From Papa

The steps of a man are established by the Lord,  Psalm 37:23

Papa is writing this Saturday morning about more praises we wrote on her calendar yesterday.   Barry had Joanne walk from the nurse’s station to the gym using her 4-point cane, but without his assistance!  This last Thursday, Audrey & Emma spent the day with Joanne doing therapy baking chocolate chip cookies, which she of course dictated from memory.  Friday, they all worked with Lori (speech therapist), since Joanne’s emotionless speech will limit her mothering skills.  I’ve finished reading Joanne Back of the North Wind by George MacDonald, and we’ve started Annals of a Quiet Neighborhood, while she concentrates on manipulating her left arm – sometimes willing it to move a small amount.  Each day, I stretch her left hamstring.   Kay & I also work on passive range of motion in her left arm, but a couple of times I’ve put her up to a #8 on the pain scale,  even with ever so slow & tender movements.  AND, her discharge date has been accelerated several days to Friday May 13^th, mainly because if she is discharged on a Monday, there’s not much therapy on weekends.  For instance, today Joanne has 30 minutes of PT at 10 AM, and then is free for the day.  So Toben has permission to again bring her home for lunch at our house.  Kay is also getting her first time off in weeks (other than being sick in bed several days this week) and will pick up our other daughter Kristen to go to the first outdoor Paris Street Antiques Market of the season.  I’m off to get sprinkler systems running, and purchase and install the last grab-rail needed at the Heim house. 

Prayer items:  So … we’re starting to think about this new phase of life, not knowing if it will be easier or more difficult.  Certainly, it will be wonderful for the Heim family to be together in their own home.  Toben will be carrying a lot more responsibility – as night nurse and medication provider.  Audrey & Emma will need to step to a new degree of responsibly.   Kay and I will remain on 7-day duty, but we’re not sure of the details yet.  At some point, my time will become more valuable than my income, and I will retire again to be an equal care partner with Kay.  This next week is important, as Toben gets medication instructions for the transition to Kaiser pharmacy, and medical appointments for Joanne to get “fully inside” the Kaiser network.  We need to work with Kaiser to set up “skilled home nursing & therapy”.  This phase of her recovery has remained very confusing to us, but we believe it will entail therapists coming to their home until she is able to travel back to Spalding for more outpatient therapy.  As the sun rises, it again all seems pretty overwhelming, but our Lord faithfully provides enough grace for each day.

 Chuck

Comments

[Heather C]

So thankful He provides the grace we need. Praying for you all as you make this transition. Praise You, Lord!

[Maribeth]

Dear Chuck,
To have Joanne is God's greatest gift to you all this Mother's Day. I know the challenges will be great, and there will be times of great frustration and sadness, but also joy and wonder! The chances for a new, but wonderful life are all there. I pray that God give you all the strength.

[Ginny]

Papa: As a grandparent married to a 'Papa' too, you brought tears to my heart.The love for your family and willing to give is a gift that will live on for generations. I ask myself often..Jesus, what do you want? But also, what does my example leave for my children and grandchildren. (especially when I want to be unkind or selfish, lol)Thank you and your sweet wife for your example.

[Penbleth]

Strength and grace will come, as will hard work and challenges and moments of frustration, they are all part of the package of making such a huge voyage of recovery. Prayers are with you for all that you need, individually and as a family.

Lynn

[Lori]

an incredible part of my devotions today I read, (from Jesus Calling)
"Do not fear what this day, or any day, may bring your way. Concentrate on trusting Me and on doing what needs to be done. Relax in My sovereignty, remembering that I go before you, as well as with you, into each day. Fear no evil, for I can bring good out of every situation you will ever encounter."

[Dawn W]

What an incredible blessing it must be for Joanne to have her entire family rallying around her! I have come to love Joanne through her blog (first) and then her books (as a result of finding her blog several years ago) and my heart has hurt deeply for her and all of you. I continue to keep you in my prayers as you all move to this next stage of Joanne's recovery. God is GOOD!

