Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Meeting with the Doctor!

David meets with Dr. Chen today for the first time since he left the hospital!

He also met with physical therapists yesterday to get scheduled for his weekly therapy sessions!

Things are moving right along...aside from a headache scare right after Christmas (too much Christmas?! haha), David's recovery continues to go well.

Pray for the meeting today - that there would be no surprises and that all would feel encouraged to press on towards full recovery. Also, for protection from worrisome, anxious and fearful thoughts as I'm sure the second aneurysm will be discussed.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."

Philippians 4:4-8

Thursday, December 25, 2008

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

What a special Christmas this is - for the Bakers, for all of us who have lifted David up before the Lord. We have all witnessed a miracle - it's a special Christmas, indeed.

It is impossible to not imagine what that first Christmas long ago was like after experiencing the first two weeks of December with the Bakers. What must it have been like as Mary and Joseph gazed at the Christ-child, the miracle baby? I bet it was pretty special. They witnessed a miracle unlike any other. They were given such a special gift.

So were we. In David, yes, but in Jesus. All other gifts pale in comparison to the gift of Jesus.

A gift that was once wrapped in swaddling clothes, with no bow, no ribbon.

A gift that was born miraculously of a virgin - a baby born to die.

A gift that was given to pay for the sins of this world.

There IS no other gift like Jesus!!

If you haven't accepted this precious gift from God, His Son, we pray you will this Christmas.

Because there is nothing, nothing, nothing more special than that.

Merry Christmas!!


"For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."

Luke 19:10

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

"Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" II Corinthians 9:15

Everything on the Baker home front is going great!

David is recovering incredibly well - he's a little tired and I'm sure tired of taking new medicines - but over all he is bouncing back amazingly.

He's had friends over, gone to a worship service, opened birthday presents, and much much more. It's crazy!!

Please continue to praise God with this family, for there is MUCH to celebrate this season in all of their lives!

You can also pray for continued healing of David's body; that fear would not make a home in the Baker casa; and that all would have peaceful, lengthy sleep...on a regular basis, but one or two nights wouldn't hurt either. :)

Thank You for loving them by praying THEM through!

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Happy Anniversary Matt & Kathe!

We celebrate YOU today, and thank God for your family and the incredible example you have set for all of us over the years, but especially during the past two weeks.

You guys are pretty amazing.

God is REALLY amazing in you.

Happy 26th Anniversary!

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

It's True! He's Home!


David was able to go home to his very own house, very own room, very own bed, and very own djembe this afternoon!

Let's pray that all the folks at the Baker house get some good rest tonight in their own beds, too...

What a happy day!

Going Home!

David is all set to go home THIS MORNING!! He's just hanging out passing the time before Dr. Chen gives the final word and then it's HOMEWARD BOUND for the Bakers!


"O come, let us sing unto the LORD:
let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving,
and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
For the LORD is a great God,
and a great King above all gods.
In his hand are the deep places of the earth:
the strength of the hills is his also.
The sea is his, and he made it:
and his hands formed the dry land.
O come, let us worship and bow down:
let us kneel before the LORD our maker."
Psalm 95:1-6

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Hallelujah, What a Savior!

I'll go out on a limb and say most of us have experienced a powerful season of prayer the past couple of weeks.

Not just prayer for ourselves, but prayers for David, prayers for the Bakers, prayers for God's Name to be glorified most high.

---

There is something about a season like this one, of praying, of suffering, of fearing, of trusting, of waiting, that shakes our focus off of ourselves and onto others...most importantly, onto Jesus.

Jesus, the humble babe born of a virgin, lying in a manger. Jesus, the Son of God, who walked the earth. Jesus, the sacrifice for our sins, who hung on a cross for you and I. Jesus, the Risen Lord, who is alive in Heaven. Jesus, our Savior, our Hope.

Jesus. There's just something about that Name.

---

Glance at the figurines around a "nativity scene"...you probably have one in your home, or if you don't, you'll definitely find one in the mall.

Just look at that scene for a second.

Can you see who everyone's eyes are fixed upon?
Do you see who they are kneeling before? It is Jesus.

---

The past two weeks have been hard. They have been brutal. They have been amazing, too. Most of all, they have been a paradox of at times gentle and at times strong prodding.

A prodding to fix our eyes on Jesus. Yes, during this Christmas season. Yes, always.

---

Imagine how silly a figurine would look, standing at the manger, in front of the Christ-child, distracted by the world. Eyes wandering, thoughts scattering, purpose fidgety.

How silly, shepherds! There is Jesus right in front of you, wise men! You are marveling at a miracle from God, innkeeper!

---

Don't let what you have seen God do in the life of David Baker these past two weeks be a fleeting memory. Let God use the story He let you peak in on to draw you closer to Him. Don't be distracted by the world, by the busyness, by the mundane-ness, by even the gift giving that is upon us.

God is not in the business of miracles for miracles sake. He is in the business of miracles, in the business of the life and death details, to draw attention to Himself, making His Name great...He is in the business of drawing us close to Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ through the ordinary and extraordinary.

---

It's not a fluke that you are witness to this miracle smack dab in the middle of December. It's not an accident that you've refreshed this page a million times in the past two weeks. Don't miss the point. He wants to draw you close. Won't you let Him?

---

Fix your eyes on Jesus this season. Kneel before Him and praise Him for all you have seen Him do.

"My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is His Name."
Luke 1:46, 47, 49
---

Hallelujah, what a Savior we have!



God of heaven, You descended
For all of our sin and shame
Hands so holy offer healing
For every scar and stain
And we bow down, we bow down

Hallelujah what a Savior
We worship and adore
Hallelujah what a Savior
We glorify the Giver of Life
The Light of the World

Holy King of angel armies
Hanging between two thieves
Holy feet that walk the heavens
Nailed upon a tree
And we bow down, we bow down

Hallelujah what a Savior
We worship and adore

By Vicky Beeching

Looks Like...

...David will go home tomorrow!! A little "behind" the schedule originally set due to a seizure set back last night, but WAY AHEAD of what it could have been! For today/tonight, David has moved back into a private room on the 4th Floor.

As you can imagine, everyone is very excited about David's return home tomorrow!!

Please pray that this transition back to regular "life" goes smoothly. Please be sensitive to the emotional, spiritual, physical roller coaster the Baker's have all been riding. So many of you have been on the ride as well, but we all know that they've been in the front feeling the wind a million times over.

Remember them in your prayers as they say goodbye to sweet nurses who have cared so diligently for them, to Dr. Chen who played a MAJOR role in saving David's life, and say hello to life back at the homestead.

The Bakers will miss the care and concern they have received from all of the Memorial Hermann staff...it's been kind of unreal how incredible they have ALL been!

