Celebration

Pentecost Sunday.
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Holy Spirit
Rushing Wind
Present Among Us

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Celebration. Intervention. Miracle.

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This past Sunday my dad returned to church and shared a Word of Witness. He was honored by applause, hugs and prayer. We continue to be enveloped in love and kindness.

As Acts 2 was so beautifully read during the service, I felt some of the fear & pain lifted. As if driving away and looking at those days becoming smaller and smaller in my rear view mirror.

I remember so clearly the day that my dad's prognosis moved from critical to recovery.

Sunday was another memorable day of moving from recovery to celebration.

Praise God.

*Enjoy some photos of the celebration below. Thank you to Hal and Nathan for taking the photos.

-Barbara

Happy Anniversary

Society and Hallmark make a big deal about certain anniversaries such as those ending with a five or ten.

Last year Dwight and I celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary. We had a quiet dinner and a movie...rather low key.

This year, however, on our 41st anniversary, we have a lot to celebrate!

A little over two months ago, the idea of our anniversary seemed to be in doubt. We really had to live our vows of "for better or worse" in a real way during those difficult days. God gave us the best gift we could ever have...each other!!!

Happy 41st Anniversary, Dwight!

Love,

Sue

Stormy Lake

There are moments in grieving where the loss of a loved one comes in full force when you least expect it. It's not always on the anniversaries or birthdays but when you see something that reminds you of them or hear a song that reminds you of them. I'll never forget what my grandma would always say when I'd call her on my grandpa's birthday "Today is not any different than any other day, Barbara. Every day you miss the person you lost. You keep walking, you just walk with a limp."

And like grieving, our celebration comes in unexpected moments.

This weekend, the Cederberg and Nordlund families headed up to Stormy Lake for a weekend together. This is an annual tradition where my parents give us the cabin to celebrate the first weekend of summer.

Before we left to come back to Chicago, I was in my parent's room and opened my dad's closet and saw his shirts, his hats, his dvds that he's lovingly put together for special events. And I was overcome with joy. I was again reminded, in such a raw way, that my dad came out of horrible circumstance. This is a complex feeling because I know that other loved ones have not been as fortunate to have their parents survive difficult health issues.

Parents are knit into their children''s character through the years of caring for their children. But I also saw this weekend, how my dad is knit into Stormy Lake with his silly parking meters and yes, fake people.

You would think that every moment would be a reminder of this joy but if there is one thing I have learned through this process it's that my heart and my head don't always connect with one another. My head knows of the amazing healing that has been given to my dad's body but my heart remains protected, slowly unfolding the relief and joy.

***

This coming Sunday, May 31st, my dad will be sharing his story during the 10:30 worship service at their home church, Winnekta Covenant, and you are welcome to join us if you'd like.

***

Many of you continue to ask how my dad is doing. Thank you for your continued interest and support.

To paint the picture, my mom and dad's week events have included:

a trip to New Buffalo, Michigan to celebrate an anniversary with friends

water areobics at Galter Life Center

a trip to Milwaukke to see a Brewers game and a dinner at their favorite German restaurant

a visit to Gurnee to see my sister and my niece Klara

(and many other things I'm sure)

Two months ago to date, we sat with the reality that my dad may never wake up.

God's graces are bigger than we could ever imagine and "is sufficient for me".

-Barbara

Check out a headline on the front page of the Covenant website by clicking here : )

If you are visiting our blog from the Covenant website, feel free to read archived entries by scrolling down on the right column and clicking on March.

M.I.A.

My dad just finished the scope and the ulcer is gone.

Praise God!

Tuesday

This morning my dad will be having a scope to see if the ulcer has healed. Please send your prayers as this is something that will hopefully be giving this family positive results and a huge sigh of relief.

-Barbara

Sandwich.

I'd like to think that I'm too young to be in the "sandwich generation" but often times during the critical days and weeks of my dad's illness, I felt like I needed to be both a mother to my daughter and a daughter to my mother.

There were the quiet and private moments where I would just come home from a day at the hospital and weep. For my fear to hope and my sense of feeling defeated and overwhelmed.

You learn a lot about people in times of crisis. You see both best and worst moments surrounded while on the roller coaster. I'll never forget March 25th. It was the night following the news of my dad's eeg report. Nathan, Sanne and I stayed at the hotel with my mom that night. We left the hospital like zombies, feeling like one foot was in total devestation. That night,we had conversation that I never want to have to face again thinking about the reality of my dad's prognosis. We dug into the deepest parts of our hearts.

And as I sat at that corner booth, facing my mom, I looked at her in a way I never had before. As a wife. As someone who loved her husband with the whole of her heart. I saw that heart breaking. Thinking of what could be her future and loving my dad so much . . . for the little and the big things that make a marriage.

Today is mother's day and I think of my mom today. In words I'm only ready to put down in writing but don't have the strength to say aloud. My mother, during this time of total fear, was

authentic

kind

gracious

faithful

nurturing

scared

and living out her wedding vows with her heart

I am turning thirty this year and a little over two years ago became a mother myself. During this time I have learned much more about my mom through my own experiences. Relating on a different level. Starting to uncover the sacrifices she made to keep me happy and healthy.

