Praying Him Through

Celebrating Life - Making it to 18 yrs Old and remembering what all God has done!

2010-12-10T11:22:00.003-06:00

Dear faithful prayer warriors -
David Baker is 18 years old today! Two years ago, as many of you know, he was in a
2nd brain surgery to try and 'take down' a 7.5 cm aneurysm. Just 6 days before a 26 hour long brain surgery to do the same thing had failed. We had never been so desperate for God. And as many of you know, God not only saved David's life through the medical surgery gifts He has given Dr. Roc Chen, but He also answered a 16 yr old boy's prayer for snow. This day two years ago, turned out to be the best day of our lives. We are still praising God for giving us each day with David since then.
We'd like to share with you what we have learned from David and Dr. Chen:

―Courage is not the absence of fear, but understanding it (what you are facing) and choosing to go through it anyway‖, Del Tackett. Amazed at David’s courage when he awoke from coma and Dr. Chen explained the 26 hour surgery was not successful and explained the risks of shutting off the artery being possibly losing his voice and use of his limbs or worse. David had to choose to go through with the surgery even if it ultimately was the last thing he did.
Things Learned from Dr Chen and David Baker:
 ―I never said it would be easy‖ – Dr Chen
 ―One day, one step at a time‖ – Dr Chen
o O.D.A.A.T.—One Day At A Time
 ―isn’t it amazing how God makes us with less meaningful parts so we can use them to fix other problems‖ – Dr Chen prior to 26 hours of surgery, ultimately performing 3 successful bi-passes which David’s body rejected; he never left David’s side;
 ―there are still options‖, an exhausted Dr. Chen to us after at least a 30 hour day, 12/05/08
o "Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never--in nothing, great or small, large or petty--never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force. Never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy." Winston Churchill, October 1941
 ―have to be patient—you have to, I have to‖ – Dr Chen
o ―Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own‖, Jesus. Matthew 6:34.
 ―If this is all there is, I have had a great life‖ – David Baker to Kathe, 12/09/08
 ―You cannot get frustrated, I cannot get frustrated‖ – Dr Chen
 ―It takes time‖ – Dr Chen
 ―I have finished the test and am sure his language is somewhere else! I am going to proceed with the procedure!‖ – Dr Chen, 12/10/08
 ―It was beautiful, it was a miracle‖ – Dr Chen ―I did what I could do, he did the rest‖, 12/10/08
 ―it is snowing, and it was not in the forecasts‖ – friends, 12/10/08, David’s 16th birthday
 ―It is my birthday!!!‖ David Baker, 12/10/08 holding up his RIGHT hand as they wheeled him from the OR through the waiting room.
o ―I prayed for a miracle, and that it will snow for my birthday‖, David, 12/09/08
o ―May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble‖, Psalm 20.1
o ―Blessed be the Lord, because He has heard the voice of my supplications; the Lord is my strength & my shield; my heart trusts in Him & I am helped. Therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him…carry them forever‖ Ps 28:6-9
o IS THIS NOT THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE?!?!, Ellie Bakk on David’s blog, 12/10/08
 ―I’m sorry‖ – David Baker to us when they had to put a feeding tube in him, 2/26/09, breaks my heart, what an amazing person
 ―How can you be so happy with all these things happening to you?‖ (kids at FBBA to David)---―I trust God, if I die, I had a great life‖ – David Baker
o ―Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me‖, Psalm 23:4
 ―I cannot imagine life without right hand…well if that’s what it takes, let’s do it‖ – David Baker to Dr Chen when he explained to him that he could lose his voice and the use of his limbs, especially his right side, no guarantees…
o ―Nevertheless I am continually with Thee. Thou hast taken hold of my right hand. With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but Thee? And besides Thee, I desire nothing on earth; my flesh and my heart may fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever…but as for me, the nearness of God is my good‖. Psalm 73:23
 ―you never said that it would be easy, but I never knew it would be so hard‖ – David Baker
 David has never once complained one bit about all this; he has lifted all of us up and had compassion on us—what an amazing kid!
o Lesson---lift up others when you face trials; it will glorify God and bless others
 ―Remember, the aneurysm that could not be fixed is fixed!‖ – Dr Chen 2/21/08
o With God all things are possible!
o Luke 3:17 ―and the power of the Lord was with him to perform healing‖
o ―Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting‖ Psalm 126:5. –we cried rivers of tears, along with many family and friends and folks throughout the world; I prayed this to happen during David’s surgeries—God brought it to pass, 12/04-12/10/08; 2/20-3/03/09;
 ―much insult to the brain, it takes time to heal‖ – Dr Chen
 ―brain is not happy, it takes time to heal‖ – Dr Chen
 ―brain needs some chill time‖ – Dr Chen
 ―Remember how it takes 6+ weeks to feel normal after having a baby? And they didn’t mess with your brain---brain is much harder to recover from, it takes time, lots of time‖ -- Dr Chen to Kathe, 2/27/09
 ―Good job Dr Chen!‖ (Matt to Dr Chen, 12/10/08; 2/21/09); ―No, not until he is 100% (Dr Chen response)
o Lesson : a job is not over til its over—see it through 100%
o ―Anyone can start strong, only the strong finish strong‖, coach Hershel Walker
o ―‖but as for me, I trust in Thee O Lord, I say, ―Thou art my God‖, my times are in Thy hand, the Lord preserves the faithful. Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord‖. Psalm 31: 14-15,24
 ―It takes time, time, time, lots of time…be patient…chill…do not get frustrated…it takes time to recover…do not expect changes every minute, chill, be patient…Dr. Chen-isms
 Junior at FBBA to David---―I wish I had a dramatic testimony like you David‖…(David’s response) ―No you don’t, its been hard…be happy, you have a great testimony—it is Christ in you‖
 ―don’t hate, Congratulate‖, David Baker-ism
o ―and there must be no filthiness and silly talk or coarse jesting, which is not fitting; but rather giving of thanks‖ Ephesians 5:4
o ―Speaking to one another in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father‖. Ephesians 5: 19-20.
o ―‖whatever is true, whatever if honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these tings…practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you.‖ Philippians 4: 8-9.
 ―choose to live each day with happiness and thanksgiving, life is short‖ – David Baker
o ―offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High; and call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor me‖…‖he who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God (shall see Jesus)‖ Ps 50: 15, 23.
 ―Now I have to treat both of you.‖ Dr. Chen to Kathe and Matt, Nov./Dec.09
 ―He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ―My refuge and my fortress, My God in whom I trust!‖ For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper, and from the deadly pestilence…for He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways…because He has loved me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him securely on high, because he has known my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble. I will rescue him, and honor him. With a long life I will satisfy him, and let him behold My Salvation. (He shall see Jesus)‖. Psalm 91: 14-16
 ―what we are dealing with is seizure related—it is not an anatomical change; need proper control of them and the future looks bright for him‖ Dr. Chen and Dr. Kalamangalam, 12/09/09
o ―But we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us‖. Romans 5:3-5.
o ―In Thy book they were all written, the days that have been ordained for me‖. Psalm 139:16
 12/10/01—Carbon Monoxide
 12/10/08---Aneurysm & snow miracle
 2/20/09---aneurysm clipping successful surgery
 12/09/09---future looks bright for him
 ―I love you mommy. I love you daddy. I love God…
 I love you Dr. Chen‖ David Baker 12/09/09

To Dr Chen, words are not enough to express our appreciation and love for you. Thank you! We love you Dr. Chen! We thank God for you!

