Monday, December 3, 2007

Monday

Hi friends,
This is Gillian again. Just wanted to let you know that Joseph is improving every day from his surgery. He is talking more, saying things other than "take it off" and "I want Mommy." He requested specific movies and cars and explained to me he would eat more when he didn't feel sick. He really is being such a trooper, so sweet and accepting of his new bed-bound position and aches and pains everywhere. We realized he needed morphine more frequently than we were asking them to give it to him and that has helped his comfort. Last night he ate for the first time since Thursday and drank a whole juice box, so that was good. He kept requesting chocolate chip cookies ("a big one, from Moe's") but at 1:00 a.m. that was hard to find...so he devoured a huge piece of angel food cake our friends the Slotkins brought by. Allen might even try to take him on a wagon ride later today. This hospital has many wonderful wagons here to pull the kids around in. You just put a pillow in it and they can lie down and go for a walk, go outside, etc. to have a change of scenery. We are hoping that within a few days he can sit in it again with his friend Logan and they can make each other laugh. He still has not rolled over onto his back b/c his head hurts.
Christy, Brea, Katie, Susie, Gwen--thank you for all the goodies you brought by this morning. I wish I could have visited longer.
Please pray:
that he would be able to sit up soon and that it wouldn't be too painful to do so (he does want to eat, but I think he isn't eating that much since he's still on his tummy)
that he would re-attach to his loved ones other than mommy (right now, understandably, he only wants me--but I have to sleep at some point so I'd love for him to be OK with his grandparents, Daddy, etc.)
that Joseph would get the best possible care and God would give us wisdom on how to treat his condition, whatever it ends up being
that Allen and I would communicate well and have time together and time to sleep and charge our batteries
Thank you for all your many prayers, and I look forward to hearing from you penguin friends, Lizzi.

78 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi- I heard of your situation through my sister Sally Littlejohn and just wanted to write and say that we are also thinking of you and praying for you. To say that it is "hard" doesn't even describe you life right now, and i just want you to know that we are praying for hope, strength and wisdome. -Kelly Maney

Armin Siedlecki said...

I am so glad to hear that Joe is doing better. I am praying for him and for all of you.

Katy (KatySheCooks) said...

We're working on getting some folks in Africa...
Tim & Katy

Jennifer said...

Fellster & Filligan: Know that I am pulling my hair out, longing to jump back in the car and get back to you guys. I'll be there as soon as I can.

Jen.

Christy said...

I'll be praying specifically that Joe P gets some really fabulous wagon time with Daddy this afternoon.

Sorry that Andrew freaked out in the waiting room. Perhaps we'll put the Mobley Family Sleepover At The Hospital plans on hold ...

Brea said...

I'm so thankful to hear that Joseph is improving and recovering so well. We are continually asking God to heal Joseph and to provide for your every need.

Anonymous said...

Allen, Gillian, Joseph and Holley,
Chad and I (Jennifer) are fervently lifting your family up to our heavenly Father asking for healing, wisdom, strength and that you will know and deeply feel His hand that is upon you.

Before they call I will answer;
while they are still speaking
will hear.
Isaiah 65:24

Jean Joiner said...

Gil-
We love you guys so much and are continuing to pray. Thank you for giving us some specific things to bring to the Father.
Love,
Jean

Anonymous said...

Gillian: I cannot get you all out of my mind, and hope that all the thoughts that I am unable to express get to you. Joseph will be in our prayers. Susan, Brian, Killian, Marie, Shane and Susan

Anonymous said...

Allen, Gillian, Joe, and Holly--

We grieve that you are going through this and we are longing for good results to come back this week. We are loving you from afar and will be following your story with prayer and love.

Keely, Josh & Salem

P.S. (Salem might be able to cover Africa a little bit, though she's no longer on the continent www.outofethiopia.com)

Riddles said...

Know that Jason and I are praying for you here in Brazil and we have our families in Atl praying for you as well. Thank you for keeping everyone updated. I know (in a much smaller way) how amazing, encouraging and touching it is to have the Body of Christ work and pray in this way. We wish we were there personally, but for now we will be lifting you all up to our Heavenly Father.