My dad is incredibly strong, motivated, faithful, loving. But today, I celebrate my mom. Who has stood by my dad's side. A true testament to me.

Love you, Mom.

- Barbara

Paying it forward

Getting in the car in the early morning . . . grabbing some coffee and setting up to greet friends and family in support of my dad . . .

It felt a lot like our time in the ICU but with celebration rather than fear. Thank you to all who came today to donate their time, their blood, their baked goods, their well wishes and hugs. We left church this afternon feeling filled with your kindness and reminded of your incredible support.

Please enjoy the little photo show below.

Blood Drive Tomorrow!

There's still time to sign up if you're interested. We've, unfortunately, had quite a few cancellations in the last few days so there are many slots available.

Thanks!

Updates

This week has been a busy one for my dad with rehab and tests. He had an ultrasound at NMH yesterday and the results are fine. They believe he had a gall stone which was causing the levels to heighten. He will meet in June to find out more about their findings on his fatty liver.

Next Tuesday is his upperendoscopy that will tell us more about the healing of his ulcer. Please say some prayers for this. My dad had a bad experience during the last scope so I also ask for prayers that he doesn't feel anxiety going into this procedure.

Also, if you are still interested in signing up for the blood drive we still have slots we need to fill. You can either sign up by following the instructions on the right hand side of the blog or you can email me at barbaranordlund@gmail.com and I can help you sign up.

Thanks!
Barbara

Milestone

Today was my dad's last day with the home health nurse and physical therapist. He works out each day at Galter now with a new physical therapist who is part of the rehabilitation department. I think my dad really enjoys this because it's a way for him to be able to continue to stretch himself and regain strength.

One of many things I've learned about my dad through this whole experience is his drive. I've always known that my dad has determination but these are far greater obstacles and he has gone through each one while already stretching for the next goal. I truly believe that this was part of the reason he was able to get through such trauma. As his family, this characteristic is such a gift to us because with each day he continues to improve.

- Barbara

Friday

Northwestern received my dad's blood results today and they found that his liver enzymes are very high. They will be doing an ultrasound on Tuesday morning to look into it further.

I have to be completely honest here, thinking about this makes me weak. It brings things flooding back to the surface . . . the panic, the unknown. And while I cognitively know that we are not sitting in the ICU waiting room, just the thought of a potential speed bump or road block in the recovery makes me feel like I'm right back there.

Please pray for:
Positive results
The enzyme levels to come down
Good communication to us from the medical staff

On a positive note my dad feels really good. Getting better each day in terms of strength and energy. His bedsore has healed which now allows him to sit in chairs and not only have the option of lying on the couch. This does wonders for mental health, I'm sure.

Thanks for your continued support and prayer.

-Barbara

To walk along side

I've recently learned that there are some phrases that we use in church culture that may be unique to this culture. It reminds me of meeting Nathan (who is from Oregon) and realizing that some things are just unique to the Midwest . . . who knew that not everyone knows not to take a shower during a thunderstorm?!

Recently someone questioned what "walking along side" really means. I didn't even realize that it may seem like a strange phrase. It's one I love though because it's a great visual image of support, of "meeting someone where they are at" and then being along side them as they process something, be it joyous or difficult.

Yesterday my dad had a really great day. He felt less fatigued and optimistic. His friend/neighbor and a member of their church, Dave, popped by and my dad walked around the block with him two times (and said he could have done even more)! I love this because it is both figuratively and literally a living out of the term "walking along side".

Last night we headed to my parents house and enjoyed pizza together. My dad was showing Sanne some of his physical therapy exercises and my dad and Sanne began to walk on their toes together. Again, a visual image.

My dad went in yesterday for a check-up with the endocrinologist at Northwestern. What a vast difference for him from last time he was there. My mom and dad went out to lunch, then walked over to the doctor. Something that 6 weeks ago was no big deal, 5 weeks ago was unimaginable . . . now is such a blessing to this family.

He will have another scope in two weeks so the doctors can get another look at the ulcer and see how it's healing. Please say prayers for us as we await these results.

Thank you for your continued "walking along side" us . . .whether it's prayers, cards, meals, phone calls, signing up for the blood drive, visits, etc . . . we are so thankful for your presence on our journey. Along with God's unfailing love and grace, your support gives us our endurance to continue.

-Barbara

Speak to Me

I recently began reading a book called "Called to Be Human - Letters to my children on living a Christian life" by Michael Jinkins, a theologian and Presbyterian minister.

He was writing to his daughter, now an adult, about the night before her open heart surgery, when she was seven years old. In recent weeks I have thought about my faith through this journey and my one foot in hope, one in despair. The following excerpt spoke to what I have been feeling. "The spirit rejoices in hearing what it already knows"

From Called to Be Human -

"You had gotten ready for bed that night, and I was preparing to curl up on the cot the nurses had brought into your room for me to sleep on. I invited you to join me for my evening prayers before going to sleep. You prayed with me and had been quietly listening as I prayed from the Book of Common Prayer a prayer titled 'For Those We Love.' The prayer goes like this: 'Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come; knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen'

As soon as I finished this prayer, you reached over and squeezed my hand, and asked me, 'Daddy, were you putting me in God's hands?'

