Merry Christmas!!

We want to wish you all a Merry Christmas from our family. Thank you for praying and thinking of Dad and Mom during this wonderful time of year.
A quick report. Dad has been home for several days now, and has been feeling alot better. He is trying some of the suggestions they gave him to help with the digestion and his bowels, and they seem to be working. He is feeling better, and he is encouraged. We are praising God for this!!! Our greatest gift this Christmas will be having Mom and Dad. We thank you, and God bless you this season as you celebrate the birth of His Son.
Love, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

Good report

Mom and Dad came home today from Houston. The tests all showed that all was well with Dad. The choking has been due to scar tissue that has developed at the sight of surgery. While they were in there doing the scope, they stretched out his esophagus, which they say should help. They also gave him some ideas for the bowels, no sure solutions, but hopefully some more options to help.
We are praising God that no cancer has returned and that according to them all looks pretty good.
Dad was wanting a quick fix for the weight gain, but it looks like that will be a slow process.
Thank you all for praying. I pray all of you have a very Merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Him, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

Please pray!

We were out of town all weekend, but upon our return, I found out that Dad and Mom had had a rough weekend. Friday night, while trying to get out and do some Christmas shopping, Dad started choking on part of his supper, and choked for over 3 hours. They considered going to the ER, but after Dad felt himself relax a little, they went on home. Dad and Mom are very discouraged. Dad's intestines were doing a little better keeping the food in him a little longer, but he is now having trouble again. There is no way he will be able to gain weight if we can't keep the food in him.
He survived the men's Christmas party at the church on Thursday night, but since then has refused to get on the scales not wanting to know if he lost any more weight. He has had a rough weekend, overall feeling bad and discouraged with his condition.
They are heading to MDA Tuesday. They will be having tests run and Dr.s appointments on Wed. and Thurs.
Specifically we are asking for prayer:
That they will be able to find out what is causing the bowel issues, and the choking and that it is treatable.
That they do not find any new growths in the esophagus.
That the Drs. would know exactly how to take care of him, and have wisdom beyond their training and years.
Please pray for encouragement for their hearts.
Thank you, JJ

Struggling a little.

Thought you would enjoy some sweet pictures of Dad and Mom at Jesse's 12th birthday dinner, last Friday night.

Dad has still not lost any more weight, but he is having some of his problems return. He is starting to have a hard time with the food going right through him again. We are trying a different medication, thinking maybe he could have a bug. He has only been taking it for a few days, and it may take a few more before we know if it is going to help. He has also started choking again when he eats. Now this is probably very alarming to all of you, since this is how this whole thing started almost a year ago, we are concerned, but feel it is probably scar tissue from surgery. Because of these things, Mom and Dad have decided not to wait until January, when their appointments at MDA have been scheduled. They will return to Houston before the end of the year to address some of these issues.

All that said, Dad's spirits are up, as well as Mom's. They are enjoying the Christmas season. Dad is getting ready for his annual Men's Christmas program, where he plays Santa. He really gets into it, and has spent days planning out what he will say. When I was a kid, I used to think my Dad was so silly, and couldn't believe he would do stuff like this, but now, I still think he is silly, but I love it.

Please pray for Dad's bowels to slow down so that he can absorb the needed nutrients from what he eats. Pray about the Dr's appointments coming up, that once again, the Lord will give them wisdom and guidance as they look at Dad and his symptoms. Pray about this choking issue, that it is nothing but scar tissue and wisdom on what to do about it.

Also, one last thing, each month, right after Dad hosts the men's fellowship/meeting out at the ranch, is when they have seen a significant weight loss. This Thursday is the Christmas program for the Men's group. The good news is that they are having it at the church, so no mowing or setting up the pavilion, etc. (which is what Dad usually does), but still, as he prepares for this Thursday, he is still using extra energy. Please pray that we will not see another big weight loss after this is over this week.

Thanks so much.

In Him, JJ Ford

About the same

Dad is continuing in the right direction. No change, but he is having mostly good days. He usually works out at the ranch every day, at least some. He is eating regularly, but is usually exhausted for about an hour after he eats. He gets worn out pretty easily, but overall is doing well. Still no weight gain, but also no more weight loss.
The weekend before Thanksgiving, Mom and Dad went out on the first date they have been on since before Dad's surgery. (They did this at least once a week before) That was a nice treat for Mom. Also, they went to the movies with me and the kids to see "Bolt." This was also a special treat. My Dad has always loved going to the movies, but hasn't felt like doing this since before his surgery.
Mom and Dad had lots of company during Thanksgiving, so he was wiped out for a few days after all the company left, but non-the-less, enjoyed seeing everyone.
He is also doing really well with the stuttering. He only seems to do it when he is tired or stressed. We joke with him now about it, asking if we are stressing him out if we hear him start to stutter. He usually laughs and says "Yes!"
I am sorry to those of you that check the blog everyday. Since Dad is staying the same, there is not much to report on. Thank you for your continued prayers. They are what has sustained all of us.
In Him, JJ

We give Thanks!

Happy Thanksgiving to all those friends and family that have been following Dad's journey this year. All of us on Team Janszen are thankful to the Lord that He has allowed Dad to live and be with us for another holiday season. We are so thankful for the grace He has shown in our lives and especially the strength He continues to give Mom and Dad every day. We are most thankful for His Son. He saves us, Praise God!! We are also thankful for each of you. I really do mean that. Some of you may think we just say that, but truly each of you have been a blessing to us. Whether we know who all of you are or not, you have been a part of our journey and our team. Prayers, letters, phone calls, visits, all have been a blessing to us and have been used by God in our lives. So thank you, and Happy Thanksgiving. By the way, Dad has continued to do better, he really hasn't made any big improvements since the last update, but he does seem to be moving in the right direction.
Love to all, JJ Ford and all the Janszen Kids

Improving.

Dad seems to be slightly improving. He has started taking some medicine to help the food stay in him longer so that his body can absorb the much needed nutrients that he has needed to build his strength back. He has felt better the last few days, and said he thinks that is helping. The ability for him to build his energy level back up is so dependent on being able to get all the fuel he can from the food he does eat. We praise God with you for this good report from him.
Thursday night he will be hosting another men's fellowship out at the Ranch. Keep praying for him and his ability to regain his strength, his appetite, and that his body would keep the food long enough to absorb the things he needs to build his body back up.
Thank you to ALL those that continue to pray so faithfully. Dad continues on this journey, no doubt, because of so many of you.
God has been so faithful to our family this year. He has provided for all of us in so many ways, and He has taken Dad and all of us into this journey for His good purposes and plans. We praise God for His faithfulness to us, and we most of all praise Him for His Son. If you are reading this blog and you do not know Jesus as your Savior, Please, trust Him now. There is no question, my Dad would say all of this has been worth it, if it was to point someone else to the cross of Jesus, and save them for all eternity. You may be that person. We love you and thank you all for hanging in there with us.
In Him, JJ Ford

A special day.