Monday, December 15, 2008

Hopeful for a Good Night's Rest

All is settled in David's room, and everyone is cozy-ing up for what we hope will be a restful night.

We pray sweet dreams and deep slumber for the Baker fam at Memorial Hermann tonight!

"I will lie down and sleep in peace,
for You alone, O LORD,
make me dwell in safety."
Psalm 4:8

Please Pray Right Now

David had a great day today, but is having a bit of a rough night.

He is having a CAT scan done right now.

Please pray that the electrical activity in David's brain balances out and becomes normal in it's synchronization. Pray against seizures and stroke.

Please also pray for peace for Matt & Kathe as well as wisdom and discernment for the doctors.

Pray for David to be patient on God's timing of his total health and his return to the Baker casa.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS!!

Prayers for David from All Over the World!

These pastors from Bangalore, India, most of them persecuted, impoverished, and radically in love with Jesus, prayed on David Baker's behalf ~ December 15, 2008.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

He Walks! :)

A video straight from David's ICU room...of him WALKING!

Shave for Dave Pics!

There's a lot more of you out there - email your pics! (elliebakk@gmail.com)


John, Blake & David!



Jeremiah!



Hunter!



Richard!


Jacob!



Brenda, Susan, Michelle & Janet! (as close to shaving as girls were aloud)


Continue to Praise

More tubes coming out, more shaved heads showing up, more time in a chair, more David back to normal! Praise!

It is truly amazing that less than a week ago, David was being prepared to lose his ability to speak, his ability to move right arm, and possibly right leg...he was being prepared for a hospital stay of a month or more at least.

It is truly amazing the miracle that God did through Dr. Chen for David.

David is NOW being prepared to possibly move to his own room in IMU maybe even today, and being prepared to be COMPLETE and completely tube free and home well before Christmas!

Pretty amazing when God moves mountains and shows His power in a mighty way.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Walking!

Today David has been able to keep his food down, as well as walk for a little while!

We are so thankful that David's recovery is going so smoothly - PRAISE THE LORD for answering prayers - and thank YOU for praying.

The Bakers have truly been surrounded by the body of Christ - and it is undeniable that you have been a part of the witness, poise, strength, faith and endurance they have exhibited thus far.

Thank you for praying for their whole family during this difficult time!

Friday, December 12, 2008

Sitting in a Chair!

David is sitting in a chair, free of the tube in his head and his central line! Praise God for every little tube that comes out and every little step taken towards full recovery!

Happy Birthday Austin!

David continues to do well today and was able to sleep last night, as well as keep his food down, AND his vitals still look great! Yay!

Today the first chair violinist from the Houston Symphony Orchestra is coming to play for David in the ICU. WOW.

Pray today for David as they might be taking the (draining) tube out of his head...he might also get to sit in a chair and MAYBE walk around! Pray also for strength to endure. The long, hard days sure have a way of making everyone tired. Lord, multiply the Bakers rest...in their spirits, souls and bodies.

Today is Big Bro Austin's birthday - and we are hoping it's a happy birthday in Colorado for him as he finishes up at Focus on the Family Institute!

Thursday, December 11, 2008

HOW IS DAVID TODAY?!

The question of the day, for sure.

And here's your answer! David is doing well! He had a rough night of interrupted sleep and trying to keep food down, but Dr. Chen met with him today and is pleased with his progress and recovery. David is pretty pumped up about his scar and actually sounded disappointed that his hair would grow back and cover it. Boys.

It sounds like it could be as little as a week or two before David is home!

Please pray that David's swelling will go down and that tomorrow would be a day full of yummy food that stays in his tummy; that the emotions of the past week and a half would not utterly exhaust the Baker fam and that they would be energized to press on to "run with endurance the race that is set before" them.

I've been so consumed with shock and awe from yesterday, that I haven't even known what to write today, and I'm sorry because I know you've been waiting waiting waiting. Or refreshing, refreshing, refreshing.

I did get an email from Susan this morning that resonated with my heart, and I thought I'd share it with you -

"I woke up this morning singing 'Holy, Holy, Holy' to myself.

Holy, Holy, Holy
Lord God Almighty
Early in the morning my song will rise to Thee
Holy, Holy, Holy
All the saints adore Thee
Perfect in power, love and purity

Yesterday God's power was displayed through the hands of Dr. Chen as he took care of the aneurysm but was able to leave David's mind complete in the process. Lord, I praise you for your power that has been perfected through David's weakness. And then His love was so evident as He sent so many friends to minister to the Baker family and help hold their arms up during a very difficult day...some came from across the ocean, showing up at just the right moment. AND THEN HIS PURITY WAS MANIFESTED THROUGH THE SNOW! Beautiful, large, white flakes floating down from heaven to celebrate the end of a very long, emotionally charged day!

Isaiah 1:18, 19 speaks of snow like this:
"Come now, let us reason together,"
says the Lord.
"Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as WHITE AS SNOW;
THOUGH THEY ARE RED AS CRIMSON,
THEY SHALL BE LIKE WOOL.
If you are willing and obedient,
you will eat the best from the land..."

Yes, He is Perfect in Power, Love and Purity

love, susan"

P.S. I have more installments of Shave for Dave moments, but the site won't let me load pictures right now :( Maybe tomorrow! I think the Shave for Dave tally is either at, or very close to 20!

The Impact


Focus on the Family Institute, has been praying for David...

A Christian Orphanage in Bangalore, India has been praying for David...

A Greek class in Dallas, Texas has been praying for David...

Businessmen from Singapore, Australia and Kuwait have been praying for David...

Elementary students across the country have been praying for David...

I think it's safe to say God's story in David has made an impact around the world...

In a time of advent, and as we celebrate Christmas in a couple of weeks, the timing of this part of the story makes me sit back and wonder...I'm a very curious person so it doesn't take a lot, but...

How has God used the past 11 days that you've prayed for David, wherever you are, to prepare you to celebrate, worship and BELIEVE Him this season?

Dear Family and Friends:


If you did not know about David's last 11 days this blog will catch you up quickly! I encourage you to read previous posts and marvel at God's miracle.

Matt, Austin, Barbara and I cannot thank you enough for all the prayer support - emotional support and care you all have given us - God has used you all to be Him to us in this scary time with David.

We are still in the ICU at Hermann Hospital with David - this is what Dr. Chen has told us would be the 'stormy' time for the next 3 days as his brain will swell - so please keep praying for David -
we are so thankful that the procedure went smoothly yesterday and that God was able to use Dr. Chen to 'shut down' the largest aneurysm.

He still has another aneurysm in the center of his brain that we will have to have surgery on in the next 3 months - but it is not nearly as big or scary as the one that was shut down yesterday.

