What we didn't know is that she had contracted some sort of viral infection in our last days in China or on the flight home in addition to sinusitus. So, instead of enjoying some time getting to know Catherine and enjoying her family, she was admitted to Madigan Army Medical Center on Monday. This turn of events is obviously not what we expected, but we're trusting that God will show us the purpose of this detour.Truman, our oldest son, has stepped up to the plate to help provide love and continuity for Catherine while I'm with Cheryl. Our church family is making sure that all of our domestic needs are covered, while providing adult supervision and love to the boys and Catherine. It's great to come home to a nice meal, clean clothes, fresh sheets, and an empty sink. I cannot begin to thank our "home crew" enough for the early mornings, late nights, and obvious sacrifices they are making in their own families and schedules to take care of us.
Cheryl mentioned on Tuesday that she felt like she was going "through the fire", referring to the Lord's refining fire. Earlier that morning the Lord brought my mind to the scripture, "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:1-2 (NIV). I was encouraged to reflect on this truth - that we all have our fires to walk through but with the assurance that God knows, cares, loves, and will not put more on us than we can bear.
Tests have revealed little as to what type of virus Cheryl contracted, but she is improving slowly. The doctor hinted yesterday that Cheryl could go home by Friday. Your prayers for her continued healing are greatly appreciated, especially the sinus pressure.
(Update: The CDC called our home on August 18th to let us know that someone else in our travel group had contracted the measles. To make a long story short, we now know that Cheryl had the measles along with two other adults from our group.)
2 comments:
Hi Whitakers, it's great to hear that Cheryl is doing better. In the words of the philosopher LL Cool J, "Don't call it a comeback!"...er...nevermind We've been praying for her recovery.
Foreign countries always have virus' that our bodies aren't immune to so we catch easily. Again it's great news that you're home and doing better.
Cheryl, I'm glad that you are home now! Hope you had a good birthday too, love you lots and I'm happy you're feeling better!!!
Miss you all!
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