Today Dad and Mom had a reunion with many of the old Mid Cities P.T. Clinic staff. What a great time of fellowship they had and how special it was for Dad to get to see so many of his old staff. Many funny and sentimental stories were shared and everyone had a wonderful time. At times there was not a dry eye in the room, and Dad felt so much love from his Mid-Cities family. Here are some great pictures from the day. Thanks for keeping up with us.

In Him, JJ

Not much has changed.

I am posting just to let everyone know that Dad's situation is about the same. I am not sure if he has lost any more weight this week, I haven't asked, but I am going with Mom to a shower today, so I am sure we will talk about it then. Dad has continued to try and keep doing work around the ranch. He also went to a football game last night.
This month, as we come into November, there are two things that really stand out to me as we watch the leaves change and the temperatures cool off a little.
First, this is the month of Thanksgiving. I am overwhelmed with Thanksgiving that my Dad is still with us and still alive and functioning. I can't think of anything that I am more thankful for than that this year. What a blessing to have him another year. We are truly blessed.
The other is that Dad's birthday is this month. He will turn 63 on Nov. 14th. I am so glad that we can celebrate another birthday with Dad. Going through something like this sure makes you celebrate and appreciate all the things that we used to take for granted.
We are also thankful for each and every one of you who have been apart of Team Janszen this year. Your prayers are priceless to us, we could never thank you enough, nor will we ever know just how much you have prayed until we get to glory. Thank you, thank you, thank you. We pray God will bless each and every one of you with joy and peace this month. Even if you are going through something difficult in your own life, You can still feel the presence of the Lord. He promises that He will never leave you nor forsake you. Try to enjoy those around you. Appreciate the little things. We don't know what tomorrow holds, but we know that God does and He has a plan for each of us.
Have a good weekend.
In His grace and mercy, JJ

Still losing weight

As of this weekend, Dad has lost almost 50 lbs. Mom is very discouraged, and I think Dad is disappointed as well. Dad continues to work around the ranch, and if Mom is not right there reminding him to eat, he forgets, doesn't want to, or doesn't feel like coming in to eat every 3 hours or so.
We have noticed a trend, that after he works for several days, he then seems to struggle with the eating more, and the food not staying in him long enough to be absorbed.
Please pray that he will make it a priority to eat, to allow others to help him, even though he doesn't want to, and to work at trying to gain some of his weight back instead of continuing to lose.
Pray also for Mom, who is trying to be supportive, encouraging, and help Dad in this process, without being a drill Sargent.
This is very difficult for both of them.
Thank you again for being so steadfast in checking the blog and praying for Dad.
In Him, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

A little better week

This was Dad this past weekend at Jamie's. Mom sent this from her cell phone.

Dad has been doing a little better this week. Whether he wore himself out last week getting ready for the Men's Fellowship, or got a GI bug, or just was having a couple of bad days, he seems to be recovering this week. Mom said he has felt a little better each day. Appetite is still down, and energy level as well, so please keep praying.

Thank you, JJ Ford

A tough weekend.

These are the pictures I promised from last week.

Dad and Mom went down to Jamie's Friday to spend the night, go to Raylee's soccer game on Saturday, then on to the Texas game in Austin. On the way down, Dad started feeling bad and stayed that way the rest of the weekend. They ended up not going to any of the activities they planned, stayed at Jamie's and watched the Texas game on TV, then drove home Saturday night. I saw them at church yesterday morning, and Dad was tired, out of breath when he talked, and just overall, didn't feel good.

One day at a time, some days are better than others, but this weekend was a tough time. Keep praying for him, and thank you for praying.

In Him, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

Dad is doing well

Dad continues to do well. He is still losing a little weight, 2 more pounds this week, but he is getting out and doing work around the ranch. Tonight he is hosting the "Band of Brothers" men's fellowship out at the Ranch.
(For those that don't know what this is, it is a once-a-month gathering, out at the ranch, at the pavilion (which Mom had Dad build when they moved out there, to resemble the old pavilions at church camp) anyway, once a month, Dad will cook food, along with the help of some other men in the church, to feed anywhere from 40 to 100 men, they eat, have music, worship, then have a speaker. It is a great time of fellowship, and the men love coming out to the ranch, it is peaceful and beautiful.)
Needless to say, and for those of you that know how Dad likes to keep his grass mowed, this week he has had alot of extra work to do to get ready for the meeting tonight, so this may contribute to the weight loss. Mom sends him with a cooler of protein bars and drinks, and reminds him all day long to eat, eat, eat. He just doesn't want to.
We went down on Sunday and spent several days down at the ranch with them for our family vacation. Dad felt pretty good 2 out of the three days we were there. We enjoyed the time we had with them and I got some great pictures. I will post them in the next day or so.
He also is doing better with the stuttering. He hardly did it at all while we were there, except when he was really tired, or when he seemed stressed.
I will update later with the pics. Thanks for reading and caring about our family.
In His grace and mercy, JJ

Home from Colorado

These are from a few weeks ago, when Mom and Dad went to see Jamie, Clint, Raylee and Ryder.

Mom and Dad arrived home yesterday from a very relaxing time in Colorado. They said they sat by the fire and read most of the time. Sounds wonderful doesn't it!! They really enjoyed themselves and Dad did well up in the altitude. They came back a day early because one of Dad's old football coaches from HEB died this past weekend. Dad was asked to speak at the funeral, which he did today, and he did a great. We prayed for strength, and for breath as he spoke, and God gave him both. Mom said they are now going to settle back in to home, and continue working on the healing process, and the strength and weight gain again. We are so thankful that they were able to have a nice time in Colorado, and so thankful they made it back home safely.

Keep praying for strength for Dad to work out, and a desire to eat.

Thank you, JJ

Vacation in Colorado

These are the pics from Jesse's game on Thursday night. (It's Dad in the green.)

Mom and Dad are on their way to Colorado as I type this. They surprised us last night and came by Jesse's game on their way out of town. I took pictures with my cell phone and will try to post one soon. Dad seemed to be doing well yesterday. He got up early and went to his Coaches Outreach Bible Study, then came to Jesse's game last night. They are heading to Avon, CO for a week. The mountains and cool air should be a refreshment for them both. God's creation is so beautiful up there. Hopefully the thin air won't bother him. Pray for a wonderful week of relaxation and rejuvenation for both of them. Praise God that Dad seems to have turned the corner for good. We will continue to pray for a desire to eat and a determination to exercise. God bless each of you and have a wonderful weekend.
For all the Janszen Kids, JJ

Coming Home from Houston

Mom called me this afternoon on their way home from Houston. They still are awaiting an xray to determine if his right lung has cleared any more or if it is getting worse. Other than that, all reports were good. Dr. Roth was pleased with Dad's progress and reaffirmed that Dad's recovery would take TIME. They told us this from the beginning, but still, we really had no idea that it would be like this.
They met with a speech pathologist this morning that they really liked. He was encouraging, and wanted Dad to get started right away with a plan up here in Ft. Worth, but wanted to get the results from the chest xray of the lungs before they proceed. If there is still any problem there, Dad may need to meet with a pulmonologist first.
They said that they would not see Dad again in Houston for 3 months, and in the mean time, he needs to focus on eating, gaining his weight back a little at a time, and exercising.
These are what we will pray for, and also for God to help that right lung be able to breath in deeply and be used to its fullest capacity.
Thank you all, JJ

Follow Up/ Good News

Hey everyone! I'm posting for J.J. because I have 2 dead cellphones and a sleeping husband, so this was the quickest way to let everyone know the latest news. His endoscopy showed that the surgery sight (anastomosis) looked good from the inside and there was no sign of any reoccurring tumors. He has some mild erosion (ulcer) just below the sight of surgery, probably due to the radiation treatments. This is most common they told us. They took several biopsies from the area and we will have those back Wednesday or Thursday.