Ellie will continue to give updates on the blog and that will be the best way to know the latest with David.

We love you all and are overwhelmed with God's goodness in sparing David's life and allowing him to be 'complete'.

rejoicing - kathe & matt

"As for me, I will always have hope;
I will praise You more and more.
My mouth will tell of Your righteousness,
of Your salvation all day long,
though I know not it's measure."

Psalm 71:14-15

(Susan Ince snapped this pic as Matt and Kathe
hit their knees upon hearing the incredible news!)

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

David is Awake!!

David is awake, reminding everyone that today is his birthday!!

Speech? Check.
Memory? Check.

He has also reached out and grabbed Barbara's hand with his RIGHT HAND!

Right side? Check.
Miracle? Check.

Amazing.

His family is with him now...celebrating the life God has given.

I know you guys want more details and more words. But I am so speechless.

"It's beautiful. It was a miracle!" Dr. Chen

The procedure is over and it was a miracle!!!!!!!

Dr. Chen came immediately out into the waiting room and told us:

"It was beautiful. It was a miracle."

Praise the Lord with us!! We are witnessing a miracle!! The coils worked!!

IS THIS NOT THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE?!?!

Dr. Chen loved the way David's blood was flowing and he said it was the best scenario. He said he thinks David may be "complete"...we don't know what that means for right side, but it sure sounds encouraging.

I hope to tell you more about how amazing this moment was, but for now join us in praising the Lord for the mighty work He has done here at Memorial Hermann Hospital today with the hands of Dr. Chen and in the brain of our David.

Happy Birthday, Big Dave...

Oh Come All Ye Faithful
Joyful and triumphant,
Oh come ye, Oh come ye to Bethlehem.
Come and behold Him,
Born the King of Angels
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord.

Oh Sing, choirs of angels,
Sing in exultation,
Sing all that hear in heaven God's holy word.
Give to our Father glory in the Highest;
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord.

All Hail Lord, we greet Thee,
Born this happy morning,
Oh Jesus for evermore be Thy name adored.
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing;
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Oh come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord.

P.S. IT IS SNOWING IN HOUSTON!! Just got this photo from the Brown's...pretty awesome. David prayed for two things last night. 1) a miracle. 2) snow. Are you kidding me?!?!

Praying for the Titanium Coils to "Hit the Mark"

The word from Dr. Chen a few moments ago was that the surgery is nearing a close, and everything is going fine. What is taking so long, is the coiling, and that is happening as I type.

Pray for the titanium wires to coil, coil, coil, to fill up this giant aneurysm and to "hit the mark"...to stop the blood flow and not cause further damage.

This is the most specific thing you can pray for right now, so please do it.

If Jesus can calm the seas and turn water into wine, then He can coil wires. Period.

"The power of the Lord was present for Him to perform healing" Luke 5:17

This is what we know, that the power of the Lord IS present right now in the OR, and we pray He is using His instrument Dr. Chen to heal.

Hourly Scripture for Today

“Instead of yearning for a problem-free life, rejoice that trouble can highlight your awareness of My Presence. In the darkness of adversity, you are able to see more clearly the radiance of My Face. Accept the values of problems in this life, considering them pure joy. Remember that you have an eternity of trouble-free living awaiting you in heaven.”

Jesus Calling, Sarah Young, December 10

Kathe, many of these verses are from Isaiah. That is the book the Lord put on my heart for you for today. It is a book of comfort, a book of hope, and a book of renewal and promise. For it is a book all about a Son. A Son who would come to God’s People to comfort them with an eternal, everlasting comfort that would never end no matter the circumstances that came. That is the comfort the Father extends to you today – the comfort of the Son for your son. We love you and are battling in prayer on David’s behalf. Love, susannah

7am - “For from days of old they have not heard or perceived by ear,
Nor has the eye seen a God besides You,
Who acts in behalf of the one who waits for Him.” Isaiah 64:4

8am – “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20

9am – “Remember this, and be assured;
Recall it to mind, you transgressors.
Remember the former things long past,
For I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is no one like Me,
Declaring the end from the beginning,
And from ancient times things which have not been done,
Saying, ‘My purpose will be established,
And I will accomplish all My good pleasure’….
I bring near My righteousness, it is not far off;
And My salvation will not delay
And I will grant salvation in Zion,
And My glory for Israel.” Isaiah 46:8-10, 13

10am – “Can a woman forget her nursing child
And have no compassion on the son of her womb?
Even these may forget, but I will not forget you.
Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands;
Your walls are continually before Me.
Your builders hurry;
Your destroyers and devastators
Will depart from you.
Lift up your eyes and look around;
All of them gather together, they come to you
As I live,” declares the LORD,
“You will surely put on all of them as jewels and bind them on as a bride.”
Isaiah 49:15-18

11am – “Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God
I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

12pm – “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace,
On the throne of David and over his kingdom,
To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness
From then on and forevermore
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.” Isaiah 9:6-7

1pm – “Comfort, O comfort My people,” says your God.
“Speak kindly to Jerusalem;
And call out to her, that her warfare has ended,
That her iniquity has been removed,
That she has received of the LORD’S hand
Double for all her sins.” Isaiah 40:1-2

2pm – “But now, thus says the LORD, your Creator, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel,
‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name; you are Mine!
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they will not overflow you
When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched,
Nor will the flame burn you.
For I am the LORD your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;’” Isaiah 43:1-3

3pm – “I will go before you and make the rough places smooth;
I will shatter the doors of bronze and cut through their iron bars.
I will give you the treasures of darkness
And hidden wealth of secret places,
So that you may know that it is I,
The LORD, the God of Israel, who calls you by your name.” Isaiah 45:2-3

4pm – “Come, let us return to the LORD
For He has torn us, but He will heal us;
He has wounded us, but He will bandage us.
He will revive us after two days;
He will raise us up on the third day,
That we may live before Him.
So let us know, let us press on to know the LORD
His going forth is as certain as the dawn;
And He will come to us like the rain,
Like the spring rain watering the earth.” Hosea 6:1-3

5pm – “When Israel was a youth I loved him,
And out of Egypt I called My son.
The more they called them,
The more they went from them…
Yet it is I who taught Ephraim to walk,
I took them in My arms;
But they did not know that I healed them.
I led them with cords of a man, with bonds of love,
And I became to them as one who lifts the yoke from their jaws;
And I bent down and fed them.” Hosea 11:1-4
(Kathe, God the Father knows, loves, created, and identifies with your mother’s heart. He will lead and tenderly care for David even more than you do. I love you; you have been an incredible mother.)

