The Present
Most days are not all that challenging. Sometimes, it feels like it should be harder…other times, it’s unbearably difficult. The average day though, certainly falls well into the range of bearable. Many days are in fact, quite pleasant.
Misty cannot speak at all. She says the word “no”. That is her vocabulary right now. We interpret whether it’s a yes or a no by head motions usually. When she is trying to communicate something she makes a series of sounds, trying to talk. We begin the guessing game. We have tried picture books, but she doesn’t seem to like those. Note that this deteriorated level of speech is a new since the last seizure. Before that, she had started to say a few things (and actually was getting some of the words right while singing in church).
Misty has her mind back. Her funny little things (like eating bacon with a fork) are becoming few and far between and she is very aware of her surroundings. She asks what time it is, and can read the digital display from my phone (she is always grabbing my phone to check the time)…she wants to know what day it is, and often relates things to the calendar (like church, garbage pickup, etc). She is totally with it. This causes tension though because her body can’t keep up with where her mind is. At times, she wants to tell us things that are very difficult to guess. This is tough.
Emotionally, she is doing well. Many days there are spells of discouragement, but these are always temporary. We usually pray and read some sections of the bible that have been encouraging to her in the past. 90% of the time I ask her, she is happy and content.
Physically, things are ok. She is rarely in pain and is usually pretty comfortable. However, she can’t walk at all. Standing is better than it was a couple weeks ago, but I have to be there to support her and it only lasts for a few seconds. So better than before….but no better. Her right arm has no movement. She can’t curl her fingers or move that arm at all really. (some days there is a small bit of return, but nothing permanent or significant). She is not really weak like she was before. She is fragile…I mean, I often hurt her a bit lugging her around from place to place, but she is not weak like she was. She is sitting up a bit better and does much better eating now (she eats without much mess anymore). Speaking of eating…she has a great appetite and eats very well.
Really, most days are very nice. We get out of the house at least every other day (probably more actually – taking drives or going to her parent’s house). We spend many evenings out in our backyard swinging by the fire…and every morning’s breakfast is on the deck in the recliner lounge chair.
That’s where she is at. Before you go, please check out our new Online Community. I’m only using it for prayer requests right now, but it will be updated in the near future. And please sign our mailing list (on the right of this page). It’s encouraging to Misty to see so many names she knows (and doesn’t know) on there.
Ok, I’m off. My girls have fallen asleep next to each other on the couch and I have to go get everybody into bed.
10 Comments so far
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Good Morning Darren, Misty and Oliva, Today is our fast day and we stand with you guys. While praying this morning God let me see that not only are we joining together as a huge community for His Miracle for Misty but we are fasting and praying together to strengthen the brethren, tear down the walls of the our enemy and show the world who we serve. We will continue, much love to you, Gail
It is good to hear some details about what life is like for you all. Still praying and bringing this before the Father every day.
Cris and Chuck
I was reading your updates on your family. I just want to tell you Darren that you are such an encouragement to me. You show such patience and compassion. God has truly blessed Misty and Olivia.
Also, I had a thought about Misty being able to communicate with you. Have you tried having her try to type her words on the computer? Just a thought:)
God bless you & your family.
Jackie Maloney
Hi. I am Christina Orsini’s sister. My church and I in Missouri are standing with you praying and believing for a miracle.
A song that helped me get through my trial with my son was”You are Great” – You deserve the glory and the honor Lord we lift our hands in worship as we lift your holy name . . . For you are great and you do miracles so great. There is no one else like you . . .
We pray for Misty every day.
Flo, Kevin and Ryan
I am glad she is not in a lot of pain. The whole thing sounds extremely challenging to me though. I cannot imagine what it is like for her or for you.
praying and fasting today for Misty!
Darren,
It’s nice to hear that she isn’t in pain. At least the Lord has helped in that so far, and the little things she can do. God will let you win this battle by healing her. Hang in there and still do all the wonderful, loving things that you are so great at for your family.
Love,praying,and fasting,
God Bless,
Aunt Amy, Grandma, and Lacey~
HI Darren & Misty. My mom had parkinson’s & she lost the ability to speak. I cared for her & realize how hard it is to get your point across to just ask for something simple. We solved it with some new technology out there. She was able to get a machine from her insurance, that she just pointed to the picture & it spoke the words. Great for Olivia since you can put your own words in there too. Like ‘Love You Olivia’…you can even pick the voice you want to use when it speaks for you (made it a little fun). It might be something you want to look into ..(just until the Lord speaks the word & she is totally healed) AMEN. I’m sure any social worker at the hospital or visiting nurses would be able to connect you up with the proper company.
Praying for no more set-backs and complete and total healing and restoration – mind, body, soul, and spirit.
Thank You Lord for Your blessing, protection, and favor for Darren, Misty, and Olivia. Thank You that most days are bearable and even pleasant! May each new day bring progress and improvement for Misty. Please restore her health 100%; and may her healing bring bring You glory! In Jesus’ name, Amen.