Dr. Roth was pleased with his progress except for the weight loss. He encouraged him to eat and exercise. He reminded us that this is going to take time. His nurse removed the j-tube, gave us a list of things to do, called in the nutritionist, and said they would see him in 6 months, unless something else happens.

The nutritionist talked to him about his eating and I asked her if she would go home with us. :)

Then we visited with Dr. Ajani, our Oncologist who will be overseeing his long term follow-up care. He too,was concerned about the weight loss, but thought everything else was showing improvement. They were all in agreement that Mike had had more complications than they expected him to have. They do believe that he is going to be fine and that he will regain his weight, muscle, strength and energy, eventually. Dr. Ajani wants to have him come back in January for a PET Scan.

It was recommended, by one of the nurses, that he get on a program with a Physical Therapist, because they would know how to build him back up safely. :) We smiled at each other. Oh, I wish you Mid-Cities' Physical Therapy staffers could have been there for that.

Tomorrow we go to Speech Pathology to see if he needs speech therapy for his talking difficulties. Then we will see the radiation oncologist, Dr. Jeter. If nothing else is indicated, we will be heading back to the ranch.



We are so blessed to have such a wonderful army of warriors standing in the gap for us, crying out to the Lord on our behalf. We could never express how much we love and appreciate you for this support. May the Great I Am bless you from His abundant supply and reward you for your faithful service in prayer.

In His Amazing Grace,

Jan and Mike



"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me;

You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies,

And Your right hand will save me.

The Lord will perfect that which concerns me;

Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever;

Do not forsake the works of Your hands."

Psalm 138:7-8

In the words of my dear departed dad..."Amen and amen and amen, again".

P.S. This is JJ finishing this post up. Mom called me and asked me to read over this and then add this one last thing. She said she feels like Mrs. Clause on Rudolph (the TV Christmas movie) when she keeps telling Santa "Eat Papa, Eat!!!" For those of you who don't have kids or grandkids that watch that every year, you will have no idea what we are talking about; but for those of us who do, you will understand. We are praying and saying to Dad "Eat Dad, Eat!!"

In Him, JJ

In New Braunfuls

Mom and Dad drove down to Jamie's house last night to see them for the weekend, then on to Houston on Sunday. When I spoke with Mom yesterday on their way down, she told me that out of 1-10, Dad woke up feeling like a 1. She said he had no energy, and just loading the bags into the car for their trip, he was out of breath, and exhausted. This was so discouraging to Dad. He has lost so much weight, and has no reserves, no muscle either, to keep himself going. On their way down, he said he was feeling a little better, maybe a 5 or 6.
They are planning on asking the drs., while in Houston, if there is anything else they can be doing or Dad can be taking to increase his energy level, and to increase his appetite. Pray for wisdom and guidance from the Drs. and also attentiveness to Dad's specific needs from them as well. They are going to Raylee's soccer game today, she was very excited about having Babe and Buddy there!!
Keep praying, this challenge is definitely not over yet. Dad has a long way to go before he will feel like his old self again. Thank you for hanging in there with us. This is a long term commitment you have made to check in on Dad and to continue to lift him up. We are grateful from the bottom of our hearts.
In His amazing love, JJ

Lost 40 lbs.

Dad has had some good days and some not so good days since I posted last.
On Sunday, Dad actually rode into town with Mom to go to church, but once they got there, he started feeling upset in his stomach, and stayed in the car during the service. He felt pretty bad the rest of the day. He had a better day today, but felt bad all day yesterday.
He thanked the Lord for how he felt today, knowing that tomorrow might not be as good.
His gut has gone all the way back down, but he has lost a total of 40 lbs thus far.
They are scheduled for Dr's appointments on Monday in Houston. They are planning on going by New Braunfuls to see Jamie and her crew for the weekend, before heading down to Houston on Sunday.
Dad still says nothing really sounds good to him to eat, and he never really wants to eat, please keep praying for his appetite to return. Hopefully, if the doctors feel it is ok, they are going to pull the jtube on Monday. He is looking forward to getting that out.
Thank you again for praying and for being patient with me and the spread out updates.
In His Grace, JJ

A praise and a request.

Last night Dad hosted the men's fellowship, "Band of Brothers", out at the Ranch again. This was the first time that he was able to be there since the surgery. They have met out at the Ranch since the surgery, but Dad was in the hospital in Houston and not able to attend. What a blessing for him to be there again, and to have all those men out there worshiping the Lord, and hearing the good saving news of Jesus Christ.
(Once again, for those that do not know Him as their personal savior, He is it! He is the reason for any of us getting up in the morning, He is the reason that Mom and Dad have been able to push through, and continue to believe that God is good no matter what. Even if Dad never gets better, He has done enough for him by dying on the cross for his sins, and saving him for all eternity.)
Please, if any do not know this saving truth, send us a comment and we will call you and visit with out about it!! It is why we do this blog and why Dad and Mom continue to want to minister to others in spite of their own suffering and pain.
Anyway, 98 men came out to the ranch last night, and Mom said it was great. Dad worked a little too hard all week trying to get ready, so he was very tired by the time the evening arrived. Praise God that some of the men stayed after and helped Mom clean up, while Dad went on up the the house to rest.
Our praise, besides the men's fellowship, is that Dad's gut has seemed to have gone back down almost to normal. He is able to even get some of his old jeans on. So we are very thankful for this. Dad is too, besides looking pregnant, and making jokes about letting Ray do a sonogram on him to see if it was a boy or girl, he was also in much pain with the bloating.
Our prayer request is that Dad would have the strength and whatever it is he needs to make himself eat enough, protein, calories, etc. As of today, he has lost 30 lbs. The Dr.s told us before the surgery to expect him to lose 20, but he has moved beyond that, and they are telling us he will have to be very careful to not continue to go down any more. Mom asked specifically for everyone to pray for his appetite to return, and for him to have the desire to make himself eat what he needs to.
Thank you also for all your sweet comments on the blog. I am encouraged and appreciate knowing that you all are reading and praying because of this. I needed the encouragement this week myself, so thank you.
In His amazing grace, JJ

Still doing well.

Dad is about the same, which is good. His stomach finally seems to be going back down, instead of being so swollen. We are noticing a pattern; if Dad has a good night's rest, then he seems to do better the next day, able to go out and work a little, and his speech is better. If he does not rest, then he usually feels like laying around most of the day, and his speech is much more difficult, with lots of stuttering. He still does not feel like eating much at all. Pray for good restful nights, and also for his appetite to return. I am so glad that many of you locally have been able to see him at one of his outings. This is good for him, and good for each of you to see how he is with your own eyes. Please keep praying for Mom. She really is doing well, but does get discouraged from time to time with the slow recovery process, and the ups and downs they have from day to day. Thanks again for all your prayers.
JJ

Dad is doing well.