6pm – “But Moses said to the people, ‘Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the LORD which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you have seen today, you will never see them again forever. The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent.’” Exodus 14:13-14

7pm – “Then Moses and the sons of Israel sang this song to the LORD, and said,
‘I will sing to the LORD, for He is highly exalted;
The horse and its rider He has hurled into the sea.
The LORD is my strength and song,
And He has become my salvation;
This is my God, and I will praise Him;
My father's God, and I will extol Him.
The LORD is a warrior;
The LORD is His name.’” Exodus 15:1-3

Sweet Sound


When Dr. Chen called Matt after the test, he excitedly told him that he could hear David's voice during the test and that he was positive David's speech will not be affected by the procedure!!!

Praise the Lord!! (this picture is of Matt, Barb & Austin when they heard the good report)

What a sweet sweet sound...God wants David to keep making music. And he wants US to hear it.

The procedure is under way in the final stretch...it could take 5 minutes and it could take hours...regardless, we anticipate great things...continue to pray sweet friends.

--

This song has been on repeat in my car everytime I leave or come to the hospital. It has become my little anthem of prayer and praise for David. I can't find a video of it, but it's on itunes and it's incredible. Go get it!

Blessed is the One - Daniel Doss Band

Blessed is the one who trusts You
Like a tree that cannot be moved
You say jump to arms wide open
I am scared but I am willing

For blessed is the one
Blessed is the one who trusts You

You, faithful, just and good
Shepherd of my heart
Lead me to where You are

And I remember all Your goodness
Suffering through the desert places
You never said it would be easy
You just promised You’d be with me

For blessed is the one
Blessed is the one who trusts You

You, faithful, just and good
Shepherd of my heart
Lead me to where You are
You, who holds my destiny
I’ll follow foolishly
Your love will be my song
So I will trust You

I will trust You in the pain
When I can’t see past today
When it’s hard to lift my
hands to praise You, I will trust You

You, faithful, just and good
Shepherd of my heart
Lead me to where You are
You, who holds my destiny
I’ll follow foolishly

Your love will be my song
So I will trust You

RIGHT NOW

There was an opening in anesthesiology, so they have taken David back to begin the test/procedure, although we don't know exactly when the procedure will actually take place.

David slept well last night, and had many birthday wishes from his current, past and future nurses...pretty incredible.

Please stop and pray right now.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Pray for Tomorrow

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" Isiah 55:8-9

The procedure will be tomorrow starting sometime between 10 and 12...We have been told it may last 6 hours.

Dr. Chen spent some time with David tonight explaining again what will happen tomorrow during the procedure, and what David will need to conquer upon waking up.

Matt, Kathe and David were able to pray for Dr. Chen, with Dr. Chen, and feel so blessed that he is a great birthday gift from God for David.

At the end of the conversation, Dr. Chen popped his head back into the room just to say "happy birthday" to Dave. We love Dr. Chen.

Speaking of birthday, we had an incredible birthday party for David here in the waiting room. The nurses even told David he was leaving the ICU pod to have an xray done, and instead pushed his bed right out into the waiting room amidst the 75+ people who came to surprise par-tay in his honor.

Much more on the party later - just know it was so special, so so special.

And know that you need to pray tonight for rest, for courage, for crossovers, for faith, for right side, for Dr. Chen, for stamina, for a steady and smooth surgery.

For the energy, strength, perspective, trust and joy that enables us to bless His Name and bring Him praise no matter what.

Random Facts About Dr. Chen

When Kathe asked Dr. Chen how he was able to persevere through 22 hours of surgery, he answered:

"My wife and I train every year to run the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim (50 miles...with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 9,000 feet!)"

THE MAN IS A MACHINE! WE ARE IN AWE!

The party is drawing near...and we are getting ready for a fun night of celebrating David!

YOU'RE INVITED!! -shhhhh it's a surprise!!

To David's Birthday Party!!

When: Tuesday, December 9th 7:00 PM
Where: Memorial Hermann Hospital, Jones Pavilion, 4th Floor Waiting Room of Trauma ICU, Houston, Texas baby.

Stop by to wish David a happy 16th birthday -- we will be filming everyone so we can show it to Dave in his room -- possibly a live feed!!

Get excited!!!

This morning

Matt read this Scripture to David and Kathe this morning and they feel it is God's promise to David and them today -

Isaiah 41: 13-
"For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand,
Who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you.'"

David had a difficult night just being uncomfortable and nauseated, and trying to take in the news he was given yesterday. We have a praise this morning, though, and that is that his swelling has gone down!!

The awesome nurses have all been coming in this morning and are so excited about David - Dr. Franklin (chief resident), was just here and he is going to get on the blog. (I'm getting nervous!)

One of David's nurses from yesterday, Cheryl, brought him some battery operated Christmas lights for his tree this morning too!

As Kathe walked down the hall the custodial staff came up and hugged her - speaking little English but with tears and told her how they are praying for David. Smiles and tears, the universal language.

Emanuel (the tech that helped David earlier) came up to her and thanked her for the cookies from Janet and the flowers from Melissa that they have in their conference room. Kathe told him how meaningful it was for her that he was with David yesterday and he told her that he had not been in David's pod this whole past week and was so blessed by the Scripture and Christian music - he is a Believer!

So great to see the Body of Christ in action...

Monday, December 8, 2008

Comment Help

Here's a very brief explanation on how to leave a comment...

Click on "(number of) comments" underneath whichever post you want to respond to.

Then it will give you a space on the right to leave your comment.

Type out whatever you want to say, then do the word verification. The word verification protects us from spam. (word verification=typing out what the funky looking letters are in the box below them)

Then you will click "choose an identity."

If you have a google/blogger account (which means you have your own blog or profile on blogspot or gmail), fill in your name and password.

If you do not have a google/blogger account, choose "other" and fill in your name and your web site address if you have one (but you do not HAVE to have a web site address to use this option). (THIS IS THE OPTION I WOULD SUGGEST FOR MOST OF YOU THAT DO NOT HAVE GMAIL)

You can also choose "anonymous."

Then click "publish your comment." You will see a line at the top that says something like "Your comment has been saved until owner approval."

Once you click publish your comment, we will get it, so don't click that button over and over :)

The map at the top right hand corner of the blog tracks all of you...insert evil laugh here...which means you do not need to sign in or click anything to let the map know where you are. It's a very smart map. It tracks where you are logging in from, and loads once a day.

Isn't it fun to see that people all over the world are praying for David?? But what's up with Australia and Africa?? I know one of you knows somebody in there who wants to pray for David!!

Hard Conversations

Tonight Dr. Chen spent 2 hours with Matt, Kathe and David detailing David's condition, the seriousness of it, and how the next few days will play out.

