sat hours silently, holding his hand, reassuring him, encouraging him, praying with him.
As it was so hot and stuffy, we were able to go in a lot earlier than visiting times to 'fan' him with a homemade paper fan. Jem spent hours waving a folded magazine page up and down.
She did manage a sneaky cuddle on the bed before being caught by the staff...apparently that was breaking the rules.
He started to sit up a little more, then progressed to the armchair next to the bed, then a wheelchair ride to Costa, down in the foyer.
He was given the 'sign off' and a week and two days post op he walked very slowly, out of his room, hand in hand with Jem, thanking all the lovely staff as he went. Holding his head still, as his neck had stiffened, his scar healing nicely already - we all waited for the lift for the last time.
Awesome....totally on cloud nine ...Tom was on his way home..Hallelujah.
He managed to sleep for most of the journey, and him and Jem settled into a bedroom at our house, with twin beds. One of them was the mechanical bed my mum had bought when she was undergoing chemo several years before. It's such a blessing with the remote control ...making it easy for Tom to rest in bed, watching TV, or to read a book.
His first few days were still slow, trying to increase the movement in his neck. Ten days later when he had his stitches out he was walking more normally, and the constant headache was less severe.
I hadn't realised how much of a 'cloud' on the horizon this operation had been over the past two years, lots put on hold as we awaited 'the date'. It was the very best feeling to be 'this side' of it and Tom recovering so well.
Gradually he returned to working with Pete. He had been working with his dad in the office at home whilst waiting surgery...learning the basics of running a business. He was studying his accountancy exams at the same time. Only a few weeks after, he felt able to go back to study and booked an exam date for the next module. He passed with flying colours...great evidence that no damage done to the brain at all.
Tom then applied for some jobs, got offered interviews and started at local accountancy practice just two months after surgery. This makes me really cry...not because I'm going to miss Tom being around in the office, but because so many prayers have been answered.
Tom was told it would be up to 6 months to recover...but The Lord made that 6 weeks...
Thank you all for your ongoing prayers, thank you Jesus for being with us all, and especially Tom as he underwent major brain surgery.
Tom and Jem have been through a huge emotional adventure, always the depth and maturity of their love shone through...it was such a Blessing to see them together, trusting in The Lord Jesus Christ.
Praise God they can now look forward to the future...in a few months Tom will have an MRI scan to see if the operation has been a success in order that he can lead a normal life. He has hardly any pain when he sneezes now...an excellent sign that the results will be good.
Amen :)
Monday, July 21, 2014
Thank you :)
Looking back to yesterday's blog I can see it was a little 'OTT' . I know though that there are many mums out there that have been there and understand. Without a doubt, I would have been as emotional if he was having his tonsils out. There is something sp precious about your children, no matter what their age, that the whole general anaesthetic thing...is just a bit scary. We are fortunate that in this country the option is available and the care and expertise second to none. We are very privileged. Praise God.
When I posted the blog and started getting encouraging comments and lots of prayers for me as well, I did think oh no this shouldn't be about me at all..I really don't like fuss and attention...it was meant to be about Tom. But then I started to feel more Peaceful and realised I did need prayer, lots of it - so thank you, all of you. If any of you are feeling low - or anxious, then do ask people to pray for you as sometimes you can be too sad or worried to have the energy to pray for yourself.
Tom is so humble he was cringing I think, when he realised I had written his life story...but I explained that the more prayers he receives the more peaceful he will feel. He is very calm and not really thinking about it...so I rest my case! He is not usually a worrier, and does trust in God, but I am certain these prayers being offered up by his family, friends, small group and many of you are keeping that Peace that passes all understanding going.
Jem his wife is finding it tougher, ready to support Tom but anxious at the same time. It will be her first experience like this since being a grown up. I'm praying that this 'cloud' will be full of silver linings and a couple of pure gold ones to. I know she will be there every step of the way, to love, cajole and care for Tom. I pray that they will be Blessed richly as they journey together.