Praise God! Dad is doing pretty good. He has been out mowing the last several days and getting out of the house more often to go work out at the Cleburne Fitness center, going to prayer meeting at church, and then to Jesse's football game last night. He feels so much better just being more productive. We are all praising the Lord with you that Dad has felt like doing all these things. The prayer request that we have now is that Dad's appetite would return. One down side of Dad getting out and working a little is that it makes him very tired, and when he gets back up to the house, he doesn't want to eat at all. Mom is continuing to fix him whatever sounds good to him, but usually if he has worked at all, he loses his appetite. Please pray that Dad can continue to work and feel productive, but that his priority would be to get the nutrition he needs. He has lost about 20 pounds, which was to be expected, but now we would like to slow that down, or begin to move back up a little. Thanks for being patient with me and the updates. Thanks also for praying.
In Him, JJ

A good few days

Here is the picture I promised from Saturday night at my house.

Dad has had a few pretty good days. He was able to go to church on Sunday, out to eat, then home for a restful afternoon. He is still bloated, but seems to feel a little better staying off of the j-tube feedings. He is eating, just in very little portions.

He also went in to town today and worked out at the fitness center for awhile. He is trying to make himself do things. Some days are better than others.

Since things have calmed down a bit, I am going to only update every few days, unless things seem to be changing. Thank you again for all your support and prayer. We could not be going through this without you all.

In Him, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

About the same

Dad is doing about the same. He did come to our house tonight for Joshua's birthday dinner. I will post a picture soon. It was so good to have him and Mom at our home again. Dad did feel good enough to play guns with Joshua tonight. Keep praying for that abdomen, and his breathing.
In Him, JJ

Another tough day and night.

After Jesse's game last night, Dad went to go do a little workout. Later that night, when he got home, he wasn't feeling so good. He did not rest well, his incision was bothering him (the big one all across his front), and just had an overall bad night. He then had a tough morning. After drinking a protein shake for breakfast, his stomach started hurting, and he was not able to leave the house or feel like doing much of anything the rest of the day.
Ups and downs. I know this is what we must face. Keep praying for more ups than downs.
Thanks so much, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

Thursday

Dad, Joshua, and Ray's Dad watching the game.
Dad came to Jesse's football game tonight.

It is late, so this update will be brief. Dad is putting one foot in front of the other, literally. Even though he is still bloated, he is trying to walk more in hopes of helping the bowels to work, and easing the bloating. He is not planning on going back to the J tube unless he has to because of too much weight loss too quickly. He was actually going to try and go work out a little after Jesse's game tonight. He said he needs to start somewhere.


I was so glad to see him, and thankful he felt like getting out. Jesse was too, he prayed all day that "Buddy" would feel good enough to come tonight. I was encouraged to see his positive attitude, and his determination to come to Jesse's game, and also go work out a little. I think it is because of all you praying for him. Thank you, and keep it up.


In His grace, JJ

About the same.

I spoke with Mom about mid-day, and she said Dad was doing about the same. He has stayed off the jtube feedings for another day but says he is still feeling bloated. We are praying that this will pass and he will be able to move past this hump and begin to tackle some of the other issues he is dealing with. He is going to try to start walking again, and has been the last two days. The dietitian said that this may help, especially walking after he eats. He has not really felt like doing this for awhile, so maybe this will aide in the decrease of swelling and bloating in the abdomen. Mom said his discouragement comes and goes, as well as hers.
Most days I am in shock when I realize that this really has happened to my Dad. I never in a million years would have thought my Dad would have to go through something like this. He is such a strong man, which is probably why he even survived the chemo, radiation, and then this invasive of a surgery, when so many others don't. I hurt so badly for Mom and Dad both. I know that through all this, it will all work together for good, but some days you just wonder when it will ease up. My prayer is that through Dad's suffering, through this battle and journey that they are going through, that if even just one person would trust Christ as his/her Savior, then it will all be worth it. The thought of Dad's testimony through this, that it could point the way for one person, to his Savior, to our Savior, to save them for all eternity, would make it all seem worth going through.
Christ is real, He is the reason that Dad is able to get up every day and battle this uncomfortable bloating, his fast heart rate, his lack of air, and his stuttering. He is his hope. It is not in this world, it is not in his recovery here on Earth, it is in the hope of our Lord Jesus. One day, He will wipe away every tear, one day, He will gaze into Dad's eyes and say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." That is our hope, that is our joy in this journey. Please, if you do not know this hope personally, if you do not have this assurance of eternity with the Lord. Trust Him now. He loves you, he died for your sins, and He rose again, and lives today. If you already do, Praise Him, and keep praying for Dad.
We love each of you, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

A little better.

Dad stayed off of his j tube feedings last night and all day today and said he felt better. I spoke with him on the phone briefly, and then with Mom and she said his spirits were up, and hers were too. They go hand in hand.
Mom and I both felt that Dad's improvement was directly related to all the prayers that we know went up before the Throne of Grace last night and today for Dad. I am so thankful for all those that prayed and I would ask for you to continue to if the Lord lays Dad on your heart. This will be a long recovery, and I am sure it will be full of ups and downs, but knowing that you all are just a quick note away, to pray for Dad, is such a comfort and blessing to us.
Mom spoke with a nutritionist for a long time today, and she said that this was a common complication (the bloating) with those patients on the j tube. I think Dad will stay away from the j tube feedings for a few more days and see what happens. He will continue to eat by mouth regular food, as well as protein shakes, and other high calorie, low fiber drinks.
Keep praying, and thank you.
In Him, JJ

A rough day.

Dad has felt awful today. Bloated, sore, jtube seems to be leaking. After talking things over with Ray, consulting with a surgeon here in town, and another xray of the gut, they are having to think through what their options are and if they need to head back down to MDA, wait it out, see if this passes...... Dad is of course frustrated with his body, Mom is discouraged. It just seems like more of the same thing they have been dealing with. We are praying with them, and also frustrated with them at the situation. Several phone calls down to Dr. Roth's office today, with messages left, and only the nutritionist returned a phone call.
We are not sure if this is something that Dad will have to slowly get over and be patient, or if there is something else going on in the abdomen area. Fluid leaking within the abdomen and not in the bowels?? Dad and Mom need prayer. They once again need guidance, encouragement, peace, comfort, pain relief.
The ups and downs of this process are difficult to deal with, but God is still on His throne. He knows what he is doing, and He is very involved in this process. Last week seemed like we were heading in the right direction, but this week seems like we are taking a turn for the worse. Please Lord, intervene. Help Dad's body to work well. Give us all wisdom. Give Mom strength. Give Dad rest from the pain.
In Jesus Name, Amen
JJ

Not so good Sunday.