The procedure is scheduled for this Wednesday, the 10th. It is a balloon test procedure. The balloon will be placed as close to the base of the aneurysm as safely possible that will cut off the blood flow to the aneurysm.

A test will be done, while David is still awake, RIGHT before the procedure, which essentially simulates how David would respond to the procedure. The test can safely, with about 70% accuracy, mimic what permanent shutting off of the artery would do to his abilities to function. If Dr. Chen is pleased with the results of the test he will proceed to permanently shut off the flow from the artery at the base of the aneurysm.

The aneurysm is on the left side of David's brain and we are praying against side affects and complications from the procedure regarding that side of his brain. The functions the left side curated artery controls are his right leg and arm and speech and cognitive reason. The doctor and the Bakers believe a lot of David's left brain functions have actually crossed over into the right side of his brain a LONG time ago when he was a baby. Five percent of the population has crossovers.

We are praying that if all of the crossovers have not happened already, that they WILL happen by Wednesday. You know who makes crossovers? The Almighty God, that's Who.

Lord we pray for protection over David's brain. Lord preserve what You have created in Him. You created a brain in David with a divine space that enables this procedure to even be an option. God, You knew. You knew. And You know. We trust You and we wait for You as You show Yourself in David Baker.

Psalm 33:20 "We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield."

Allow me to introduce...

Austin Baker, the big brother...

and allow me to allow him to introduce David, aka the miracle and the rest of the Baker fam.

This is Austin's testimony he wrote when he was a college intern at The Austin Stone Community Church (represent!) last year.

I find it so completely apropos at this time.

Here it is:

My Siblings: Barbara, younger sister who is in college in Austin, and David, younger brother who is in high school. My sister is the brains of the family and my brother is the soul. They have been incredible blessings in my life and have shown me time and time again that God will always be bigger than our minds can fathom.

Heroes (other than Jesus): My parents are my heroes, for their passion for Christ and the exaltation of His name and their passion for each other.

Life Story

"Several of the pastors at The Austin Stone Community Church have mentioned that the greatest moments in history have taken place when things have been completely hopeless until God in His sovereignty has intervened. We call these instances, '… but God …' moments. The story of God saving me is an amazing story not because I had a crazy past and then an awesome 'but God' experience, like what happened to Paul on his way to Damascus; but rather my testimony is amazing because my life is full of 'but God' stories and it has taken many of them to get me to where I am today. God’s faithfulness is the only thing that is amazing in my story.

From early on in my life, God began working in crazy ways. Yes, I was born into an amazing Christian family, raised in Houston, grew up in church and several private Christian schools, 'but God,' saw it fit to show me at the age of 6 that He was alive and active in my life. It had been easy for me as a child in my environments to understand that God existed and to believe what the Bible said about Him was true. Initially I was under the impression that it was us believing in the right things that saved us. It had not been easy for me to understand how God was engaged in our lives and that what He desired was a relationship with us. This all began to change when my younger brother was diagnosed as an infant with the worst form of Cerebral Palsy (CP) the doctors in Houston had ever seen. We were told that he was physically incapable of ever being able to communicate or walk.

As we received the news that my brother would never be the same, I knew that my family would also never be the same. Things seemingly began to go downhill fast, 'but God' in His grace, healed my brother after the faithful prayer of the elders from my home church. The healing was so extensive that to this day, the doctors cannot explain how my brother is physically capable of walking and talking (two things he has since that day done way too much of)! The life we have lived with my brother has shown my family that God is intricately involved in the details of our lives and that tragic incidents are not merely events but rather they exist for a purpose and that He is working through the triumphs and tragedies to bring about His glory in our lives.

There some crazy 'but God' stories in my life ranging from financial provision in full-time missions to physical protection during the poisoning of my entire family to the point of death while on mission; to the spiritual salvation of many friends in desperate need of Christ. But as I ponder my life, I cannot get away from the fact that God still pursues me, despite the fact that I constantly turn from Him and try to run. To me the greatest 'but God' thing in my life is that He is still God and He continues to pursue me. He has used trials and tragedy in my life to shake me from complacency, He has used relationships in my life to teach me truth, and He has used desperate situations, to battle over the affections and desires of my heart."
-Austin Baker '07

Day of Encouragement

David is having a wonderful day of encouragement! (the Goode Co. shake didn't hurt) ;)

Shaved heads seem to be popping up everywhere...the latest was Big Bear (Kathe's Dad)!! Talk about making David smile!

He is still very tired but his cough his getting better...his throat is still swollen from the respirator/feeding tube so we are praying the swelling will go down today.

More and more doctors are coming in to check on David - all of them having heard or observed his surgery, and the family is seeing even more the opportunity they have to share our hope of Jesus.

The nurses are loving Janet Foz's homemade cookies and all of the Christmas decorations...we wonder if Trauma ICU has ever been this much fun for them? I doubt it, since Big Dave has never been in there before...and I'm sure it won't be as much fun when he leaves...

But I guess they'll just have to deal with that!! Because we are praying him through this to get him better and get him home!

Some Love from Friends

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but being afraid and choosing to go through it.*

David had a good night and his numbers all continue to look good as well.

Matt and Kathe tagged-teamed being with Dave all night and seem to have had a good night as well.

He continues to come around although he's still under some lasting effects of the medicine, but whoo hoo they are letting him have some clear liquids this morning, and if he does well with them, then he might be able to have a chocolate shake at noon, which he already has on order with his Uncle Buzz :) Any ideas where the tastiest chocolate shake can be found in the Houston medical center??

Dr. Franklin, the chief resident who assists Dr. Chen, met with David this morning and explained that the long, hard surgery didn't go as planned, but David took the news well with great courage! Are we surprised?! Our God is good!

Pray that today can be a strengthening day for David, where he feels his body, spirit and mind getting stronger for the challenges ahead.

Surgery is still targeted for Wednesday, December 10th. This is also David's 16th birthday so stay tuned regarding that!

Oh, and lest I forget the important things...David doesn't want ANY girls shaving their heads. Only Boys Aloud in this club. And to clear the air, Barbara still has beautiful, long, blond hair. Dave was just joking with her :)

We have more pictures and videos of you crazy Shave for Dave members that we will get on here as soon as I learn how to blog.

*Del Tackett

Shave for Dave

There's more where this comes from...

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Great Report!

Austin and Barbara have been able to visit with David and he fist punched Austin and joked with Barbara about shaving her head :) (there is an epidemic of head shaving going on, by the way...I believe it's been coined "SHAVE FOR DAVE"...feel free to grab a razor and join the craze...I'll try to post some pictures and videos soon)...

His breathing and heart rate are both still under control and the fever is not alarming.

The thing I'm really excited to tell you right now is that David is now stable and coherent enough to read the blog and all of your comments!! And it's making him smile!!

