Friday, January 12, 2007

Time to Get Off of the Roller Coaster

These last couple
of days have felt like
a whirl wind. It's really
windy outside and it fits
the rush of things swirling
around my brain. So many
things can change in just a
few days. I struggled with
going to see Mark and taking
care of my lupus....that is until
lupus decided for me.





Mom was here for 10 days. She did all the driving
because I was sick and it seems like every where
we went germs were now multiplied and a great concern.

Daddy hasn't been alone for that many days in a long time.

Even Daisy wasn't eating!

Hubby was pulling 12-15 hour hospital shifts for almost a month now.

But this wasn't
about any of us. This was about Mark
and many things had to be laid aside,
while we all concentrated
on his healing.

Mark would have nothing to do with the death that tried to hover over him. He was proving himself to be strong and courageous...a mighty warrior, just like the meaning of his name. And the very angels themselves made sure it would be so.


If life was lived at the County Fair, my family would have been put on the Roller Coaster and not be allowed to get off. I haven't seen my husband in weeks. He comes home, eats and goes to bed. I just finished a round of cluster migraines and a small lupus flare. I am praying that I can go to the hospital today to see Mark. We have talked on the phone a few times. My mother was here for 10 days helping me and she and my lil' boho sis and boho bro will be coming back to help see Mark get healthy and love on him for awhile....me too :)

Update #25 ~ Mark has turned a corner. Within the last two days, he went from clear liquids to actual food. (Mmmmmmm...hospital food :P Who cares...he was eating. He is showing signs of nausea and the doctors don't want any of that. Things are traveling in and out fine *wink* and they are all amazed at his rapid rate of healing and recovery.

But are we?

No, because I think we just witnessed a miracle! This community of bloggers got together and unselfishly carried the burden and took on the responsibility of a stranger. The stranger in danger...and I called, my family called...and you all answered. *tears* I never even imagined this possibility, the deep potential of a support system that could be so effective without people even meeting one another. Glory to God and a very humble "THANK YOU" for all of you who saw my family and I through this. The war is not over...but we have won the biggest part of the battle and I could not feel more gratitude than I feel right now.

I have made many new friends and you all know who you are. Please continue to email me and correspond. I need a few addresses and will compile a list and ask you to email them too me.

I will continue to post updates on Mark because he is still walking around in those woods, but at least he has you for his supplies...he is equipped with your prayers, meditations, candle lighting and positive energies. He will be coming here to temporarily live as he recovers the new battles that crop up. I suppose that will greatly involve me, so I will be posting about that, as well as his progress. Today is a good day. Mark has only yet, to find out exactly why he came through this so well. His recuperation will be long, but I have plenty of material to read to him as he mends. I think hearing every one of your words will continue doing the work you sent them out to do.


:: I was just told that Mark took his first steps today! (Mind you, he still has a broken back and foot.....Go Marky Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



I love you ~~~ I love you ~~~ I love you XOXOXOXO Darlene & family

107 Comments:

Blogger Deb R said...

We love you too, sweetie. And YAY for Mark turning that corner and getting to eat some yummy hospital food! :-) Still sending loads of love and good thoughts your way~~~~~

PS...I put a small something in the mail to you this week, so hopefully it'll arrive soon.

8:20 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have goosebumbs all over, tears in my eyes. I had a job interview today and I got hired. But this...this news is just wonderful. I was in a happy mood because of the job, but I'm smiling ear to ear now, after I read this.

As long as Mark is in those woods, the candle keeps burning. Hopefully its light will travel over the ocean into the woods to help Mark see where his path is.

You are all in my prayers, and you'll stay there.

Sending much love,

xoxo Sophie

8:28 AM  
Blogger Patry Francis said...

Oh, happiness! Pure unadulterated happiness!

8:30 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dar~ What wonderful and encouraging news today!!! Solid foods!!!! From where I sit, that sounds like a BIG corner. Mark is now going to be able to start getting the nourishment that he needs to heal his body. Good good good news! :-)

I hope that you are feeling better and that you took some time to sleep and rest your weary body, even though I know that the rest is not the sound peaceful type that you actually need so desperately right now.

