Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hey Peter
Thanks for taking time to update us. Here in the US things have also heated up for shoppers. If you can survive Christmas shopping you can survive anything.
Sorry to hear about Rach's sickness. During recovery we all tend to think that when we have a reversal that it jeopardizes our healing. And our loved ones also have sympathetic responses as you have. I hope you all stay well and that Rach feels better fast.
Real good news about her lungs and her ability to sit for 4 hours. That is huge.
Good luck with the neck pillow. My wife bought me one that is filled with a material that conforms to my neck. It is really comfortable.
Peter, I hope tomorrow is better.
On December 23, 2013...
Fiona (shars sister) posted a note for Rachel that says:
at this seasonal time , best wishes and special thoughts are with you all, your strength must be a great encouragement for Rachel and each other
On December 23, 2013...
Claire Percvial and Family xxxxxxxx posted a note for Rachel that says:
Love to you all, strength, prayers and peace of mind for you all keep going Rach, keep being strong I love you always
On December 23, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Rachel that says:
Number 1 member of the Rachel fan club in America. Thanks for the update.
On December 22, 2013...
Rebecca S posted a note for Rachel that says:
I am so amazed at how you all keep finding the energy and the moments of encouragement. Rachel is blessed to have you as I am sure you feel blessed to have her. 6 weeks seems like a long time, but so much has happened. I, too, believe there is light at the end of the tunnel. We continue to pray for Rachel and for y'all.
On December 22, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Rachel that says:
Dear Rachel, Family and dear Lawson, you all have done more than expected and then some. Stay strong and stay steady. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Each day is a new challenge and Rachel you are meeting each one with victory. The prayers have not stopped will continue . You all are GREAT! Love and caring
On December 22, 2013...
Paul R posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi Vicki, thanks for the update, it must be pretty tough and exhausting watching little sis go through all of this. Please make sure that you too get some rest.
Rach, patience and lots of it needed. Easy to say, hard to do, but one thing I'm sure of is that you've got it in you! Hope you enjoyed Harry Potter.
On December 22, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hey Vicki
Harry Potter? Well done! You folks have certainly become veterans. You indeed are the old hands.
I can appreciate Rach's energy level. Physio is exhausting, more than one would figure.
You all have been Ironmen and Ironwomen through the 6 weeks. I don't know where you get the energy.
My best to Rach and you all this week.
On December 22, 2013...
Jennifer Robinson posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel,
I was just thinking about you a few days ago before I knew any of this had happened, when we sat next to each other in our high school tutor sessions (terrifyingly this was a decade ago!) and you used to make me laugh so much.
I said a prayer for you and your family at our church service this evening, you are all in my thoughts. Your strength is just so admirable, all of you. x x x
On December 22, 2013...
Gabi x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi Rachel, are you up for another few minutes in vertical mode today? Hope so darling, I believe you can do it with grace and style even with a little smile!
;-)
On December 22, 2013...
Kirsty Fox posted a note for Rachel that says:
To Rachel, Lawson & Rach's Family. Just sending my love & support. Hope things get better soon, stay strong.
Big hugs
Kirsty xxx
On December 22, 2013...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hoping and praying that Rachel has a much more positive day today. Thinking of you all, God Bless xxxx
On December 21, 2013...
Susan Susan,someone who cares posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel you making progress slowly but surely. This is a day by day recovery. You are standing and doing things for yourself. Tomorrow is New day with a new achievement. you can do it. Praying for you.
On December 21, 2013...
Karin Baloian posted a note for Rachel that says:
California greetings! Rachel: praying for your wisdom and strength to kick in extra extra hard at this time!! You are an impressive young lady. Keep up the good fight!!
On December 21, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hey all
I hope today is a better day. Unfortunately, processing the possibilities is part of the process. I feel, based on what you have shared, that Rach is a real fighter and believes in herself. I trust this attitude will make all the difference. All the best to you today.
On December 21, 2013...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Have just read your last two updates and am sending you all an enormous hug. It really does seem uphill for Rachel at the moment and it must have been so difficult for you all to witness her anger and frustration as well as seeing her having to endure a collapsed lung and a migraine to boot.
Our daughter Adriana experienced water on the lungs after surgery and had to have it drained and also endured numerous migraines whilst in hospital (seems to be quiet common with heart defects). I can remember vividly how we felt, but Rachel has had to deal with so much more and so I can understand just a little of how you must be feeling, and empathise totally with you all.