So it's go time folks. If you've been shy, it's time to be brave. Leave David a comment and I would venture to say that if we can get enough of you to soldier through the log in process (I'll try to post a tutorial soon) we might get a celebrity blogger on here before you know it.

Ah, yes, David the celebrity. No, really, he is. The whole medical center knows about Big Dave. He's a pretty big deal. But you knew that.

On that note, we have some copies of David's demo album "I Need You God" that we would like to give to you. These songs will lift your spirits, move your feet and bless your heart. If you would like a CD of David's, email elliebakk@gmail.com with your address and we will get it to you asap.

Whoo hoo! David is awake and he is himself. Joking, laughing, encouraging, deep voice David.

We are so thankful to have him back.

Moment by Moment

David's fever has come back up to 101. They are putting a cooling blanket on him.

His heart rate and breathing is slower, without the breathing tube, but with a medicine being administered through a nose tube that has helped to calm him down.

We are on our knees here.

"It is moment by moment back there" Matt

So breathe it in and breathe it out
Listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment

There's only One who knows
What's really out there waiting
In all the moments yet to be
And all we need to know
He's out there waiting
To Him the future's history

And He has given us a treasure called right now
And this is the only moment we can do anything about

So breathe it in and breathe it out
Listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment

And if it brings you tears
Then taste them as they fall
Let them soften your heart

And if it brings you laughter
Then throw your head back
And let it go
Let it go, yeah
You gotta let it go

And listen to your heartbeat

And breathe it in and breathe it out
And listen to your heartbeat
There's a wonder in the here and now
It's right there in front of you
And I don't want you to miss the miracle of the moment -SCC

David's Sweet Songs

I have run into a lot of technical difficulty putting David's CD that he recorded in September on the blog, so I at least wanted to give you the link to his myspace page where most of his songs are.

http://www.myspace.com/BAKERBEATZRECORDINGSTUDIO

The song, "I Need You God" is David's rapomony...it's beautiful.

Breathing

David's breathing is too fast and shallow - doctors are talking about putting the breathing tube back in. Lots of people working on Dave right now. Please be on your knees that David can breathe in and out in and out in and out in and out, slowly, deeply...pray pray pray. The shallow breathing is causing his heart rate to be too fast - it is critical that his heart rate slow down. A lot going on in his room. Too much.

Matt and Kathe are with David and it is hard. Please pray for them.

Father may you show favor on this family right now in this very moment.

Breathing Tube Out!

UPDATE:
David is still very uncomfortable with all of the tubes and poking and prodding of the staff. Just want you to be aware that we are rejoicing but things are not easy in there. He is not fully awake - he wants to close his eyes - but occasionally he is asking the staff to "Stop. Where's my Mom?"

Dr. Chen is here and the breathing tube is out!!

David is talking and calling for his Mom!

Praise God!!!

Taking Breathing Tube Out

UPDATE: 10:18 - they want his breathing to be deeper so they will try to take the tube out again at NOON.

URGENT RIGHT NOW 10:15 AM!!!

David is able to follow instructions for everything but taking a deep breath, so they are taking his breathing tube out.

Pray that the deep breath of God would fill his lungs and that his body would rise to the challenge of breathing on it's own.

---

Breathe on me, breath of God,
Fill me with life anew,
That I may love what Thou dost love,
And do what Thou wouldst do.

Breathe on me, breath of God,
Until my heart is pure,
Until with Thee I will one will,
To do and to endure.

Breathe on me, breath of God,
Blend all my soul with Thine,
Until this earthly part of me
Glows with Thy fire divine.

Breathe on me, breath of God,
So shall I never die,
But live with Thee the perfect life
Of Thine eternity.

Trying to Wake up

David is really trying to wake up - he is nodding when Matt and Kathe ask him questions and he is coughing stuff up which is a great thing! He is squeezing his left hand hard and we are praying for right hand to do the same.

More Good news!

This just in....David opened his eyes and stuck out his tongue on command!!!

He went back to sleep afterwards, but this is great progress!!

Mom and Dad are with him...

Just a picture of this sweet family...

So everyone knows who we're praying for...



L-R: The Pud David, Dad Matt, Big Brother Austin, Mom Kathe, Big Sister Barbara, and Austin's Girlfriend Lauren

"Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."*

David had a good night!

His temperature is hovering around 99 degrees, so please continue to pray it drops. This is being monitored closely but no one seems alarmed as this happens frequently in David's situation.

His body is waking up slowly, he is a teenager (!), and normally as far as all can tell. He is coughing, making small noises, and involuntary movements!! He is "localizing" and has even raised his left arm when asked and brought it to his chest!!

The wonderful staff caring for David said that they are taking him on and off the sedation meds to see how he responds each time.

David slept well to his Selah worship playlist all night and we're looking forward to a great day of watching God do miracles with our David Baker!! He IS a miracle after all, and we stand amazed at what God has done, is doing, and will do in this young man's life.

Pray that fever down, pray for nurse Kristin who is with Dave today, and pray for David to wake up!

May you be blessed as you worship the MIGHTY and ABLE and LOVING God today...


*Lamentations 3:22-23

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Keep Praying That Fever Down!

Fever is 100.0...that's right!

We also found out that this morning David tapped Kathe's finger 1-2-3 (I-love-you)...and then did it AGAIN when she asked him to!

(and yes we all got mad for the delay in the transfer of that information, so you can too)

No other activity but we praise Him!

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessèd Redeemer!
Sing, O Earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him! hail Him! highest archangels in glory;
Strength and honor give to His holy Name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children,
In His arms He carries them all day (and night) long:

Praise Him! Praise Him!
Tell of His excellent greatness.
Praise Him! Praise Him!
Ever in joyful song!

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessèd Redeemer!
For our sins He suffered, and bled, and died.
He our Rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him! hail Him! Jesus the Crucified.
Sound His praises! Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep and strong.

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessèd Redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever.
Crown Him! Crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming! over the world victorious,
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong.

TRUTH TALK FOR DAVID

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; whom shall I dread? When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh, my adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell. Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, in spite of this I shall be confident. One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to meditate in His temple." Psalm 27:1-4

"In Thee, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be ashamed; in Thy righteousness deliver me. Incline Thine ear to me, rescue me quickly; be Thou to me a rock of strength, a stronghold to save me. For Thou art my rock and my fortress; for Thy name's sake Thou wilt lead me and guide me. Thou wilt pull me out of the net which they have secretly laid for me; for Thou art my strength." Psalm 31:1-4

"As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you..." Isaiah 66:13

"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; ...Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming our our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass." 1Thessalonians 5:16-19, 23,24

(These are the words of Jesus Christ)
" 'Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to the Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that will I do; that the Father may be glorified in teh Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.' " John 14:12-15

"Heal me O LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for Thou art my praise." Jeremiah 17:14

"Even though I walk through the valley of teh shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou dost prepare a table before me. In the presence of my enemies Thou has anointed my head with oil. My cup overflows."
Psalm 23:4,5

Pray Against Infection

David has spiked a fever of 102 and we need you to pray it down.