[Karen J Moseley]

Tomorrow, May 8, will be the 6 year anniversary of my Daddy's passing. I never lived with my Father after my 6th year, but I Love him.
Papa, You are a Blessing! I never knew the love of a Father. But, when I "see" and read of your Love for your Sweet Daughter, I am able to compare it to Our Fathers Gods Great Love for Us! You are wonderful! (Want another daughter?) ; )
Hugs to Joanne today! And, to You!
From another "Jo" in Minnesota!

[Kim Feth]

What a blessing your family is for Joanne. We are continuing to pray daily and will add prayers for a safe transition home, grace, endurance, and strength. Not mention still praying for a complete and total healing.
Peace,
Kim Feth
Apex, NC

[autum]

I want to thank you so much for the gift you have shared by including us in this journey you are on. I have so many times been brought to tears. Sometimes sad tears, but more often the tears that are shed because your heart overflows. Reading your words, so full of love and devotion and your tireless efforts to support her in every possible way. It really fills my heart and makes me want to do more to share the love of God with those around me. Thank you!

[Kaye]

Continue praying for your entire family; for strength, peace of mind and for all of you to feel HIS presence every step of this journey.
Hope it is a wonderfully blessed Mother's Day for the ladies in your family.
Blessings today and every day,
Kaye
Matthew 21:22
Psalm 46:10
Isaiah 41:10

[Corinna H]

God continue to bless you, Papa, and your wife, as you continue to help Joanne and Toben and your granddaughters in this transition. We will cling to every word all of you so graciously share in your not-so private lives.
Happy Mothers Day Joanne and your Mom!

[Julie]

The love in your family is so beautiful. I've just been reading this post and the many from Toben in awe.

[Michal]

Thank you for posting, Papa Chuck! Praise God for providing His gifts to your family through your loving service. I will be praying for continued progress and strength for all of you.

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10

[Child of God]

Blessings to you Papa and your wife! How blessed Joanne is to have such wonderful, loving and caring parents who can look after her and help out! You guys are amazing!

Praying for you all always. Continue healing for Joanne and for you as you help out around the place. Jesus is with you so when you are scared, frustrated or just plain tired, turn your eyes on Him and ask for strength and guidance He will provide for you.

Praying and praying,
<><

[Patty]

Well, Chuck (Pappa)I am praying that all goes well as all of you get ready to bring Joanne home. Praying that therapy goes well at home and that you all get the sleep and relaxion you all need every day to help make Joanne feel the new life you all will lead. Happy Mother's Day to all the Mom's your way.

[lisa walker]

Dearest Papa Chuck...what a tribute you have written by means of your update. Our Bible study group has been studying "The Genius of Generosity" by Chip Ingram. If I thought you had a spare second or two, I'd invite you to Atlanta to speak to us! You could teach the class!! What a role model you are for all of us to show how to give of your time, talents, finances, and most of all,love. Your family is blessed and so are those of us who get to read about Joanne's family. God bless you all. Lisa in Atlanta.

[DigiNee]

Papa - praying. Have followed this journey daily since it happened and sir, it is truly a miracle. I work in rehab as an infection control practioner and hospital educator in a facility in Houston and what has happened defies ALL ODDS, but God's . . . yes, it will be confusing... Praying for wisdom, peace, understanding, and strength. Praying those girls can still be girls, while assisting their mom and dad. Your comment about income, etc. sent me to tears. I never had a dad in my life - he left us when I was 5 and I have only seen him 5 times and I am 53 ---- to see the love and genuine care you have for your family, and sacrifice, is overwhelming to me. You emulate God the Father, as this generation and subsequent generations, need. You inspire, and humble. Each of you caregivers must take time to smell the roses for yourself. That is critical Papa. It will all work out. Praise God for Miracles! I bid you and yours - peace.