We will absolutely continue to circle around Mark and your family and continue to pray and send those healing vibes.

Take good care of yourself and lots of love to you...

xoxoxoxoxo

8:34 AM  
Blogger daisies said...

reading this made me smile so much ~ solid foods is a big corner to turn : )

you are all in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to send all the good healing vibes i have ...

warm hugs ...

8:39 AM  
Blogger turquoise cro said...

When I get up there is usually a song that just pops out and this morning it was that beautiful song, "I HOPE you Dance" and I'm sooo GLAD to hear all this Good News about Mark standing and eating(prayers for finding out about that nausea) and bowel sounds and Boho and Boho boy coming, hoping you will get to the hospital today! and I think we are all dancing to this wonderful news Darlene!if not on our feet, in our hearts! LOVE and prayers, xo, Cinda

8:40 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'm praising God with you! I'm including this article by Shirley Dobson because she agrees that we should pray and never give up!

In the poem “The Bridge Builder,” author Will Allen Dromgoole illustrates the impact one generation’s actions can have on the next. The touching narrative describes a conversation between a young sojourner and an elderly man who is building a bridge. The sojourner inquires why the builder is spending time on such a task when he will never pass that way again. The old man replies, “There followeth after me today a youth, whose feet must pass this way. ... Good friend, I am building the bridge for him.”

Prayer is like the bridge this old man was crafting, for through our petitions we create a spiritual link from the present to the future, hoping to ease life’s burdens and to obtain God’s guidance. When we pray, we build for the days ahead and stand in the gap for those who will follow. Our prayers make a difference now and for eternity; this is why it is imperative that we follow Jesus’ instructions to “always pray and not give up” (Luke 18:1).

I will continue to pray for your family!

- Lea

8:45 AM  
Blogger Julie said...

Hurray! I'm so glad that Mark's diet has progressed. The nutrition will undoubtedly help his healing and allow his strength to rebuild. Miracles happen, and this is one of them.

Continuing to light my candle for all of you and sending healing prayers your way.

8:47 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I know he's not out of the woods yet, but I can't help but breathe a little better hearing that he's eating and has turned that corner.

But I won't stop praying for y'all until he's running a marathon - probably not even then. Good luck and blessings on you all.

9:11 AM  
Blogger LiteraryGirl said...

YEAH YEAH YEAH! The post I have been waiting to read! I know the road is still long, but I am teary right now over this good news.

9:25 AM  
Blogger Sara said...

Excellent news Darlene. So glad things have turned. Wonderful. XX

9:43 AM  
Blogger Trish Ryan said...

Oh Wow - Praise God!!!! Yay Mark!!! That is incredible news and we will keep praying for his full recovery!!! (Somehow, exclaimation marks just aren't enough to celebrate this news!!!)

I'll also ramp up some specific prayers for your lupus, asking Jesus to heal you completely. Because after all, when you're hanging out with a miracle-working God, why not be honest and ask for it all? I will also pray for you and hubby - for some quality time reconnecting and processing this roller coaster ride, and for God to knit back together any places that are feeling a bit torn.

Bless you!!!
Much love,
Trish

9:45 AM  
Blogger winnsangels said...

Tears. Praises to God. What wonderful news. Yes, the war will continue. Blessings and angels be with your entire family, including your Mom and Dad, Daisy, everyone this affects.
Love you.
Wendy XOXOXO

9:48 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oh, how these news are good and make me feel happy. You know, now, and only now I have some tears on my face. Only now, because before, all the strength had to be in sending you good things. Thank you to have given us the chance of using our good energies. But, remember, we will be here for long, long... together.
With love !

9:59 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

just wonderful news. I am not suprized at all. The whole thing is a miracle. It's good to witness them, isn't it?

I hope you are feeling better. take care of yourself.

xox

10:05 AM  
Blogger Kristin said...

I LOVE this post! I am soooooo glad that things are looking up! I am still keeping his vigil lit even if I am the only one doing so though! (the candles burn out every 48 hours so I go and relight it every 2 days) God, and Our Love for you is as REAL as that windy you feel outside! Think of it as all of us blowing our love and concern all over and around you!


