keep the faith, one day at a time

Jo continues to be comfortable at home and we love the ability to see him as often as we like.  Seeing him in his room peaceful is very bitter sweet.  While Jo is in the bed, our Jo, the pulse of our family, the symbol of our summers, the spirit of joy is still absent at times, and it hurts.  

Staying positive, Jo's reactions and neurological performance continues to be encouraging.  He is awake during the day other than periodic naps and surprisingly "alert".  Jo shifts his gaze when people enter the room, he would turn his head but he's not quite there yet. He moves his eyes to look at people and when you talk to him it is like he is trying to talk back with his eye contact.  He definitely seems aware of familiar faces and enjoys visits.  At times I think he gets sad when he is frustrated with his inability to move normally.  He so badly wants to get up, it is painfully obvious and extremely difficult to cope with at times. We keep our faith in God and I often pray for strength at Jo's bedside.  Jo in this state is so bitter sweet, he is here with us, he knows we are there with him, he is extremely stable, he is comfortable, but his inner battle is evident  and it can be so difficult to watch.  The branches of neurons regrow and attach at their own rate with God's touch, at what time we do not know, but we keep the faith.  

Dad was the first to hear the devastating diagnosis  when Jo had his last brain bleed setback.  It is a day I will never forget, a day etched into my memory for obvious reasons.  I remember it most in times of despair because his future was so bleak from a clinical standpoint.  Would he ever come home?  Would he need a ventilator to live?  Would he ever wake up?  The Dr.'s unwillingness to answer those questions directly made it clear that they felt very little hope of getting our Jo back.  Now just 2 months later Jo and the Lord continue to beat the odds everyday.  He is home comfortable with us, he breaths easy with no help, he is clearly awake, alert, and aware f his surroundings.  He is already a testimony to God's strength and powers, a symbol of God's love.  He is a miracle many times over, and we will not lose hope, this is just the beginning.  

There was a time we reported even the slightest movement in Jo's right arm with great joy.  Now he curls his body, stretches out, moves his ENTIRE body to get comfortable.  We spent weeks helping him open his right eye with our fingers just a crack, and followed his pupil with anxious anxiety.  Now Jo opens both eyes WIDE, makes direct eye contact, follows you with BOTH eyes, and is obviously engaged with his visitors.  Nothing else can explain this type of improvement other than God's will.  He remains by Jo's side and will restore him in time; patience, faith, and hope is all we need.  Jo's journey continues and what a testimony it will be!

Our house is full with joy despite an incredibly trying time for our family.  The love and support of our friends and family carries us.  We are truly blessed.  Jo's nursing schedule is coming together quickly and we shouldn't be surprised that EVERY nurse we've met prays for Jo and has strong faith in God.  They have seen with their own eyes the miracles of the Lord and they know they will see it again.  With just a glance and eye contact you will fall in love with Jo, he has a gift, and one look and he's got you! Jo's story resonates with many people and we know his journey has already saved countless kids who no longer need convincing to wear a helmet.  We are all blessed.

We love having people visit our home, we love the sounds of Joy, and we love you all so much for the support!  We are blessed...

Jojobinks you are making progress everyday.  We know you are fighting to come back to us, do not let your heart be troubled, the Lord is with you and he will not let you fall.  Soon we will have you back whole, day by day, miracle by miracle, you are being restored.  No one will be able to explain how it is possible, only those with faith will see what is possible with God's love.  We will be here waiting and borrowing your strength to stay patient.  Your journey is still a long one, but in time you will come back to us, we know it.  We love you to the moon and back sweet angel, YOU'VE GOT THIS!