Update from Michael - 12-12-08

Dear Friends:

We are excited to announce that Melissa is scheduled to have her tracheotomy “trach.” tube removed this coming Monday, 12/15. On Wednesday morning (12/11), her pulmonary doctor, Dr. Hicks, ran several tests and came to the conclusion that the trach. tube can be removed safely.

It's amazing to us, how much we have experienced in the past 2 months since Melissa’s return home. She has been eating, reading, speaking, and actively participated in providing her opinion on everything. Believe us, she is a teenager! She watches her sisters to make sure they do things correctly. She makes sure the house is spotless. If see sees any trash, she make sure it gets picked up in no time.

She experienced a wonderful surprise party last Saturday, December 6. More than 50 school and church friends came to celebrate Christmas with Melissa, thanks to Hannah Feldman's coordination. We were thrilled to have all the guests. Melissa told her therapists she was happy the whole weekend. Sunday after attending the early church service (Melissa has been attending church on Sundays since November 23), Melissa went and cheer Uni. High's car wash fundraiser. Even though it was quite cool last Sunday, Melissa refused to go home. She wanted to hang out with all of her friends. After the car wash, she reminded us to attend Mariners Church's Christmas Tree Lighting.

Thanks to the many Uni. High friends who have come faithfully every day to help Melissa practice her speech. As a result of their help, Melissa can write more words and pronounce much more clearly. Thanks to Emi Komiya and Natalie Hannah, who organized and recruited: Tess Nelson, Allison White, Charlotte Mountain, Becca O'Leary, Nicky Shane, Arshia Neghadar, Shaina Seidenberg, and Jessica Choi.

Melissa has been working hard to stand up with minimal support this week. She has repeatedly exclaimed "I want to walk!" She reminded me that when Jesus hear a paralyzed man’s plea, He cured him and ordered him to walk immediately. Friends, we see God performing miracles every day and we are experiencing them.

May each one of you experience His mighty power in your daily life. May His face shine on every one of you. May God protect you and give you good health.

God Bless!

Michael

Prayer Requests:

1. That the minor surgery to remove Melissa’s trach. tube on Monday goes smoothly.

2. That her right arm and leg gain strength so she can walk again as she so wants to do. Every day, we want see another miracle come true.

3. For her busy daily schedule; that she will have enough energy to face twice a week physical therapy (P.T.), occupational therapy (O.T.), speech therapy (S.T.), acupuncture, and the many doctor appointments.

4. That she will be able to start her school program next week.