Once Again

Once again we are petitioning for your prayers, much like we did a short 18 months ago when Lloyd was slipping away. Chris's mom, Carla, is not well. It has taken us all somewhat by surprise. We didn't see the warning signs that the end was coming. She was hospitalized for pneumonia a month ago for a few days, but she seemed to bounce back and was able to return home fairly quickly. She even came and stayed with us the weekend of general conference and we thoroughly enjoyed her company.
She was admitted into the hospital a week and a half ago for pneumonia once again. This time the recovery hasn't been immediate. She has the worst form of ms and it is now attacking the muscles in her diaphragm. She no longer has the strength to breathe deeply or cough, so her lungs are constantly filling up with fluid. Last week she was given 2 brochostomys but her lungs continue to fill with fluid. The only option now is a tracheotomy. They will be putting one in place later today or tomorrow. It is necessary, in order to be able to more effectively suction her out so she does not asphyxiate. Unfortunately the fluid build-up is not the only concern, the ms is continuing to attack the muscles in her diaphragm and soon she will not have the strength to breathe. The future is unclear. Best case scenario, the trach surgery goes effectively, she recovers and is able to come home for a while, possibly a month or maybe two, but doctors are doubtful. Worst case, we are looking at a couple of weeks. Either way, the end is near.
We've been blowing the budget on gas money making trips to Billings to see her. She is just as gracious as ever. She is still smiling and remains the most selfless person I know. She is 59. These were suppose to be her golden years, sometimes it seems as though everything has been taken from her, her independence, her home, her husband, her health and mobility. Yet through it all, when the rest of us want to scream that this is not fair, she has never uttered a word of complaint. She radiates acceptance and peace and inspires us to do the same. I could go on, but I'm having a hard time seeing the computer screen through the tears. This is hard. Our hearts are heavy and once again breaking..

She let me take her picture even though her hair wasn't done....

A couple pics from a few years ago. Happier times when she looked more like herself.