Kristin

10:08 AM  
Blogger Regina said...

Miracles do happen! I am so happy that a little ray of hope has manifested for you and your family! Your devotion to Mark will not go unrewarded- your family's will not either- we all love you and I will continue to send blessings your way...

10:12 AM  
Blogger luzie said...

Oh my God I feel like jumping up and down, smiling and crying at the same time. This was awesome news, and yay, hospital food.. apparently nutritious yet completely inedible, that's what I remember. But I'm glad Mark's on the mend.

I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers, and the special candle for you, Mark and your family will keep burning.

love and hugs
luzie xo

10:15 AM  
Blogger sandy said...

That is so great that he is eating and things are moving through his system. And..so fortunate you are to have such a helpful loving family.

I feel for you...cluster migraines....I know they can be bad..and hopefully you're over them for awhile.

I was so excited to read the progress report on Mark this morning...

10:24 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

That is fantastic news! God is so good, and I'm with you: He still performs miracles. Wheeee!! I bet hospital food never tasted so good. Now, imagine how wonderful it will be to be reunited with *salt* again, Mark. :0)
I'm so glad that you're feeling a little better, too, and will keep praying for you all.

10:40 AM  
Blogger LDahl said...

Super news! Just remember, recovery is like ocean waves on a beach... so don't freak out on the days it seems no not be going so well. He'll get to dry land yet. It sounds like your husband has been a rock.

10:44 AM  
Blogger AMY said...

That is such great news. My dad really enjoyed the mash potatoes and gravy during his long hospital stay. It was a welcomed relief from clear broth. Yea!

10:48 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

This such marvellous news, I bet that hospital food is the best banquet Mark has ever tasted. May the angels watch over you too and keep you strong.

10:55 AM  
Blogger Amber said...

Darlene, we love you too! This made me cry happy tears today. Yay! This has been a good, good day.

oxox :)

10:59 AM  
Blogger me-nikk said...

I'm with you and believe that it is TRULY AMAZING how we can all get together and support you through this crazy thing. We may not all sit on our front porches for community anymore, but we have it here. I LOVE THAT! And I love that I am part of this miraculous thing!

I still believe that Mark is well, in my heart and in my mind. I SEE IT!!! I believe in this whole heartedly, and I don't doubt for a second. I want you to see it as well. See him as well when you close your eyes before going to bed. See it as real! Believe! Believe in the miracles of God! I do! It's an amazing wonder filled thing! The things that make you LOVE life!

Good God I am so proud of all of you!!! I am so filled with love and joy for you and all of your family!

xoxoxo

10:59 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I can't even tell you what news like this has done for my day, so I can only imagine what it has done for yours!! Continued prayers.

11:00 AM  
Blogger Fran said...

GOLRY B. Thank the God and Goddess.

11:01 AM  
Blogger Sam said...

I am so glad to hear that Mark has had some positive progress. I think of you, Mark and your family often. I find myself praying for you at odd times in my day.

And I am amazed that I am praying and thinking about people I have never met, that I do not know, that I will never meet.

Thank you for sharing and updating. There is so much power in prayer and love. Miracles happen everyday-

Love,
Sam

11:41 AM  
Blogger maggiegracecreates said...

This post has made my day. When we got the news yesterday about you having to be taken to the doctors, I wasso upset. Now you can take a little better care of yourself and Mark can concentrate on the final road to healing. I will continue to pray for your family.

Have a wonderful weekend.

11:41 AM  
Blogger Juli said...

What wonderful news to find today! Mark is the man!

11:54 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

so wonderful to hear the good news about mark. each stepping stone in his recovery is like a little miracle and i am celebrating each new triumph, right along side you all, with happiness and joy!!! hooray :) be well...xo

11:59 AM  
Blogger kristen said...

Hurray! I'm so glad to hear that Mark is getting better and I hope you are starting to feel better to. Take care, this post made me smile today.

12:00 PM  
Blogger Left-handed Trees... said...