To the Lord and to the saints (family & friends & unknown prayer warriors for David):
―Thou art my Lord; I have no good besides Thee. As for the saints who are in the earth, they (YOU) are the majestic ones in whom is all my delight.‖ Psalm 16:2-3.

Happy 18th Birthday David Baker - you amaze me.

ONE YEAR.

2009-12-10T08:04:00.002-06:00

Lots to celebrate today...December 10th...one year ago...surgery...miracle...David's birthday!...praising and thanking God for giving life...Who doesn't remember this?!

The Bakers have declared today a day of Thanksgiving and Praise and are spending the day doing things that seem to fit perfectly into those two categories.

First, a special chapel service this morning at David's awesome school set to proclaim the Name that saves, Jesus - to celebrate Immanuel, God with us! And been with us, this year, He sure has!

Second, a special lunch with Dr. Chen and all his staff to thank them for the time and love and expertise they each have given to David. How great they have been over these past 12 months as well! Couldn't have asked for a better surgeon...or staff!

Hope your day is filled with praises as you look back on the past year of your life! Reflect and see how Immanuel has been...with YOU.

Matthew 1:22-23

"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."

P.S. We hope (cross fingers since we REALLY believe in that sort of thing ;) ) to post some video of the chapel service here on the blog in the very near future...

Cat Scan Tomorrow

2009-09-08T21:58:00.002-05:00

David will see Dr. Chen tomorrow (didn't see him today) and have a Cat Scan done...please ask God to calm the irritability in David's brain and that the Bakers would all know real peace in this uncertain, concerning situation.

Will let you know what we find out tomorrow...

Good News!

2009-09-04T23:54:00.003-05:00

David is being sent home with the good news that there doesn't seem to be any seizure activity in his brain! There is a little frontal lobe activity happening, though, so he will see Dr. Chen again on Tuesday.

Good news??

GREAT NEWS!!

David Needs Your Prayer Tonight!

2009-09-04T16:48:00.001-05:00

Hello long lost blog world...

Want to get the word out ASAP for all of you to be praying for David this evening. Please spread the word!

Over the past 24 hours David has experienced 3 different occurrences of "zoning out" - with symptoms similar to a seizure.

When the Bakers got word from Dr. Chen, he asked for David to go to the ER and get an EEG. So Matt, Kathe and David are on their way to Memorial Hermann to see what is going on.

Please pray as this is obviously upsetting and a huge unknown right now as well. Please pray for clear results and a clear path from here forward. This could require something as simple as an adjustment to David's seizure medication - which we are all praying for! Knowing the flip side of that possible simple solution, though, having been there before, makes tonight an easy night for anxiousness to creep into hearts fast and furious.

Just a quick catch up - in the past month, David has been weaned off of his seizure medication, had an adverse reaction and experienced a seizure on what would have been the first day of his junior year, restarted the medication immediately, and has been attending classes and worship team meetings and tutoring on a daily basis every since! A lot going on for David, but he has been adjusting amazingly well!

These "zoning out" episodes are clearly not what anyone was hoping for...nobody was hoping to end up back at Memorial Hermann even for a quick visit, (everybody loves Dr. Chen but not THAT much, come on!), so please pray for the Bakers tonight as they wait for the results of the EEG and any other tests that may be ordered.

I'll update as soon as we know anything! Thank you for remembering David, even months after his first surgery, in your prayers! The Bakers are truly, truly eternally grateful.

2009-04-06T21:35:00.001-05:00

Sighs of Relief!

2009-03-31T16:47:00.000-05:00

It seems that David's headaches are most likely from the therapy he's been doing these last couple of weeks...his brain is working overtime trying to connect all the dots that have been a little jumbled since his surgery.

So we all collectively sigh and thank God for the no news!!

Sigh.
Thank You.

Please continue to pray for David, Matt & Kathe as they day by day walk this road in faith...trusting God and living the life He has given, to the fullest! Unaltered by fear or worry!

Since the surgery, David's short term memory has been greatly affected...there are days where little improvements can be seen, and then there are days when it seems the pendulum swings back the other way.

It is quite a road.

A huge praise is that David is, and this won't come as a surprise, happy and hopeful...his personality shines more and more as the days go by, and we keep praying that his short term memory will come back more and more each day as well!

Join us.

Long Overdue Update!

2009-03-31T08:45:00.002-05:00

It's been almost a month since David has been home!

And it's been a good month of getting settled back at home for the Bakers - getting settled into a new routine of lots of therapy at TIRR and at Shriner's with some TOP KNOTCH therapists, and lots of therapy at home (with some non-professional but equally top knotch therapists: Matt & Kathe!) - memory games, reading comprehension, tennis, drum lessons, journaling, and swimming to name a few! David Baker is a busy man working to regain his short term memory! And his parents are busy helping him too!

As far as David's physical health, he has continued to improve and has been doing great!

However, in the last 24 hours, David has experienced 3 major headaches.

If you read this this morning, please thank God for His protection of David thus far, and His grace over the past month. Pray also for David's brain to settle down. Pray that the headaches and pain would cease and that Dr. Chen is able to call the Bakers back as soon as possible with some wisdom to speak into the situation.

Pray for peace and for fear to again, be bound from entering the Baker's hearts...a headache to most of us seems minimal, no cause for alarm. A headache in the Baker's world is a lot scarier than that. Pray that they would all have the strength to cling to Jesus and His Word and to not operate out of a spirit of fear.

Thanks for checking in on David!!

Thank You

2009-03-04T16:34:00.003-06:00

Can you believe that David WALKED out of the Neurotrauma ICU straight to the car, straight home?!

Here's your proof! Believe it!

So much to thank God for - so many ways He has blessed the Bakers - many of those blessings are the staff of Memorial Hermann - so many of them were out of town/off of work yesterday when David left the hospital, but a few are pictured above.

