The
doctors have told Joan (Karl's mom) that she has
less than a month to live and there is nothing more
they can do.
NOTE:
Update since this email was sent out a few hours
ago...Joan
has not woken up today and the hospice nurse feels
her time is very short. Karl has booked a flight
back to Omaha for tomorrow (February 23rd).
Joan had to be taken to ER last Monday and after
several tests it was determined that the cancer
in her liver had taken over. They
drained almost 2 liters of fluid off her abdomen,
and she was given antibiotics for phenomena in her
lungs.
They
dismissed her from the hospital on Wednesday afternoon
to hospice in her home where Dave and other family
members are caring for her. She is very weak - resting
now and mostly comfortable.
She
has fought this cancer battle so well and for so
long. We are all incredibly proud of her. She remains
her sweet self, always concerned about others and
not wanting to inconvenience anyone.
We will hold on to Jesus. Although deeply grieved,
we know His ways are perfect, His timing is impeccable
and His plans are incredibly good. Right now the
days feel dark, but we will carry in our hearts
the Sunny Days (see
photos of last summer with Karl's parents).
The
plan: Karl will get on a plane to America
tomorrow and will arrive in America on Monday. (although
Julie and the girls will remain in Africa). We are
grateful for friends helping to buy this emergency
plane ticket.
A
message from Dave: "Thank you for
your many, many prayers, letters, cards, emails,
texts, and warm wishes. Treasure those near you
and give them an extra hug."
Please
pray: Most importantly…please pray
Karl makes it back in time to be with his mom before
she passes. With all 3 of his grandparents who have
died – he just missed being there (or even
talking to them on the phone) before their passing
and it was very difficult for him not to get to
say that final good bye. This is so important for
Karl. Please pray
that she is able to wait for Karl to get back to
her.
What
you can do: Being so far from his mom,
the best thing you can do for Karl is support his
parents right now. Please send cards or emails of
encouragement to Dave and Joan at...
Dave
and Joan Ostrand
4951 S 178th St.
Omaha NE 68135
Email:
ostrandj@yahoo.com
Thank
you for your unending love and truly amazing support,
as we walk this journey together.