THANK YOU for this update, Darlene. SO glad to hear he has turned a corner and is making strides in his healing process. I haven't forgotten to keep sending well-wishes your way...please take care of yourself as much as you have been taking care of him! You need that devoted love too...
Love,
D.

12:13 PM  
Blogger Jack K. said...

Wow, that kid is something else. What a warrior.

He will have time to consider this event in his life to make some sense of it all. When he does, that, too, should be part of the book you are writing.

You write so well, that you should have no difficulty in getting it published.

I was just telling Maryann, my wife, of Mark's latest progress. She sends her best wishes and positive energy along too.

It is good to know you have such a good support group with your family. It is reassuring to know that they are there when needed.

I know Mark is not out of the woods yet, but he is so close, he can see the edge.

Keep on.....

serving others, caring about those you serve and sharing the love in your heart.

X's and O's back to you and the family.

12:21 PM  
Blogger Mimey said...

Rollercoasters are only fun when they are a diversion from real life. Constant emotional and physical upheaval is a surefire way to nausea, if nothing else. I'm so pleased you have something positive to report. For me, never mind what you're going through ;-) Really it hurts me to read of the pain you and your family are suffering. I don't believe in much, but I shan't turn down some miracles.

Love to you and yours, J x

12:29 PM  
Blogger Teri said...

I missed you while you were gone!! and I am SOOOOO glad to read this update!! Hallelujah!!!!

Many many hugs and kisses!

12:36 PM  
Blogger StephieAnne said...

Oh Praise the Lord - what tremendous news. I hope you are feeling better too, Darlene. I am so thankful.....

12:37 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

YAY!! This is the best lunch hour ever, to read this great news. You are right, Glory to God!! Keep going kid, don't ever give up!

I hope you are feeling much better, we pray for you too little mama!!

Can't wait to hear more good news! Just wonderful!!

Big Hugs & Kisses
Teresa

12:52 PM  
Blogger paris parfait said...

Your post brought tears to my eyes - the good news about Mark's progress, how hard you're all working to cope - I am smiling now that Mark is eating! Sending lots of positive energy and prayers to you, Mark and your family.

1:20 PM  
Blogger Jerri said...

Oh, happy day! It's sleeting and showing here in Missouri today, but your news makes me feel as though the sun is shining brightly.

Real food! Walking! These are BIG corners.

As far as the love and support from people who have not met you in person, I am reminded of the old song, "Love can build a bridge between your heart and mine. Love can build a bridge. Don't you think it's time. Don't you think it's time."

Your love for Mark built a bridge between the two of you and many new friends. May that bridge continue to support and sustain you.

love.
j

1:30 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wonderful news. So happy for you and your family. Hoping for peace and health for your entire family.

1:48 PM  
Blogger Giggles said...

Glory be to god ....is so right...I have had an email started for a while now, but need time to finish it....I am so happy I could cry!!

Love to you all....and some rest too!

Love and Hugs Sherrie

1:49 PM  
Blogger Karen Travels said...

What a beautiful, beautiful post!!

Hugs to you and him!!

Karen

2:07 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Prayers do work. Please keep up your strength because you are going to need it. Take care of yourself and try to meditate once in a while to help your body heal itself. I will keep your family in my prayers and always know that you are a hero to me and have taught me how to handle a crisis with dignity and love.

2:11 PM  
Blogger CT said...

What wonderful, positive steps forward. Still keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. x

2:28 PM  
Blogger Nic Bridges said...

I am so thrilled to hear of Mark's good progress. I will continue to send lots of good Aussie vibes to him. I am worried about you and your health tho - such a big emotional strain as you've been through can't be good. Be kind to yourself and take care.

2:29 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Alleluia and praise the Lord, indeed! I couldn't be happier if he were my own child.

God bless all of you and may Mark continue to recover and heal and may you and your family get the rest and peace that you all deserve!

Looking forward to walking in your shoes somemore!

2:39 PM  
Blogger Magicaldamselfly said...

Yes let's give God his due here....Praise Jesus!!!
As for Mark...GO MARK...YOU ROCK!!!
As for Darlene...I vote you in as numero uno MOM!!!!
And to all the rest that are praying, posting, candle lighting, meditating or whatever.....DON'T STOP!!!
They say it's not over till the fat lady sings but in this case it's not over till Mark drops in and post us an all thumbs up.

