Dear First Church Family,

 Thank you for the cards, e-mails, flowers, and phone calls that have arrived to me at The Palms of Pasadena Hospital. As I write this note on Monday evening I am on day 15 of a 28 day hospital stay that was completely unexpected at this time. Your care and concern have buoyed my spirit and faith.

 The surgery on December 18 was very extensive requiring a number of repairs to my abdomen and internal ileostomy. At this point I would describe my recovery as “three steps forward – two steps back.” I have learned not to push my recovery this time for when I do – I end up back in bed, needing extra pain medications, and observation by the nursing staff.

 The plan for my release and recovery are tentative but look to be as follows:

1.       I will be released from the hospital on January 8, 2012. Hopefully by then I will be in less pain.

2.       I will spend two weeks with former parishioners near Englewood, Florida regaining my strength.

3.       I will return to New Knoxville on January 23 or 24.

4.       I hope to return to the pulpit on January 29.

 Each day I post an update on my Facebook page. If you would like to follow my progress, but are not a “friend,” send me a request! 

 On December 18 I was very anxious as I faced surgery. It had been postponed to the afternoon. I had to fill out paper work related to advanced medical directives, sign consents and whatever else they put in front of me. As my apprehension grew, I turned to one of my favorite devotionals – Morning and Evening. The text for that morning was Jeremiah 2:2 – I am with thee! In that moment, a still small voice whispered, “David, I am with you, do not fear. I hold you body and soul in the palm of my hand.” I was calmed immediately, went to surgery, enjoyed laughing with the staff, praying with them before the start of surgery and have since been well cared for by The Palms staff.

In the meantime, each day – I read some, rest some, walk some, and am looking forward to start eating on December 29 with a clear liquid diet! Oh yum!

 As the calendar rolls over to 2012 – may you and your family know the promise of Jeremiah 2:2 – I am with thee!

 Blessings,

+Pastor Dave