I could hardly answer you for the knot in my throat. But I struggled to say, 'Yes. Tomorrow when the doctors take you into surgery, I am entrusting you to God who loves you even more than I do (though I can't imagine how that's possible!). I trust God will do better things for you than I can desire or pray for.'

I didn't know where the road would lead. I could not visualize what it would mean twenty-four hours later to stand next to you in the intensive care unit with you hooked up to a respirator and monitors and IVs and all sorts of other terrifying machines. I certainly couldn't imagine what it would mean to see you gradually return to health and eventually to possess healthy you had never known before. I just hoped, and the hope became a sort of solid trust, and the trust felt more like I was held than like something I was holding. It surely didn't feel like I knew for certain where the road would end. I didn't. I just trusted the One who walked with us. And I know - I know! - I didn't give myself that faith. Faith was given to me in a moment when I'm not sure I could have taken two more steps on my own."

I love that line "the trust felt more like I was held than like something I was holding." There is comfort for me in that "letting go".

-Barbara

Boot Camp

Heard a report from my mom yesterday that my dad did 10 push ups during his time with his physical therapist. Not even sure I could do 10 push ups . . .

On Tuesday my dad will head back to Northwestern to have a consultation regarding his ulcer. The hope is that it has been healing on it's own and that surgery will not be necessary. Please continue to pray that this is the case.

-Barbara

Update

Many of you have been asking how my dad is doing . . . thank you for your continued support and concern!

I have realized through your questions that we may not be doing a great job of expressing how my dad is doing now that he is home and recovering. I'll do my best to paint a picture of the extent of miraculous leaps he's been showing.

Let this not only be a list of prayer requests but prayers answered:

My dad has regained his appetite

Is sleeping mostly through the night with brief wake ups

His bed sore is healing and it is getting easier and easier to sit

He's able to walk down the block at a normal pace

My dad does not remember being in the emergency room or in ICU but his long-term and short-term memory are totally normal

He is continuing to adjust to the loss of vision in his left eye

He continues to be fatigued but is up and doing normal tasks more and more

He takes small car trips with my mom to run errands

And here are some true tell signs that he's on the mend:

He edited my niece's birthday video by putting it from camcorder to dvd

He's vacuuming (a sickness I've received from him)

Hope this helps you get a better sense of the incredible gift we've received.

-Barbara

May 9th

Thank you to all who have already signed up for the blood drive! No pressure to sign up if you're not interested we totally understand.

We do need to have a certain amount of donors to host the drive so to those of you who have said you're going to sign up, we just ask that you do so soon so that we are able to report these numbers to Lifesource.

Again, if you have any trouble signing up, please don't hesitate to email me: barbaranordlund@gmail.com

Thanks again!

Welcome Sign

Prior to my dad's illness, every time we came to my parents' home and rang their door bell we could almost guarantee that my dad will be the one to answer the door and with total enhusiam shout "Sanne!". (Sanne always feel so special at their home).

Since my dad's illness I have often thought of these times. When he was in his coma, that memory seemed miles away. In the last week, I've secretly hoped that my dad would be at the door but he has often times been exhausted and on the couch or in bed.

But today, as we came back from church and came in the house, I could hear him near the kitchen (where we enter the house), when the same enthusiam he once had. I can just tell that we're so close to recovery : )



Thanks!
-Barbara

1 month ago

It has been 1 month since my dad was sent by ambulance to the emergency room. I still remember the call. I did not think that he would be in there for a long time. I did not know that God would use him like he did. I am just amazed what God did. I am amazed of what you did: Prayers, calls ,cards and emails. This would not be possible without you and with out God. Mark and I are bringing Swedish pancakes this morning.We are so glad that we can do this after all that has happenend. Every time I look at my dad I am so amazed in what God, prayers and hope can do. Thank you. Christine

Housekeeping

Some of you have mentioned that you've had difficulty signing up online for the blood drive.

The easiest way may just be to email me at: barbaranordlund@gmail.com with:
your full first and last name
zipcode
and an approximate time you'd like to sign up for and I can take care of it.

Thanks!

No Doubt

There are times when you feel like you can't go on
There are times when you feel like giving in
And there are times when you feel like you can't try anymore
There are times of trouble in believing
This test of your faith will last
As long as it takes to pass
Till you have no more doubt you'll endure
And your faith will emerge true and pure

(Chorus)
No doubt it'll be alright
With God it'll work together for good
No doubt in the end it will be understood
No doubt it'll all work out
With faith He can move any mountain for us
No doubt in the power of Jesus
And after all is done we find out
All we really need to have is no doubt

There's a time to take a reckless leap of faith
There's a time to be cautious and to wait
And there's a way of learning from the past
That this time of trouble won't last
And sometimes we want to think we know
The ways He will choose to make us grow
But it's never the way of our choosing
And we can't always see what He's using

There will be winters in the seasons of our soul
With a cold and bitter wind that chills our lives
But our faith can be building a fire
That will warm us till springtime arrives

By Petra

submitted by Christine

30K

While I know you can't quantify prayer, it sure does feel good to see that counter at 30,000 knowing that my dad and my family are being surrounded in support and prayer.

