There is plenty I could be writing to you about this evening that has me alarmed, but I feel led more than anything, to just let you know how precious you are to Mike and I. We are so deeply grateful for your love, prayers, and support. Thank you for letting us laugh with you, when we have felt like crying, and crying, when we couldn't hold back the tears. Thank you for your "I love you's" and for your hugs. That has meant the world to me, and has meant the world to Mike.

Pain, fear, and sadness tries to swallow us, but it's a blessing and a victory, when love makes the loudest sound or shows the deepest gesture. Thank you for stepping into our turmoil, to throw us a lifesaver. You have gone far beyond what we could expect friendship, employer, or family could go. Unmerited love is the very picture of Christ Himself.

The past few days have felt like an extreme uphill climb. There have been moments when Mike and I haven't been sure we could go one step further; yet God quietly reminds us we can. We can because of Him. We can because of you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

After a double thoracentesis on Monday, and a treatment yesterday, Mike is doing fairly well. He has experienced chest pain off and on today, but it is relieved by staying on the oxygen. His appetite is a little improved, although we're probably just holding his weight steady, instead of increasing it. He still is having trouble sleeping...and therefore, so am I.

But some more help is on the way. In addition to the graciousness of family and friends; Mike's sister and husband is on their way here. The moving van is coming tomorrow, and they will officially be arriving here September 4th. It will be such a relief to know Mom McSheehy (almost 92) will get the care and attention she should have. I have tried to juggle, to keep all the balls in the air, but I know I haven't been able to spend the time she needs, or deserves.

Our son has successfully passed his kidney stone after the stint was surgically put in. He is feeling so much better. Thank you very much for your prayers. Please pray that he will continue to heal and that he'll be able to have this stint removed quickly, without infection developing.

Please pray the tissue surrounding Mike's lungs would return to a normal condition and the fluid would stop developing in there, causing him trouble breathing. It hurts me the most when I see him struggling to breathe.

Mike is off of treatment until September 8th. We will continue to keep you updated. :)