Kristin, Jason and Jacob

Anonymous said...

Thanks for updating and glad to hear Joseph adjusting more and doing better. I am also very glad to hear you both trying to get some rest...your little boy needs you all staying healthy as well so important you nourish your bodies also. Please lean on us local friends for anything...I mean in. Please know I am praying for you always and sending you many hugs and support. Love, Jody

Anonymous said...

Gillian and Allen,
You and Joseph are continually in my thoughts and prayers. I just had lunch with Pauline and Holly. They are hopefully resting now. I have e-mailed my friends in South Africa to pray for you - so that continent is covered! Remember..."The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."(Deut.31:9)
Paula Wilson

spwise said...

We've only met a few times, but Joseph is our grandson Matthew's "best bud"....lots of prayers are coming your way.
Sterling and Penny Wise

Anonymous said...

Gillian and Allen,
I'm so glad this blog is here, We've been praying for Joseph since Fri, but had no idea how he's been doing. We'll keep praying for his diagnosis to be a good one, and that all you guys get rest. We love you.

Matt and Andrea

Anonymous said...

HEY GILLO AND ALLEN .HOLLYBEAR AND THE BABY DOLLIES ARE DOING FINE .WE BROUGHT THE BABY DOLLIES FOR A WALK TO THE MAILBOX IN THE STROLLER AND THERE WAS A GIFT FOR HOLLY IN THE MAILBOX!!IT WAS A PRESENT FOR HOLLY FROM ANNETTE.HOLLY IS AMAZING ME SHE IS OBSESSED WITH FASTENING AND CLOSING BELTS BUCKLES .STRAPS TO THE STROLLER AND THENWHEN THE TASK IS ACCOMPLISHED SHE SAYS TRIUMPHANTLY 'DID IT !!! KELLY BROUGHT SEAN OVER TO PLAY WITH HOLLY THIS MORNING AND THEY HAD A GREAT TIME.HOLLY IS SLEEPING GREAT AND HAS JUST WOKEN FROM AN AFTERNOON NAP.SHE IS BUSY AGAIN WITH THE DOLLIES SHE WILL BE A GREAT MOM SOME DAY JUST LIKE HER MOM.....LOVE FROM NANNA AND HOLLYBEAR BIG KISSES AND HUGS TO JOSEPH

The Roley's said...

Praying fervently for you on the West Coast. Love you guys.

m & k

Vivi said...

I only just now heard of poor Joe's situation. You are in my constant prayers. Please call if you should need anything 404-217-0322. We are only minutes away. Let us know when kid-friends can visit, we'd love to come by.
Prayerful,
Vivi

Anonymous said...

Hi Gillian Allen Holly & Joseph
We were so upset to hear the news about Joseph. I've been in contact with Pauline a lot. I'm so happy with the blog The Netherlands is so far away at a time like this. The last time I saw Joseph was at Pauline and Billy's house remember Gillian he was going 80 miles an hour running after a football towards a gigantic pit in the garden. I can still remember the sound of everyone screaming at him to stop running and you yourself running at the speed of light to prevent him faling into the hole. I hope we'll have more good times together this coming Summer. I can't wait to see you all.I just can't imagine what you must be going through. I just want to say that we are thinking of you and loving every minute of the day.
lots of love Ann Ben & the boys (Joseph's big cousins)

Vann and Norma said...

God is good! We are thankful for the encouraging news. Can't thank you enough for keeping us up to date. Allen I was thinking about the time I took care of you and Jenny when you were only 2 or something. (Matt was not born) I promised you a treat if you were good. You and Jenny have reminded me that I never paid up. I'm ready to do that now. You name it...I'll get for you! We love you all.
Vann and Norma

Anonymous said...

