Lauren's Hospitalization

Hello Friends,

Lauren was admitted to the hospital on Thursday afternoon (January 25,2007). Her pneumonia progressed and her fever has continued to persist. She has continued to have seizures through this process as well. Yesterday morning, after having a seizure, Lauren began to throw-up dark liquid that later we realized was blood. Blood was also discovered in her stool. The surgery consult reveals that this blood is probably the result of trama during vomitting/ coughing/ seizures, etc. We are still not sure at this point, but the bright red coloring seems to have stopped which is a good indication that the bleeding has stopped. The surgeons are planning to just observe her today to see how things progress.

Many of you have asked what can you do. Andy and I would sincerely appreciate your prayers for the following:
Fever reduction
Seizures to stop
Respiration to slow down
Infection caused by the pneumonia to respond to the antibiotics

This truly IS how you can be of most service to Lauren and to our family.

I want to share with you a poem that a church member of ours shared with us this morning. He was not able to go to work today until hand-delivering this to us and reading it aloud with us and to Lauren. It is amazing to see how the holy spirit moves each of us when we are obedient to His call. Jesse mentioned that this words came to him when thinking of what Lauren means to our church.

L...Lo,behold our princess.

A...Aside were wordly dreams cast. All her days and plans were ordained...before they came to be. (Psalms 139:16)

U...Undaunted by her afflictions, she is a blessing to others.

R...Radiant eyes and bright smile, the Holy One within sings a chorus without words.

E...Everlasting is her soul, God's love is unconditional.

N...Near to God is our Princess, she accesses the inner court of the King. Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace...(Esther 5:1)

Written by: Jesse Arnold

These words will ring in my soul today as we watch over and care for our baby girl. Thank you all for your love and support. Just as Queen Esther was willing to risk her life for the sake of others. It is my prayer that Lauren's spirit will touch yours in a way today that brings you the peace that passes all understanding.