Keep it coming!

-Barbara

Blood Drive

Held in Honor of Dwight Samuelson

hosted by Winnetka Covenant Church

Saturday, May 9, 2009

9am-3pm

1200 Hibbard Road, Wilmette, IL

Upper Room

To make an appointment

please log on to www.lsbrighten.org

create a new donor account and use sponsor code 195B

If you would prefer to call or have any questions,

please contact Barbara Nordlund at

barbaranordlund@gmail.com

or 773-801-9544

“If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another.” -Dalai Lama

There have been many graces given to our family in the past month. From tangible support of food, childcare and calls to spiritual support and medical support. As I have reflected in previous posts, it can be difficult to sift through something cognitively that feels so much bigger than us and is so much bigger than us.

So we move into action. On March 21st when my dad was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital he was given 40 units of blood. This is eight times your body's volume. Our family friend Dr. Peterson, took Nathan, my mom and I on a tour of the pathology floor, where she works and showed us the blood bank. Seeing the blood bank was one of the many times in the last month where I have felt like my heart made an obvious connection from love to action.

Random strangers, in random locations, at random times provided the blood that kept my dad alive and now flows in his body. An altruistic gift that continues to give to our family. Amazing.

On Saturday, May 9th from 9AM to 3PM, Winnetka Covenant Church will be hosting a blood drive facilitated by Life Source. This blood drive will honor not only my dad but those who come after him in similar need. Our goal is to have 40 units of blood donated on this day.

Will you join us?

In the coming days, I will post detailed information on how you can sign up to donate. If you don't feel internet savvy, you are welcome to email me at barbaranordlund@gmail.com or call me at 773.801.9544 and I would be happy to help you to sign up.

We hope that my dad will be able to attend this event but either way our family will be there to thank you in person for the tremendous amount of love and support you have shown us.

For a link to the Life Source website that provides a list of qualifications to be able to donate blood. Click here.

-Barbara

Therapy

One suggestion made by my dad's physical therapist was that my dad exercise his lungs by blowing bubbles. This seemed like the perfect activity for both Sanne and Tokig. So we had a pre-Easter dinner trip to the backyard. So fun.

-Barbara

Easter Sunday

Nathan and I went to our church this morning before heading to my parent's house to enjoy Easter Sunday together. I appreciated the Easter benediction during the church service today given not only the spirit of our celebration in the Christian church today but also the journey we are going through.

I have felt so out of my "life routine". I work at our church and on Thursday, I found myself calling our Pastor for a work-related question only to realize half way through the voicemail that it was Maundy Thursday and he was in the worship service. How does a church employee forget that it's Holy Week? In many ways I felt unprepared for Easter today, having mentally missed half of Lent. But on the other hand, I feel like I have been blessed with a heightened awareness of what the valleys are like. My hallelujahs today were strong.

Now to Him who by the power at work within
us is able to do far more abundantly than all that
we ask or think, to Him be glory in the Church
and in Christ Jesus to all generations,

for ever and ever. Amen.

from Ephesians 3:20-21

My dad continues to improve with each day. He is sleeping more and eating more. He is in a groove with taking his medication and monitoring his blood sugar. Many of you have asked what the status is with his ulcer. He is taking medication and following a strict diet. He will have a follow up appointment at the end of April that will give the doctors an idea of the extent of healing. It is our hope that they will not have to perform surgery but will continue with the current treatment.

My dad hopes to continue to gain energy this week so that he will be ready for visitors in the near future. We will certainly keep you posted as he looks forward to seeing friends soon.

To those who celebrate, Happy Easter to you!

-Barbara

Dance Friday

Our local NBC station has a "dance Friday" segment each Friday morning where they show their staff and people around Chicago dancing. A few months back my dad was quite the star . . . soaking in his 15 seconds of fame with his dance moves. Today marked the 1 year anniversary of the segment and my dad was one of the stars. Enjoy the video by clicking here.

Hopefully my dad will be using these dance moves in the near future!

-Barbara

Housekeeping

Thank you to everyone who has inquired about visiting now that my dad is at home. My parents are very excited to fellowship with friends and hope that my dad will be up for it in the near future.

Right now, my dad is quite weak and spends much of the day sleeping. We'll definitely let everyone know when he's up to having some time with friends. This is something that continues to motivate my dad and we look forward to that happening in the near future.

Many of you have asked us what the best way is to communicate with the family at this time. While the phone seems to be off the hook, we love emails and comments on the blog as a way to hear your well wishes. Your thoughts and prayers are such an encouragement to us!

-Barbara

Endure

For the past few weeks, we have danced with hope and desperation. It has not always been graceful but it has been authentic.

