Day two- post surgery

Never Give Up Hope

Hope sustains us through despair. Hope teaches that there is reason to rejoice even when all seems dark around us.

With Nephi I declare: “Press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.”⁷

This is the quality of hope we must cherish and develop. Such a mature hope comes in and through our Savior Jesus Christ.

To all who suffer—to all who feel discouraged, worried, or lonely—I say with love and deep concern for you, never give in.

Never surrender.

Never allow despair to overcome your spirit.

Embrace and rely upon the Hope of Israel, for the love of the Son of God pierces all darkness, softens all sorrow, and gladdens every heart.

 (by Pres. Uchtdorf)

 

Erik is more awake today.  He still zones in and out because of the pain meds.  Today is a little better than yesterday... thanks heavens.  It's because Erik is strong and courageous.  He underwent a mighty surgery and it will take a while to recover.  We are still in ICU/stepdown.  Maybe tomorrow he'll graduate to a regular room. He's getting the best care here!  Everyone is so wonderful. 

 

He has been able to have some visitors... and that has lifted his spirits!  The most exciting being this morning when Ashley and Hayden came to show Erik and us Ashley's beautiful engagement ring!  YEAH!  We love Hayden... he is so awesome!  He's from St. George and also a distance runner on the SUU team with Ashley.  He proposed to her on a carriage ride around the grounds of beautiful Temple Square. 

 

Tim and Brooke were able to bring up Justin to see Erik too.  So that's been good, too.  Love the technology of phones and face time and email....ways that we can communicate.  It's been good to be able to chat with Chris, too.  Although Chris was unable to come up, he has been keeping close tabs on Erik.  Erik is surrounded by his loving brothers and sisters. What great kids we have.  They are so good to each other.

 

Thanks for everyone's prayers and support.  We feel them.