One week makes one weak.

So Jen is still in the hospital.  It was a week ago today that she was admitted.  The physicians remain a little perplexed as to why she is still throwing up (among other things that we don’t need to mention, except that I just did).  Earlier in the week, the physicians began treating her for adrenal gland insufficiency.  And just for fun they added more steroids to the mix.  She’s had an abdominal X-ray and a GI scope thus far, and today she had an abdominal scan.  Couple that with a few IV bags of Magnesium and Phosphorus, and it’s safe to say her body is weak from all of this.  The doctors are ultimately trying to determine what’s causing the vomiting and diarrhea (oops I said it out loud).  As Jen said, it’s opposite day.  What needs to come out stays in and what needs to stay in comes out.

The good news is that Lincoln has frequented the hospital and even spent the night last night with Jen.

We, at the aforementioned Four Seasons, call this the corner floor suite.

Dr. Osborne prescribed a little family time and suggested that Scott, Jen & Linc watch a movie together in the hospital bed.  He was happy to be with Jen, and even tried to feed her dinner (we didn’t feel it was necessary to tell him that outside food gets delivered each day and no one really eats what is underneath that mysterious plastic dome).

Movie night thankfully included a shake and some snuggle time with mama.  Who needs buttered popcorn when you have that?  (I’m praying that you can’t see me raising my hand.)

This picture needs a moment.  Unbelievably moving.

As difficult as this is on the big people, little Lincoln is definitely feeling the effects of not having Jen around.  We are comforted only by knowing that God holds this precious boy in the palm of His hands.  Even in the darkest moments.  The Clouse trio is having some good quality family time at the hospital to ease the burden on Lincoln, but as you can imagine it’s challenging trying to entertain a 4 year old in a hospital room.  Thank you for your continued prayers for this little man (they paid extra for the wall vent in the suite for those of you wondering).

The other good news is she went for a little walk yesterday and got a dose of sunshine (albeit the chilly kind).  It was probably my most favorite memory this week.  To see her breathe fresh air and feel the wind on her face was priceless.  We giggled, though, because as hard as you try to pretend like things are normal, there’s always THIS little companion to remind you otherwise.

I feel like a broken record when I tell you that your prayers are greatly appreciated.  But they are.  I’m assured it’s what gets Jen, Scott & Linc through each day.  We honestly don’t know what the remainder of this journey looks like, and it can be scary at times.  But we DO know who has it all mapped out.   Jen is confident in the Lord’s plan, His provision, and His goodness.  Regardless of circumstance.

She remains the truest example of faithfulness in her walk with the Lord that I have ever witnessed.  My heart swells with pride to be her friend, and with gratitude to have the opportunity to care for her.

Along with her army of angels (including HER dear Mama, Jane), we say a sincere THANK YOU for the many little things you are doing behind the scenes to help her life (outside of these walls) run smoothly.  Each errand run, however small, has not gone unnoticed.

We serve a mighty God.  And it’s in Jen’s weakness, HE is made strong.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”            2 Corinthians 12:9

Much love to you all,

Jamie (aka B)

PS: We will post a quick update with scan results as they become available.