Good News and Some Crazy Stuff!

Just a couple weeks after Rylee made her decision to be baptized, Jamie followed suit. It was such wonderful news. I could not have been happier about his choice. He had been learning from the Sister Missionaries and decided this wonderful gospel was what he was looking for. The date was set and we all went on with the various things we were doing to finish up our move into their home. We were out of the cabin by the end of July and were trying to get wall painted and furniture moved around the house to make room for the items we were bringing with us. One night Robert and I were sitting on the bed upstairs talking about this and that and I went in to use the bathroom. Upon returning to sit down and resume our discussion, I felt the worst pain I have ever felt in my life. It was paralyzing. I couldn't breathe, I could barely get out one syllable words, but not easily. I told Robert to call 911. I was sure I was going to die at any moment. 911 came and got me into an ambulance and took me to Gilbert Mercy Hospital. The ER there got me somewhat stabilized and there was talk of surgery. Then all of a sudden I was ICU, (no surgery) and told I had suffered an Aortic Disection (?) type b. Basically it means my aortic artery split, but did not rupture. Lucky for me. Apparently I had high blood pressure and did not know. I spent a week in ICU at Gilbert Mercy and they did nothing but medicate me.

I missed Jamie's special day, and so did my camera. I'm so sad I did not get to be there for his baptism, but things are what they are. I'm so very grateful he made the decision he did and he is doing a great job learning so many new things. I also missed his confirmation a week later as I was in a better hospital (Banner Baywood Heart Hospital) having surgery to actually help me heal over all of this and hope to move forward. I have two 4.5" stents in my aorta now and hope they will heal well and do their job. I missed his ordination to the Aaronic Priesthood, and when he blessed the sacrament for the first time. I hate missing things like that.

He is doing well, I am doing better and I hope things keep improving for both of us. Taking each day at a time for now - that's all I can manage. I have had great helpers and support around me for which I am very grateful. My sweet husband is forever my mainstay and because he is gone so much others have stepped in to help me. My sister Tracy checks on me and even helps get me to Drs. as well as Tawna, Summer, Robert, Jade, R.B. who have all done such service on my behalf. I know Taya would be helping if only she were here, but she calls and I know the kids are remembering me in their prayers too. All the grandkids have included me in their simple prayers of faith. I love them all so much. They will probably never know how very much they are appreciated and loved for their help. I have such a great family. Everyone has been wonderful to put me in their prayers, call and check on me and even take the time to visit. Friends too. I love you all. So much.