The hospital will call Tom tomorrow to confirm whether or not the operation can go ahead. If the High Dependancy Unit needs the bed for an emergency, it will be delayed until a future date. We trust it will be done in The Lords Time.
Tom, Jemimah and I will travel up to Birmingham tomorrow night if they say 'yes'
....for Tom to 'check in'. We are extremely lucky that Jem and I are able to use the relatives accomodation, so we can be close by.
Amy my friend works at Great Ormond Street and reminded me today that very young children have this operation on a regular basis and recover very quickly. I remind myself of the complex operations Willie had on his brain tumour, and how quickly he would bounce back. I still don't envy Tom the
initial pain anticipated, but with your prayers and positive thinking I'm hoping it will be bearable with
The pain killers/morphine.
Thank you again for your support for all of our family, your love and prayers are so appreciated. God Bless...xxxx
When I posted the blog and started getting encouraging comments and lots of prayers for me as well, I did think oh no this shouldn't be about me at all..I really don't like fuss and attention...it was meant to be about Tom. But then I started to feel more Peaceful and realised I did need prayer, lots of it - so thank you, all of you. If any of you are feeling low - or anxious, then do ask people to pray for you as sometimes you can be too sad or worried to have the energy to pray for yourself.
Tom is so humble he was cringing I think, when he realised I had written his life story...but I explained that the more prayers he receives the more peaceful he will feel. He is very calm and not really thinking about it...so I rest my case! He is not usually a worrier, and does trust in God, but I am certain these prayers being offered up by his family, friends, small group and many of you are keeping that Peace that passes all understanding going.
Jem his wife is finding it tougher, ready to support Tom but anxious at the same time. It will be her first experience like this since being a grown up. I'm praying that this 'cloud' will be full of silver linings and a couple of pure gold ones to. I know she will be there every step of the way, to love, cajole and care for Tom. I pray that they will be Blessed richly as they journey together.
The hospital will call Tom tomorrow to confirm whether or not the operation can go ahead. If the High Dependancy Unit needs the bed for an emergency, it will be delayed until a future date. We trust it will be done in The Lords Time.
Tom, Jemimah and I will travel up to Birmingham tomorrow night if they say 'yes'
....for Tom to 'check in'. We are extremely lucky that Jem and I are able to use the relatives accomodation, so we can be close by.
Amy my friend works at Great Ormond Street and reminded me today that very young children have this operation on a regular basis and recover very quickly. I remind myself of the complex operations Willie had on his brain tumour, and how quickly he would bounce back. I still don't envy Tom the
initial pain anticipated, but with your prayers and positive thinking I'm hoping it will be bearable with
The pain killers/morphine.
Thank you again for your support for all of our family, your love and prayers are so appreciated. God Bless...xxxx
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Sunday
24 November 1990...our second son was induced...two weeks overdue. I think he may well have been there a few more years if not cajoled out by the kind midwife. I remember having a secret thought that this may be a girl...my mum and I were so close I dreamt of having a special relationship with a daughter.
It was minutes after Tom was born I found myself looking into beautiful deep brown eyes...they were saying "you are MY mummy...loud and clear. The intensity of that look will remain with me forever...I was 'sold' to this incredible soul, daughter who needs a daughter I remember thinking.
Thomas Samuel James was the easiest of babies, forever hungry he grew fast and furious...a little 'chubster', a gorgeous cuddly son. Simon just 20 months older adored his baby brother.
Over the years they grew up teasing, wrestling, playing and loving each other together with the two extra brothers added in the next few years. Pete is one of four boys and we repeated the family when our fourth son Andrew was born.
My prayer was always that our boys would grow up to be as close as their dad and his brothers were. My prayers have been answered as the boys are incredibly close. Whenever they are together they giggle incessantly, bound in a love deeper than the Ocean. It is one of our greatest joys as parents witnessing their awesome relationship.
Tom has been dubbed over the years as 'the golden child', by his siblings. We love each of sons the same,the boys themselves recognise that Tom is most like his dad, and apart from a couple of his teenage years going slightly astray, he has always been a wonderful son and brother.
