February 5, 2021

My grandmother used to say, “Don’t get sick. It’s not good for you!” I agree. But if you do get sick, it sure is good to be surrounded by loving, praying people! I was snuggled up on the couch with my pillow and fluffy blanket this evening enjoying a Facetime call that included most my grandchildren, our two grown kids and my cousin all at the same time, everyone’s phones connected. What marvels of technology! It was fun listening to the laughter, enjoying the company, and just sharing a loving time—even though coughing and not talking as much as usual. A merry heart truly is a good medicine. The wonderful thing about family (and close friends) is that they aren’t bothered if you haven’t felt up to putting on make-up or doing much with the hair! I’m feeling some better, but definitely still in that “undone, comfort” mode. Hopefully, Lord willing, I’ll be up to teaching on zoom from home on Sunday, in which case I promise I’ll get dressed and “made-up!” 

I’ve talked with doctors and health care providers every day this week as they have worked to keep me stable and out of the hospital. Because I have asthma and something called Alpha-1 (a rare, genetic (inherited) condition that produces abnormal antitrypsin genes), I’ve had some trouble with low oxygen saturation numbers that have been wildly erratic. But today I stayed above 90 for the first time, so am encouraged things may be going in the right direction. I’m so thankful for the cutting-edge doctors that I have been given and for the skillful way they have been providing treatment. I’ve been taking part in a UCLA clinical trials program for Alpha-1 research so I’ve been blessed to have the best researchers and pulmonologists anyone could hope for. I believe the Lord has had something to do with this! Just yesterday I learned that a fellow Alpha-1 gal I’ve been talking to every month for the past year lost her battle with complications and passed away. It’s a sobering reminder how fragile life can be, and how important it is to live every day for eternity, whether we are sick or well, young or old.

In spite of all the usual Covid symptoms, the one thing I haven’t had any problem with at all is tasting and smelling. Chocolate and coffee are medicinal, and I’ve been able to enjoy all the wonderful food that friends have dropped off for me. I was only nauseated for a few days, so it’s been a huge blessing not having to be concerned about food preparation when you feel so awful. If I were making food for myself, I would probably be eating cereal 3 times a day! Rest assured, friends have made sure I’m eating healthy, and I’m feeling quite spoiled. Looking forward to when I can give hugs instead of waves!

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. (Proverbs 17:22)

3 thoughts on “February 5, 2021

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  1. Well I’ve sure missed a lot by just now catching up on two posts, but you better know you’ve gained another prayer warrior for the duration of this trial. I do kind of feel a little sick in my stomach for you, but I’m glad to hear the quality of care you are receiving. My face smiled over the fact you can still smell and taste your coffee and chocolate but my heart does ache for you. Asking God to continue to be all you need, but I suppose He will whether I ask or not. It’s really quite amazing to have a gentle Shepherd and a loving Heavenly Father looking after us. Love you, Debi Pryde!

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  2. Take care, Debi! May the Great Physician continue to heal and provide you comfort and strength! Yes, you are blessed to have the medical care and attentiveness of doctors. This virus continues to cause concern for our friends and folks in the ministry here. We are so thankful that we are still able to have in-person church services, following social distance and sanitizing guidelines. God is good, all the time! All the time, God is good!
    Sending lots of love and prayers for you.

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