He now has a feeding tube so medication can be administered to keep it down.

Praying for David to Wake Up

All tests have shown that David's brain function looks the same as it did before surgery. I'm sorry for not telling you that earlier.

We are now praying for David to wake up.

What a praise

Big Bear just told us that because of David, two more people will be part of our eternal family...Ricardo and Alejandra.

Praise God!

From Matt and Kathe

*UPDATE*
We have been advised and have decided to ask you to pray and read God's Word from home as to not jeopardize David's health at this time with visitation.

Dear Friends,

We would like for David to wake up.

We believe in the power of God's Word and would like Scripture read to David out loud around the clock.

If you are healthy and wanting to come and read Scripture over our son, please contact Ellie elliebakk@gmail.com or Sally and they will assign you a time to come read God's powerful, perfect, healing Word.

It is imperative for David's safety that you be certain of your health before you sign up. If you, your family or anyone you have been around recently is sick with even a runny nose, please read and pray for David from your home. Due to David's condition and visitation schedule, you might not get to go back and be with David, but we do hope you will be able to. If you are unable, for any reason, to sign up, please read God's Word for our David and speak the Living Word for him wherever you are.

We love you - thank you for praying.
Kathe & Matt

The Latest

Dr. Chen came and met with Matt and Kathe for about two hours this morning explaining the possible options for David's next step. Matt and Kathe need prayers for wisdom and discernment as they make these difficult decisions.

David continues to sleep, look great and have strong vitals. He really does look strong.

We also found out that the surgery was not completely unsuccessful. Dr. Chen was able to remove a cyst that has relieved some pressure off of David's brain!

Target date for the next procedure looks to be this coming Wednesday, December 10th, David's 16th birthday.

We will update you as we know more about plans for his birthday, and if anything changes...

MRI

David's vitals still look good, but the doctors have ordered an MRI this morning. Please pray.

"Lord, You are my desire" -David Baker (I'll try to post some of David's music on here today)

Meals

If you are interested in bringing a meal to the hospital, please contact:

Sally Goodwin
smolly1234@aol.com
713.303.1183-c
713.665.5155-h

Thank you for being a sweet provision to this family.

Prayer Warriors

If you are one who is praying with a slotted time, please keep those times until we release you. David is still weak from surgery and the family needs prayer for stamina and wisdom to make wise decisions. There are still a few time slots open, so if anyone would like to pray in those slots, please contact Susan Ince. The times are 9:30-10 pm and 12:30 - 1 am. Also, if anyone needs to change a time slot, please contact me (Susan) as well; susanince1@gmail.com

All who are praying, regardless if you have a time slot or not, be comforted by these words from our Lord Jesus Christ: "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you. By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples." John 15: 7-8

--

“with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God….”

That God would be glorified in the faith of the Bakers, family and friends.
That God would bring miraculous healing to David’s body.
That God would guide the doctors, surgeons and nurses as they treat David and communicate with the family.
Adequate rest and increased strength for David's body as he recovers.
Peaceful sleep for the family.
That God would bind the Baker family as a united front as they fight for David.
That the Lord would be very real to Austin and Barbara through this. That He would give them words to speak and eyes to see God's goodness.
That the Holy Spirit would minster to the hearts and minds of all involved.
That Dr. Chen would think clearly and creatively as he formulates a plan.
That God would give wisdom for Matt and Kathe in making decisions about David’s next step and future treatment.
That we would all be submissive to the good and perfect will of God.
That God would protect from despair and discouragement.

Friday, December 5, 2008

David is Doing well...

David is sedated, but his vitals look good, HE looks good! and he is doing well.

The rest of the Baker clan is resting in various places so pray for peaceful sleep and safe travels to and from the hospital.

There probably won't be an update for awhile, just so you're aware.

Thanks for praying!!

Hard to write.

Sweet Friends, the surgery did not go as planned and the bypass was not successful. But David is stable and we praise God that he is. God's hand is on him, on this family...but they all need time to rest. The Doctors need to rest and David needs to rest after a 22 hour surgery trying 3 different vessels and times to bypass...the doctors are formulating a plan to try a different procedure in a few days.

Please no visitors.

Continue to pray and continue to communicate to David Matt Kathe Barbara Austin Lauren and all the extended family your support and lifting up.

They love you and they need your prayers now more than ever.

With a heavy heart,
ellie

IT'S OVER!!!!!!!!!

We have seen THE Dr. Chen and David is out of surgery and the Doctor said "he is fine"! Matt & Kathe are with the Doctor now. Will update later but praise the Lord with us that the surgery is over!!


-ellie

More of the same...

We are still waiting...nothing has really changed, the surgery is still ongoing as far as we know.

The nurses have been very generous with their time with Matt & Kathe and they have given them as much information as they can on this side of surgery. David is stable, and we praise God for that great news in every update.

His recovery will be a "long haul" so don't think you're off the hook for prayer when we get the word that surgery is over! :)

Dave needs you. Matt needs you. Kathe needs you. Austin needs you. Barbara needs you.

The sweet Mealys brought up eggs, bagels and coffee (can I get an amen?!) and the waiting crew's energy has been renewed.

We thank God this morning for new mercies and His faithfulness to the Baker fam.

-ellie

Just had an Update

Just got an update from OR...they are clipping the aneurysm right now and Dr. Chen will hopefully be in here in an hour.

Also...

The Baker Fam is able to read, and IS reading all of your comments and are greatly encouraged to know you are checking in and praying for David!

Still in Surgery

Thank you all for praying. David is still in surgery this morning and might be for another couple of hours. We are all in a cozy room where we've dimmed the lights and will "rest" and pray until Dr. Chen comes with a report.

It has been stressed to Matt and Kathe that they do everything they can to protect David's space to recover and heal once surgery is over, so visitors can come to the waiting room, but not David's room at this time.

We will keep you posted on all of this - but for now, you know what we know:

The surgery is long and is going well, the Dr. is gifted in his craft and must be an incredible man, and THE God of the Universe is in control.

Trusting in Him and trusting that you are praying -
ellie

Hour 17

The angiogram (http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/angiogram)is underway.

Sounds like it could still be a couple more hours.

Still Waiting...

No word yet...going on 16 hours...but we have a hymnal and Matt is leading us in some worship. Keep praying...and we will let you know when we get the word!