Independent and wise, he has studied hard, worked his way through university without any help from
us, got a 2:1 in Maths, met his soulmate and got married, paying for their own beautiful and romantic wedding at 23 years of age.
Whilst at uni Tom Tom, as we nicknamed him long before the sat nav was on the market, discovered he had a 'hind brain hernia' ...a genetic condition you are born with. He explained to us on a visit back from uni, two years ago, that he had to have an operation to have the hernia lazered, to reduce the enlarged tonsils that were falling into the top of his spinal chord...blocking the spinal fluid so it doesn't flow as it should. The operation would involve opening the brain up to get access in order to reduce them down to unblock it.
Although it was a scary proposition, the consequences of a large sneeze could have resulted in anything from the loss of swallowing to paralysed limbs. As his mum I suggested he have the operation the following week, without delay. I went into panic mode.
Witnessing the wisdom and faith of my then 21 year old, I was thankful to God that Tom knew Jesus as His personal Saviour.
He replied with immense Peace ..."Mum I want to finish my degree, then have the operation. I trust in God, if anything happens I know that I've had 21 amazing years...more than some people experience in a lifetime....I know I will live as long as I am meant to, and I really trust in that."
I remember being relieved and overwhelmed at his steadfast trust in Our Lord, but selfishly fearful that we may lose our son, or that he may end up in a wheelchair."
Today I watch in awe as he faces the operation this Wednesday. He continues to trust unswervingly...Praise God.
Two years on he has not suffered anymore than headaches when sneezing,only the original numbness down one side evidence of the 'Arnold's Charia'. Hallelujah.
A few weeks ago a recovered addict and born again Christian was praying with Tom and I about people suffering from addictions. We had never met this man before. When this lovely guy finished
praying he said, "I know this sounds a bit strange, but as soon as I started praying, God gave me a picture of birds flying round and round someone's head making them feel dizzy...do you know anyone that has something wrong with their brain or mind?".
I had tears running down my cheeks, God was confirming He was on the case. He is in control. We hoped it may mean Tom would be healed miraculously without surgery. For a while he had no pain on sneezing. Recently the headaches have returned but we are content that The Lord has given us hope that He is walking with Tom on This journey. We knew that but it is always good to know that The Lord knows how important it is to us to have that concrete evidence.
The day is dawning, thankfully the procedure has a high success rate, especially as Tom is younger. Tom and Jemimah his beautiful wife are outwardly peaceful and serene. I know they have been praying together, trusting in Our Lord Jesus Christ. I am trusting, but today I feel emotional in a tearful way. Pete is reacting differently these past few days, a sign that he is anxious beneath his outward demure.
I know The Lord is going ahead of Tom, I know this is 'His timing'. I am trusting in 'His Will' for Tom. I have learnt over the years that God can be trusted fully in All things.
My prayer is for Peace for Tom and Jemimah as they pray together and walk in faith. I pray for Pete and my other sons to get closer to God as they pray for their brother. I pray that as Tom's mum and Jemimah's mother in law I can be what they need me to be, hoping to keep strong for them both, up to and during the operation...and beyond. The future is not ours to determine, but we can rest in His everlasting arms as we walk into the unknown.
Please God I pray that it will be 'Your Will' that Thomas will live to serve You and testify to your infinite Love for many years to come. I pray he will recover quicker than we could ever imagine, and that he will go onto experience many more years of joyous living and that one day him and Jem will be blessed with their own special family, as you have truly Blessed us with ours. Amen x
It was minutes after Tom was born I found myself looking into beautiful deep brown eyes...they were saying "you are MY mummy...loud and clear. The intensity of that look will remain with me forever...I was 'sold' to this incredible soul, daughter who needs a daughter I remember thinking.
Thomas Samuel James was the easiest of babies, forever hungry he grew fast and furious...a little 'chubster', a gorgeous cuddly son. Simon just 20 months older adored his baby brother.
Over the years they grew up teasing, wrestling, playing and loving each other together with the two extra brothers added in the next few years. Pete is one of four boys and we repeated the family when our fourth son Andrew was born.
