Welcome to A Gravel Road Journey!

NOT SO LONG AGO, Dad RE-named his art studio, "A Gravel Road Studio", and so this seemed an appropiate title for his blog.

Why 'Gravel Road'? As Dad explains, "Gravel roads take us off life's busy highway and force us to slow down. When we slow down we have time - time to notice the things around us; the things that matter the most; life and breath, the flowers and the trees. Gravel roads allow us to taste the dust of our travel and give us time to breathe."

Since his studio is a place of quiet reflection and contemplation, we wanted to create a space for family and friends to do the same as we journey together down this new and unknown path. We also wish to keep family and friends updated on his diagnoses and treatment, so please check in often for updates and new information.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

We Have a Date for the MRI!

Hello Everyone!

It feels like I haven't updated much on here lately, and I guess that's because there hasn't been a whole lot going on. Each day brings its own set of challenges, but for the most part, life has settled into a sort of routine. Especially for Jared and I, who are no longer living at home, life seems almost normal most days. Work and school continue, and we are constantly busy with the kids. Life at Mom and Dad's has been a little more hectic, though. Brendan is busy with school and volleball. Jesse is busy with work and coaching volleyball. Janis is busy with homework and school. And Mom is very busy with Dad. His energy levels have continued to decline, and it can take hours to get him up and out of bed in the morning. He has also been throwing up lately, which is an unfortunate side effect of his pills. And his cognition is not what it used to be.

We are hoping and praying, however, that we get good news after Dad's MRI. The date has finally been scheduled, and it will take place on November 28th. The follow up appointment where we get the results will take place on December 5th. No matter what we receive for news that day, we know that God is in control of this situation. Even when we don't understand it, or like what it may mean, we have to keep trusting in our Saviour that He knows what He's doing. It's hard some days to remember that, but I'm so very thankful we have Him to rely on through all this.

Thank you once again to everyone for your continued prayers and support. Words cannot express how much we love and appreciate each and every one of you!

Until next time...
Dana

3 comments:

Amanda said...

I was so uplifted to see Gerald at the 100th anniversary service at Covenant on Sunday. When he came up to sing, he brought strength to our church community even through his weakness at this time.
I'm so grateful for his presence in our church family.
Thank You
With much hope and many prayers,
Amanda & VandenBerg family

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the update. I continue to hold your family up in prayer before God. That Gerald could be at the 100th anniversary and sing with all that he is going through is a testimant to how good our God is. I pray that the results from the MRI will give the doctors an understanding of what the next course of action.
I too am grateful that he is a part of our church family.
It is in our weakness that God makes us strong. I pray that God would continue to be with those of your family who still live at home. I especially pray for your mother as she takes care of your father. May God continue to give her the strength she needs day to day.

I am reminded of the beginning of Psalm 121 where it says:

I will lift my eyes towards the mountains, where will my help come from. My help comes from the Lord maker of heaven and earth.
Blessings,
Diane

Anonymous said...

It was gret to see his picture in the Free Press! Adeline