Massive prayers being said for a trouble free, healing day. Also praying for your resolve and patience which must be tested to the extreme at the present time. Rachel's sound such a strong and determined young woman and your love and support, and your amazing resolve will get her through this. God Bless xxxx
On December 20, 2013...
Ann posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel and family,
Prayers continue for you all each day as you handle each hurdle with such amazing strength and faith.
We appreciate each and every update you so graciously deliver, and my prayer is that each baby step brings her closer to a full recovery.
God bless you all,
On December 20, 2013...
Rosemary Rowe posted a note for Rachel that says:
Well done Shelley family, you are all doing so well through this very challenging part of your lives. Remember this is when He is carrying you as in 'Footsteps'. Bless you all, and remember you will get through this, we understand a little!!
Loads of love and hugs,
Auntie Rosie xxxx
On December 20, 2013...
Peter and Nancy posted a note for Rachel that says:
What a lot to process, for all of you. As always, you are all in our thoughts.
On December 20, 2013...
from Gabi with love x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi Rachel, What a BIG day you had yesterday. No wonder you had a migraine, a lot of us have had these after surgery. I had one every day for weeks, then every week for months. Still get them now 5 months after surgery. Having counselling is really really hard work. I am always exhausted after a session. I am thinking of you Rach and my prayers are for you little darling! Your little body has been through so much, however I know you have spunk and will recover. Just do the best you can, take the time you need and you will be strong in body, mind & spirit. Sending you a blanket of love to hold you tight and to encourage you in your healing.
On December 19, 2013...
Brian Reid posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thoughts and prayers with Rachel and family. Stay strong. God has a plan for you. You are a fighter and inspire many.
On December 19, 2013...
Linda H AVR SC USA posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi Rachel, Sorry to hear of some of the set backs you are going thru. All of us have climbed this mountain with all of our surgeries but you have a few more to get over. When you reach it I'll bet the view is so much better than any of us had. I know you will get thru all of this. You are young and beautiful and that helps you a lot. You have the world on your side praying for you, and I know prayers are very powerful. God will get you thru all of this. You just hang in there, stay determined and before you know it, this will all be behind you.
Lawson and Vicki thank you so much for keeping all of us updated. It is wonderful how you all have stayed so strong for Rachel. Stay strong. Check in tomorrow. still have all the prayer warriors working hard for her.
On December 19, 2013...
Jim and Lise Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rach
We are behind you 100%. You are tough, you are a fighter and you will win this battle. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
On December 19, 2013...
Paul R posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rach, sounds like another tough day in bedrock! It's ok to be angry for a while and no it's not fair but come what may you are going to kick it in the rear and continue to move forward.
You are one tough cookie and every setback overcome is one success closer to your recovery goal. Your probably thinking its easy for me to say as I only had one mountain to climb and with the ups and downs your going through it may feel like a mountain range you are crossing. I and others can empathise with some of the emotions you are experiencing. Remember , you are not alone and have a wonderful extended family travelling with you to share the burden where we can.
I can't speak for everyone, but I will not leave until we are sure you are there.
On December 19, 2013...
Lola posted a note for Rachel that says:
Been following for awhile..can't imagine how hard it must be for all of you and Rachel. I'm sure she thought before surgery she'd be home and well by the holidays, and then before today she probably thought once she got through this rough time she'd be done. Poor girl, and all of you. Praying for all of you.
On December 19, 2013...
Susan Smith, a prayer warrior posted a note for Rachel that says:
Vickie the praying will continue around the clock - 24/7. I am just one of many who are praying for Rachel's to get God given strength and resolve as she moves ever so carefully forward. I think Gabi got is right with a "fire in her belly" which is just plain determination to get well and on with life. Rachel is a can do person and she will over come all these hurdles placed before her.
On December 19, 2013...
Gabi x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachell's display of anger is very normal and very healthy. It shows that she has the fire in her belly! It is however tough, very tough to have to witness her dealing with it all. The counselling should help. Good on her for requesting the general. ANYTHING to assist her dealing with this stuff. Getting right on with the prayers and support for you all more than eva!
On December 19, 2013...
