April 16, 2001
Dear Friends and Family,

It has been a while since I have given you an update. Progress has been slower since I passed the 12-month mark. However, last Thursday was so remarkable to me, I wanted to share. My therapist had a new activity for me to try - jumping rope!! Now that is a remarkable combination of coordination of both hands and balance! and I did it! Twice around on the step-through one leg at a time and once around with both feet! It was so long before I could hold my arms above my head, even longer before I could put them behind my back, and longer still before I could feel things behind there - not to mention the balance.

I am also working up to walking the treadmill for 15 minutes without hands at 2 mph. I also accomplished the 15 minutes the same day, at various speeds from 1.6 to 2.0. I have also been timed at walking 100ft in 30 seconds. Working on upper body strength, I have been doing high kneeling on both knees while playing catch, as well as working on single leg kneeling, which is still harder for me.

My right side is markedly weaker than the left. I had another MRI in March and the neurosurgeon said that the kyphosis in my neck (curvature) is more pronounced, but not in need of surgery at this time, although it will cause more pain.

Tomorrow I go to see Dr. Barber for the first time since January. Next week, I am going to see a pain management Dr about the vise-like cinching that still plagues me, and the pain in my neck (literally). He goes to our church and I recently found out that his specialty is spinal cords!

God is SO good - He has carried me so far that I feel I have no right to complain about any pain or remaining inability. Thank-you for sharing this journey with me - it is so humbling to be God's miracle.

God is working on Russell, too. Some of you may not know that we lost his dad the weekend after Thanksgiving. Then in December, he was diagnosed with diabetes type 2 which runs in his family. He also had high cholesterol and triglycerides. He is now on medication and diet for all, as well as on anti-depressants. God has opened his eyes to His grace, and Russell feels like he is coming out of a fog he didn't know he was in. For now he is still being house-husband and chauffeur, as well as getting some more repairs done on the house. This too seems to be in God's plan because His shovel is much bigger than ours, and He continues to provide for us financially.

We all attended the Leadership for Christ convention this weekend in Houston. The topic was "He shall Reign for Ever and Ever" and the boys participated in drama, chorus, puppets, and Aaron did an extemporaneous speech. Russell coached their puppet team, and I assisted with all of the chorus events.

It was great to stand with the chorus unassisted and sing of our Lord's resurrection on Sunday - I feel I have been resurrected as well! All praise and glory to the King of Kings!

I am looking forward to seeing some of you Hogsett relatives here in June!

God bless you all,
Lynne

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