Hey guys--thanks for the update & specific things to pray for. The Community Group is getting together tonight to pray for you guys & the Slotkins as you guys journey through this part of life. Look forward to hearing more.
Much love, Jeremy & DeAnna Brubaker
*Had I known of your specific request Allen, we all would have flown to Africa to pray! :) next time.....

vim+dash said...

hope you have had a good monday. conor and i are thinking of you and praying constantly. sellers loves moe's, too, so i appreciate the specific cookie request. :) we are praying fervently.

Unknown said...

Hey guys--
Thanks for letting us know what specifics to pray for. The Community Group is getting together tonight to pray for you guys & the Slotkins as you journey through this part of life. (If I'd known of your desire earlier Allen, we would have split up & gone to Africa/Antarctica to pray!). Wish you guys were with us tonight.
Much love--Jeremy/DeAnna Brubaker

Anonymous said...

I think I just read this, because I need to hear truth and encouragement too! What an amazing community we have through a bloody blog!
I miss you Gillo...call if you get a chance, but don't if you can't. I will pray specifically for Joseph to want Daddy Bear or Mimi or Grandad. I loved reading Mom's comment. I was laughing. Holly the dolly :)
hope to chat soon
sj

Lindsay Mast said...

I heard of Joseph's fight through my friend Vivi Weaver. I am praying for Joseph's recovery and for his comfort in the meantime, and for strength and hope for all of his family.

eugeneshim said...

Gillian and Family,
I haven't seen you in perhaps 15 years? I was a friend of your sister's, Sara Jane. I do remember you and I can still see your face as perhaps a 15 year old? My little sister Susan I believe was in your class at Melville. Anyhow, your sister got in touch with me just days before you found out about your son's condition. I hope you and your family stay strong, my wife and I have you guys in our thoughts. Just over a year ago, my wife and I were visiting a friend of ours in the hospital who had a brain tumor. He recently finished up chemo and was honored at Fenway Park a few months ago along with some other folks from Dana Farber. He is doing great today and that was not so long ago he was in the ER just like you guys are now. We are hopeful. Take care.
Best, Eugene and Sandi Shim

Anonymous said...

Allen and Gillian,

We love you guys so much and we feel like ya'll are our kids too. And we feel like Joe and Holly are our grandkids. We want you to know that we have been fasting and praying for God's intervention for Joseph and for the peace that passes understanding for you too.

Our churches in Charleston and Atlanta are praying for you.

Love,

Kay and Freddy

Anonymous said...

"God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain; it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world." -C.S. Lewis

Thank you, Jesus, that you give purpose to our pain.

Lynn T said...

Dearest Gilly and Allen,

Thank-you for continually updating the blog. Like Sarah-Jane said, it is so encouraging. I love Aunt Ann's story of Joseph racing though Mom and Dad's yard last year. I remember that so well and laughed when I read her post. I love you all so much and think of you non stop. We are praying for you.

Lots of love, hugs and kisses,

Lynn

Reed said...

So touching and heartfelt is your blog. I too am praying for Joseph.

Anonymous said...

Hey Gill and Allen,
I just wanted you guys to know that I've been praying for Joe P. I'm glad to hear that he is doing better and i lhope that will continue.

Psalm 121:7-8 The Lord will keep you from all harm. he will watch over your life. The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Love, David

P.S. We are having tons of fun with Holly

Anonymous said...

Although we have never met, we heard about Joseph through a good friend... we are praying for your strength and may God bless your Family.

Anonymous said...

Gillian and Allen, I am praying night and day for you and for Joseph, for the staff at Egleston and for the rest of your family. (I worked at "The Egg" for 10 years and I know you are in great hands but it's a hard, hard road you are walking right now.)

The CPA, BA, and CPC families are praying for you.

Genesis 21:1-2 says, "The Lord visited Sarah as as he had said and the Lord did to Sarah as he had promised. And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him."
1-God's promises are true.
2-God's miracles are real.
3-God's timing is perfect.

Continuing to pray with much hope,
Annette

Jennifer said...

I am coming back down Friday - a wonderful & generous friend is giving me his frequent flyer miles!!! He wants to help me get there to help you... I am so glad to come back. It is torturous being so far away.

