August 10, 2015, a date etched in my mind. The day of my
open heart surgery for aortic valve replacement and repair/replacement of the
ascending aortic aneurysm. The first day on my road to recovery from a failing
valve and growing aneurysm. I can’t believe it is already August 10 again!
As I reflect on the past 13 months, memories of preparation
for surgery, going through surgery, learning to live with limited movement for
several weeks, regaining strength, healing from pericarditis and cardiac rehabilitation
work all swirl through my mind. And overriding it is the
realization, “All is
well.”
My brief time in the hospital for surgery and four nights
after surgery was filled with learning…
 |
| day 2 post op |
My early days at home were filled with wonder that I could
be THAT tired so easily, that I needed to rest THAT much and that I was prayed
for by THAT many people. The words of encouragement and assurance of prayer
poured in from around the world. Our WGM family, African friends and many
others assured us they were traveling the road of recovery with us. Christine
and I were strengthened and encouraged.
The onset of fever was an enigma to many, but perseverance
in pursuing the cause led to proper treatment for pericarditis, a common
occurrence following heart surgery. The right drug brought rapid relief. I was
able to work hard in my cardiac rehabilitation classes and my recovery
continued on a steady course from there onward.
 |
| 3 mos post op |
Four months after surgery Christine and I boarded the plane
to carry us home to Uganda. We arrived in Kampala December 31, an hour or so
before midnight. On our way home from the airport, just as we crested the hill
into Kampala, the clock struck midnight and the fireworks
went off all over the city. We could see them all around as. Our hearts
exclaimed, “All of Kampala is celebrating God’s faithfulness with us, His
goodness to see us home to Kampala!”
We continue to proclaim God’s faithfulness. Surely, the
Living God is among us! We rejoice in His provision for our return. His healing
touch restored me fully. All is well.
Today, August 10, 2016, Christine and I are taking the day
as Sabbath rest. Time to reflect, time to praise our God, time to rejoice in
God’s faithfulness. We are remembering His provision through His people.
Prayer, meals, words of encouragement, cards, text messages, hugs (very gently
at first), housing, help at every turn. The Body of Christ ministered to us. All
is well.
I am fine. I have no restrictions. I feel good. I play
basketball for a couple of hours once a week. I completed my first run/walk 5K.
I have no problem walking the hills of Kampala, Uganda. I work hard and I play
hard. I am fine. All is well. And I am forever grateful.
Jeff