I got my report for the weekend from Mom on Sunday about mid day. We went to lunch together after church. But last night the phone rang at 10pm, (which is rare unless it it the hospital calling for Ray), and it was Mom. She spoke with Ray, and said Dad was so bloated that he was having a hard time bending over, and was very uncomfortable. She said Dad had not had a very good day, just feeling lousy. They are coming in to see Ray this morning and see what direction they need to take. Pray for Dad and his swollen abdomen. Pray for wisdom for treatment. If this is something that will get better with time, or if there is something that they can actively do. Pray for his bowels, that they will begin to respond normally again. Pray also for Mom, as she goes through highs and lows with Dad, and wants to continue to be up and be his support through all of this.
Over the last few days, she has been put in contact with a few other survivors of this type of cancer and surgery, but none of them have had the complications like Dad has. This has been a little discouraging. Thank you again for all your love and concern for Dad and Mom.
Praying with you all, JJ

Good Weekend

Mom and Dad had a good weekend. No changes. Dad is continuing to do ok, still bloating in the gut, still struggles with breathing and speech, especially when he gets tired, but overall he has improved. Thank you again for checking up on us.
In Him, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

Saturday.

I spoke with Mom this evening. She said Dad is continuing to feel better, like he has the past few days. He is still struggling with the bloating, but said overall he is doing better. They went to the ice cream social last night and said it was nice to see people from church that they hadn't seen in awhile. Getting out was good, but Dad gets quickly worn out.
She said they didn't do much today, but when I called to check in on them Dad was out firing up the grill for Mom. She told me they may go to church in the morning if Dad feels up to it.
So more positive news from the Ranch. Praise God for continuing to get us all through this, and praise God for all of you who have prayed us through this.
In Him, JJ

Thursday and Friday report.

So sorry to those that read everyday. I didn't get a post done last night.
Dad had several good days this week, then yesterday (Thursday) , he was tired after not getting a good night's rest. He rested most of the day, but then on Friday he seemed to be doing better. As a matter of fact, Dad got up this morning and did a little weed eating!! If you know my Dad well, you know this is something he loves to do, or at least did all the time before he got sick. (It is his trademark!!) I don't think he worked for a long time, but he did it! I am sure that this will encourage the healing process, as he is able to feel more productive. Praise God for weed eating!! I never thought I would say that!!
Mom and Dad were going to an ice cream social tonight for a little while. Mom was not sure how long they would stay, but Dad thought He would give it a try.
The breathing is still about the same, but he speech comes and goes. The last two times I have talked to him on the phone, he sounded pretty good. He is working on relaxing his muscles as he tries to talk, and trying not to get keyed up when he speaks. We will work on that later, though. For now we are just so thankful that he has had a few better days. He still has a long way to go, but he is making small improvements. Thank you again, and again, and again for all the prayers.
In His mighty grace, JJ

A Better Day, Indeed !

Although I didn't get to finish telling J.J. about our day...because of bad cell service as we were driving back to the ranch from town.. I thought I would tell all of you.
We definately saw improvement today. Mike had more energy, a desire to get some things done, an ability to eat and enjoy his food (not much, yet) a better night of sleep last night, and he wanted to go to church. He even drove for a few minutes on the ranch with me riding shotgun. I wouldn't let him drive into town, though. It was great to be at church and see everyone again. On the way home we stopped at Sonic for supper.....life does seem to be getting better. As we thanked the Lord for our wraps and slushes :) , we also thanked Him for our wonderful church that we get to participate in, and for all of you... our precious family and friends who are carrying us through this journey. As we crossed the Brazos, the sun was setting and the sky was a beautiful shade of pink reflecting in the river. We thanked Him, again, for that magnificent display of His handiwork and for a much better day.
There have been so many days that we both were just too weary to pray other than just to cry out to the Lord. And yet we could almost hear your voices petitioning heaven's throne.
Mike has had a much greater pain and ordeal to endure than I have had and yet my pain has been watching him go through this. There have been many days that I wouldn't let him see me cry as I watched his struggle with complications from this surgery. I knew that I had to be positive for him so I held my composure. Then I would read the blog with all your precious
words of encouragement and beautiful prayers and I would weep before turning in for the night.

We cannot express to you enough how much we appreciate your investment of time in our battle. It is time consuming to pray and to care enough to check on his daily progress. And we are just overwhelmed that so many of you are standing with us.
Psalm 107 was especially uplifting to me, today. Please read it if you have the time.
Amen and Amen and Amen, again!
Jan

A better day.

Here is a picture from last night at our house

I was only able to talk with Mom briefly tonight, but from what she said, things sounded good. Dad is still fighting the bloating, but he is taking a new medicine that seems to be helping with his bowels. Mom said she felt like he was doing better. Yeah!!!

Dad said he wanted to go to prayer meeting tonight at the church, which they did every week before Dad's surgery, so Mom and Dad went, and Mom said it was great. She said it was so good to be there. I am so glad Dad felt like getting out again and going in to town. Praise the Lord. Even though we talked briefly, and I didn't get many details, I could tell from what Mom said and how she sounded that they had definitely had a better day.

I can't help but feel like that on these days that Dad is able to get out of the house, change his scenery, and break up his normal routine that he has been on since the surgery, that it will encourage his recovery, give him hope, and just breath fresh air back into his life. Dad is an amazing man, and so is Mom and woman. I never thought a year ago we would celebrate the ability to just get out of the house and go get a haircut, have a birthday dinner with your grandchild, or go to church for prayer meeting. What a difference a few months can bring. I guess the truth is these are things we should not take for granted and all celebrate every day! I realize more and more through what Dad has gone through, that every day is a gift, every meal we eat is a celebration, and every breath we take is a direct result of God's grace in our life. Praise God today for the ability you have to just sit down and read this, I am thanking Him now for two hands to sit and type. I am also thanking Him for You.

Once again, I cannot express enough from all of our family how precious each of you are to all of us. I pray God fills you right now with His peace and comfort. As you pray today, please continue to pray for Dad's bloating, his ability to handle the foods he takes in, his ability to breath, and his ability to speak. I loved the comments from yesterday, that all of you are celebrating with us with every step, whether huge or tiny, that Dad is able to take in the right direction.

God bless each of you, JJ and the Janszen Kids

Dad doing ok.

Dad and Mom came to the house this evening to eat dinner with us and celebrate Ruth's 10th birthday. I cannot tell you how thrilled I was to see Dad in our home again!!! I didn't realize how much I had missed seeing them here. I was so thankful Dad actually felt like getting out and coming up for awhile. They actually came in a little bit earlier and Dad got his hair cut in town.
Dad seemed to be doing ok, but Mom said he was worn out from all the visitors yesterday. He just can't handle all the talking and visiting like he used to. (Not yet.) Mom said he was still fighting the bloating, and pain associated with that, but he is trying to work through it with this new eating plan, and formula. Mom was feeling better as well.
Keep praying that the bloating will decrease, and the lungs will increase.
Once again, thank you for reading this blog and caring so much for the Janszen family. We are amazed at some of the stories that have trickled in about those that are following Dad's progress, and how they have never used the internet before until now. Dad has inspired many of us in many different ways, but I bet he never thought he would encourage you to use the net.
Sincerely, from all of us, thank you for caring. I believe He will get through this. We care for each of you.
In His Mercy and Grace, JJ and all the Janszen Kids
I will try and post a picture of Dad from tonight on tom. blog.