Glenys Buxton posted a note for Rachel that says:
Praying for you all. "Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weart, they will walk and not be faint."
With much love to all of you.xxxxx
On December 19, 2013...
Tim posted a note for Rachel that says:
We are all so amazed of your strength and by that we do mean all of you and likewise so proud of "our Vicki" .. Keep up the fight.
CSJV
On December 19, 2013...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thank you so much for your complete honesty in your update and for taking the time to reassure those awaiting any heart valve surgery - so considerate to think of others.
Extra Prayers for Rachel's left side of the heart for substantial improvement and for the results of the analysis of her bloods.
We are all with you, and Rachel is so strong, and so I pray that she will start to begin those baby steps again to slow and steady improvement.
Hope, a gift from God, is so important and I am sure your hope will be fuelled and prayers answered as so many of us around the globe hold Rachel in our hearts.
God Bless, stay strong xxx
On December 19, 2013...
Peter and Nancy Scott posted a note for Rachel that says:
So much for you all to absorb, and deal with. She is so lucky to have such an involved support team, and believe me, it makes a huge difference. Give Rachael our best wishes as we think of her and you all every day.
On December 19, 2013...
Claire Percival and Family xxxxxxxxx posted a note for Rachel that says:
I love you always Rach, you are such a fighter and so phenomenally strong I have no doubt what so ever that you are going to do this. I'm so glad that you are allowed sneaky bits of water now lovely....it won't be long until you can have a good old cup of tea!!!! It is fantastic that you have been able to sit up and are chatting again with your wonderful family you are doing amazingly Rach I am so incredibly proud of you and you are in my thoughts and prayers every single day. Keep going my love I can't wait to come and see you when you are up for it very soon. Love you lots and lots xxxxxxxx
On December 19, 2013...
Paul R posted a note for Rachel that says:
Thanks for a great update Lawson. It's good to hear that Rach's right side is making good progress and that she will soon be standing and trach free. Now all we need is a little help and a little more well deserved good fortune with 2/3rds LV and immunology and we are there - "simples"
Rach buddy, we are all with you on this and you are an awesome fighter with lots of support.
On December 18, 2013...
Susan Smith, just one of many prayer warriors posted a note for Rachel that says:
Well it looks like Rachel will be taking a big step forward with the standing up task. For all of the reality of the situation for her, Rach has just done spectacular. Prayers being lifted up to the heavens for her complete recovery. Take a deep breath and keep up the slow but steady approach. Rachel can do it, I just know she can. Like the little train that could, Rach will.
On December 18, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Lawson
Thank you for the comprehensive post. I appreciate your detail and candor. We remain as one with you all. Rachel's recovery, as you know, is incredibly important to the members of this community. I am hoping for the very best for Rach over the next few days and weeks as she continues to progress. Please tell her I said hi. All my best to you all.
On December 18, 2013...
Linda Johnson posted a note for Rachel that says:
Everyone in this community is pulling for you with all the love and prayer that we human beings have or should have for one another. From California
On December 18, 2013...
janeellenmarie posted a note for Rachel that says:
Rachel and all her loved ones: I do not know any of you and only became aware of Rachel's story as I was looking for a support group for mitral valve OHS patients. What a moving journal. We have never met, but you are in my thoughts and prayers daily, and I check reports regularly. I look at her beautiful smile and look forward seeing it in a recovery photo. I know there are so many people like me who have learned of Rachel's and your journey and are sending all the positive energy we can. All of you, please take care of yourselves. Someone in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA is thinking of you!
On December 18, 2013...
Simon and Karen posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hi Rachel. It's great to hear you'll be standing up soon and it must be great to enjoy proper drinks again. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Thanks, Lawson, for the update. Keep up the great support work you're doing.
Hope to see you again soon.
On December 18, 2013...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
This sounds like Rachel is turning a large corner and what great news that is. Keep praying for a full return to kidney function and what good news about the bivad machine.
Will continue prayers for a full and speedy recovery and thank you for sharing your journal with those of us who do not know Rachel personally.
Sending positive vibes for another good day and hoping Rachel feels brighter soon. God Bless xxxx
On December 18, 2013...
Tony Brown (CKOE) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hey Rach,
Really pleased to hear the good news and see how you're improving day by day.
Keep fighting and we'll see you soon.
Love Tony xxxx
On December 18, 2013...
