We talked with Philip’s doctor last Wednesday about moving him into the Children’s Center. We didn’t know what to expect about how in-depth that conversation would be, but it turns out it wasn’t too detailed. We knew that Philip’s condition would qualify him for admission, but we wanted to discuss the timing, since God has been impressing on us for several months that this is the next step in Philip’s care.
The doctor explained the bed system there at the Children’s Center—some beds are for long-term care, some for short-term (1-3 months), and some for respite care (30 days). Philip will be in long-term care. Since the Children’s Center just opened a new tower with 4 floors, we expected they probably had plenty of beds available for admissions, but they actually moved patients into the new facility and are currently remodeling the older building. The only curve ball we weren’t quite expecting out of the conversation was the info that there may be a waiting list. In a conversation later in the day with the case manager who handles the logistics of these admissions, she indicated it would probably not be a waiting list of months, but possibly weeks. A team of doctors, administrators and staff meet on Mondays to discuss timeline and placement of new individuals that will be admitted. We may know a more specific date by later this week, but still believe that Philip will likely be able to move in before 2018. If possible, we would like to keep him home through his 8th birthday next Sunday, and then make the transition to the Children’s Center after Tuesday, December 19, during my husband’s vacation. Please pray with us about the Lord’s perfect timing. If we find out he will move in next week then this week will be full of preparations. We fully believe that this move for Philip will enable him to have better, and more consistent care than we are able to provide at home. Even though we know God has worked out the timing just right, and we have talked about this move for several years, there are still some tears and sorrow that will accompany Philip’s moving. However, despite the uncertainty surrounding Philip and Joyanna, there is joy, grace and a peace that passes all understanding.
The second prayer request has to do with Joyanna. This week is where the rubber meets the road regarding her infusion and the insurance change. We have filed for continuity of care but have no idea if that will be processed and approved by Wednesday, when she is scheduled for another infusion. The continuity of care will only temporarily approve it until the actual approval process goes through. We know God has a plan regarding this but we must wait to see what it is. Of course, if His answer is “No” we’ll still trust Him, but will need to process the next step for her and ourselves. Pray for His peace, grace, and perfect will.
Here’s my favorite verse when these times come: Psalm 61:2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the ROCK that is higher than I. (emphasis mine)
Here also is one of our favorite songs. I can’t remember if I’ve posted it before but it’s worth repeating.
He Who Holds Us In His Hands
When God says no to you, it’s such a blow to you, when all your hopes and dreams unravel at the seams
When God says wait to you, and God seems late to you, it’s hard to rest within His will, it’s hard to trust and just be still, it’s hard to simply wait until it’s all made plain.
He who holds us in His hands, has no problems only plans, He who has control of all, sees the smallest sparrow fall
He who works where no one knows, does not sleep as we suppose, but works in all things, both great and small things, for His own glory and our best good.
When God works silently, in ways we cannot see, when troubles multiply so that we ache inside
When God does not seem kind, and hope is hard to find, it’s hard to rest within His will, it’s hard to trust and just be still, it’s hard to simply wait until it’s all made plain.
He who holds us in His hands, has no problems only plans, He who has control of all, sees the smallest sparrow fall
He who works where no one knows, does not sleep as we suppose, but works in all things, both great and small things, for His own glory and our best good.
For His own glory and our best good!
(Composer: Bryan Jeffery Leech)