Labor Day Report

Dad and Mom are home, and they are both doing better. Mom just had a 24 hour bug, so she is definitely feeling much better today. Ray and Jesse went by early this morning after dove hunting down at the ranch, and checked on both of them. Ray said Dad looked better to him. Mom also felt Dad has made a little improvement and looked a little better.
After Ray and Jesse left, Mom said they had a slow trickle of visitors all day long. Some were family, and some were friends. It was a nice change for Dad's normal routine. They enjoyed seeing everyone. Dad rested in between visits.
Sorry this email is short and choppy, I am distracted with home school starting tomorrow at the Ford household. I will update tomorrow evening. Please know your prayers are a huge part of this journey in the Janszen Family. We appreciate each and everyone of you. Thank you.
In Him, JJ

Not much change.

Dad's situation has not changed much since yesterday. He is still bloated, and in some pain caused from the bloating. We are hoping that the slowing down of the feedings, and different formula will make a difference. Mom was not feeling well last night or today either. She may be worn out, caught a bug, or both.
Keep praying, thanks, JJ

They have a plan.

Dad was feeling better today, since he had not eaten in several days and had not had any feedings since the night before, his bowels were settling down a little bit.
Since there was no obstruction found, they are going to try to treat this swelling by changing the formula he is on to a low fiber blend. Also he has to be very careful to not eat any foods that encourage gas buildup. The Dr. explained that since they rearranged his insides, that it will take his body awhile to adjust to this new setup inside, and it may not handle things the way it used to.
We are all looking forward to this new plan, in hopes that it will work and give Dad some relief. Then we can move on to the lungs and speech.
Thank you for your precious prayers, words of encouragement, and reminders of what God's word has to say to all of us. We rest in him, even when we don't understand all that is going on around us.
One thing I know for sure, that this has brought us all to our knees, as we are totally not in control of anything. We have had to look to the Lord for everything, we haven't even been able to look to Dad to pull through this on his own power and strength, which is what he has done in the past, especially when it came to medical or physical challenges. We are literally stuck without the Lord's power moving in this situation. Being totally reliant on the Lord is not a bad place to be. It is through His power, His strength, His wisdom, that any of us are able to accomplish anything in life, or for that matter, just to get up and breath each day. God is our provider, he is our strength, and He is sufficient to meet all our needs. Praise Him.
In His Grace, JJ

The test is finally over.

They waited all day, finally had the test late this afternoon, and the Dr.s didn't come by until this evening. The good news is that there is no obstruction. The bad news is that they still don't know what is causing this bloating. Dad was not able to take his feedings last night, even through the j-tube, because of the bloating and pain it was causing.
They are going to meet with a GI Dr. and also a nutritionist. They are possibly going to change the type of formula he is taking, and also maybe let him eat something soft by mouth, and not give him the formula at all to see what happens.
I am not really sure what the plan is. Mom was exhausted, she was talked out, and said she wasn't sure how long they would be there, or when they would let him go.
Thank you all for praying, JJ

Urgent prayer request!!!

Please read comment from Jan on yesterday's post.
Love,
Jan

Still in Houston in the hospital.

They decided to keep Dad one more day and night until they could get a ct scan, and barium swallow test. This time they are going to check things out from the mouth all the way through, not just the place of surgery were the repair was made. They are now looking for any area of obstruction, that may be causing the excessive gas build up in the abdomen. Dad is still very bloated and they have taken him off all food by mouth, they are just feeding him through the j-tube at this point, and they have slowed the rate down of how quickly they give him the formula. Worse case scenario is if they find an obstruction that is not accessible through a scope, then they will have to go back in and open him up. They do not necessarily expect this, and we are definitely praying that this is not the case. They may not find an obstruction at all. They are doing this test at 7:30 am on Friday morning. They said we should know something pretty soon after the test.
They are needing to get this abdomen issue resolved before they can even work on the lungs, and after that speech. One step at a time, one day at a time "Sweet Jesus."
Thank you all for reading so faithfully, and checking up on Dad, and especially for praying.
(While I was typing this, Mom called. She was sitting in Dad's room watching the Baylor football game on tv. Go Bears!! (Dad loves his football) She sounded good, and Dad was doing ok.)
Thanks again from all of us, In Him, JJ

We are getting answers.

Things are not moving fast, but Mom and Dad have been able to talk to more people, the right people, and get a little more information over the last two days.
As of right now, Dad is still in the hospital. They are going to give him smaller feedings through the j-tube, and hold off on all the solids by mouth, until things settle down in the stomach. They are going to try to give him something for the gas buildup, they said it may be getting trapped because of the rerouting, the surgery itself, or the change in diet, etc. The Drs. said all the scans and chest ex rays show improvement from 5 weeks ago, 2 weeks ago, and now.
The speech pathologist came and said they could start working on a plan and looking at some options to help Dad, speech therapy, medications, etc.
The staff Dr. that was sent down from the Thoracic Dept. was much more verbal than Dr. Roth, so he was good for Mom and Dad to talk to and get their questions answered.
All in all, we feel like the Lord did answer prayer in providing the right people to take care of Dad this go around.
Mom said, as far as the care goes, they are not ready to jump ship and seek help elsewhere. They still feel like they are in the right place, they just need to be patient, pray, ask questions, be firm at times, and also understand that this healing process is going to take a long time. Much longer than they expected.
Thank you for all your interest, your thoughts, and prayers, JJ

Dad staying in the hospital overnight.

This post is going to be choppy at best. My Mom called to give me an update right as all my kids came in from Jesse's football practice, and they all wanted to talk to me, needed me to help them, etc. Anyway, here is the best of what I understood her saying in between all the interruptions....
They did go to Houston on Monday. They did go into the hospital this morning, but not to the clinic, they went to the ER. They were seen by the ER Dr., who, Mom told that we all had been praying for the right Dr. to see, and he smiled and said, "I wasn't supposed to work this shift, but a last minute emergency happened to the other Dr. scheduled to work, so they called me. So you must be the reason that I am here!!"
He seemed very attentive to Dad, and was concerned. They were able to be seen by a senior partner in the Thoracic Dept., and the resident that was supposed to see them today, never showed up. (Prayer works!!!, or rather God works!!!)
The staff Dr. felt that Dad's situation is not critical, but they want to keep him overnight and tomorrow for observation. They think most of the bloating in the abdomen is gas that is trapped. They are planning on backing off Dad's eating, continuing with the feeding tube, and slowly reintroduce food again though the mouth. They do not think the vocal cords have been damaged. They said the liver looks fine, and that even though his heart is still beating fast, that it can keep that up for a long time. They think as Dad has struggled to talk, that the more he struggles with it, the worse it gets. They think he is suffering from anxiety, which they feel they have caused. They said that this surgery Dad had is the most invasive surgery they do at MDA. His body has been torn up on the inside, and it will take time, it will be a slow recovery.
That is about all I can remember from the conversation. I know it is short little bits of info, but in between the kids needing me tonight, that is how I heard it. I will update tomorrow, hopefully with a little better report.
Please pray, that if there is anything else going on with Dad, that it will show up during this observation period. That they will not head back home and continue to struggle.
In Him, JJ