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee;
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessèd Trinity!

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Who was, and is, and evermore shall be.

Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see;
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee,
Perfect in power, in love, and purity.

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All Thy works shall praise Thy Name, in earth, and sky, and sea;
Holy, holy, holy; merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessèd Trinity!

Still in the middle of it...

A nurse just gave us an update that things are still going smoothly (YAY!) but that they are still "in the middle" and not close to being done. Maybe 3 or so more hours...

-ellie

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Bypass Happening NOW!

Well some serious beatbox listening has taken place here in the 4th floor ICU waiting room (we've moved back up) in the last hour...it is so fun to hear David sing and exercise his mad skillz. Upon hacking into his macbook we all breathed a breath of fresh air as we watched video of him on the djimbe having a blast and giving glory to Jesus. Doesn't David Baker just make you smile?

We have just received an update that again is positive, and again requires urgent intercession. The bypass is happening RIGHT NOW. Please pray for the veins to all cooperate...for the machines to all work properly...for the hands of Dr. Chen to stay steady and strong...for any other doctors or nurses in the room to have renewed vigor...for protection for David's mind...for his thoughts to be of Jesus...for fear to be bound from this waiting room...

The word is that the surgery could last 3 more hours. I will update as soon as we hear anything else, but it is likely we won't hear anything until the surgery is over.

Thank you for praying...the family knows you are lifting them up and they are experiencing what it really means to be surrounded by brothers and sisters and carried.

By your prayers, and by His Word.

-ellie

To give you a taste of what you're missing here in the waiting room...



Here's a look at our professional, personal masseur, The Craig Brown himself giving a little distraction and a little relaxation to the Mama.

(notice the mac working station in the background...Big Dave will be so proud.)

Still going smoothly!

Dr. Chen has started to enter David's brain to look for the aneurysm and reconnect the blood vessels to bypass. Please pray that he finds the aneurysm quickly and that David's brain will not be affected. Please also pray that the aneurysm will not leak and that we get more encouraging updates soon! :)

We are SO thankful for the updates!

The Latest GREAT NEWS!

We have just heard that the surgery is half way over and it is going great!

Praise God for such encouraging, unexpected news at this hour!

-ellie





Surgery Begins

Today, between 10:30 and 11 am, David Baker went into brain surgery to repair the largest of two aneurysms. The doctor had said that the surgery would take a minimum of 14 hours and there would be no updates until it was over. However, we had an update about an hour ago! They were able to take the artery next to David's ear to reconstruct the arteries in his brain that they will 'tie off' or whatever they will do to them to resolve the aneurysm. So, our prayers are being answered already by our gracious God and I encourage you all to keep praying and if you signed up for a slot to pray, please, please keep praying at those appointed times through Sunday, as the next 2 days will be crucial for David's healing.

Below are some scripture verses for anyone who would like to use them to pray for David that Susannah Baker (no kin to David!) put together. Thank you, Susannah! The prayers for David are coming from all over the globe...Houston, NYC, Indonesia, Jerusalem, Holland...God is using David Baker for His Glory and Renown all over the earth!

Since the family will be 'living' at the hospital for the next 2-3 weeks, we are coordinating meals to take them there; lunches and dinners. If you would like to participate, please leave a comment and we will be in touch!

Thanks to all who are spending time on their knees on David's behalf before the Throne Room of our most Amazing Lord and may you each be blessed beyond measure as you see Him, sense His presence and realize even more what a wondrous God we serve! Praise God...Emmanuel has come!

Here are the Scriptures we are praying here at the hospital every hour...

Prayers for David

• 12am – “My soul waits in silence for God only; from Him is my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2

• 1am – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” Psalm 34:18-19

• 2am – “Heal David, O LORD, and he will be healed; save him, and he shall be saved, for You are our praise.” Jeremiah 17:14

• 3am – “Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings, from the wicked who despoil me, my deadly enemies, who surround me….as for me, I shall behold Your Face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake.” Psalm 17:8-9,15

• 4am – “I love Thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. The cords of death encompassed me, and the torrents of ungodliness terrified me. The cords of Sheol surrounded me; the snares of death confronted me. In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God for help; He heard my voice out of His temple, and my cry for help before Him came into His ears. Then the earth shook and quaked; and the foundations of the mountains were trembling and were shaken, because He was angry. Smoke went up out of His nostrils, and fire from His mouth devoured; coals were kindled by it. He bowed the heavens also, and came down with thick darkness under His feet. And He rode upon a cherub and flew; and He sped upon the wings of the wind. He made darkness His hiding place, His canopy around Him, darkness of waters, thick clouds of the skies. From the brightness before Him passed His thick clouds, hailstones and coals of fire. The LORD also thundered in the heavens, and the Most High uttered His voice, hailstones and coals of fire. And He sent out His arrows, and scattered them, and lightning flashed in abundance, and routed them. Then the channels of water appeared, and the foundations of the world were laid bare at Thy rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of Thy nostrils. He sent from on high, He took me; He drew me out of many waters. He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from those who hated me, for they were too mighty for me. They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the LORD was my stay. He brought me forth also into a broad place; He rescued me, because He delighted in me.” Psalm 18:1-19

• 5am – “Remember my affliction and my wandering, the wormwood and bitterness. Surely my soul remembers and is bowed down within me. This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:19-23

• 6am – “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

• 7am – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For, behold, those who are far from Thee will perish; You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful to You. But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge…” Psalm 73:26-28

• 8am – “Blessed by the Lord, who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation. God is to us a God deliverances; and to GOD the Lord belong escapes from death.” Psalm 68:19-20

• 9am – “The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The LORD will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever.” Psalm 121:5-8

• 10am – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.” I Peter 5:7

• 11am – “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; who pardons all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.” Psalm 103:2-5

• 12pm – “The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want….Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:1, 4

• 1pm – “Who is the man who fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way he should choose. His soul will abide in prosperity, and his descendants will inherit the land. The secret of the LORD is for those who fear Him, and He will make them know His covenant. My eyes are continually toward the LORD, for He will pluck my feet out of the net.” Psalm 25:12-15

• 2pm – “I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD.” Psalm 27:13-14

• 3pm – “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:7-11

• 4pm – “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7

• 5pm – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6:10-13

• 6pm – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:15-17

• 7pm – “For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16

• 8pm – “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.” II Peter 1:2-4

• 9pm – “For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.” Colossians 1:9-12

• 10pm – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.” II Corinthians 1:3-5

• 11pm – “Some boast in chariots and some in horses, but we will boast in the name of the LORD, our God. They have bowed down and fallen, but we have risen and stood upright. Save, O LORD; may the King answer us in the day we call.” Psalm 20:7-9