We are so hopeful and so thankful for my dad's miraculous recovery thus far. I watched him last night as he lay on his couch watching the Cubs game and talking to his brother on the phone. I thought of two weeks before, in a state of total heartbreak, fear and sadness as my mom, Nathan and I sit in the quiet corner of a downtown restaurant talking about things so devastating that my heart can't even speak them again. Our heart's cry was for my dad to come home. And here we sit with him in his home with an answer far greater than our request.

What do you do with an answered dream? How do you let your heart fully sing praises? A strange place to be when these dreams are so quickly answered with incredible grace. To be so assured of God's presence & provision through medical intervention and the "walking along side" of our community is a life changing experience.

But it is a journey and test of endurance on mind, spirit and body. My dad continues to struggle with incredible fatigue, lack of appetite and attempting to digest all that has happened. My mom shares these struggles as she has truly, truly walked along side of him during these past few weeks. Please pray for each day to create more healing.

-Barbara

Sleeping, Eating and Eyesight

My dad is having a hard time sleeping and eating. His blood pressure was low today because he does not feel like eating. He ate more for dinner after his own doctor told him this is very important to do. I also ask to pray for his eye sight. The doctors said that there is a slight, slight chance for his left eye to see again. We have heard the doctor's slim prospects these past two weeks. Look what God did before and can still do!!

My mom wanted me to re-post Mark's comment from the other day:

I'm praying that God is NOT DONE YET. Compared to what we were praying for two weeks ago and even one week ago, this is discouraging but not hopeless. Our God is SO AMAZING that our shallow human minds cannot grasp what He is capable of. To all who read this: THE GAME IS NOT OVER YET. Please pray. I know it is tough and at times exhausting. We want to go back to our normal, comfortable lives and not be bothered. But, God wants us to pray and really, I mean REALLY trust and believe in Him. God could have taken Dwight away, but He did not. Dwight is optimistic. Lets join in his optimism and thank God for all He has done thus far. And then, let's ask for Him to do even more. Don't worry, GOD CAN HANDLE IT!

Also, as Davida said:

Let's pray for another miracle...for Dwight's vision in his left eye to improve. You never know....it might happen with the power of all of our prayers.

- Christine and Mark

Family Prayer

Thank you God for happy hearts,

for rain and sunny weather.

Thank you for this food we eat

and that we are together.

Amen.

This is the prayer we said each night as a family when I was growing up and tonight we said it again at my parent's house before our meal with tears of joy in our eyes.

God is good.

-Barbara

!

Guess who (by doctor's recommendation) is skipping rehab all together and going home today?!

My rock star dad, that's who.

-Barbara

First Responders

I always wonder what I would do if I were in an emergency situation. Would I freeze? Would I remember my CPR classes? Would I act quickly?

We feel certain that the success of my dad's miraculous recovery has certainly been because of prayer and God's provision but it has also been because of many people who acted quickly, thoroughly and courageously.

The first responders were at NBC where my dad fainted. As I read Adriana's account of what happened that morning, I am in awe of her and others' ability to respond so quickly. To say we are thankful is an understatement. They were the first players in saving my dad's life.

This past Saturday, the human resources department at NBC treated this fantastic team to breakfast and shared the news that they will be purchasing a defibrillator and will train employees on how to use it.

I love the ripple effect that is happening through this situation.

-Barbara

Below is a photo of several of the first responders:

Alex Zigic, Laura Meehan, Anita Selvaggio and Adriana Correa, Carl Hickman (not pictured). Therese Hoeslie (right) is a fellow supervisor, that was there Saturday editing in place of Dwight.

Monday PM

We just received word that my dad's left eye has lost permanent vision due to a disorder called posterior ischemic optic neuropathy. My basic understanding is that this was damage to the optic nerve due to lack of blood supply during my dad's first night in the intensive care unit.

My dad feels incredibly optimistic about this because he is focusing on the amazing progress he has made given the incredible obstacles his body has faced. I think for close family surrounding him, it's more difficult news.

We all remain incredibly grateful but exhausted. And this unexpected hurdle today has been difficult for us.

My dad's right eye looks to be fine and it sounds like the long term effects will be his right eye compensating for lack of vision in his left.

Prayer Requests:

More sleep for my mom and dad who continue to have sleepovers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

For our family as we let this discouraging news sink in.

For my dad to be able to be transferred to the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago shortly. (we are waiting for a bed, as far as NMH is concerned, he's ready to be released).

For our spirits as we process the incredible trauma we have faced over the past few weeks.

One of our big dreams right now is to be able to have my dad home for Easter so that we are able to gather around my parent's dinner table. While that may not be a prayer request, it is a hope in our hearts right now.

-Barbara

Dwight's Eyesight and Eating

Dwight said he got more sleep last nite and that is good! However, he said that his eyesight in one of his eyes was getting hazy yesterday (he didn't tell anyone yesterday) and now it has gone completely black. He mentioned it to the medical staff this morning and they are going to have an eye doctor see him either at the hospital or the rehab center (where he is supposed to be moved to today).