And I agree with SJ about reading this to hear truth & encouragement too.

Love you guys & Joe.

Thanks Sam for the reminder of big bad joe, little joe p....

Jennifer said...

Oh, yeah - any of you Atlanta peeps wanna come pick me up from the airport Friday? Email me: jenpbarr@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Hi. I live in Indiana, but I went to Africa once, so that's getting you closer. Jennifer (we went to India together) sent me an email about your struggles, and I have been praying for you and keeping you in my thoughts ever since. I am saying many prayers for rest for all of you and for God's strength and love to wrap around you. --Dawn Doup

Emily D. said...

I am so thankful to hear that Joseph is recovering even more today from his surgery,and that he appears to be hearing from the ear that was thought to be deaf. Connor and I prayed that tonight Joseph would have deep and healing sleep - also known as "awesome" sleep. I think of you guys many times throughout the day, and I try to remember to turn each of those worries into prayers.
Love,
Emily

Meg said...

Still praying for you all as you wait for answers this week. I am inspired by your strength and the support system that you have through this blog.
-Meg Bloomer

Unknown said...

Joseph continues to weigh heavily on our hearts and in our prayers.
- Doug and Genie in AZ

Anonymous said...

Hello,

I heard about your situation from Jennifer. I wanted to let you know that my family and I ,as well as my bible study are all praying for you. Please keep hope!
-Jessica

Stephen Taaffe said...

Dear Gill and Allen,
Stephen here from Dublin. I was so sorry to here about Joe. We are all thinking of you and praying for a very safe recovery for Joe. Beanacht De libh (god be with you)
Stephen

Chris Austin said...

My wife and I were in a small group with Matt and Lynn when they lived in Knoxville.

I wanted to let you know that I am constantly in prayer for Joseph and everyone involved with him right now. We have three small children, and my stomach wrenches as I think of having to go through something like this. I think of how I would want people to pray, tell others to pray, check for updates, etc. Please know that I am doing all those things.

The people of God are cying out on your behalf. Thank you for allowing us to join arms with you in this.

Erica said...

As I was praying for you guys this morning, I thought I'd share this verse with you:
"..My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Cor. 12:9-10

Continuing to pray that the Lord will give you strength. That He is and will enable you to press on and perserve. May you all continue to rest, heal, and be in His presence as you await the next step in your journey-in the story He has for you. Praise that Joesph is recovering well, and that he continues to do so.
Love to you all!
Erica

Anonymous said...

Been praying for you all and getting updates since I heard. I'm a friend Melanie O'Steen from Greensboro, NC. You all are amazing and your faith has encouraged us all. Keep your eyes fixed on Him who gives peace beyond our understanding. What a blessing to join you in prayer. Sincerely, Din0

Chloë said...

Hey Gill, A poem for you.
He's one of my favourites.
Love you. Clo. X

In a Dark Time
Theodore Roethke
http://gawow.com/roethke/poems/231.html

In a dark time, the eye begins to see,
I meet my shadow in the deepening shade;
I hear my echo in the echoing wood--
A lord of nature weeping to a tree,
I live between the heron and the wren,
Beasts of the hill and serpents of the den.

What's madness but nobility of soul
At odds with circumstance? The day's on fire!
I know the purity of pure despair,
My shadow pinned against a sweating wall,
That place among the rocks--is it a cave,
Or winding path? The edge is what I have.


A steady storm of correspondences!
A night flowing with birds, a ragged moon,
And in broad day the midnight come again!
A man goes far to find out what he is--
Death of the self in a long, tearless night,
All natural shapes blazing unnatural light.


Dark,dark my light, and darker my desire.
My soul, like some heat-maddened summer fly,
Keeps buzzing at the sill. Which I is I?
A fallen man, I climb out of my fear.
The mind enters itself, and God the mind,
And one is One, free in the tearing wind.

Suzy Goodman said...

We are continuing to pray for all of you. I am so glad to read that Joe is doing better and am praying that he will be able to put some real food in his tummy today. I am also praying that he would feel no pain from the surgery.

