Continuing Downward
Maybe I should say that Don is continuing his journey upward–toward heaven! He is getting weaker all the time and cannot speak as it seems to be too much effort. But he does hear and understand people when they speak to him. He often reacts emotionally to what they’re saying. His tumor makes him restless a lot of the time and we feel the need to have someone there to hold his hand and keep him quiet. Most of his meds are given to him by syringe. In fact, we feed him water, juices or broth by syringe, as well. One of the nurses showed us signs that he will not last much longer.
So many of you have written, either on the blog or by e-mail and have sent so many encouraging words, Scripture passages, hymns, and stories. We are overwhelmed with your care and concern. I, personally, have been strengthened and found a peace I know only God can give.
The children have been of so much help. I enjoyed having Denise’s family here this past weekend. There is something about young people that give you a boost at times like these.
We did hear from the social worker at the Hospice Home that Don has definitely met the Medicare guidelines and will be staying, so that is something we don’t have to continue thinking and worrying about. He is getting such good care. It’s really a blessing to us. They have given us help in dealing with the young grandchildren and the questions they may have, as well as very practical helps for me when the time comes. I can’t say enough about their care for the whole family. They work with us to make Don as comfortable as possible and we’re so thankful for their kind and caring ways.
Thank you, again, for your many expressions of concern. I’ll keep you updated. Caroline
Dear Caroline and Don,
Last evening we attended Cancer Svcs of NE Indiana fundraiser–the whole evening my mind was with you two and your journey.
I asked Doug this morning who has been a mentor to him in his 40 years of ministry and he said that Don was–you both gave us the best start we could have asked for in terms of beginning our marriage, our ministry, and our family.
We will forever be grateful.
Much love,
Doug and Pam
Doug and Pam
February 21, 2010 at 11:05 pm
Over the weekend our sermons were about giving and receiving advice. We are in a series in Proverbs. In our Green Room where the worship team meets to share and pray before the services our program director had us share who a mentor had been in our life. That was one of the take-aways of the sermon, having a mentor. I shared that Don had been a mentor to me in those years in Oak Park. Then we prayed for our mentors. So I shared what was going on with you and Don and we prayed for you guys yesterday. Don really has had a profound impact on my ministry life.
Still praying for you all.
Many Blessings,
Dave
dmbaldwin
February 22, 2010 at 7:52 am
I will always remember his sense of humor. We had some great times together especially at Coney Island. We are praying that the Lord will give him a glorious homegoing. He has been one super brother.
Gerald I. Gerig
February 22, 2010 at 9:05 am
I was just listening to a CD and the words “Hope of earth and joy of heaven” brought tears to my eyes. Uncle Don has lived life to the fullest, serving his Savior faithfully, and has enjoyed the hope of earth. Soon he will be rewarded with the joy of heaven. We are praying that he will be ushered into the arms of Jesus peacefully and that you, Aunt Caroline, will feel the loving arms of our Lord holding you up in the days ahead. We love you!
Dan & LuAnn
February 22, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Praying for Don and for you and the whole family. I will never forget his kindness when we came to Oak Park 21 years ago. He befriended me and remained my friend through all the years since then. He encouraged me every time without fail. What a great and good man. For him the best is yet to come.
Ray Pritchard
February 23, 2010 at 9:43 am
Don and Carolyn,
We are grateful for your friendship and your years in Ann Arbor. We continue to pray for God’s strength and lovingkindness. Laurel asked me to tell you that we love you.
Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good, and his love is eternal. Let the people of Israel say, “His love is eternal.” Let the priests of God say, “His love is eternal.” Let all who worship him say, “His love is eternal.”
In my distress I called to the Lord; he answered me and set me free. The Lord is with me, I will not be afraid. Psalm 118: 1-6
Mike and Ruthann Mason
February 23, 2010 at 9:13 pm
I have been praying for you. I don’t know if you remember us from Calvary but our Susan and your Denise were the same age. Kent went to Heaven last May so you are definitely in my thoughts and prayers, Caroline. You and your family were wonderful people. I have often thought of you over the years.
Nancy Magnusson
February 23, 2010 at 11:02 pm