Thank you, Lord, for surrounding the Bakers with loving, knowledgeable, attentive, personable, talented, compassionate people during their hospital "visits" - You knew what they needed to make it through each long day and night and we thank You for giving them the sweet staff You did.

And thank YOU, David's nurses...you know who you are...so grateful for you and the hard work and depth of love you extended to the Bakers.

And they're...

2009-03-03T17:31:00.002-06:00

off!

Discharge papers in hand, the Bakers are headed home...yay!!

Although they love the staff at the hospital, especially Dr. Roc the Chen and their sweet nurses (believe me, they REALLY love them!), it is with much excitement they bid farewell to the 7th floor ICU, to the couch/bed, to the long halls of Memorial Hermann, to the lovely parking garage (and parking fees!) and say hello to home!

Good to Go!

2009-03-03T08:20:00.002-06:00

EEG results came back and all looks good!

If the morning continues to go well, David will be good to go home TODAY!

Tomorrow?!

2009-03-02T17:45:00.005-06:00

Dr. Chen came by for awhile, but no results from EEG yet...HOWEVER...sounds like David might actually get to go HOME tomorrow!! That is completely not final, but wouldn't it be just fantastic to get David back home sooner than later for the duration of his recovery?!

Doing Better

2009-03-02T14:45:00.003-06:00

David is really doing better this afternoon after a rough, very rough morning!

We haven't heard from Dr. Chen with results from the EEG, but David is having a good afternoon and seems much more aware of all that is going on.

There was talk earlier today about putting David on the waiting list to move to a regular room and out of ICU, but no official word on that either. :)

It's a waiting game...while we wait, though, David is making little progresses here and there...his mouth functions are leaps and bounds ahead of where they were a few days ago even! His personality is visible, and even his short term memory has improved a little!

As you can imagine, all our anxious to get David home, in his own house, in his own bed, with familiarity all around...we are hopeful that the homecoming could be just days away!

EEG this morning

2009-03-02T10:05:00.000-06:00

David has had a bit of a scare this morning - Dr. Chen seems to think it was a reaction to medication, but has ordered an EEG (go here if you are unfamiliar with this test) this morning.

Please pray for David.

One Step at a Time

2009-03-01T14:08:00.006-06:00

David is making HUGE steps towards recovering - he is eating like a stinkin' horse and is doing so almost entirely on his own! (yesterday I watched him eat a whole bowl of cinnamon toast crunch all on his own!), he is occasionally busting out the beat boxing, he is occasionally bringing the beat on the djembe, he is daily taking strolls around the NeuroTraum ICU and when I left the hospital last night, he was on his feet dancing with his fam to "Eye of the Tiger"!!

Risin' up, back on the street, did my time took my chances...went the distance now I'm back on my feet, just a man and his will to survive!!

Heck Yea!

A few things you can praise God for today: NO more stitches! NO more feeding tube! NO more central line!

A few prayer requests today: Please continue to pray for David's short term memory. Pray for small moments of clarity that will one day (hopefully soon!) string together to make longer and longer moments and then eventually turn into full days of clear understanding and complete awareness of all that has/is going on. Also, that Dave would become better oriented to regular day/night sleeping patterns...it's been quite a few nights of restless, interrupted sleep, and David really needs to rest (as do his parents!) to make the most out of the daylight/therapy hours.

Again, the road to full recovery is long - and David is moving right along, one step at a time.

One step at a time, dear Savior
I cannot take any more
The flesh is so weak and hopeless
I know not what is before

One step at a time, dear Savior
Till faith grows stronger in Thee
One step at a time, dear Savior
Till hope grows stronger in me

One step at a time, dear Savior
I am not walking by sight
Keep step with my soul, dear Savior
I walk by faith in Thy might

One step at a time, dear Savior
O guard my faltering feet!
Keep hold of my hand, dear Savior
Till I my journey complete

One step at a time, dear Savior
Thou knowest all of my fear
One word from Thy heart, dear Savior
And heaven's mansions appear

TJ Shelton

2009-03-01T12:18:00.001-06:00

"Sing for joy in the LORD, O you righteous ones; Praise is becoming to the upright. Give thanks to the LORD with the lyre; Sing praises to Him with a harp of ten strings. Sing to Him a new song; Play skillfully with a shout of joy. For the word of the LORD is upright, And all His work is {done} in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice;
The earth is full of the lovingkindness of the LORD. By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, And by the breath of His mouth all their host.
He gathers the waters of the sea together as a heap; He lays up the deeps in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD; Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.
The LORD nullifies the counsel of the nations; He frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, The plans of His heart from generation to generation. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, The people whom He has chosen for His own inheritance. The LORD looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men; From His dwelling place He looks out On all the inhabitants of the earth, He who fashions the hearts of them all, He who understands all their works.
The king is not saved by a mighty army; A warrior is not delivered by great strength.
A horse is a false hope for victory; Nor does it deliver anyone by its great strength.
Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, On those who hope for His lovingkindness, To deliver their soul from death And to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart rejoices in Him, Because we trust in His holy name. Let Your lovingkindness,
O LORD, be upon us, According as we have hoped in You."
Psalm 33

(thanks Janet for the link!)

Yesterday and Today

2009-02-28T10:20:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was an amazing day - David was just remarkable!

Took a little stroll around the "block", did a little beat boxing, played a little djimbe, ate some yogurt, ate some grits...most of all, he had that light back in his eyes and genuine, loving, grin on his face.

And get this, he ate pancakes and eggs for breakfast today!

There are still times of disorientation for David, but he continues to come around and little by little heal completely.

This is a long road, sometimes it feels more rocky and more lengthy than others...regardless the "feeling" of the day, we thank God for being constant - being near - being bigger than feelings, bigger than any expectation we might have, bigger than what we can even imagine.

P.S. Big Bear is home! Thank you for praying for him!

!!!!!!

2009-02-27T11:09:00.004-06:00

DAVID IS NOT ONLY EATING, HE IS FEEDING HIMSELF.

God is good!!

Don't Want to Miss a Thing

2009-02-27T07:50:00.004-06:00

Even though it was a rough night of interrupted sleep, the Bakers woke up this morning to the sweet sound of David's beat boxing!!!!!!!!!! Unquestionable improvement with mouth functions!!

It is shaping up as a beautiful morning in David's room - it seems he has really turned a corner - so we are looking forward to Dr. Chen's visit!

"I could stay awake
Just to hear you breathing
Watch you smile while you are sleeping
While you're far away and dreaming

I could spend my life
In this sweet surrender
I could stay lost in this moment forever
Oh, every moment spent with you
Is a moment I treasure

Don't wanna close my eyes
I don't wanna fall asleep
'Cause I'd miss you
And I don't wanna miss a thing"
Aerosmith :)

Rest Day

2009-02-26T17:02:00.004-06:00

Today has been a long day of therapists and friends, but also a long day of rest.

