Wednesday, January 14, 2009

PLANS CHANGE

While we all like to make plans, circumstances often force us to change those plans. This trip is turning out like that. First of all, we have given up any idea of trying to get to the inauguration activities on Tuesday. 1) it's going to be quite cold, 2) we don't want to get trampled in the crowds on the METRO (and actually the closest METRO stations will be closed that day and you have to get special passes), 3) there will only be 5000 porta-potties available on the streets but with the projected number of people, that comes to 600-800 people per potty and I don't want to take the chance!!

But on a more serious note, we have had a small cloud over our heads beginning on the way down here when we got the call that Jerry's brother, Tommy, was hospitalized with pneumonia. Most of you probably know that he is seriously handicapped and has been living at Timber Ridge in Morton for about 20 years. After about 4 days, he returned to Timber Ridge and we heard he was doing better, eating, etc. After a few more days, we got a call at 2 am saying that they took him back to the hospital and he was unable to eat or drink.

To make a long story short, as we were getting on the METRO this morning to go downtown, Jerry's cell rang and it was someone from Hospice that they are taking Tommy back to Timber Ridge to keep him comfortable until the end (2-4 weeks). However, they need Jerry to sign some papers to let Hospice take care of him. Of course, we have no fax so we got the idea of going to the Baptist where we park our car when we ride the METRO to see if they have one. They are very nice and will let us do any faxing from their office. So now we're waiting for that.

We for sure hope we can stay here until after next Sunday as our church family here is planning to sing at a nursing home after church, then pack lunchbags for a homeless shelter, then have a potluck dinner. But what will be will be. We know the Lord is in control and these things happen for a reason. Please pray for Tommy to be comfortable, and for us to have patience and peace.

Sorry if this got long. Ada

2 comments:

Nog Blog said...

So sorry to hear of all the complications you are facing. It's hard to feel you need to be 2 (or more) places at once. Praying for comfort for Tommy and a peaceful couple of weeks for him.

It appears to be a wise decision to stay at home and watch the inauguration activities in comfort. Your TV will provide front-row seats, and you can snack and use the facilities as often as you please!

We're thinking of you...

Anonymous said...

Even if you come home sooner than expected, it seems like you've had quite an eventful, enjoyable vacation! We will be thinking and praying for you and for Tommy and wishing you God's nearness and comfort.