Well, after a week of losing ground, Arla is doing some therapy again.  But she has just not regained the level of progress she was making her first week in rehab.  We are still unsure what has caused this setback.  Nothing is really jumping out as a cause for the lack of energy and ability to do therapies. 

Her CT scans showed no additional strokes.  Her chest x-rays were clear.  She may have had a bladder infection, but does not have one now.  We do not know the results of the EEG which would have been looking for seizures.  In addition, the medical team seems to rule out depression, but we are sure this may be a factor in her lethargy.  And there is the fact that Arla had not been feeling well for the last 6 months or so.  She was hiding it well but was just not at full power all summer.  So more questions and advocacy must be done to ensure Arla gets the best care possible. 

One certainty is that Arla will not be staying much longer at the Rehab Hospital.  This is an intensive therapy facility.  She must be able to do 3 hours of therapy a day.  Arla is just not tolerating that level of therapy, and in fact, in some instances, just cannot participate. Therefore, at some time in the near future, Arla will be moved to a skilled nursing facility.  She still has the potential to improve but this will need to happen at another facility. 

But despite all these setbacks and disappointments, God is good.  He really is.  We hope those of you who read this blog believe that.  God carries us in times of trial.  He holds us up and sustains us.  Only with God can you stand and face the enemy… a stroke or the loss of a job or heartache or weakness or dispair.  There is no fear when God walks with us.  God, through Christ Jesus, even overcomes the ultimate enemy….death.  So worry, depression, loss, tiredness, or change are no match for our God. 

God works miracles.  After a week of suffering with pain and illness, Mary Ann called at 8 a.m. to make a doctor’s appointment.  The morning was totally open for her doctor, so she chose a 9:20 appointment.   In 5 minutes, she located two of her fabulous colleagues to cover one class and the beginning of a second one. Mary Ann taught one class then left work at 9:10 a.m.  In less than one hour, she was seen by her doctor, was diagnosed, was prescribed medication, filled the prescription, and returned to her classroom.  That was God.  Could it have been good luck?  Perhaps, but it is important that we thank God for that which he gives us.  God set that schedule in motion that day.  And God provided a way for Mary Ann to get her medical issues addressed without missing more work.    

 Lord, please be with all those who feel they are at the end of their rope.  Comfort them, Lord.  Give them peace and focus as they seek You for the answers.   Provide answers to all those families of the ill who are needing advice and comfort.  Take away the physical and mental pain from those who are working to regain their strength.   Circle our medical personnel with love and give them prosperity in their work and their lives.  Thank you for the miracles large and small that You have set in motion today.  Amen!