Monday, October 29, 2007

A New Week...

Well, as we all are aware it has been a very stressful couple of weeks, but now the immediacy has passed and it's time to take a breath and go on. I spoke with Sissy at length about the funeral on Saturday. My husband and I could not attend due to distance and the fact that while my spirit is only about 25, my body only 59, recent health issues put me at closer to 80. I lived and worked hard and while attempting to trim pecan trees, apparently broke a few things in my neck when falling out of one. (I was 54 going on 18 at the time.) It took a bit to manafest itself, but on June 8th 2003, (after the triple bypass surgery I had on December 21 2002) I found myself quite suddenly paralyzed from the neck down. After the sudden hurried ambulance trip to Florence, SC, I was seen by Neurologist who assured me while I would never walk again, he could get me motor function from the waist up but it would require immediate emergency surgery. So, I had the surgery and no one was more shocked than he was when I managed to walk from the hospital...haltingly, to be sure...but I walked none the less. That is why my faith in God is so strong. I know my family and friends were praying for me, but more importantly, He gave me a strong determination and will to prevail over diversity. I don't travel long distances because I still have severe nerve damage and can only sit that still (as a car trip) for about an hour and it's like having to learn to walk all over again. After such a close brush myself, I had such hope for Joey but the injuries were so far beyond what the doctors could do. And so God answered the prayer, what's best for Joey. Sissy tells me that they had to stop traffic on Interstate 65 there were so many cars in the funeral procession. We both saw Joey in our minds eye laughing at the thought of traffic coming to a halt for him. He was such a daredevil that I am sure I'm not the only one who was shocked by his death. We pictured him going out bungey jumping or racing. He kept in touch with every friend he had ever made, I think. If he had been able to, he would have kept in touch with you, too. So, our friends, we thank you. His family is doing what other families do everywhere after the loss of a love one. They're picking up the pieces and going on. It's all we can do, after all. Be assured that your kind thoughts and prayers helped Karen so much and it's something she will look over and read now and be able to see just how many people were in her corner, pulling out all the stops for her Joey.

12 comments:

Unknown said...

Hi Sandi,

I'm a blogging friend of Kari's and stopped by for an update. Thanks so much for letting us know. And my, what trauma you have been through. That story sounds like a miracle. I have back issues so I know how sometimes it puts a stop to things you want to do. Take care and know that you all have been in my prayers.

Mockingbird Hill said...

Sandi...! We just never know what curves (or breaks) will be thrown our way, but you KNOW there was someone up there watching out for you and now Joey's there for you , too! It's just stinky when our minds don't match the bodies..who is that old lady in the mirror? Oh, crap...it's me.
Special love to you and Kari..you are in my thoughts. :) Cassie

kari and kijsa said...

Your post brings us back to our Phillipians scripture we posted yesterday. Thank you for your warm words and testimony.

Prayers abundantly,
kari & kijsa

Sandy McTier Designs said...

Just stopped by to let you know I was thinking about you and praying for your entire family.
Have a wonderful week.
Blessings,
Sandy

Susie Q said...

You really are a miracle dear Sandi. I am so honored to know you.
I feel this way often as well...I wonder how this young spirit got into this achy , overweight 51 year old's body!
Please know you and Kari and ALL of Joey's family have been in my thoughts. I continue to send you all warm hugs.
Blessings to you dear heart...

Sue

Tammy said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your health problems, but I know you were with them all in heart and spirit!

I'm glad there was a good turn out for his funeral, I'm sure he and his little family was very well loved!

You take care and have a Peace filled day!
(((hugs)))

Carol said...

Hi Sandi,
Thank God you are a strong person.
Sharing your experiance makes my problems seem inconsequential.
On a differnet note,
You have me sussed then...
Well I have a little treat especially for you.
It took a long time so I hope that you enjoy it.
x

Country Cottage Chic said...

Sandi - just to let you know that I am still thinking of you all. It must have been hard not to be able to go but I'm sure you were there in spirit.

So glad you were able to overcome your injuries.

Wanda @ Just Vintage said...

Sandi,

When we see the miracles, such as yours, God performs and we know, "By His stripes we are healed", it's difficult to accept that the healing didn't come this time. We always wonder why?

I know you wish you could have gone, but be thankful you could even consider it after the prognosis you overcame!

Justabeachkat said...

Wow Sandi, I didn't know about your accident and your miracle of walking again. Our God is so awesome! That's an amazing story.

I'll continue to pray for Joey's entire family and all of his friends.

Hugs!
Kat

Abbie said...

Aunt Sandie, you are one heck of a woman.
Your family is always in my thoughts.

Sophie Honeysuckle said...

Sandi, the first thing I did when I got home was to check for news of Joey, and I was devastated by the news. I lit a candle for him in the Duomo, and said a special prayer, and just wanted to let you know that I'll be praying for all your family, and especially Karen and the kids xxxx