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A much belated, brief update on Gail. Update 7 -- 97-10-26

Two months ago Gail was in a coma hooked up to tubes and catheters. One month ago she was off of the tubes, but unable to walk, speak more than a few words, write, read or move her right side. Now she is able to move her right hand and right leg! Though unable to use either functionally, it is still a wonderful shock to see them move. Also, she is able to read and write a few words (amazing!) which has been a terrific help in communicating. Her spirit is strong, her smile glorious, and her heart grateful.

Both Marta (16) and Rachel (12) are incredible. They've been a tremendous help to their mother and me. Both are habitually cheerful and positive. As always, they bring an overwhelming joy to our lives daily. Gail's folks, Ludy and Rose Massie, and my folks, Gene and Billie Fenter, rotate every few weeks through the "Grandparents Apartment." This week my folks are here. Golf Course Road has been, well, fabulous. We are constantly buoyed by prayers, gifts, food and love notes.

I've been home with Gail since late July and have taken a six-week sabbatical from preaching. I start again this week. No pressure from our shepherds to start again, but a personal decision that Gail and I have made. Gail has improved so much that I took a three day trip with John Featherston to Ruidoso. Marci White, a good friend who is a nurse, stayed with Gail during the nights while my folks were here during the day. I've returned refreshed and ready to go again.

This week we returned to Dallas for another evaluation and probable experimental chemotherapy. Gail took the first round of this new drug, temozolomide, in August, was too weak in September, and a second round in October. We feel strongly that she'll be able to begin another round next week. The normal routine is five days of treatments (taken orally) and then off for twenty six days. Gail is eager to take another round. (She has no memory of the first round in August, but did well with the last round.)

Thank you for your constant prayers and friendship. We are blessed, blessed.

Randy, Gail, Marta and Rachel


P.S. If you post on the web page or write back via e-mail, both Marta and Rachel always appreciate getting mentioned by name. Don't we all?