[Julie Reese]

Dear Chuck and Kay,
We continue to lift up your family in prayer and selfishly that you'd be able to come back to worship with us in Parker. We miss you.
But, we know that you are doing all you can for Joanne, Toben and the girls and to that end we support your ministry.
Blessings to each of you,
Julie

[Kathy Rivera]

Loved this post! It truly is an inside look of what God is doing with you and in you as you say 'yes' everyday to this calling of love and service. I think we can all say together with confidence that you will each have exactly what you need for each step of what lays ahead. Joanne, Toben, Audrey, Emma, Chuck, Kay and others who will come alongside will be fully equipped for every good work. "We are His workmanship..."
Those of us praying outside hold up your arms when weariness sets in. God is doing a mighty thing in our midst. Glory to His Name!
Kathy in Idaho

[Theresa Roach]

Thank you Chuck for this wonderful post! A new beginning and we'll pray that ALL goes well! Sounds like you all are working together to get Joanne home and I know she will be so happy to just breath the air of home DAY AND NIGHT! I pray God's richest blessings on ALL of you! SWEET, SWEET PRAYER and HUGS!

[lavonda]

I love your updates Mr. Chuck! So to the point and with the love of and tireless energy of a father's heart. You are a blessing to all of us, sir.
Having done home health therapy for 11 years, after many years doing inpatient rehab, I can atest to you that this next phase of Joanne's therapy will be so rewarding for everyone involved. When the PT/OT/SLP's come into the home, obstacles that hadn't been anticipated can be hurdled, as well as daily victories found in the simplest of tasks. Learning to use what you already have at home to further any progress.... it is priceless. This will by far, be your most rewarding part of this journey God has each of you on. My love and prayers will continue on your behalf! (Stay strong Joanne!! You got this girl)

[holly smith]

Mr. F. You still look like Jesus to me...praying and believing that God is setting each of you up for success every single day. Tell Kay Happy Mother's day! She is far and above the best mother I know..

[carla Sorensen]

I just praise God for how I know He will be working to encourage your family. He will be there with you all each step of the way as this journey will soon be taking a new route.

You are a true encouragement to me as I read your posts.

Happy Mother's Day to Joanne and Kay.(and Joanne's sister).

Love in Him,
Carla in Maryland

[Karene]

Happy Mother's Day, Joanne! May you enjoy a sweet time with your daughters and mother.

[Nanci]

What a blessing you are to Joanne and I know that God will continue to walk the road with you all as she progresses to this next step. I was also touched by the comment from Karen J who lost her father at an early age and see the blessing you are to her and many others you are touching with your caring nature. God has blessed alot in this trial of Joannes. When she fully recovers she will be touched by the love you have shared with us all.

[Blondie]

continued prayers daily

[Jane]

I haven't been able to keep up with your updates daily like I used to do (limited computer access). I am blown away at Joanne's wonderful recovery! Praise the LORD ALMIGHTY for He is ALMIGHTY!
As I read the final few lines in this blog entry I could feel your sense of feeling overwhelmed at times & I immediately remembered a quote a friend just posted on facebook the other day. I think it may remind you, as it did me, of His mighty power. And it is:
"I serve the God of the impossible...the God who makes dead bones dance!"
Wow! AMEN!
Even though I can't get on the computer that often, I think of you, Joanne, & pray for you often!
Love to you all!
Love,
Jane

[Pam Houston]

Oh my! When reading your post "Papa F" (and I say "Papa" tongue in cheek!), it is hard to put in words what it means to hear a Daddy who is so in touch with his family and with his God. Thank you again and again for sharing from your heart and letting us in on your private lives that have become a teaching and witness to others. Your darling girl is soon to go home, and grace has attended your journey all the way, and that grace will continue. What a part you have played and will continue to play in Joannes recovery. You and your beautiful wife are such role models for we of our generation. My husband and I just celebrated our 40th by the grace of God! We cheer you on with tears in our eyes for the miracle you continue to play a part in. Friday is a momentous day...keeping your hearts desires in prayer as Joanne moves forward in God's glory and design for her life. (Words say so little when hearts mean so much!) I just want you to know how proud we are of your family in the LORD and what a witness of God and His light and life you are to our world.
Pam H. ~ A "Siesta" from So. Cal.

[Stacy]

Continue to pray for you all.

[melissa irwin]

I am so blessed to continually witness the preciousness of this family. You are each a testimony to "family" in remarkable ways....