We praise God for the glimpses of David's personality that we've seen sprinkled throughout the day!

We continue to pray for David's mouth functions and for his short term memory function to progress.

Dave is resting now...we are just giving him time...and trusting God's time...to heal.

²⁰"Surely my soul remembers
And is bowed down within me.
²¹This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
²²The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
²³They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
²⁴"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,
"Therefore I have hope in Him."
²⁵The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,
To the person who seeks Him.
²⁶It is good that he waits silently
For the salvation of the LORD."
Lamentations 3:20-26

Please be praying for Big Bear, he is back at the hospital - unsure of what all is going on but know he needs prayer!

Feeding Tube

2009-02-26T11:15:00.003-06:00

David is doing well - he has walked a bit around his room and has enjoyed messing around on his macbook for awhile...

The speech therapist visited with Dave and is glad that his swallowing has progressed, but felt a feeding tube was necessary in order to get David all the nutrients he needs in a timely fashion.

So the feeding tube is in - and can I just say David Baker is the man.

The tube will be checked again around 12:30 to make sure it has made its way to Dave's stomach - please pray that it will.

Please also pray for David's continued peace, comfort and rest...that his body will relax.

Psalm 73:23-28

2009-02-26T07:26:00.004-06:00

"Nevertheless I am continually with Thee;
Thou hast taken hold of my right hand.
With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me,
And afterward receive me to glory.

Whom have I in heaven but Thee?
And besides Thee, I desire nothing on earth.
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;
Thou has destroyed al those who are unfaithful to Thee,
But as for me, the nearness of God is my good;
I have made the Lord God my refuge,
That I may tell of all Thy works."

David slept well last night and continues to dose off and on - but he has been swallowing the water Kathe has been able to swab in his mouth, and overall, as far as we can tell, he has been much more "with it" this morning! YES SIR!!

Dr. Chen has already stopped by and says David is progressing well - and "a few more days".

The word is that David might be getting a tray of clear liquids pretty soon so we are excited about that! Dave on the other hand has requested some "cinnamon whatevers" so the liquid tray might not be quite to his standards...but we are getting there!! (just heard that we are holding off on the feeding tube to see if Dave can get some nutrients another way...)

Immanuel, one of David's nurses, just walked in...

The nearness of God is our good.

P.S. Big Bear is getting to go home from the hospital today!

Results and More Waiting

2009-02-25T20:56:00.005-06:00

The results from the angiogram showed no significant problem with the
frontal lobe vascular function!!

(the reason for the delay in information is I was on the road for 4 hours and unable to access internet! No worries...back online now in Htown.)

With some medication before the test, we saw improvement in David's tongue function - So exciting!!

During the angiogram, Dr. Chen was able to inject medication into David's blood vessels that were in spasm. He seems to think that the swallowing and speech issues were due to the spasms, and also now believes the issue of the spasms has been corrected. Awesome!

David did suffer a grand mal seizure at the end of the angiogram, but Dr. Chen saw a direct correlation between the medication and the seizure, so although it is very upsetting, we are thankful that it was caused by the meds and not anything else.

We are praying tonight for the medication to continue to calm the blood vessels in spasm and for
David to be able to swallow by morning...we are seeing glimpses of positive progress in this area, even in David's slumber, so we are encouraged!

Still no feeding tube, but if swallowing does not progress, then feeding tube will be in place tomorrow.

We are also praying tonight for true rest for Matt and Kathe in the hospital room, and NO REST for big bro Austin who is the watchman on duty for the night. :)

David is still sleeping after a lot of medication and a less than desirable reaction to them...but we are hoping that throughout the night, and into the morning he will wake up feeling more like himself. It still could take a day or two for him to fully wake up and lose the grogginess...

We are anxiously, wait I meant patiently, awaiting his waking...we are sure missing that stud David Baker, and eagerly anticipate seeing his bright eyes and sweet smile soon! :)

I will do my best to update more regularly from the hospital tomorrow - please know that your prayers are truly invaluable to the Bakers...you are praying them through too.

And they know it and love you for it.

Angiogram at Noon

2009-02-25T08:19:00.003-06:00

David is still having issues with his speech and short term memory this morning, so Dr. Chen ordered an angiogram - it is scheduled for Noon today.

The angiogram will enable Dr. Chen to really study all of David's blood vessels, detect if any are constricting, and give him opportunity to try and remedy any issues.

Obviously, after such great news last night, this is a bit of a downer this morning - however, the Bakers are excited that Dr. Chen will be able to see in such detail, what is going on in David's brain, and hopefully nail down what is causing digression in the areas of speech, short term memory, and swallowing.

Please be in prayer...with praise and thanksgiving for all that God has done in the past few months...

CLEAR MRI!!!!

2009-02-24T23:40:00.002-06:00

Just heard from Dr. Chen!

The MRI was clear!!!! Praise the Lord!!

There might be a blood vessel that looks different from the previous MRI, but Dr. Chen expects a full recovery and says that David's frontal lobe is just still very irritated from all it's gone through!

SWEET DREAMS OF THANKSGIVING TONIGHT!

MRI @ 8PM

2009-02-24T19:20:00.000-06:00

David is having an MRI done at 8PM.

For the past couple days, David has been walking around in the halls, answering most diagnostic questions correctly, and progressing as expected per Dr. Chen, and lots of things are going very well.

But there are some things that are not going so well.

We need to pray specifically for David to regain his swallowing function, his short term memory, and clear speech patterns.

These functions are found in the frontal lobe of the brain, and are most likely being affected because of swelling.

Please pray for the quick and complete return of David's swallowing, memory, and speech.

Pray that any swelling will cease, and that the MRI will be what the doctors need to see in order to properly assess and move forward with David.

This is a hard time, possibly the hardest yet in this journey for the Bakers - please surround them with your love and prayers...they need you to help them stand and to help them withstand the storm.

Our Hope is in Him, all day long.

2009-02-24T15:30:00.005-06:00

It was a great morning, but has turned into a rough afternoon...Dr. Chen visited this morning, and from what he said, it will really take a miracle for David to dodge getting a feeding tube tomorrow morning.

A miracle is what we are praying for. Please join us.

Tubes or no tubes, our hope is in Jesus - long or short hospital days, our hope is in Jesus - uncertain or certain times, our hope is in Jesus!

¹To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;

² in you I trust, O my God.
Do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.

³ No one whose hope is in you
will ever be put to shame,
but they will be put to shame
who are treacherous without excuse.

⁴ Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;

⁵ guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.

⁶ Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love,
for they are from of old.