Praying for encouraging news on the pathology. Praying for divine wisdom for the doctors involved and a miracle of full healing for Joe.--
Suzy Goodman

Anonymous said...

Good Morning Gillian! Paige, myself, and Willow prayed for you four this morning, and for Joseph especially. We prayed for the biopsy specifically to come back as benign, for Joseph to have a wonderful day and that he'd reattach with his other family members. We're praying constantly for him, and in the process, reading tons of material on brain stem tumors online. In another situation, I would say what we're learning is interesting, but in this situation it is more heart-wrenching. I keep thinking about allen getting this residency. I think that is something that worked out really, really well. It kept you in Atlanta, so you kept your wonderful church and friends who are so supportive right now. And I bet with Allen in pediatrics, it gave him insights into what was going on with Joseph possibly sooner than would've had had he ended up in something totally different, like surgery or whatever. I see God's graciousness in bringing about the Emory pediatrics residency, because it's provided so many resources to Joseph that he might not have had in other situations - both social support, but also just the advantages it gave Allen and the physicians in diagnosing Joseph's tumor early on. I can't wait to one day soon that little boy of yours in person. I pray that for your strength and joy in the midst of this suffering today, Gil.

Sally said...

Gillian and Allen,

Just wanted to let you know that we're continuing to pray. Thanks for all the updates and specific requests.

I was reading Psalm 27 and thought I'd share some of it.

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?

For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling.

Hear my voice when I call, O Lord; be merciful to me and answer me.

My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, Lord, I will seek.

I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Sally, Wes & Evan

Anonymous said...

Almighty God,

As the whole universe bows to your glory, so we bow...

We again bring the names of your servants Allen and Gillian to your
throne, asking for peace in their circumstances, contentment in your
mercy and a greater measure of faith through your lovingkindness.
You alone are good and we call on our hearts to trust that truth.

As day breaks, we ask for the warmth of your merciful breath to be on
the cheeks and eyelashes of Allen, Gillian and Joseph. We ask that
as they close their eyes to receive that warmth, all fearful thoughts
are crowded out, replaced with great hope...hope in your honor, your
compassion and your great mercy over them.

Lord God, King of Mercies, Master and Ruler of all Light, we bow in
reverence and hope to the everlasting good you have placed in our
paths. May we ever walk with our King.

Amen

courtney said...

Praying for you guys this morning...

Anonymous said...

Hi! I just recieved and email from Vann and Norma Kissell with the link to your blog and I haven't stopped crying yet. I am the mother of a 4 year old little girl and to say that my heart is breaking for you is an understatment. But I am so glad that we serve such an awesome God and that you are my sister and brother in Christ. So please know that even though I may never meet you this side of heaven that I will be praying for my brother and sister.
LORD, please give this sweet family wisdom, patience, and strength to get through the day. Wrap YOUR arms around them and let them know how much You love them and this precious boy. IN JESUS NAME, AMEN

Allison Parker said...

Praying for you guys this morning - that God will give you peace that passes all understanding, and that you will cling to His promises - that God is completely good and completely sovereign. Praying also for little Joseph today to make miraculous improvements. love, and prayers, Allison O.

Anonymous said...

we just got the information and blog address this morning, from Keely. our hopes and prayers are with you, Joseph and your family each step of the way. thank you for setting up the blog so that we can walk with you each day.
love,
Paul and Jeanie

Christy said...

I spoke with Phil's mom on the phone last night, and she could barely get the words out. I started worrying the tears would short her phone. She REALLY loves you guys (who knew one could bond so deeply over Cranium?) and has passed along prayer requests for you all to all of her Bible studies and prayer groups and to everyone else she meets. And I know this woman - this means she is telling gas station attendants, grocery store cashiers and people standing in line with her at the bank.