We love you Darlene,
Sheila

2:44 PM  
Blogger BJ said...

Praise Jesus! I am so happy to hear this news! The prayers are still coming and know that Mark, you and your entire family are lifted up to God. Darlene - please take care of yourself too, cause Markie is gonna need a lot of stuff from his momma when he gets home. This is the best news ever. God bless you all.

2:44 PM  
Blogger Tongue in Cheek Antiques said...

What wonderful News!! I am so happy for this moment and will prayer for more moments like this until they are one joyful ride in the park!!


Way to go Mark!!! Hang tough, You are a star!!!

2:46 PM  
Blogger ~Nancy~ said...

What wonderful, joyful news! Our God is a faithful, good God.
I continue to lift you all in prayers. Take care of yourself and remind your handsome son that many, many people have his burden on their hearts.
By the way, that picture of him looks SO much like John Travolta! (that is a compliment!)
Stay well, stay strong, and keep our prayers wrapped warmly around your heart.

2:50 PM  
Blogger bronxbt said...

darlene and fam -

so good to hear about everyone's efforts to support mark and each other during these trying times.

soooo good to hear about mark's recent turns-o-goodness.

i've never had a doubt in my mind that this combined level of energy you all created for him would fail.

i can personally say that it was the love and support from friends and family that made ME want to continue living after my horrific accident more almost 20 years ago..

hugs, more good thoughts and keep us updated.

~ B

2:52 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oh my goodness a breakthrough!!!!!
I KNEW IT WAS COMING!!!! Praise our God!!!! I'm doing the happy dance with tears running down my face!!! I can't type,gotta go share with my family!!!!!!
Go Mark Go!!! We are here!! We love you!!!!!!
Giant hugs,
Kim

3:02 PM  
Blogger Denise said...

Great post! Great news!

Tell Mark to keep up the good work!

3:13 PM  
Blogger Shaz said...

Praise God Darbs, He is our miracle for 2007 and what a joy that is. Danicka has been still ringing checking on her new found hero she has started saving for a ticket she wants to one day with your permission of course meet you both in person. She is so funny she wants to be there right now as she just adores you and our connection and also knowing that it is impossible for me to visit for quite sometime makes her want to hug you for me all the more. Return Email soon babe, glad your up to posting at least ,those clusters I know are debilitating I hated hearing that in your last email. But the corner is turning and were on our way, God Bless you xxxx

3:36 PM  
Blogger Kim G. said...

Oh Darlene! This is an answer to prayer on so many levels. I've been feeling so discouraged this week and everytime I feel weighed down, I think of you and your family and all you are going through and I think to myself, "What on earth have I got to be down about? Nothing!" It has helped me put perspective on my own life and see again how God is so faithful to hear and answer our prayers in HIS perfect timing. Please let Mark know we are continuing to cheer him on in his recovery and we'll be praying that the real meals are just a beginning to getting back to a more "normal" life and healing. Please take care of yourself and I'll be praying that your symptoms ease up soon.

YAY FOR MARK!!! HOSPITAL FOOD FOR DINNER TONIGHT!!! :)

3:41 PM  
Blogger Lisa Oceandreamer Swifka said...

my heart is soaring to learn Mark is turning corners and improving. I have cried for every piece of bad and good news to come from this. He may still be in the woods but he is there with the masses guiding his way....cutting away the branches and clearing his path. The candles lit will light the path and the quiet whispers of thoughts, prayers and healing wishes will be like lullabies.
You are loved, he is loved - sight unseen.... we don't have to have met to feel that. You are a warrior and he is a warrior and you will win this battle triumphant.
Sending you a heartfelt hug. Sending your mom hugs for coming to take care of precious you. Sending your husband hugs for showing how strong a dad's love is. Sending gentle hugs to Mark to let him know he matters even to strangers and sending love to all of you!
XOXOXO Dearest Darlene
Lisa

4:00 PM  
Blogger Uber Mer said...

