A partial record of blessings received

I would not wish the car accident that Jane and I were part of on anybody. Cathleen has maintained a hospital vigil 24x7 since Tuesday afternoon, while I've divided my time between hospital and home. Son Thomas is caught in the middle, but struggling mightily to rise to the occasion. And the whole experience continues to open our eyes to so much grace, it's humbling.

Cathleen and I were talking about a thank-you list for all the people who have pitched in to help us. I think that's a great idea, but wanted also to take it a step further, and write out at least a partial list of blessings as they occur to me. I am blind to so much. I misunderstand even more. But I have been moved beyond words by these things, and perhaps posting them publicly might help others to see similarly in some small way. If it's not your cup of tea, I do understand. But I believe in angels, in grace, and in the love of God. I see all of that now more than I did before. Jane is an instrument of that confidence, bless her sweet heart, but she's only one of many.

Off the top of my head:

• The accident was on a bridge, but neither car went over the guardrail to the highway below.
• The first person who stopped and tried to render assistance to Jane and me was a nurse.
• Police and paramedics arrived quickly.
• Ambulances took my daughter and me to what is arguably the best trauma center in the state.
• Thomas and Cathleen were not in the car and so were not hurt.
• Dozens of friends have been asking how they can help-- and helping. I came home tonight to find dishes done, and dinner waiting. The family dogs had been walked twice, by different people.
• Cathleen was with Jane when she talked for the first time since the accident.
• Jane can now breathe without the ventilator.
• The doctor who pulled glass out of my arm came looking for me the next day even though he was off duty and the Pediatric ICU is a long way away from his normal haunts in the Emergency Room.
• One of our neighbors works in the hospital cafeteria.
• Jane got a visit from her school principal yesterday even though they've been on summer break for several weeks now.
• There are friends we can call day or night.
• Jane sat up in bed this afternoon, and without opening her eyes, said clear as day "I want a shower." When Cathleen asked "Do you remember Sophia?," Jane said "Sophia is my puppy."
• My co-workers have been temendously supportive.
• My wife's co-workers have been tremendously supportive.
• My glasses flew off my head and are scratched but still usable, which means I can visit my daughter instead of trying to get to the optometrist first thing.
• An intact family makes a wonderful Fathers' Day present.
• We're on prayer chains all over the place.

We're told that recovery from brain injury is a slow process, and we believe that. But we continue to be encouraged and inspired. If you're praying for us, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Please keep doing that.