Anonymous said...

good morning gillian and allen and big bad joe.the baby dollies and holly are all napping well.holly had a good morningwe went to the y and she saw anna and was very happy.she played in the nursery for 30 minutes while nanna exercised!!thenwe went to the grocery store and holly got a peanut cookie.she is wearing her pink snowman shirt and a pink bow and if i say so myself she is the cutest girl in the whole world and can do no wrong.even her little temper tantrum was soo cute...she just wanted another cookie!!!!! we love you and we cant wait to see you really soonlots of love hugs and kissies holly bear nanna and the baby dollies

Anonymous said...

Gillian and Allen,
I was so relieved to hear Joseph got to be carried by his Daddy to his new room today. I know it is a much needed spirit lift and we are so grateful for this improvement in his environment and comfort. I heard he loved his Big Cookie! That's my guy! And glad to see Holly is having a great time in TN. Thinking and praying for you all constantly.
Margaret

Scott said...

We're praying for healing and rest for you and your family. Keep us posted.


Scott & Melissa Greenwood

Anonymous said...

Gillian and Allen, I know of you through Ashley Smith. We are praying for you in TN. I can't imagine your hearts and the hurt you're going through. Just know that behind you is an army of prayer warriors lifting you up all over. May God be glorified as He already has been through your family. I'm praying for Joseph and Holly both as well as for the two of you. I love you brother and sister in Christ!

Sarah

Anonymous said...

Hi Gillian,
I hope it's OK, but Kirk is going to drop off a few things for Joseph after naptime (I'm still on bedrest and wish I could stop by myself). Maddy went shopping and picked out a few things for Joseph and she made him a card. We are so happy to hear that Joseph is feeling a little bit better. I wish I could do more to help right now, but please know that we are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Sarah

Anonymous said...

hey guys. i received word about joe through several mutual friends' blogs and on facebook. just wanted to let y'all know we are praying philippians 4:6,7 daily for you each. much love, aly, david, & asa slade

Unknown said...

Allen and Gillian,

I am thankful Scott Greenwood forwarded the blog to me. KNow that MEda and I will be praying for you all. We'll be praying for healing for Joseph and for his presence to be with you all in tangible ways. We look forward to hearing how he will faithfully care you you all.

Sincerely,

Bradley

Anonymous said...

Gilla and Allen-
praying that yall are living in the today. God has already taken care of yesterday and tomorrow.
I am loving and praying for yall in Dallas. It warms my heart to see how well cared for yall are and Joe too. Learning more about his little personality through these blogs and comments is a true blessing.
praying for you now-
sara b

Anonymous said...

Allen & Gill...

its been way too long since we last talked, but i wanted you to know that joe is in my thoughts and prayers at every moment.

i know i'm not in atlanta, but if there is anything at all that i can do, don't hesitate to ask. you were there for me during the hardest time of my life and i dont think i'll ever be able to repay the favour, but i'll try.

and to joe...be strong little one. the whole world is praying for you!

love,
céire
901-275-4829 (day or night)

Anonymous said...

loving you all day long,
I'm also the lady telling the gas station attendant. My dental hygienist was crying today as I told her all about it. She has a 3 year old boy and wanted to know Joseph's first and last name so she could pray and add you to her church's prayer chain and as I left Bella's pre school this morning I cried telling her teacher about it and she stopped and prayed with me right there and wrote down all the information so she could put his name on their huge church's prayer chain.
crazy eh?
Christy..thanks for making me laugh. you are soo funny.
sj

Anonymous said...

Hi Gillian,
Kirk is actually going to drop off the stuff from us tomorrow (as soon as I posted he called that he got stuck at work). Hope Joseph is doing well today and hope you are all getting some rest.
Love,
Sarah

Mikey said...

Allen--

I remember when you were asking me earlier in the year about how to survive being a resident while also being a dad. And I thought I knew what you were going through, but now... well, you know as well as I do that nobody could really understand how you feel. Breaks my heart just to thinking about how this must be for all of you.

To add to the litany of supporters you already seem to have, know that our family thinks of you, worries about you, and prays for you every day.

--Mikey, Melissa, Gabi, and Bella

PS: Those wagons are awesome, but make sure Joe keeps his hands inside the ride at all times. Gabi has gotten a finger or two crushed by daddy not taking turns wide enough.