⁷ Remember not the sins of my youth
and my rebellious ways;
according to your love remember me,
for you are good, O LORD.

⁸ Good and upright is the LORD;
therefore he instructs sinners in his ways.

⁹ He guides the humble in what is right
and teaches them his way.

¹⁰ All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful
for those who keep the demands of his covenant.

¹¹ For the sake of your name, O LORD,
forgive my iniquity, though it is great.

¹² Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD ?
He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.

¹³ He will spend his days in prosperity,
and his descendants will inherit the land.

¹⁴ The LORD confides in those who fear him;
he makes his covenant known to them.

¹⁵ My eyes are ever on the LORD,
for only he will release my feet from the snare.

¹⁶ Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.

¹⁷ The troubles of my heart have multiplied;
free me from my anguish.

¹⁸ Look upon my affliction and my distress
and take away all my sins.

¹⁹ See how my enemies have increased
and how fiercely they hate me!

²⁰ Guard my life and rescue me;
let me not be put to shame,
for I take refuge in you.

²¹ May integrity and uprightness protect me,
because my hope is in you.

²² Redeem Israel, O God,
from all their troubles!

Psalm 25

Whoo-hoo!

2009-02-24T08:02:00.004-06:00

It was a restful, well, more-restful-than-the-previous-nights night for the Bakers! Praise God!

SO excited that David slept and woke up to have a great meeting with the speech pathologist...

Lord, we thank you for this morning!

Lord, I Thank You for the Morning

Lord I thank you for the morning.

Lord I thank you for a brandnew dawning.

Lord I thank you for another day to sing your praise.

Lord I thank you for your blessing.

Right now my heart´s confessing...

Lord I thank you for another day to sing your praise.

New mercies ev´ry morning.

New mercies Lord I see.

Simply because you love me,

You´re always giving your mercies to me.

Every morning when I wake up, I can not help to see,

Your goodness and your mercy Lord, are always following me.

Lord I thank you for the morning.

Lord I thank you for a brandnew dawning.

Lord I thank you for another day to sing your praise.

Lord I thank you for your blessing.

Right now my heart´s confessing...

Lord I thank you for another day to sing your praise.

You´ve been good to me yeah, sure been good to me Lord, mighty, mighty good to me, yeah You´ve been good to me.

One more day.

One more day to sing Your praise.

-Gregory Thomas, Times Square Church

Quick Announcement

2009-02-23T17:38:00.005-06:00

Just wanted you all to know that David is not quite up to visitors yet...but Matt and Kathe would love to see you!

So if you would like to drop something off for David, or hug Matt and Kathe's necks, then please feel free to come by!

Find the receptionist on the 7th floor of Memorial Hermann and let him/her know who you are there to see and then he/she will tell you what to do.

Thanks for understanding...and rest assured that you all will be the first to know when visiting is back on!

Today

2009-02-23T15:57:00.003-06:00

There wasn't a whole lot of sleep happening in David's room last night, so there is a whole lot of tired happening today. David has been able to take a few naps here and there though, which is a huge praise!

Matt and Kathe are tired but hopeful for David's continued improvement in the next day or two.

Dr. Chen visited this morning, and continues to be pleased with David's progress, and continues to encourage the Bakers to give David time to come "back" from his "space trip" :)

Yesterday and today David has been able to take little walks outside of his room! So excited that he was able to get out of that bed (he's been plotting and trying to execute bed-escape routes for days)!!

He's also had a few tubes removed today and that is exciting too!

I know it's brief - but wanted to let you know what's going on today!

Thank you for praying!

If you are still up...

2009-02-22T23:08:00.002-06:00

Please be praying...the evening has proven to be a bit stormy and it looks to be a long night.

The Stormy Stage

2009-02-22T18:16:00.005-06:00

The Baker's have been told in the next day or two, and even in the next moments, the pendulum will swing, thus getting the next few days the name: "the stormy stage".

It all has felt a bit more intense than "stormy" thus far, but hearing this, communicates to be "prepared" - and that the next few days could be rough for David.

You may remember that in December, there was a "stormy stage" as well.

But here we are on the other side of that storm...already at the end of February. The storm did not cause us to perish.

How could we not be reminded of this poignant passage of Scripture?

---

Mark 4:35-41

³⁵On that day, when evening came, He (Jesus Christ) said to them, "Let us go over to the other side."

³⁶Leaving the crowd, they took Him along with them in the boat, just as He was; and other boats were with Him.

³⁷And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up.

³⁸Jesus Himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?"

³⁹And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still." And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm.

⁴⁰And He said to them, "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?"

⁴¹They became very much afraid and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?"

---

Please pray tonight and tomorrow, and okay every minute of every day if you can, that the Bakers would continue to believe and trust that Jesus is in the boat with them. That this Man, God Himself, the Creator and Commander of even the wind and the sea and every brain and every outcome and recovery of every surgery in the world, is with them, is loving them, and is in control.

Tonight, tomorrow, forever.

And please pray that He swings the pendulum back quickly. Because after all, whether the storm is long or short, wearisome or soothing, a surprise or forewarned, He alone keeps it.

So Grateful for You...

2009-02-22T12:29:00.003-06:00

People who love the Bakers enough to spend time in prayer for them, spend time with them at the hospital, spend time waiting with them in spirit for David's full recovery.

We have some good news this afternoon!

This morning, Dr. Chen visited David again and is encouraged with his recovery, and referred to this process as a swinging pendulum - a long process of going back and forth - some really good days and then possibly a swing to some hard days while David's brain heals.

Please pray that God would continue to orchestrate the inner workings of David's brain to adjust to the changes well and fully heal - that little by little all of David will be all back, all in His time.

That David would respond well as the process of healing continues - that he would respond well to even swallowing, eating, taking pills, etc.

And that the Bakers would rest in what they know to be true - that God is good, His timing is good, so good it's worth waiting for, even when the pendulums of life swing.

What a praise, that Dr. Chen is pleased with David's progress, so pleased in fact, that he said David's progress is far ahead of most who have had such invasive brain surgery.

Words and visits from Dr. Chen are comforting, enlightening and encouraging to the Bakers, so we thank God that he was able to stop by David's room this morning!

God has given Dr. Chen (obviously) a mind that is oh so smart, and a talent that is oh so unmatched, but He has also given him incredible insight into how to communicate effectively and understandably to the Bakers...you could not ask for more in a doctor, and we thank God for how he created Dr. Chen.

Hopefully this afternoon David will have a nice, comfy (well at least I hope) chair brought to his room that he will get to sit in and exercise...he is so ready to get out of that bed!! So yay! He's getting to, at least for a little while, today!

...So grateful for you.

Asking for Prayer Right Now!