Heading to Houston

Mom and Dad said they heard back from MDA, and they are going to Dr. Roth's office tomorrow to meet with the RESIDENT!!! They are very disappointed in this, but once they get there, they said they are not going to leave without some answers. Please pray that they will be able to get some help, and not except the "I don't know" answer that they got last time from this same resident. I am not posting her name just in case she happens to see this blog. We need for one of Dr. Roth's associates to step up and see Dad if Dr. Roth is not available. I am sure you can hear the frustration in my typing. I am sure that I am not as frustrated as Dad is. In all this I want you all to know that we are still praising God. His plans are perfect, His ways are right. We are going to ask for more than what MDA has offered us, but no matter what the outcome, we trust the Lord. We also trust the Lord to move mountains on our behalf. We are expecting the best, and asking him to move behind the scenes to get Dad some help. He will get the glory.
Thank you for praying again, JJ

Prayer Needed mid-day!

I just spoke with Mom. They are still at home awaiting a call from MDA. Several things have happened since I last updated the blog.
First of all, last night, Mom wanted to request prayer specifically for wisdom on if they should head to MDA today, or just wait it out. She said she wanted to call, but we were with our small group from church, so I was unavailable to update the blog anyway, but God is perfect in the way He works, without even getting to ask everyone to pray, God gave them their answer. Dad started throwing up again last night. This made two nights in a row now, so Mom felt like she knew what they were to do. Dad agreed that they should definitely head to Houston today. Dad requested that if they were going to have to go through the ER, that they go down today, spend the night, and check in first thing in the morning. He would rather start that process during the day, than have to stay up all night in the ER running tests. Makes sense.
While they were getting ready today to leave, they received a phone call from someone who works in the development department down at MDA. She had gotten their name from a former neighbor of ours in Keller (Doug Newton). She had no idea what Mom and Dad's situation was, but just happened to call (no coincidences, God in in control), after Mom told her all that they had been through, the complications Dad had been struggling with, and that the Thoracic Dept. had told them that if they needed something they needed to go through the ER, because Dr. Roth was on vacation and has been for awhile. This did not sound right to this lady, as it has not sounded right to us as well. She felt like someone was dropping the ball in their department. She was going to make some phone calls and see if she could get Dad directly in to see the Dr. and not have to go through all the mess of going to the ER first, then just seeing an resident, instead of one of the staff Drs. in the Thoracic Dept.
If anyone understands Drs needing vacation, I do. It is important, but there must be someone who is covering for Dr. Roth, who is not just a resident in training.
Here is our request:
That Dad would be able to get an appointment with someone who knows what they are doing, who is familiar with his situation and his specific surgery, and also that can give Dad some answers to what is going on with his breathing and speech problem. We know MDA is a teaching hospital, but since Dad's surgery and leaving the hospital, he has yet to sit across from Dr. Roth, or one of his fellow surgeons on staff, to witness with his own eyes, what Dad is going through. He has seen and talked to nurses, physician assistants, and residents. We feel that Dr. Roth needs to see for himself what is happening to Dad, to get serious about helping him, and to help us find some solutions. I know we must have patience, and if that is what God is trying to teach us through this, then Lord help us. But we also feel like, until Dr. Roth sees for himself, we may not get any serious help and answers.
If they do not get a phone call with appointment times, they are still heading down today, and will go through the ER as they originally planned. Either way, they are heading down today. I will update later if there is any new info.
Thank you again, In Him, JJ and all the Janszen Kids

Rough Weekend.

After I posted on Saturday, Dad had a rough night. My sister, Jamie, and her two children came to see Mom and Dad on Saturday afternoon. They were so glad to see them, but during dinner, Dad seemed to continue to feel worse and worse with his swollen abdomen. He tried to rest for a little bit, then walk for a bit, but nothing seemed to give him relief. He stayed sick for awhile, then began to have a little relief. His color also seemed yellowish. They chose not to feed him anything through the feeding tube last night, and he said he felt a little less tightness this morning.
All this leads to another trip to MDA on Monday. They are going to take Dad down to the ER to see if they can try to figure out what may be causing this swelling and pain. They were scheduled for more tests at the end of this week, and also scheduled to get the j-tube out this week as well. Hopefully they can just start running the tests early and get him taken care of. Once again, please pray for wisdom for the Drs. that will be taking care of him, and for safe travel for them. Also, for comfort for Dad.
Thank you again, JJ

Mom and Dad's 40th Anniversary

Today is Mom and Dad's 40th wedding anniversary. They celebrated by sitting on the porch this morning reflecting over God's blessings in their lives over the past 40 years. What a testimony!! They are embracing each day with such acceptance as to what the Lord has brought into their life at this time. No, this is probably not the way they would have chosen to spend their 40th, but none the less, a very sweet time for them.
Dad is doing about the same on breathing and talking. His fever has stayed down for another day, so praise God for that.
He is still having alot of swelling in the abdomen area, which may be contributing to the breathing problem. We need wisdom in this area as to what could be causing this.
Thank you again for praying, we love and appreciate each of you, JJ and The Janszen Kids

Friday Update.

Mom said Dad is doing ok. Fever is back down. She thinks his breathing may be slightly better. He is still swollen and tight in the abdomen, and still not sure what could be causing that. They have made contact with a man and his wife who went through this same surgery a year ago, and have spoken with them several times. This is a huge blessing since they are able to glean all the information they can from this couple's experience over this last year. It has also been helpful to see that some of these things Dad is experiencing will hopefully come to an end. Thanks again for praying.
In His grace, JJ

Highs and Lows.

Some good friends from our church here in Cleburne, who just went through cancer with their little grandson, told me back in April, that this road we were about to travel would be full of highs and lows. She encouraged me to celebrate the highs, and prepare for, then pray through the lows.
Dad did have a little bit better day yesterday, but Mom said he had a rough night, and a tough day today. Fever did come back up last night, to 100, not as high as it had been, but still back up. Dad was just feeling bad all over last night and today. He is really swollen in the abdomen area and they are not sure what that is from.
So we don't have as good of news today as we did yesterday, but we will keep praying and hoping for the best.
Mom did say Dad was more willing to do his breathing exercises today, so that's a good thing!!
Thanks for caring.
In His grace, JJ

A little better today.

Thank you so much for those powerful prayers many of you posted, and many of you didn't post, but I know you prayed. I am in awe and humbled that you all are like an army waiting for your marching orders, and as soon as a request is made known about Dad, you all are on your knees. Amazing!!! What a blessing you have been to our whole family.
Dad was about the same today, except Mom said that Dad had not run over 99.2 temp since yesterday, and his breathing seemed a little better. Not a huge improvement, but we will take it. Mom said she is not wanting to get too excited too soon. We will hope that this is the beginning of a slow but sure road to recovery.
Another good thing from today was a visit payed to Mom and Dad from one of Dad's life long friends and his wife. They brought a meal and prayed with them. Thank God again for encouragement He provides along the way.
Continuing to pray and hope, JJ and the Janszen Kids

Tuesday report.