Oh my, I'm crying I'm so happy! I'm so happy. You're still in my family's thoughts and prayers. I know Mark will and is getting through this.

Be well. xoxo Meridith

4:16 PM  
Blogger Colorsonmymind said...

Oh this is such wonderful news Darlene!

You look so beautiful-especially in the last photo.

I think and pray and dance for you every day-every single one-because you and your family are special to my heart.

I hope you are feeling better soon my dear. It must have been awful to have a flare up now-ever-but especially now.

You are strong and resilient as is Mark.

So loving you from here
XOXOXOXI

4:26 PM  
Blogger Yolanda said...

Darlene,
I have been checking daily to see how you both are doing and keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers. I know from personal experience with my family how hard it is and how stressful for all of you.
I have been keeping you all in my prayers.
I knew from the very beginning he would turn the corner he is a strong your man and though the journey will be hard he and all of you will make me. If you will email me with your address I have something I would like to send to you .
From a nursing perspective. Solid foods and passing gas are really big deals.
Sending you all loads of love and hugs .

4:41 PM  
Blogger Julie H said...

Darlene I am so happy for you. How wonderful that your family are able to come around you. I am thrilled that Mark is managing food. In Australia the Dial-a-Pizza companies deliver to hospitals - I know from experience. I 'll shout Mark one when he is up to it, just send me your address.

Take time to get fully better yourself too Darlene. Big hugs to you and to your family.

4:45 PM  
Blogger Deirdre said...

Oh, this is all good news. You've all done so well.

5:02 PM  
Blogger Becca said...

This wonderful news made my night! What a relief for all of you, that Mark has made these positive steps.

His (and your family's) courage during this whole ordeal has been a lesson for all of us. I feel priveleged that you shared this horrifying journey, and amazed at the way people have united in their prayers and hopes for Mark.

You are all an inspiration!

5:22 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

wonderful news, darlene. i am happy for you and jay and for mark. holding you all in our hearts and praying as always, poet.

5:25 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Darlene, so pleased to hear of Mark's progress. i hope everyone in your lovely family can catch their breath a little. i know there's a long haul ahead but it's a different kind of journey than the one you've been travelling on for the past few weeks. Mark's strength and his family's love and support will make good things happen.
take care,
amy

5:28 PM  
Blogger Vanessa said...

I can't stop smiling now! It is soooo good to find you here again. And to hear -from you- that Mark is improving so wonderfully. I guess I HAVE to believe in miracles now, right?
His strength and willpower will never cease to amaze me. We are with him every step of the way.
Take care. I'm rooting for all of you. All the time.
Vanessa

5:30 PM  
Blogger Joyce Ellen Davis said...

YEA! So very glad to hear this good news! Blessings on all of you!

5:46 PM  
Blogger Triller said...

Oh Darlene! I am so happy to read your words today! Prayers and good thoughts continue that having taken this first step he will soon walk out of the woods and be on the road to recovery!

Love surrounding you all...
Patty

6:14 PM  
Blogger me said...

I am so glad that there is good news to hear! I think about your son and your family all the time. I will continue to pray! Glory to God, He is a merciful, good , and loving God and worthy to be praised! Continue to praise Him!!!
sending love and prayers from Oklahoma

6:27 PM  
Blogger chulita4 said...

This is the best news I could possibly have heard!! Glory be to GOD, definitely! I know this will be a long, long recovery for Mark and the time will also stretch for you and all the family, but he is going to pull through this. His life will definitely be different, but so much more stronger and wiser. I truly believe GOD has a special plan for him. I will continue lighting candles for his recovery because I know everyone's positive energy has and is reaching him. I will also keep a candle going for you--for your health so you can be there for him as much as your health can allow. GOD Bless you all and take good care of yourself.

Much love to you all.
xoxo

6:51 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What wonderful news! I'm continuing to root for both of you!

7:29 PM  
Blogger Deborah said...

YEAH!!!!!!!! Way to go Mark!! We knew you could do it {grin}
Yes, there is still a long way to go, but this is such good news!

And dearest Dar, I'm so glad that you are recovering from your latest bout well enough to update us on this brilliant news. I'm so sorry your body has been going through hell lately ... love and healing thoughts to you as well, my dear.