2009-02-21T20:37:00.003-06:00

I know you haven't heard much from us today, but nothing much with David has changed throughout the day until now.

It seems that David has had some minor seizures which have caused a few (temporary from all that is understood) hiccups this evening with his speech and memory.

His anti-seizure medication is being readjusted, and as we pray for the medication to do what it is intended to do, we also pray, and petition you to please agree with us in prayer, for the activity in David's brain to be calmed by the Hand of the Father...that He would provide rest and renewed strength for David, Matt and Kathe tonight as they trust Him to carry them through.

A New Day

2009-02-21T09:15:00.003-06:00

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.
Lamentations 3:22-23

This morning we pray that David's brain continues to heal, that any swelling would be minimal and not damaging, that he could rest today and come completely "off" the medicine that alters - and be complete - fully himself.

Please continue to pray for Big Bear, he was admitted into Methodist Hospital and the doctors are doing some blood work to determine what kind of infection he has. Please pray that the doctors can quickly see what is causing his fevers and trembling.

Big Bear

2009-02-20T18:56:00.003-06:00

This prayer request isn't about David - but we still need your prayers right now.

We need you to pray for David's Grandpa, Big Bear, as he is having some health issues...he is now waiting in the ER here at the hospital with a portion of our waiting crew.

Please pray that he will be seen and assessed quickly and accurately.

He's Awake!

2009-02-20T18:20:00.002-06:00

David is awake! He is breathing on his own and although he is super sleepy, he is responding to all commands and has moved his right AND left side (which had potential to be very weak due to this surgery) - AMAZING!

Breathing Tube Removed!

2009-02-20T17:22:00.006-06:00

David's breathing tube is out!

And he IS awake, not fully awake, and Dr. Chen says he's still very sleepy.

Well, that's understandable. But we are praying and hoping that David will fully wake up.

We Have Seen Dr. Chen!

2009-02-20T16:30:00.005-06:00

Dr. Chen came and met with ALL of us in the waiting room, patiently explaining the surgery and drawing a detailed picture of the procedure.

He said everything looked great and that he did his absolute best - not that that was a surprise!

They are now waiting for David to wake up (yes you read that right - see, this is totally not what we prepared for!) before they take the breathing tube out.

So we can pray now for David to wake up easily, and calmly and for the breathing tube to come out equally easy and calm.

We are anxious to hear that David is awake and breathing all on his own, but still so thankful and praise-full for what God has done today.

THE CLIPS ARE WORKING!!

2009-02-20T14:03:00.003-06:00

WE HAVE JUST RECEIVED WORD PEOPLE!!!

The clips are working, the angiogram is being done now, this portion of the process is called "closing" and it should take an hour or two...Dr. Chen should be out within two hours. Are you kidding me?! Is this happening?!

I mean, is this amazing or what?!?!

This is GREAT news! GREAT news way earlier than we were "prepared" for...GREAT news even greater than we were "prepared" for!

Whoo-hoo! We are celebrating God's faithfulness and His goodness - may we never forget how He has lavished His love on us...again...this day.

THIS DAY!! What a great day.

Clipping Aneurysm RIGHT NOW

2009-02-20T12:45:00.002-06:00

Nurse says everything is looking good so far but that this part could take awhile...

PRAY!!

Waiting

2009-02-20T12:27:00.004-06:00

While I'm Waiting - John Waller

I'm waiting

I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

www.johnwallermusic.com

A Thank You from the MAN Himself

2009-02-20T11:57:00.004-06:00

Update

2009-02-20T11:18:00.000-06:00

From the OR: They have found the aneurysm and now the "hard part" begins.

We are praying over every instrument going into David's head -- praying that God is directing Dr. Chen's hands.

Surgery Started around 9AM

2009-02-20T11:11:00.003-06:00

...and that is all we know right now! Please keep praying and keep checking in as we will update as soon as we have more information!!

7am Start Time

2009-02-19T22:07:00.000-06:00

Surgery is scheduled for 7:00 am tomorrow morning.

6 hours is the predicted length.

Just wanted you to know so you can be praying!

Prayers for David

2009-02-19T10:20:00.001-06:00

Prayers for David for Friday, February 20th 12am-11pm

12am - “Heal David, O LORD, and he will be healed; save him, and he shall be saved, for You are our praise.” Jeremiah 17:14

1am – “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 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 4:14-16

2am – “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:13-16

3am - “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

4am – “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. He keeps all his bones, not one of them is broken.” Psalm 34:18-20

5am – “Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart! But as for me, my feet came close to stumbling, my steps had almost slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant as I saw the prosperity of the wicked….When my heart was embittered and I was pierced within, then I was senseless and ignorant; I was like a beast before You. Nevertheless I am continually with You; You have taken hold of my right hand. With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:1-3, 22-26

6am – Let us pray that our David triumphs like young King David, for the battle is the Lord’s: “Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted. This day the LORD will deliver you up into my hands, and I will strike you down…that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel, and that all this assembly may know that the LORD does not deliver by sword or by spear; for the battle is the LORD'S and He will give you into our hands.” I Samuel 17:45-47

7am – “Thus says the LORD, ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength, and whose heart turns away from the LORD. For he will be like a bush in the desert and will not see when prosperity comes, but will live in stony wastes in the wilderness, a land of salt without inhabitant. 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 17:5-8

8am – “…we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death works in us, but life in you.” II Corinthians 4:8-12

9am – “Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” II Corinthians 4:16-18

10am – “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. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things….And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-8, 19

11am – “…all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.” I Peter 5:5-11

12pm – “I have set the LORD continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices; my flesh also will dwell securely. For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol; nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay. You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Psalm 16:8-11

1pm – “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

2pm – “Why do you say, O Jacob, and assert, O Israel, ‘My way is hidden from the LORD, and the justice due me escapes the notice of my God?’ Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.” Isaiah 40:27-31

3pm – “…in the presence of Him whom he believed, even God, who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist. In hope against hope he believed, so that he might become a father of many nations according to that which had been spoken, ‘So shall your descendants be.’ Without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah's womb; yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform.” Romans 4:17-21

4pm – Psalm 124 - A Song of Ascents, of David.
“Had it not been the LORD who was on our side,”
Let Israel now say,
“Had it not been the LORD who was on our side
When men rose up against us,
Then they would have swallowed us alive,
When their anger was kindled against us;
Then the waters would have engulfed us,
The stream would have swept over our soul;
Then the raging waters would have swept over our soul.”
Blessed be the LORD,
Who has not given us to be torn by their teeth.
Our soul has escaped as a bird out of the snare of the trapper;
The snare is broken and we have escaped.
Our help is in the name of the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth.

