Later today, the plan is to insert a speaking valve onto the trachea. The doctors do not believe that he is ready to actually talk since he still in a coma, but we will be able to hear him sigh or make noises with this valve on. More on that later.
Jose, our nurse for the day, decided to shave Ryan. He looks great! He also shaved the back of his neck. We think this will be less irritating and itchy for Ryan while he has his neck brace on.
Our God is so amazing, and I can feel him blessing my life and others everywhere I go. My eyes are open to His work. The old saying, "God puts people into our lives for a reason," is represented endlessly through this journey. From our nurses to friends, family, prayer warriors, and acquaintances who now are so dear to our family's heart, to even others who we have never met. It is easy to lose faith and grow weary through this process at times, but thank goodness we've got the "big guy" on our side to hold our hand or even carry us through the valley of the shadow of death during these tribulations. I feel that the Lord knew my faith was growing a bit weary, even before I did. The Lord caught me off guard (like He usually does :) ) last night by placing two amazing people in my life. First was a homeless man asking for money; in exchange we asked for him to pray for Ryan. Without hesitation he said the most amazing prayer for Ryan's healing. Lord, I ask that you bless this sweet many Randy, and that you allow him to prosper in your faith. That he will glorify your name today and everyday forward. Another person that God put into our life was someone who I have never met but she heard about Ryan's story through social media. She has continuously followed Ryan's progress and prayed for him every step of the way. She said that she feels like she knows Ryan and is truly amazed by God's work. These words gave me new inspiration and a tangible reminder that Our Lord is using Ryan and working through him in ways that can not even be counted! Lord, we thank you for the faithfulness of others and that we KNOW your work, your blessings, and that you are SO ABLE!
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16