To all of you, your entire family, our love and support surround you.

Much love, JanePoe (and her Footpad)

7:38 PM  
Blogger JP (mom) said...

YEAH!!!!!!!! Way to go Mark!! We knew you could do it {grin}
Yes, there is still a long way to go, but this is such good news!

And dearest Dar, I'm so glad that you are recovering from your latest bout well enough to update us on this brilliant news. I'm so sorry your body has been going through hell lately ... love and healing thoughts to you as well, my dear.

To all of you, your entire family, our love and support surround you.

Much love, JanePoe (and her Footpad)

7:40 PM  
Blogger Alex S said...

There arren't words for how happy I am to read this post. I feel like I have come to know you and your family through these past harrowing weeks, and having spent a lot of time in hospitals myself when both my mom and especially my dad have been ill, my heart has just ached for your suffering but I genuinely believe having such a wonderful mother & father and an obviously extraordinary spirit and strength has been the deciding factor and while I know there will be setbacks for him and a long road he clearly is on a beautiful path and meant for grand things in his life. I'm sending all of you huge hugs and love. And I'm sending you extra love just for you that your body be healthy and strong and healing.

7:42 PM  
Blogger awareness said...

Wonderful news about Mark! I hadn't been able to visit your site for most of the week............... amazing improvement. Bravo!!

Take good care of yourself now Darlene....... hope the lupus goes back into hiding.....

7:42 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am so very happy for you!
It is truly awesome news!
Take good care of yourself and Mark.

Best wishes,

John
north Idaho

8:12 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am so happy for you and Mark and the rest of your family. It is great news. Thank you for posting all the updates in the midst of so much worry. Still sending my positive vibes.

8:44 PM  
Blogger gerry rosser said...

It's so nice to hear something good and positive about Mark.
Not done carrying around positive thoughts, I realize there is a long road ahead.

9:13 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am SO HAPPY for you! It is time to do a Happy dance! He is starting to eat! To take steps!
This is Great News!

:-D

9:41 PM  
Blogger Laini Taylor said...

Oh Darlene, I am so so so so so so so so SO glad to hear the good news! Wow, the strength of youth -- to be WALKING with a broken back and ankle!! Yay, Mark!! Keep it up!! Hope you're feeling better too, Darlene. Happy happy happy vibes coming your way!

10:10 PM  
Blogger Michelle O'Neil said...

Awesome!

Smiles all around!

: )

Love.

10:19 PM  
Blogger Pink Granite said...

Tears of joy and gratitude!
What a beautiful family!
What wonderful news!

Still holding you ALL in our thoughts and wishing you ALL peace and good health!

- Lee

12:22 AM  
Blogger me-nikk said...

Darlene,

I have added a little "honor" for you on my own site. I hope that you don't mind. Mark, you and your family have been an inspiration to me... and I'm sure many others!

xoxoxo

1:10 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

He walked?! Wow...he's such a strong person!!

Love the new photo of you that's up, made me smile :)

Hope you're having sweet dreams while i type this.

xoxo Sophie

3:31 AM  
Blogger Gill said...

I am so glad that Mark is eating...he truly is a warrior. What a strong person to physically fight this!
You changed your profile photo, it is absolutely stunning. Beautiful!!!
God bless you all and we will continue our vigil. Of course!!!!

5:11 AM  
Blogger Susannah Conway said...

oh sweetheart, i am so happy to read this post - go MARK! walking and eating? oh MY! he is a true warrior... feeling so proud right now

:-) love you xxoo

5:13 AM  
Blogger Sheila said...

Great news about Mark, I'm so pleased to read this..!
Sending blessings and light to your extended family members also..

5:13 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My wife Patry has been filling me in day to day on your son's recovery and I am so happy to hear that he is making progress. I just wanted to let you know we have been praying for him at masses in our parish.
God Bless,
Deacon Ted

5:26 AM  
Blogger EllyJane said...

i have goosebumps.
i am so, so happy to hear that things are going well.
they say that there is power in prayer...

5:32 AM  
Blogger angelfeet said...