5pm – “For You have rescued my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. I shall walk before the LORD in the land of the living.” Psalm 116:8-9

6pm – “For You formed David’s inward parts; You wove him together in his mother's womb. We will give thanks to You, for David is fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and our souls know it very well. David’s frame was not hidden from You, when he was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your eyes have seen his unformed substance; and in Your book were all written the days that were ordained for David, before one of them came to be….Search David, O God, and know his heart; try him and know his anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in him, and lead him in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:13-16, 23-24

7pm – “I will lift up my eyes to the mountains;
Where does David’s help come from?
His help comes from the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth.
He will not allow David’s foot to slip;
He who keeps David will not slumber.
Behold, He who keeps David
Will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD is David’s keeper;
The LORD is his shade on his right hand.
The sun will not smite him by day,
Nor the moon by night.
The LORD will protect David from all evil;
He will keep his soul.
The LORD will guard David’s going out and his coming in
From this time forth and forever.” Psalm 121

8pm – “…and Jesus Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds David is healed. For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.” I Peter 2:24-25

9pm – “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

10pm – “’But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and skip about like calves from the stall. You will tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day which I am preparing,’ says the LORD of hosts.” Malachi 4:2-3

11pm – “I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait,
And in His word do I hope.
My soul waits for the Lord
More than the watchmen for the morning;
Indeed, more than the watchmen for the morning.
O Israel, hope in the LORD;
For with the LORD there is lovingkindness,
And with Him is abundant redemption.
And He will redeem Israel
From all his iniquities.” Psalm 130:5-8

*THANK YOU SUSANNAH!*

Prayer Vigil

2009-02-18T21:21:00.000-06:00

If you didn't know already, we believe in prayer!

Susan Ince is again organizing the prayer vigil for David - here are the details!

It is set up in 30 minute increments and we would like to ask everyone to consider praying in their slot for 3 days, beginning at midnight on this Friday, February 20th and going through midnight February 23rd.

David's surgery is scheduled first, for Friday morning, but the Bakers don't know what time yet.

The first three days following the surgery are the most crucial since David will be in an induced coma for several days and his coming out of it with all his vitals strong is so important.

Below are a few things that the Bakers have asked for you to specifically pray for:

1. For Dr. Chen to be clear minded and rested as he goes into surgery; that he would be able to see the Hand of God in and through all of this.

2. That David's vital signs would remain strong through the surgery, through the coma and upon awakening.

3. That David's breathing would be strong and steady through it all.

4. That God would protect David's mind from spiritual, emotional and physical harm while he is asleep through the surgery, placing a hedge of protection around David, through it all.

5. That God would keep David and all the Bakers from fear, reminding them that God is Good and He is Faithful.

6. That God's peace would sustain them all.

There are obviously so many more prayers to be prayed but you all will know what those are.

TO SIGN UP EMAIL SUSAN your name and preferred time slot (between midnight and midnight in 30 minute increments) at susanince1@gmail.com

Since she is trying to fill out a chart to show the Bakers their prayer support, please get in touch with her to sign up for a slot as soon as you possibly can.

The Baker family thanks you from the bottom of their hearts for engaging in spiritual warfare on David's behalf and know that all our prayers, coupled together, create a beautiful aroma for our Lord that is pleasing to Him:

"And when He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having each one a harp, and golden bowls full of incense which are the prayers of the saints." Revelation 5:8

His Love Sets Us Free...from fear.

2009-02-18T20:48:00.002-06:00

HOPE NOW by Addison Road

If everything comes down to love
Then just what am I afraid of
When I call out Your name
Something inside awakes in my soul
How quickly I forget I'm Yours

I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life

Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
Your love sets me free

When my life is like a storm
Rising waters all I want is the shore
You say I'll be ok and
Make it through the rain
You are my shelter from the storm

I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life

Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
Your love sets me free

Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
Your love sets me free
You've become my hearts desire
I will sing Your praises higher
Cause Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free

Checking in a Day Early

2009-02-18T18:05:00.004-06:00

After reviewing results today from some of David's recent MRA & MRI's, Dr. Chen called the Bakers to tell them that the aneurysm has grown, and that he wanted David to check in tomorrow morning, Thursday, for some additional testing.

Dr. Chen wants to be fully prepared for what he will be working with come surgery day, Friday the 20th.

This comes as a surprise tonight, as the Bakers were planning to check in bright and early Friday morning before surgery, and not a minute before that. It's also a blow to hear that the aneurysm has grown.

David plays tomorrow morning at his school's chapel service (which will be AWESOME!), and immediately afterward will check in to Memorial Hermann 7th floor NeuroTrauma ICU.

Please pray for the Bakers tonight as they catch their breath from this knockout news and head into tomorrow...

May God's peace sustain them.

P.S. to end this on a great note - David has posted a few new songs on his myspace page - http://www.myspace.com/BAKERBEATZRECORDINGSTUDIO !!

Preparation...

2009-02-15T18:08:00.007-06:00

I'm not sure how you really prepare yourself for what lies ahead.

None of us really know (even when we think we do!) what's around the next corner, what lies on the agenda for the next day, or on the next month's calendar.

Sometimes in effort to prepare for what we can't really prepare for, we get fearful, anxious and impatient.

But really, the only way to prepare yourself, for anything, is to place your trust in the Lord. Because He IS the ONE that is around every corner, a part of every day, and on every calendar page. And we can count on Him even in the preparations, even in the unknown.

"Jesus Christ is the same
yesterday
and today
and forever"
Hebrews 13:8

We are trusting Him as we gear up for David's surgery, fast approaching on Friday, February 20th at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston.

If you are interested in ministering to the Baker family these next few weeks, we are so thankful for you! There are lots of ways you can be a blessing to them - the main one is simple, and you can do it anywhere, anytime.

Pray for them. Go before the Throne of grace with confidence and beg God to have mercy, extend grace and show favor on David Baker - & on his family.

"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence,
so that we may receive mercy
and find grace to help us in our time of need."
Hebrews 4:16

The second way you can bless this family is also simple...and you can do it almost anywhere and most certainly at any time!

Encourage them. Your blog comments are a great encouragement. Just knowing you have been on the blog and are reading/praying for David is an encouragement. When they hear that your friends, or your office, or your students, or your family is praying, it is an encouragement. When you leave a Scripture that you have prayed over them, it is an encouragement.

The third way you can bless the Bakers is by visiting them at the hospital...many of you came in December to read Scripture with the family and pray for Dr. Chen, the nurses & David during his surgeries. This surgery will start early Friday morning and is as intense or even more intense than the first surgery. Your presence and focused attention on the Lord, David, Matt & Kathe, Austin & Lauren, & Barbara is a blessing.