Buddy Buds and Friends! said...

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chronicles 16:9. I am continuing to pray for you all.
Kelly Lathem

Mary Lou Justason said...

I am a friend of Joe's great grandmother, Bobbie Peabody, in FL. I am sharing with her some of her grief but want you to know there are many people I have contacted that are praying for Joseph and his entire family.

My son is a nurse in the far north of Ontario, on Hudson Bay, and will soon be in the Northwest Territories so prayers are coming from the Arctic.

Mary Lou Justason, Largo, FL

Anonymous said...

Hello...I am a friend of Megan Gray, and she asked us to pray for Joseph and your family. I cannot imagine how difficult it must be for you, as parents, to sleep or get any rest right now, with your mind filled with so many thoughts and concerns. I will be praying not only for Joe to get well, but for your minds and hearts to be filled with peace, no matter what happens on a day to day basis. Trusting that God is in control. When the sadness and the heart ache fills your minds, don't dwell on it..instead ask God to fill your mind with peace and hope, and He will. Keep clinging to that faith that you are leaning on....I can "hear" it in your posts...and it is an incredible witness to me, and to others, including Joseph!
~Sue, a sister and friend.

Mary Vagnoni said...

Hi, I talked to Granny Taaffe in Dublin today and had a very good conversation with her.Usually she cannot hear me and the call is very short. She was devasted by the news and was crying on the phone.Her prayers are powerful and she is praying for you now. I also spoke briefly to Eleanor, Pauline and Joseph and their hearts go out to you all.
love and prayers
Mary

Stanton Stebbins said...

Hi Allen and Gillian, this is Stanton (the rather chunky PICU resident that got Joe the white seal-whale-cat-thingy). Just wanted to say again that Susan and I will be praying for you and thinking of you and your family. Let me know if I can do do anything to help! I make a mean pie...

Ashley said...

I know several messages have mentioned that people in Africa are now praying, but I just wanted to share this message with you that was posted on my blog tonight:

"Hey Ashley, I wanted you to know that I passed the word on about Joseph to Kelee in South Africa! She is an amazing prayer warrior, so the prayers lifted up from Africa are in good hands. :)"

If I understood Allen's post correctly, there are people praying for Joseph in North America, South America, Africa, Asia, Europe and Australia. The whole earth is full of HIS glory!

Anonymous said...

I love to know that sweet Granny is praying...that made me cry.

Anna Tester said...

Dear sweet Gillian and family, just wanted to say good night and love you all. To those of us checking on line tonight pray for good rest for the family and Joesph. a praying mama- anna

PS I think grandmother's trip with Joesph to the hospital "moe's" did him well :)

Anonymous said...

This a beautiful picture of the body of Christ. Joseph you are a loved little boy. We are praying for you day and night. Yes even night...the Lord wakes us up to pray for you. Joseph you have a mommy and daddy who love you very much. You little man have entered into the suffering of Christ. I wish I had the power to take it all away. But instead I sit and wait. The waiting seems so long...it's not our timing. Joseph my friend, "Until Jesus' return, Satan will spew a river of evil at us, but God will protect and provide for us. He will never fail us. He will never forsake us! (Ex.15:12). We are bound for the true promise land of a new heaven and a new earth. And as God provided bread and water during the Exodus, so we eat the Bread of Life and drink from the Rock that accompanies us in our journey, and that Rock in Jesus! Avail yourselves of Jesus today! (1 Cor.10:2)". Sermon note from CCC.

The Babcocks are on our knees!

www.onthehomestretch.com said...

Your family is in my prayers.

Anonymous said...

From Chris, Aoife & Calum Tighe.

We just heard the news and want you to know that we are thinking of you all.

It's amazing to see how people rally around in such a difficult time.

Keep your chins up. - The Tighes.

Anonymous said...

I am a long-time friend of Karl and Martha Warren and have a niece in Jackson, TN. She just emailed me about this. I am so very sorry and will be praying for all of you!
Love in Christ,
Connie Walton
Corinth, MS