There have been so many positive and amazing steps forward and I pray that this is just a little bump on Dwight's road to recovery. Dwight said that his own doctor (Sid) told him that he might have a little problem with his eyesight. We think this might be from his diabetes more than anything else. His eating has been very sporadic since he came out of the coma. His weight was down to 201 pounds yesterday, some 30 pounds lighter than when he arrived. Dwight's body needs the food and natural sugars to heal and recover. He's been a little stubborn about not eating much. Please pray that his appetite increases and that he starts eating better. Pray, too, for his eyesight.

Prayer works. I know I believe. I ask that we all come back to God and ask for His continued mercy on Dwight and on each one of us. From the entire family, our heartfelt thanks for all of your prayers thus far and for those to come!

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. - 1 Peter 5:7

- Mark (banker son-in-law)

Day in pictures.

I finally remembered to bring my camera to take some photos of our time together at the hospital. We have had opposite schedules from Christine, Mark and Klara these days so my apologies for only having photos of Tokig and Sanne.

My dad continues to show us his amazing strength and courage. Hoping he will move to the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago in the coming days. We are so proud of him!

The doctor is in

View from the room.

Where is it written?

I remember a conversation that occurred during one of the many summers I spent at Covenant Point Bible Camp. A staff member said that the Covenant denomination does not have doctrine but is founded on two simple questions: Where is it written? (scripture) and How goes it with your walk? (relationship with God) Whether or not it is accurate to put the denomination in such a small nutshell, these two questions have guided me as I weave through the grayness that life can bring.

Many of you have sent Bible verses, prayers and poetry to us as a form of comfort and a reminder of God's prevailing love.

During this journey so far, I have found myself at the core . . . wanting basic needs. My dad to live, my body to sleep, my body to eat. And there is something so beautiful about being at this core because, for me, it gives me a heightened awareness of what is truly important. In the Time magazine article (that I posted recently) the author hypothesized as to a biological explanation of why we may have a heightened awareness during fasting. And while I'm sure there is merit in the biological explanation, I tend to move toward the spiritual.

If you have any stories to share of answering the questions: Where is it written? or How goes it with your walk? during your time of prayer and support for my dad we would love for you to share it. It would be a comfort to crack open our Bibles and see where God was speaking to others during this tragic turned miraculous event.

-Barbara

HE'S WALKING!!!

This is Mark. I visited Dwight at lunch today and he was beginning his daily rehab session with a nurse. Dwight asked if I would stay while Sue, Christine and the Piros went for lunch. The nurse said he was doing great in the initial exercises. Then came the big test: standing him upright. The first time Dwight stood up, but we were helping him keep his balance. After a quick rest, Dwight stood up again, this time with better balance. Then the nurse asked if he could take a few steps. The next thing you know, we're out of the room and in the hallway walking towards the next room! The nurse asked Dwight to sit and rest (I was following Dwight with a chair from behind). The nurse asked if Dwight was tired. He said, "No. Are you?" To which the nurse replied, "Actually, yes." We all smiled and then Dwight walked back to the room (with the nurse keeping him balanced from the front and me with a chair following him from behind)! At the end, the nurse said she had never seen someone who needed a lift to get out of bed the day before be able to walk the next day, let alone as much as Dwight walked! GOD IS CONTINUING TO SHOW US A MIRACLE! I told Dwight that he's the one in the hospital needing to get well, but I always leave feeling like I was made more well being in his presence. I'm so proud of my father-in-law and feel extremely blessed to have him in my life!

Zzzzzz

My dad has had difficulty sleeping for the past few nights.

In some ways it's such a joy to say that because just a week ago I was praying frantically for him to wake up. We ask that you please pray that he will be able to quiet his mind and body to get a good night's sleep tonight. My dad did say that he wanted to watch the Cubs/Yankees game tonight so I suppose if you want to get specific you could pray that he sleep after the game (insert sarcasm).


Please also pray that my mom sleeps well too. My mom and dad had a sleepover in room 1326 last night and like most sleepovers, both my mom and dad are exhausted today from being awake all night.

-Barbara

The biology of belief

It has been an interesting walk between belief and biology these past weeks as we have witnessed both the incredible intervention of God and medicine to heal my dad. Nathan and I always seem to be behind on reading Time Magazine but yesterday I pulled one out of our magazine rack to find this on the cover:



I felt like it was timely and wanted to share the link to the article in it's entirety. To read the article click here.

Food for thought.

