Sunday, August 10, 2008

Heart to Home

Hello Friends: I busted out of the hospital this afternoon and am now conquering recovery at home.

I was overcome really quickly with the fact that going home doesnt mean returning to full life and activity. I am still a patient. . just with a much more comfortable view (and better TV). I will share in full vulnerability that the limitations at this point are emotionally more difficult than anything. Today was a good day for probably a long past due cry.

Trying to get all the drugs organized alone was like that Online Jewelquest game - lots of colors and shapes.

We will begin to ask for what you have offered: grocery runs - little things that just come to mind that seem to make all that live here sighing with the on going " I didnt even think of that" response. we all feel a bit of sadness.. My supervision is still 24/7 for 7 full days. I'm certain that everyone that lives here must feel some sadness because this event alters all of our lives.

The email and cell phone will remain on "away". I will embrace this time as sabbath for body, mind, and spirit. Thank you for understanding and receiving our need for on going privacy and healing . . . I know that soon I will be up to deeper conversation and interaction. .. This introvert however, will probably have to do a lot of "processing" and God Talk in the days to come. Oh God what will you yet do? Anticipation fills me with such great hope.

Psalm 130:5
I am counting on the Lord;yes, I am counting on him.I have put my hope in his word.


You must know that your words here, your cards and notes have been healing balm, moments of smiles, and have encouraged my heart deeply.

I am so grateful to God for the Gift of YOU!

13 comments:

Karen R. said...

I am so happy that you are home. I know it's probably even a little bit scary! Take it easy. I can be there in a moment's notice and boy do I know my way around the grocery! I can make a mean pot roast. Love you Tammy Jo. I know letting people take care of you doesn't come naturally.

Linda N said...

Tammy Jo, if you need any help on the medical front or home front I am just a phone call away. Cardiology isn't my specialty but recovering from surgery is and if you have a question I will do whatever I can to help. Am available in the mornings and all day Thursday. My phone works 24/7. 312-6029. Take care and relax. Badmiton isn't too bad to watch. Love, Linda Nix

benjisayre said...

Tammy Jo, glad to hear you've made it home. We've been praying for your recovery. I look forward to the stories. I pray your God time is fruitful. --Benji

Lynne M said...

Hey Tammy Jo, We are celebrating answered prayer in your arrival home and also continuing to ask for your speedy and complete recovery.

We are so grateful for this amazing use of technology which allows us to share testimony to the goodness of God and strengthens our faith through your messages. Rest and peace for you as you heal.

sue bugg said...

I have been praying for you since I learned of your surgery. I am so happy to hear you are home. Please,please take the time you need to recuperate and re-energize. My mom had to have a valve replaced several years ago. She had it done by the same surgeon as you had. He's an awesome surgeon. She did great. I do remember that it took alot more recuperating than she was prepared for. Please take it easy, take care of Tammy Jo and remember you are loved by so very many people.
God is so good!!
Please call if you need anything.
You are in my thoughts and prayers daily. Take care of YOU!!!! Love you girl.

alan_c said...

Tammi Jo: I rejoice that you are now at home and thankful you realize you are still a patient. If I can help with pastoral care coverage or provide pastoral care to you, I would happily do so. Peace and more peace.

Dick Coldwell said...

Yo Tammy Jo:

Home again, home again jo-ggity-jo-g. From one closet introvert to another enjoy the quiet time to refresh mind, body, and spirit. I'm going on vacation with Terri to D.C. to help get our new Captain in the Army settled into her apartment as she starts her PsyD program internship at Walter Reed. If you need a good laugh imagine me putting IKEA furniture together which I will be.

We used the youtube video of 'sufficient' on Sunday morning in our contemporary service and I shared a little bit of your story in a sermon on Paul and Silas singing anyway, despite the circumstances. I told them that someday when I grow up in faith I want to be just like you.

You are blest and a blessing,
Dick

Pastor Heather said...

TJ,

I felt a tear trickle down my cheek thinking of you and your faithfulness. I walked my dad through this whole process that you are walking 5 years ago and I understand where you are right now. PLEEZ call me if you need anything...even a shoulder to cry on or an understanding, litening ear (or just a different set of ears and new voice!!) 305-6717. I can't wait to see you (don't worry, I'll wait until you say it's OK!!). Know that we continue to keep you in prayer. Take this time for yourself as you give so much of yourself to the world around you!!!

Love, Heather

e crawford said...

TJ, 7 days of supervision by your family-- I guess they don't want you to get the olympic spirit too much and run out and compete in a marathon, jump on the balance beam, and swim the 100 meters. Hey... what is up with the sport of handball?- I don't get it. Please call me if you need help with anything- I work part time and am rather flexible (you know- sitting around and eating bon-bons and doing my nails). To leave you with a quote---- The hilltop hour would not be half so sweet if there were no dark valleys to traverse. Helen Keller. Love you my dear friend, Emily

Unknown said...

1. You are one of my favorites. Given.
2. I am so thankful you are home and healing. Not that I wasn't thankful that you were in the hospital and healing. Basically, thanks for getting a new heart wherever you are.
3. If you need anyone to sit with you and just be there, let me know I happen to be skilled at sitting. Even at odd hours- I have memorized the TV guide channel too- just something extra I bring to the table.
4. All that aside- know you are loved deeply and held in prayer constantly. My heart prays for yours continually. How GOOD is our God for blessing me with a friend, mentor, colleague, pastor, teacher and sister that is YOU. May your life be overcome by such blessings as you recieve back all the love that you have extended to so many.
5. Hope you enjoyed my use of enumeration in this post. Some say laughter is the best medicine.. second to that I think is list making ;)

Love you,
MR

Anonymous said...

TJ - We have been talking (and PRAYING) behind your back with NextGen group. Thanking God for your recovery.

I am available to preach Aug 24, Sept 21, 28 - just say when and I am there!
Love, Jay Moyers

Rev. Becky Piatt said...

Tammy Jo,

My prayers and love are with you always. When you are ready to laugh and have a "play-date" with a kindred recovering Nancy N. just say the word! Love you and I KNOW that you are feeling all of the prayers sent your way. Peace to you, sister.

Anonymous said...

Tammy Jo, so glad to hear that you are getting settled in well at home. Remeber, recuperation is a process, step-by-step. You have a lot of people ready to help, instruct, and encourage. Be quick to ALLOW them to do their work, as you do yours. Our prayers have been with you.