Greetings from our 4th floor hospital room. We have so appreciated the prayers, support and visitors from many over the past week.Up until this past Tuesday, we have been blessed by Timothy's strength of heart, mind, body and spirit.
As always, Timothy lends a smile when he's able...even if it is the last 5% of his strength. He loves being loved. The outward may fade, but the spirit remains.
Although Timothy has not had any outward signs of pain, his heart rate increased from about 100 to 130 over the past 24 hours. This could be due to contributions from several things - which we've discussed with Dr. Patel. Because it is difficult to positively know Timothy's level of pain (which could be zero) and because Timothy is now 100% non-responsive, we have decided better to err on the side of comfort. Timothy is receiving minimal, but continual doses of pain medication (fentinol, not morphine).
We've all made tender exchanges and are "ready" for his home-going.
The atmosphere in the room is quiet, somber with hymns playing softly in the background. Although we continue to pray that God to be glorified through Timothy's earthly healing, we will accept and grow in God's grace no matter what the outcome.
On this present course, we are watching gradual respiratory failure - difficult at best. Family members have surrounded us and TImothy is not a moment without the touch of a warm hand, gentle hug or sweet whisper. We begin to view the body as a prison, not the actual person. This is also difficult because Timothy, in spite of 20 something rounds of chemo, surgeries, hospitalizations, etc. retains the face and complexion of an angel. His peaceful countenance a testimony of his character and peace with God.
Time to go. Please remember us through the weekend.
Kevin (for all)
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