Happy Tuesday (fast day) morning to you all!
I am writing to you from UCLA hospital. I wanted to get you up-to-date so that you have a clearer sense of our situation and, hence, how to better pray for us.
Richard was admitted to the hospital last Wed. because of fluid in his abdomen, legs and some jaundice. We have come to find out that he has an obstruction (most probably) is a liver bile duct. TOMORROW, he is scheduled for an ERCP procedure, which is a glorified endoscopy that will allow them to locate the obstruction and take measures to open it up right there and then, either the roto-rooter way or by inserting a stent. And to top it off, this morning that they want to start him on antibiotics for probable pneumonia, though he doesn’t have a fever or chills, Praise God!
On a spiritual note, we are both doing incredibly well and know that we’re being supported in prayer and fasting by all of you!! God is soooo good and we stand amazed at how He has shown up everyday here. His presence has been felt in such tangible ways at moments that it’s hard describe. In fact, we’ve had three nurses pray with us since coming plus incredible times of prayer and worship in our room throughout this last week. The oncology dept will never be the same!
Richard is tired and the pain medicine makes him even more groggy. He is a reflection of Jesus to EVERYONE who enters the room asking them where they are from and about their families. His humor is much-need levity in this situation, which is of no surprise to those of you who know Richard well. In fact, today, the physical therapist asked him, “what brought you here to the hospital?”, and Richard replied, “… I wanted to get closer to the ocean.”
Both Richard’s mom and my mom are here for support. We are excited to have the two most fervent prayer warriors we know here in the room, interceding for us and believing for healing, no matter what the doctors/physicians/nurses may come in and tell us.
Thank you for continued prayer. May the Lord give those of you who are fasting a double portion of grace today. Know that you will be attacked, especially because THIS WAS HAS ESCALATED!!! Press in!!
We love you all!!
Maria and Richard
P.S. If you are led to send correspondence or words of encouragement, please do so. However, I will most likely NOT be able to respond, for obvious reasons. Thanks for understanding.
Now that our paths have crossed by His Providence and Will , we are in prayer for you and family.
In Christ Jesus,
David
Dear Richard,
I am one of Lance Danford’s friends from Texas…I met you at his wedding a few years back. I was so sad when Lance told me you had been sick. I totally believe in healing that only comes from God above and I BELIEVE that YOU can be healed and that will be my prayer to night. I also pray that you have a restful PAIN FREE night. And that you find strength that surpasses everyones understanding. Sincerely~ Tracie Warren