Spoke with Mom and Dad today. Mom had gotten out of the house to run a few errands and go exercise, which was good for her. She left Joy at home to sit with Dad. Mom sounded good.
I called the house and spoke with Dad. He said he hadn't slept too good, and was feeling ok. He sounded the same on the phone. Unable to finish a sentence without going to a whisper. Pausing until he could get the next word out. Mom told me that he is not wanting to eat as much as he had been, and that he is also not doing his breathing exercises, which he is supposed to be doing every hour (I think). When Mom spoke with the nurse yesterday, she told Mom that Dad must eat, so he can wean off of the feeding tube, and also that he must do his exercises or he will not get better. Mom is doing all she can to encourage him to do what he must do, without wanting to nag him. I told her we need to get all his old PT buddies down here to get on to him!!! I have no idea what must be going through his head during this time or how bad he must feel to hold him back. Dad has always pushed himself, us, and his patients to do whatever it takes to get better, to push through. He has always done this! After his double knee replacement 2 years ago, he walked the next day in the hospital. When I had my knee surgery in college, as I came out of the sleep of the drugs in the recovery room, Dad was there telling me to do 3 sets of 10 tightening my quad every 5 minutes! I can't imaging how tough this must be for him to feel the way he does. I know part of it is depression, or at least discouragement. Those of you who know him, know that this is not the Mike Janszen that we all know and love. So please keep praying...
For the new meds to help.
For Dad to be motivated to eat and do his exercises.
For healing of his lungs and breathing.
For God to be glorified in and through this story of Dad.
We will keep praying together, JJ

Monday update.

Still not much change. Dad's temp came back up a little, still not over 101, but he still has something going on that is causing this. Breathing and talking are all the same. A few things to report on though....
Yesterday while we were down at their house, Ray talked with Dad a while and they discussed some medicines that they could try to possibly help Dad. Dad was willing, but felt they should check it out with Dr. Roth's office first. Long story short, Dr. Roth's nurse called back this morning after Mom left a lengthy message with the name of the meds, and what they were wanting to try, and said that it was fine for them to start taking them. One is an antibiotic to fight the possible infection (somewhere in Dad) that may be causing the temperature, and one is an inhaler to hopefully help open up some of Dad's bronchial tubes and sacs. We are not expecting a miracle overnight, (aside from God's divine intervention) but we are hoping and praying that they may help relieve some of the difficulty Dad is having. We will wait and see. The next step may be to go see a Pulmonologist either here in Cleburne, or back down at MDA. Whatever Dad and Mom want to do, and whatever Dr. Roth's office recommends next.
One nice part of the day for Mom and Dad was a visit from some long time friends who live in Wichita Falls, but were heading back through this area on their way home from seeing one of their children at A&M. Mom said it was great, and all they did was sit around and visit a little bit, but mostly cried together. I can't help but think of Job when he was so devastated with his boils from head to toe, and his 3 friends came to see him. For the first 7 days no one said a word, they just sat with him. Sometimes it is so good to have those around us who love us and are willing to just sit and cry, not offer answers, not offer reasons for why we are suffering, not try to fix out problems or explain them away, just be with us. God is good in the way he brings comfort through friends.
Also, Mom had a good talk with someone who's husband had this same exact surgery, cancer, and symptoms post surgery. What a blessing that was for her to be able to talk to someone who has been through this and could give counsel, and encouragement, and an idea as to what to expect next and how to navigate through this. We know every situation is unique, but at least it gave us hope that this too shall pass. We pray this.
Thank you for all the lovely notes, we love you all, JJ

Spent the afternoon with Mom and Dad.

We went down today after church and took supper to Mom and Dad. We really enjoyed being with them, and while we were down, we celebrated my daughter, Anna's ,4th birthday. We picked GaGa up(Dad's mom who is 90 years old and lives out on the Ranch in one of the homes on the property) on the way down. It was nice to be together, to fellowship, and to try to enjoy some normalcy of life in the midst of this difficult time for Mom and Dad. All I can say is that it was good to be with them.

Mom is hanging in there, she is trying to keep her chin up, her mind on Christ, and her faith in all that the Lord is doing, that it is good even though she doesn't understand His, what seems like, silence, in the midst of this storm. She loves the grandkids, and they made her laugh, which was good.

Dad has not changed much. He has seemed to have a lower temp the last 2 days, but his heart rate is still elevated, breathing is labored and shallow, and the difficulty in speech is still there. He really didn't talk much today, but He enjoyed watching the Olympics with Jesse, and watching Anna open her presents. He smiled and tried to be pleasant, but was very quiet. He is so discouraged about this situation. We are all discouraged. Knowing God is working behind the scenes, yet feeling like nothing is happening. Not seeing any change, and wondering if and when things will get better. He is hurting, as well as Mom.

We know it is not a matter of if the Lord is able, it is if He is willing, if this is part of His perfect plan. We are praying that it will be pleasing to the Lord, and accomplish His purposes, in healing Dad, and helping him to recover soon.

Thank you again for all your comments. I have just printed out this entire blog from the beginning until present, and have put it in a scrap book for Mom and Dad to have with all your comments along with each blog entry. Mom has read all of them, but Dad has missed a few here and there, so now they will be able to go read back over all the wonderful encouraging words you have put on here. If you have wanted to send them a note, I will be printing out all the comments from this point on and placing it in their book, so go ahead and leave a comment if you wish.

Thanks again for traveling along this bumpy road with our family. We cherish all of you, and consider ourselves blessed to have you lifting Mom and Dad and all of us up during this time.

In Him, JJ and the Janszen Kids

Friday, Saturday report.

I ran out of time yesterday to update, sorry for those that have been checking.
On Friday, Dad had a rough day. There is some good news. His fever was down, not going over 101 all day, but his breathing and speech were worse.
His best friend, Jim Reeves, and his wife Micah, came up from Brenham to visit for the evening. It is always good to see the Reeves, but Dad was struggling so bad with his speech and spasms in his breathing. There was a time where Dad was talking to Jim and he got hung up on a word, and could not get it out, it was like his diaphragm was spasming, and it took him 10 minutes before he was able to talk again. This is happening quite often, and talking really wears Dad out. His energy level is very low.
They thought that they would hear back from Dr. Roth's office on Friday afternoon to find out what the Dr. thought of all this and when he might want to see him again, but they never called back. We must continue to pray that Dad will be able to breath normal again, his heart rate would slow down, his fever would stay down, and that God would give Dr. Roth wisdom on figuring out what is going on with Dad.
I wish I had good news and could give a better report on Dad, but this is it. We are trusting our
good God in this no matter what, but we are crying out to him for some answers and some relief for Dad and Mom. (She sounded a little tired today on the phone.)
Thank you for carrying this burden with us. We love and appreciate you all, even though we don't know who all of you are, you are bonded to us through this and through Christ, JJ