There are lots of other ways you can bless the fam - you can make signs, write letters, sing songs, do a dance, shave your head, you guys know the drill - you came out in full force in December and the Bakers, as you know, are truly humbled by you and grateful for you...

But the last way I want to mention is that of the blessing of meals at the hospital. Whether David is in the hospital three days after the surgery or three weeks, the Bakers will need to eat and be nourished! Once again, Sally Goodwin has volunteered to lead this great ministry to the Bakers and so once again I wanted you all to have her contact info. Please get in touch with her if you would like to bring a meal up to the hospital...

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

We ARE preparing this week by trusting Him! He is the Prince of Peace and we pray for His peace that passes all understand and goes beyond any human preparations.

"And the peace of God,
which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:7

Surgery Scheduled!

2009-01-14T08:35:00.007-06:00

Surgery on the second, smaller but not any less significant than the first, aneurysm has been set...the date is Friday, February 20th.

Mark it on your calendars, because David needs all of you, his prayer warriors, back in full force for this second go around. (He needs you now too!)

This surgery will "look" similar to the first in the sense that it is a brain surgery (not a procedure like the 2nd), David will be in a coma for a couple days after surgery, will have the ventilator again, etc.

This aneurysm is in the center of David's brain - so it will be harder to get to - but we know Who guides Dr. Chen's hands.

Please pray that this aneurysm will not rupture, leak during surgery or damage any of the brain; that the artery will be preserved, and that God protects David from a stroke.

As you can recall, the last hospital stay, though celebratory in moments, and a crazy miracle overall, was rough - read through the December blog posts and it will not be hard to imagine what kind of toll it took on the Baker fam.

Knowing (most of) what lies ahead with another hospital stay, another surgery, another coma, another ventilator, another set of side affects, another time of waiting, another list of daunting possibilities, another waking up process - it can seem overwhelming to have to enter back into that world of day-by-day, moment-by-moment life in the hospital.

As you pray for David, remember to pray for Matt, Kathe, Austin, Lauren, and Barbara too, as they prepare for this next surgery, February 20th.

Pray that the days leading to surgery will be fun, meaningful, restful days - that the whole fam is unified and strong in the Lord as they face the day-by-day, moment-by-moment battle at home NOW, as well as when they enter those hospital doors, and that God would simply be near. That His presence, His nearness, and love and sovereignty and leading and goodness and purposes, even when unknown, would be enough.

The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me;
your love, O LORD, endures forever—
do not abandon the works of your hands.
Psalm 138:8

Still celebrating this guy's life...

2009-01-12T22:06:00.003-06:00

It's been a long time coming, this video, but there was some spiritual warfare happening in the internet/computer world, and maybe a little thrown in in life as well, so if you can view the video, then praise the Lord! No, really! Praise!

Without further ado, here's a peak into the night before the miracle surgery, celebrating the miracle guy.

Happy Birthday David Baker...sorry it's late! We love you man!

(turn your volume up & click on the video or press play!)

Happy Birthday David Baker! from ellie bakk on Vimeo.

No News is Good News!

2009-01-07T00:20:00.003-06:00

The meeting with Dr. Chen last week went well and all present were encouraged to move forward with getting back into the normal flow of life.

A few additions to the normal flow of life are weekly physical therapy sessions as well as half days of school and of course, lots of rest!

Yes, that's right! David actually went to a half day of school today! Awesome!

As of right now it looks like surgery on the second, smaller of the two original aneurysms, will be in mid to late February...

So for the next month we need to pray that David's rest is adequate, that he can adjust with little to no stress back into "normal" life, that his physical therapy would be effective, that he would be diligent to work out his right side at home, and that he just overall feels more and more like himself.

It's a long road ahead and this journey is not over. Your prayers are still needed and appreciated, so thank you for remembering all of the Bakers! Please know that no news on the blog is good news! And I will try to keep you as up to date as possible!

Meeting with the Doctor!

2008-12-30T08:20:00.004-06:00

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

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2008-12-25T00:01:00.002-06:00

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

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

2008-12-24T18:27:00.005-06:00

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!

Happy Anniversary Matt & Kathe!

2008-12-18T00:01:00.003-06:00

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!

It's True! He's Home!

2008-12-17T19:39:00.003-06:00

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!

2008-12-17T08:15:00.004-06:00

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

Hallelujah, What a Savior!

2008-12-16T17:08:00.002-06:00

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...

2008-12-16T11:29:00.002-06:00

...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!

Hopeful for a Good Night's Rest

2008-12-15T23:58:00.002-06:00

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

2008-12-15T20:08:00.004-06:00

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!

2008-12-15T18:45:00.004-06:00

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.

He Walks! :)

2008-12-14T15:50:00.001-06:00

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

Shave for Dave Pics!

2008-12-14T15:34:00.009-06:00

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

2008-12-14T10:43:00.004-06:00

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.

Walking!

2008-12-13T15:31:00.003-06:00

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!

Sitting in a Chair!

2008-12-12T13:58:00.003-06:00

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!

2008-12-12T10:23:00.004-06:00

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!

HOW IS DAVID TODAY?!

2008-12-11T23:48:00.005-06:00

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

2008-12-11T14:42:00.007-06:00

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:

2008-12-11T09:00:00.010-06:00

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!)

David is Awake!!

2008-12-10T19:19:00.005-06:00

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

2008-12-10T17:01:00.015-06:00

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"

2008-12-10T16:01:00.003-06:00

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

2008-12-10T13:06:00.002-06:00

“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

2008-12-10T12:15:00.006-06:00

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

2008-12-10T07:56:00.004-06:00

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.

Pray for Tomorrow

2008-12-09T23:20:00.004-06:00

"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

2008-12-09T15:19:00.007-06:00

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!!

2008-12-09T09:31:00.001-06:00

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

2008-12-09T08:58:00.006-06:00

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...

Comment Help

2008-12-08T22:43:00.005-06:00

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

2008-12-08T20:24:00.002-06:00

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...

2008-12-08T14:24:00.004-06:00

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

2008-12-08T13:12:00.003-06:00

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

2008-12-08T12:54:00.000-06:00

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

2008-12-08T08:21:00.007-06:00

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

2008-12-08T00:37:00.004-06:00

There's more where this comes from...

Great Report!

2008-12-07T18:58:00.000-06:00

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

2008-12-07T15:45:00.006-06:00

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

2008-12-07T15:39:00.003-06:00

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

2008-12-07T14:25:00.003-06:00

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!

2008-12-07T12:15:00.004-06:00

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

2008-12-07T10:13:00.005-06:00

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

2008-12-07T10:02:00.002-06:00

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!

2008-12-07T08:59:00.002-06:00

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...

2008-12-07T08:34:00.003-06:00

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