-Barbara

Results and Modern Miracle

This morning Dwight had a repeat endoscopy. They also took a biopsy of the ulcer. They are looking at the ulcer to determine whether it has changed and if there is any bleeding. We have not heard the report from the doctor yet, but he is doing well. He is very anxious to begin physical therapy since he can't manuver on his own. Please continue to pray for positive progress and good reports. He needs to be able to stand and walk.
The doctors will decide whether he will continue with medication or will need the ulcer removed surgically.
Dwight continues to joke with the nurses and doctors, so he may be released from the hospital earlier than normal.
One of the doctors who was just in here said that she was honored to be part of this medical team since his story has traveled around the hospital. She called it a MIRACLE as so many of the nurses and doctors have said. They said that they did all they could during that critical Saturday and then faith had to take over. What a miracle!!! Sue

A prayer needed

I was on the phone and heard the call waiting. Normally I look to see who is calling and for some reason I just clicked over to hear a soft voice saying Christine. I did not know who it was. The voice was soft and seemed far away. I realized it was my dad calling me. Wow. My dad is calling me. I still can't believe it. He told me that he is going to have another scope tomorrow to see how the ulcer is. Fear crept into my mind. I am scared because this happened 11 days ago and the news was not good. Can you pray that the ulcer is fine and the results come out in our favor. The good thing is that they don't see his blood levels dropping or blood in the urine or stool. But just keep praying that everything will be okay. Please pray like you did before. Pray hard and a lot. God does need to hear from you. WE KNOW GOD DOES LISTEN!! Christine

1326

My dad has been moved from ICU to a regular hospital room; room 1326 of the Feinberg building at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

It is so incredible to be in this reality. Just a week ago (although I have to admit, it's felt like one really, really long day) we were faced with very difficult predictions of my dad's neurological capability based on the results of an EEG. And now my dad's chief complaint? He's bored.

There have been many tears this week of relief and joy. Although I don't really know when or if my brain will fully comprehend this miraculous outcome. Right now I'm just going to ride it. To bask in the love and support we feel and to have our wishes of having my dad come back to us. It's not profound or enlightening but it is a gift to just be present in something wonderful. I am grateful for this.



Prayer Requests:

That my dad is able to sleep during the night in the hospital room.

For the rehabilitation staff and my dad as they work together to strengthen his legs and arms.

For a freedom from boredom. Seriously. My dad is a go-getter and it's a test of will to be sedentary for so long.

-Barbara

April Fool

I don't know about you but I have often felt like the April Fool growing up with my dad.

He's always one for practical jokes and I was always one to be gullible. In honor of April Fool's Day I thought it could be fun if you would be willing to share some practical jokes my dad has played on you (you can do this through the comment option). My dad is now able to read the blog so I'm sure he'd appreciate your stories . . . hoping it won't give him any ideas for today : )

My dad is up and eating breakfast this morning. He will be transferred out of ICU into a regular room today. We look forward to being able to bring his grandchildren for a visit this week (they weren't allowed in the ICU). Yesterday when I got in the car to go to work, Sanne exclaimed "I want Tokig!" I am so happy to answer her by saying "You'll be able to give him a hug this week."

-Barbara

Classic.

My dad is now just on oxygen through his nose. I think we all knew that he would wake up in time for April Fool's Day.

When a doctor came in to give my dad an idea of his treatment plan (to go down to a regular room tomorrow then to a rehab facility and then home for OT/PT) . . . my dad suggested he just go straight to rehab and jokingly asked for a second opinion.

After finding out that his wedding ring was cut off due to swelling he asked to borrow my brother-in-law Mark's. After trying it on but it being too small he turns to Mark and says "if it doesn't fit we must acquit".

When his good friend Hal walked into the room my dad smiles at him and says "do I look handsome?!"


I now feel like I can take a deep breath. Thank you, Jesus.
-Barbara

Thank you God

I was in the room when they were talking about possibly taking out his vent. My dad's eyes got really big. I did not know if it would happen. It did. No more breathing tube. WHAT A MIRACLE!!!!!! He is talking, laughing, and giving the doctors and nurses a hard time. Thank you for your support and prayers. Don't stop praying not only for my dad as he recovers, but for others and yourself. christine

My dad says "thank you for your prayers!"

Deep breath

They took my dad's tube out!! He's breathing on his own but has an oxygen mask right now that they'll slowly ween off.

Praise God!

-Barbara

Housekeeping

I've added more photos to the slide show and you can enlarge the photos by clicking on the slide show. If you have any photos you'd like to add of yourself and my dad feel free to email them to me and I'll post them as well: barbaranordlund@gmail.com


I'm at work this morning but from what I've heard, it sounds like my dad has had a good morning. He is breathing on his own right now for a few hours to determine if he's ready to have the breathing tube taken out. Will keep you posted.

-Barbara

Be Patient

Hi everyone. Thank you for your prayers right now. We are still waiting for his vent. to come out. We so badly want it to be out so he can relax and talk. I know that God wants him to rest and heal. We all know that my dad is restless and can't sit still. This is the only way God can have is body relax by him still being on sedation and his vent. God also wants us to be patient. He wants us to still think of him and pray. Yes, God can do miracles. MY DAD IS THE A GOOD EXAMPLE. HE DID PERFORM A MIRACLE. GOD IS TEACHING US ALL A LESSON. Each lesson is different for all of us. I know I was taught a lot of lessons through this. Listen to God as HE is speaking to you. I have no idea what he is saying to you. But if you listen you will really learn something from this. HE used my dad to either help you be closer to God, pray more, lean on him because he does listen and perform miracles. No he will not give you the winning lottery ticket number. You are on you own for that one. God is also teaching you to be patient and understand that if you keep praying and believing in Him he will listen and guide you. Just be patient and He is listening. You might not get it right away but keep praying he will answer your prayers when he knows that you are ready. Just like we are praying for my dad's vent. to come off. God knows that his body is not ready and my dad is not ready. So, be patient, keep praying, and just trust in God. Also, keep praying for my dad to heal and come off the vent. and to talk to us. Also keep praying for his ulcer that it does not grow and cause problems for him. Keep praying that his tests come back with good results and the doctors and nurses that are watching him. I know, be patient. Pray for yourself and others. Christine

