[Epley Update] April 24, 2006 Russ update

[Russ and Flossie Epley]

Russ is definitely improving as demonstrated by his increased body 
strength and desire to communicate. Today I tried to help him sign the 
alphabet with his fingers. He worked hard at it and was able to make 
many letters with assistance but could not do it in order or copy what 
I did. He signs letters randomly but not in sensical patterns. The 
physical ability is there with his left hand, but the mental capacity 
is not sharp enough yet.

Praise the Lord with me for:

1) gradual healing of pneumonia
2) gains in the area of physical strength

Thank you for prayers in these areas for Russ to:

1) be able to think clearly (He seems to track well with me at times 
and then demonstrates that his thoughts are foggy and confused at other 
times.)
2) be able to communicate with us (Right now he sometimes can nod and 
smile to respond, but not consistently. He tries to use sign language 
but it isn't clear and I don't understand what he's trying to say.)
3) be able to eat (He has not eaten since breakfast on March 30 and has 
been getting all his nourishment through an IV)
4) be able to sit up and eventually learn to walk (he has been flat on 
his back for almost 4 weeks.)
5) be able to breathe on his own without a machine

A very special blessing today was to hear that Russ' brother, 
sister-in-law, and sister will all be able to drive from Nebraska to 
Indiana to attend Christie's graduation with representatives from my 
side of the family as well. Christie is thrilled. She has finished her 
classes and is packing up her dorm room. Graduation is coming up on 
Sunday. Summer plans are not finalized.

Joel has two more weeks of school. This week he has papers due and lots 
of homework. Next week he'll have exams. He needs God's special help to 
concentrate. He plans to return to Japan on May 8.

I'm doing well. I sleep well at night and feel strengthened for each 
new challenge. When I am home alone, I have never felt lonely. For 
someone as social as me...well, that's a miracle. Praise God!

Thank you for your prayers!
Flossie