Dear family and friends,
One year ago, this very hour, Grayson experienced a series of events which led to a cardiac arrest. He had little or no oxygen for nearly 12 minutes resulting in significant residual brain injury.
The story could have ended there.
During the turbulent hours that followed Brant and I continued to give thanks to God for the 24 years we were able to share life with Grayson and kept our hearts open, yet steeled, to what lay ahead. In the midst of the pain and uncertainty, I prayed that, if Grayson were to survive, he would be able to have a quality of life that at least allowed him to be happy. I released all other expectations.
How precisely those prayers were answered. Grayson may forget how to brush his teeth, how to tie his shoes, how to clean himself, stand up or initiate a sentence but you should hear him laugh. It takes over his whole body complete with squirming and snickering. It reminds me of his belly laughs when he was an infant.
Life will be different for Grayson and his family from now on. He will live with significant challenges the rest of his days. The financial and practical aspects of maximizing his neurological and physical progress are always present. But, as God promised, there will be joy.
To all of you, our family and friends, we express our deepest appreciation for your continued spiritual and practical support. We thank God for your presence in our life and share with you (even over cyberspace) the continued joy that is Grayson.
God's grace and peace to each of you,
Regina
Hi Brant and Regina!
ReplyDeleteI'm celebrating today with you all!!! I remember the terrible news, and we hit our knees for Grayson and for all of the Reeds', freinds and family. We have watched as each day has gone by, and as each step was taken, and as platues were reached, and then new ones were reached, and then some set backs, and then some progress, and in each situation we prayed for the Lord's Spirit to direct and support you, and He HAS! Your faithfulness has been so resouceful and encouraging and special...and He will keep up His faithful support for Grayson and the rest of you, too!
Just got back to Tigard 10 minutes ago...it is good to be home, but God is at work in Teguc as well! In fact, [now let's all say it together], "He is Good, all the time"!
In Him,
Doug
Dear Reed Family,
ReplyDeleteToday, on the aniversary of Grayson's brain injury, I want to take a moment and let you know how inspirational your journey has been. It has not been an easy year, but the faith and hope you have shared through this blog serve to remind me that through God all things are possible.
You lead by example, and live in the moment. Each tiny step forward that Grayson takes is a reason to rejoice and be glad. My wish is that you continue to find peace and happiness in the ordinary and the extraordinary events of this journey.
God's Blessings,
Catherine Balck
We have followed this journey with prayers and more intimate observations from Rita and Richie. We celebrate yours and Grayson's endurance.
ReplyDeleteThe jersey Bretts