Dopey and the Doc

Ronny has made it through his procedure! The surgeons were proud of the progress made today and feel that Ronny will not need another procedure under anesthesia on Friday! The complication from his previous surgery turned out to be a little worse off then they first though, but they say that they did what the needed to do and we will just have to take it a day at a time. We have always known that this was a difficult case, but God has brought us this far and we know he will continue to care for Ronny until a resolution can be reached.

Alli and I were moved to tears today when we saw what an outpouring of love we were welcomed with. When we arrived in admitting we were greeted with smiles, hugs and "We've been waiting for you!" People we had never met, and who had certainly never met Ronny were absolutely ecstatic to be taking part in something so special. When we got to the surgery waiting area we were told, "We've been looking forward to meeting you." When we went up to pre-op we met a Christian nurse who had actually heard about Mission Lazarus and who felt like God had allowed her to work today so that she could meet Ronny and take part in something much bigger than we could have ever imagined. The anesthesiologist, OR nurse, and surgeons were absolutely wonderful. Everyone was so kind and really made sure that Ronny understood everything that was going on before he was wheeled back into the OR. When we got into the surgery waiting room we were told that we had visitors waiting for us. Alli and I had no idea who it could be, but were greeted by an elder and his friend from Kingwood Heights, the church we had attended on Sunday. They kept us company while we waited and even bought us dinner. After the surgery the elder even prayed other us and Ronny, thanking God for all that he has orchestrated so far and asking him to help as we start down this somewhat long road of recovery. You couldn't help but feel God's presence all day. It's like He had his hand on Ronny's shoulder every step of the way!

Now we are in Ronny's room on the 3rd floor, where he will stay the night. He has been sleeping comfortably since he came out of surgery, he is still pretty drugged up, and we are praying that he remains comfortable until he wakes up tomorrow morning... if he can make it through all of the frequent vital sign checks.

Please continue to keep Ronny in your prayers as we start down the long road to treating this complication. Hopefully the hardest part is over and now we just have to persevere.

Thank you so much for all your love, encouragement and prayers! We have truly felt each prayer today!

Until tomorrow, Goodnight.