Monday

We've had a good day here at Northwestern. My dad continues to improve each day. Right now as I sit in his hospital room, he is smiling and his eyes are bright as Pastor Nelson talks with him. We are truly in the midst of a miracle.

Prayer Requests:
Please continue to pray for healing.

For fluid to leave his lungs.

For his ability to breathe on his own so that he can get off the ventilator.

For the continued wisdom and patience of the doctors and nurses.

For my mom tonight, as she goes home for the first time.

-Barbara

Dinner n' Drive with Sue: Sold Out

Thank you everyone, Dinner n' Drive with Sue is officially sold out!

Your willingness to help out in this way is much appreciated and we know Sue is looking forward to your company.

- Nathan

Sam.

As many of you know, my dad worked at NBC for forty years as a camera man and news editor. My dad retired in the summer of 2007 and six months later was asked to come back as a daily hire. It is an understatement to say that my dad loves NBC.

His dedication and love for his job is such an example. Even last Saturday when my dad felt totally awful and weak, he went to work. And after he fainted and came to, after the ambulance was called, he told is co-worker that he was just going to finish his story.

My dad has met many amazing people and has always been generous by providing studio tours to friends and family and even getting us the occasional autograph.

The NBC family has shown our family so much love and care this past week through visits, prayers, groceries, and offers to stay at their homes. We are so grateful to them and also know that their love for my dad has much to do with my dad's love for them. It is definitely reciprocated. My dad went by "Sam" at work and may of his co-workers don't even know him by his first name. There were many times during my childhood when someone would call for Sam and it took me a few seconds to realize it wasn't the wrong number.

Below is a video of Saturday's morning newscast. This is right after the news spread that my dad woke up.

-Barbara

Dinner n' Drive with Sue

So many have generously asked us how you can help. As we start to think about heading back to work tomorrow we are seeking balance between where our heart wants to be (here at the hospital) and where our lives call us (work and caring for our little girls).

My mom is leaving the hotel tomorrow afternoon and will return home for the first time since leaving for the ER last Saturday, tomorrow night. Mark has kindly offered to drive my mom to the hospital each morning but we are wondering if anyone is willing to come to the hopsital to eat dinner with my mom and drive her home.

We are sharing shifts during the AM and PM with family but it would be a great help if someone would take a "dinner and drive home" shift :) We need a dinner partner for tonight (Sunday) and a "dinner and drive" for Monday through Thursday of this week.

If you're up for it, please leave a comment or give my mom a call for a day that you'd like to come 312/720.0296

AM

As we walked in today to my dad's room I was overjoyed with the comfirmation that my dad is here. I could tell by his facial expressions and desire to communicate with us through nods, smiling and hand squeezes that he is lucid and aware of who we are. What a gift . . . to know without a doubt that my dad is healing.


Prayer Requests:

That my dad is able to focus on deep breaths and remain calm.

That they do not find any complications with his lungs and that his lungs heal completely so that they are able to take him off the ventilator.

Wisdom for our family as we discern how to talk with my dad and how to be a calm and a soothing coach for my dad.

For total healing of his ulcer.


** Please know that if you visit today (which we always love), we may ask that the visit is to the family and not to see my dad. We want to make every effort to keep my dad calm and focused on his breathing.

Thanks again for your continued support as you walk beside us on this life changing journey.

-Barbara

Thank You

I am thinking about what happened last Sat. I can't believe all that my dad went through!!! What a miracle that he is doing great and alive. As I write this entry, I am so tired, can't think clearly, but SO thankful for every one's prayers and support. Please forgive the grammar errors and spelling mistakes. I hardly know my name right now or where I live. I am so grateful for this miracle God has given us. God used my dad to help others either through prayer, getting closer to God, trusting him, and not worrying about the little things like the economy, and the loss of jobs. We should be grateful for family and health. I know that he was used in a way that would help others. God knew that he was strong and would make it through this. I know that we heard wonderful news today, but God does not want us to stop praying for him and to stop us from talking to God.God likes hearing from you and wants you to trust him. Pray for my dad's healing, him getting off the vent. and his ulcer that is still there. I can't wait for my dad to talk. I also ask you to pray that he knows us. Thanks for doing this. There will be and has been a lesson learned through this. My faith has never been so strong before this. Don't stop praying, keep praying hard and often. When my dad is better and telling his jokes, don't forget to talk to God about what is going on in your own life. HE DOES LISTEN!!!!!!

-Christine