What joyful news! Go, Mark!

5:51 AM  
Blogger Sauntering Soul said...

The prayers of many, many people are being answered. This is such wonderful news!

You and your family are truly a source of so much inspiration in so many ways to me. Thank you for sharing your journey.

Beverly

7:25 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

oh'..gosh..just wonderful...

Luxie

7:27 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Utterly tickled things are making the turn! It is a great and wonderful feeling. So glad to know my prayers, along with so many others, has brought this miracle. I will keep praying until you, Mark and your family no longer need it.

8:09 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Grazie a Dio, what lovely, LOVELY news! I feel like one of my own loved ones has turned a corner, such is the strength of the concern I've shared over Mark. Thank goodness for a loving God, a host of angels, a warm and loving family Mark has, many in-person friends, and your internet friends, and most of all for a strong warrior like Mark who keeps fighting. I keep praying that this progress will continue. Sharing your joy!

Ciao,
Dee

9:19 AM  
Blogger Georgia said...

I am completely happy now:)

Great news to start the day off with.

xoxo
Georgia

9:59 AM  
Blogger Visual-Voice said...

This is the first time I've hit your blog, which I found via Be Present Be Here. I've read every one of your entries dating back to the accident and am floored by your courage, your love, your honesty and your faith. I'll be holding you, Mark and your family in the light for many days to come. Blessings and gratitude for Mark's progress. You're an amazing woman with an amazing son.

10:10 AM  
Blogger sandy said...

Blessings to Leonard and to Mark today and..heck, to all of you...and in addition...to all of us...It's time to let this weary old world be transformed into what it really can be. Suffering and pain is on its' way out...yup, that's my knowingness today.

Amen.

dd/sandy

10:36 AM  
Blogger turquoise cro said...

LOVE and prayers for Mark and Leonard, their Dr.s and nurses and all of us here! and everywhere and beyond! All you need is LOVE! I LOVE that update of your pic, O! so happy to seeeeeeee that smile Darlene! Beauty Full! xoxoxox, Cinda

11:49 AM  
Blogger Gena said...

This has made my day Darlene! Oh wonderful news! I could not be happier for you all! But please remember to take care of yourself and poor Hubby,it has been such a hard time for you both, I continue to hold you all in my prayers.xxxxx

12:01 PM  
Blogger Libbys Blog said...

I am back out from my op! What news to return too!! I am so pleased you have turned the corner, but am still with you in thought!!!!

12:38 PM  
Blogger Dot said...

I am crying tears of joy for you Darlene. That Mark has turned a corner.

This is such WONDERFUL news!

Will continue to pray for him and for all of you.

Much love

Dotee xoxo

1:11 PM  
Blogger angela said...

Darlene: You rock!

Mark: You're a hero!
Hugs,
Angela

3:13 PM  
Blogger angela said...

Me again. I don't have Outlook express enabled here, Darlene.
If you'd like to be in touch please just mail me through the email on my profile.
Hugs again
Angela

3:16 PM  
Blogger bee said...

i am sooooooo happy to read this darlene! happy for everyone! i am singing and running around and laughing and a weight has lifted off my heart. because if you are my other mommy then mark is my brother...can you tell him that i am soso proud of him? that he IS a warrior, but the best kind - a gentle, loving one? oooh, love to your family.

(HUGS)
(PRAYERS)

4:56 PM  
Blogger FishFam said...

Wonderful news!! I am glad to read that you are feeling better.

You are amazing and Mark is amazing. Amazing!!!

5:42 PM  
Blogger Gracey said...

Praise God for He is the Great Physician!!! I am so happy that Mark is doing so well and is finally able to eat even if it is hospital food. Everything about Mark is a miracle and I have my mom and her church praying for you all too....I can't wait to let her know the great news!

We'll be praying for you with the lupus flares. I used to work for a doctor that treated many patients with lupus. I have a feeling through those patients just how hard it is to go through. Keep strong and I love the picture of you....great to see you smiling!!

6:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Love you, too, Dars. Still holding you all in my heart and praying for more miracles!
Many Blessings still to come...

Suze xXx

5:24 AM  

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