Susan Smith posted a note for Rachel that says:
Dear Rachel, you are spectacular. The step by step improvements you have made are great. Enjoy those sips of water. Yes you are going to get well. Your family and friends are special. Still praying for you and a complete recovery. A card is on the way..
On December 18, 2013...
Ernie A.S. posted a note for Rachel that says:
Every bit of good news brings joy to my newly repaired heart. Thanks for the updates. Inspired by the spirit, courage, and grace you've all shown through this ordeal, especially Rachel. Looking forward to hearing even better news.
On December 18, 2013...
Gabi x posted a note for Rachel that says:
Peter, Vicki, Caroline & Lawson, I have a checklist for each of you. I know it is hard but you really, I mean REALLY need to take care of yourselves. To be on top of things dealing with the doctors reports and reassuring Rach e.g. when she asked you Peter 'will I get better?' You are a gr8 Dad, Peter. So strong for your daughter. So puuhleeze take care of yourself, Caroline, Vicki, Lawson as well as Rach. Now here is your checklist:-
Do you have someone you trust to talk to about how you are feeling?
Do you get some regular exercise?
Do you try to get enough rest and sleep?
Are you trying to eat regular meals?
Do you get enough breaks from caring?
Do you have some regular times for relaxation?
How many boxes can you tick? All of them would be so good, but I reckon no less than 3 is the absolute minimum! This is my bossy side coming out, but I care for each and every one of you as if you were my extended family. Do this for me OK? Promise? BTW my love and prayers for Rachel!
On December 17, 2013...
Lise Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
This is such amazing progress-- and I was so thrilled about her sitting up !! What a tremendously strong willed person she is - a true heroine to all those dealing with health challenges - Rach ,keep on fighting - our thoughts are ever - present! Thank you for all your posts, as they encourage us all!
On December 17, 2013...
Helen & Martin posted a note for Rachel that says:
Dearest Rachel,
Here is a poem we came across by Theresa Ann Moore...you are continually in our thoughts and it is so encouraging to read your latest posts -
Heart Surgery
The early morning hours
Are cautiously weighed…
Choices have been made
With trust and faith
A path has been selected
Obstacles will be corrected
A heart desiring to beat
Will have mended strength
Reestablishing life’s length
Surgeon’s expertise repair…
Under God’s supervision
With masterful precision
Uncertainties are relieve
Restoration is realized
Dreaded thoughts are revised
As the power of love flows…
There is a newness to seeing
Revealing the miracle of being
Allowing the journey of life
To continue with appreciation…
Granting blessed illumination
Theresa Ann Moore
We look forward to seeing you again very soon.
Fingers, paws & hooves crossed here!
Lots of love,
On December 17, 2013...
Karen Ridgway (mum to Adriana, two years on from AVR) posted a note for Rachel that says:
Encouraging update! Progress may seem slow at times but goodness me it is certainly going in the right direction.
Continued prayers for kidneys and infection markers God Bless you all xxxxx
On December 17, 2013...
Glenys Buxton posted a note for Rachel that says:
Just read yesterday's blog. Rachel, can't wait for you to be using champagne as a celebratory mouthwash!xx
On December 16, 2013...
Tim Ryall posted a note for Rachel that says:
Great great news!! Give Rach our love and tell her we are all still rooting for her!!
CSJV
On December 16, 2013...
Lynn Ennis posted a note for Rachel that says:
Good news! Rachel must be getting stronger if she is sitting up...next stop, the chair. We are all pulling for her!
On December 16, 2013...
Jim Jones posted a note for Rachel that says:
Hey Rachel
I am so happy to hear of today's progress. And the orange juice is a bonus. I hope you have another good day tomorrow. My wife and I read your posts daily and root for your continued recovery. Our best.
Thanks for taking time to update us. Here in the US things have also heated up for shoppers. If you can survive Christmas shopping you can survive anything.
Sorry to hear about Rach's sickness. During recovery we all tend to think that when we have a reversal that it jeopardizes our healing. And our loved ones also have sympathetic responses as you have. I hope you all stay well and that Rach feels better fast.
Real good news about her lungs and her ability to sit for 4 hours. That is huge.
Good luck with the neck pillow. My wife bought me one that is filled with a material that conforms to my neck. It is really comfortable.
Peter, I hope tomorrow is better.