Healing takes SO much patience

So- this is my first time (Traci) adding to the blog. Jon and I just got home from an appointment with his arm surgeon. The x-ray's were great, and the Dr. reiterated what our therapist has been predicting. Which is, the amount of time needed for Jon to fully recover is unknown, and most likely a very long time.
The surgeon referred Jon to a hand surgeon today. He believes that at some time in the future Jon may need surgery for nerve repair in order for his hand to work.
Jon preached for the first time since the car accident, last Sunday. Prior to that-Pastor Rob was "bringing the word" :) and it was a blessing. Jon was surprised at how much he missed teaching. He has been trying to work minimal hours the last week and a half. He has met with staff, leadership team, and several hours on message prep. I am so proud of him. The amount of time he spends doing his stretches and splints for therapy (and stretches for PT) add up to a considerable portion of the day. His energy level is still rather low, but now that he can have a bit more of a regular diet, and take daily walks-it's gradually returning.
The biggest hurdle in this experience has been the day to day. In some ways-Things aren't the way they were before March 12th. Jon can't pick up Charlie and carry him to his bed. He can't pick up his guitar and play it...or ride a bike with the kids.
But in other ways-he's 100% him. Ornery to his therapist, and Dr.'s...investing in his kids in spiritual ways like only he can, and his dry humor is in tact! I am so grateful that he's here...and together we are learning about patience. And honestly-sometimes it isn't pretty. But we're getting through it.
Thanks for praying for my hubby, and caring for my family. Call us! 272-0434. We'd love to talk and find out how YOUR family is.
Love you all! Traci

UPDATE!!!

Thank you! Thank you for your posts, your prayers, your notes, words of encouragement, gifts, and love during this trying time for me and my family. It has been just a bit over 4 weeks since my accident. The time has truly flown by - perhaps because there are more than a few days I simply can't remember.
We have so much to be thankful for as God has been faithful to carry us, protect us, and heal me. Yes, there are days where the progress seems difficult to see - but I know God is healing me.
I have been anxious to give you an update, but I must keep it brief since I am typing with one hand. Here goes - top down

My Jaw has been freed! Tuesday the docs cut the bands and are giving me a week to eat stuff a liitle closer to food - I am still not allowed to chew untill next appt.

Ribs: are healing slowly - still no real funny jokes

Arm: all stitches are finally out! There is still no feeling in my hand and very little movement, but, due to my great therapist, I really am improving. I trust every stretch, every splint, and the torturous excercises are helping bring back use.

Leg: My knee has been diagnosed with a minor fracture and not so minor ligament tear. We will find out more next week.
Meanwhile- I limp around with a cage-like device, good for scaring the kiddies!

Please continue to pray for me and my family. We will give up-dates soon.

p.s. Mary Karen is doing great, not quite as fearful about car rides, and she has shown such maturity in the past weeks-we are proud of her.

Updates

Jon will be posting his own updates to the blog shortly. Thanks for your patience.

Home Again

Jon is back home again recovering from surgery. Pray for him to regain strength, energy, and movement in all his muscles.

Surgery Update

Jon is out of surgery on his forearm. Recovery from this surgery is going to take a little longer than initially expected so Jon will be remaining in the hospital for the next 2 days.

Please continue to pray for a speedy and full recovery.

Surgery

Pray for Jon as he goes into surgery tomorrow morning at Harborview. Pray for a successful and a problem-free surgery along with a speedy recovery. Jon looks forward to being back home and having visitors. I'll update asap to let you know when he'll be back in Tacoma and taking visitors.

Recovering

Not much new to report. Jon is at home recovering. Traci's sister, who is an ICU nurse, is flying in tomorrow to help with care for Jon. Pray for her to have a safe trip and visit.