My prayer was always that our boys would grow up to be as close as their dad and his brothers were. My prayers have been answered as the boys are incredibly close. Whenever they are together they giggle incessantly, bound in a love deeper than the Ocean. It is one of our greatest joys as parents witnessing their awesome relationship.
Tom has been dubbed over the years as 'the golden child', by his siblings. We love each of sons the same,the boys themselves recognise that Tom is most like his dad, and apart from a couple of his teenage years going slightly astray, he has always been a wonderful son and brother.
Independent and wise, he has studied hard, worked his way through university without any help from
us, got a 2:1 in Maths, met his soulmate and got married, paying for their own beautiful and romantic wedding at 23 years of age.
Whilst at uni Tom Tom, as we nicknamed him long before the sat nav was on the market, discovered he had a 'hind brain hernia' ...a genetic condition you are born with. He explained to us on a visit back from uni, two years ago, that he had to have an operation to have the hernia lazered, to reduce the enlarged tonsils that were falling into the top of his spinal chord...blocking the spinal fluid so it doesn't flow as it should. The operation would involve opening the brain up to get access in order to reduce them down to unblock it.
Although it was a scary proposition, the consequences of a large sneeze could have resulted in anything from the loss of swallowing to paralysed limbs. As his mum I suggested he have the operation the following week, without delay. I went into panic mode.
Witnessing the wisdom and faith of my then 21 year old, I was thankful to God that Tom knew Jesus as His personal Saviour.
He replied with immense Peace ..."Mum I want to finish my degree, then have the operation. I trust in God, if anything happens I know that I've had 21 amazing years...more than some people experience in a lifetime....I know I will live as long as I am meant to, and I really trust in that."
I remember being relieved and overwhelmed at his steadfast trust in Our Lord, but selfishly fearful that we may lose our son, or that he may end up in a wheelchair."
Today I watch in awe as he faces the operation this Wednesday. He continues to trust unswervingly...Praise God.
Two years on he has not suffered anymore than headaches when sneezing,only the original numbness down one side evidence of the 'Arnold's Charia'. Hallelujah.
A few weeks ago a recovered addict and born again Christian was praying with Tom and I about people suffering from addictions. We had never met this man before. When this lovely guy finished
praying he said, "I know this sounds a bit strange, but as soon as I started praying, God gave me a picture of birds flying round and round someone's head making them feel dizzy...do you know anyone that has something wrong with their brain or mind?".
I had tears running down my cheeks, God was confirming He was on the case. He is in control. We hoped it may mean Tom would be healed miraculously without surgery. For a while he had no pain on sneezing. Recently the headaches have returned but we are content that The Lord has given us hope that He is walking with Tom on This journey. We knew that but it is always good to know that The Lord knows how important it is to us to have that concrete evidence.
The day is dawning, thankfully the procedure has a high success rate, especially as Tom is younger. Tom and Jemimah his beautiful wife are outwardly peaceful and serene. I know they have been praying together, trusting in Our Lord Jesus Christ. I am trusting, but today I feel emotional in a tearful way. Pete is reacting differently these past few days, a sign that he is anxious beneath his outward demure.
I know The Lord is going ahead of Tom, I know this is 'His timing'. I am trusting in 'His Will' for Tom. I have learnt over the years that God can be trusted fully in All things.
My prayer is for Peace for Tom and Jemimah as they pray together and walk in faith. I pray for Pete and my other sons to get closer to God as they pray for their brother. I pray that as Tom's mum and Jemimah's mother in law I can be what they need me to be, hoping to keep strong for them both, up to and during the operation...and beyond. The future is not ours to determine, but we can rest in His everlasting arms as we walk into the unknown.
Please God I pray that it will be 'Your Will' that Thomas will live to serve You and testify to your infinite Love for many years to come. I pray he will recover quicker than we could ever imagine, and that he will go onto experience many more years of joyous living and that one day him and Jem will be blessed with their own special family, as you have truly Blessed us with ours. Amen x
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