Today I was able to release Myrtle K. from the hospital to go back to the
nursing home. For about 8-9 years now she has had declining health and
mental status. Sweet as ever, but just not always home. This was an
absolute gift from God.
When she came in to the hospital 7 days ago, this
91 year old lady had pneumonia and worsening confusion. The next day she
had a TIA (mini stroke), and I told the family that it would be a miracle
if she survived. She didn't arouse for 48 hours. Then just like turning
the lights back on, she began to come around and the antibiotics began to
work better. Her health began to improve. Each day she got better and
better. Her lungs cleared, and she became the most alert I have ever seen
her by this morning when I finally let her go back to the nursing home.
Back when I first met Myrtle and she was perfectly clear, she would see me
scurry about in the office and the hospital, and tell me, "I don't know how
you stay up, I'm praying for you."
In the elderly, it is frequently pneumonia that finally takes their lives,
because the worn bodies just don't have what it takes to fight off
infection any more. Well, I don't think Myrtle could fight it off,
but God
could!
Several years ago, as I sat at the nursing station one evening, some good
friends were there visiting an elderly relative and they related an
incident that had just happened involving their young daughter, "JJ". It
seems she had been in a position to be left in the room with this
grandmother and the lady was just plain tired. She said, "I just want to
die. I want to go home to be with Jesus, why can't I just die?" JJ looked
up at her and said, "Granny... God's painting your room, and it's just not
ready yet."
How often I think of JJ's words when I see the miracles God performs in
the hospital. Simple, uncomplicated, and "Right On." Thanks JJ, you have
given me insight. And Myrtle ... I wonder what color your room's going to
be?
