Our Christmas Letter

"The Miracle on N. Ranney Street"

Our miracle began over 2000 years ago when our Savior was born. Flash forward to the year 2007 and the miracles continue with our miracle on Ranney Street. The Texas Christmas tree is up and the “Leg Lamp” adorns the front picture window here on N. Ranney and the magic of Christmas is bringing joy and excitement to our home.

We are thankful for many blessings this year but none stand out as much as Mark’s recovery from his tragic accident. It was one of those experiences you hope you will never have to endure again. We sometimes can’t imagine how we survived, but we know it has brought us so much closer to our friends, family and our lives have been blessed by the trial.

We are amazed at the blessings we have received from our family and enduring friendships. Each of you are a wonderful example of what is good. We will forever be grateful to all of you. We watched in amazement at how our support group somehow wove themselves together and created the most comforting blanket to shelter and support us throughout our greatest trial. You were there to help bear our burdens, mourn with us and comfort us when we were in need.

The boys are at the center of our life we enjoy each minute we have with them. All three are highly motivated by food and they amaze us by how much they can put away.

Justin is enjoying freedom and has become a wonderful young man. Working at
Best Buy; up by the crack of noon just in time for college classes. Late night studies and to bed by dawn. Talking to girls and hanging with friends consume a great amount of his time.

From video games to academic team, Steven is busy being a teenager. Just when we thought his personality and sense of humor had peaked he continues to make us laugh even more. He is working hard to complete his Eagle Scout in order for him to earn his drivers license.

Clayson is in Kindergarten and has discovered a great love of reading and Webkins.
He has a great appreciation for all God’s creatures and keeps us on our toes with all of them he manages to sneak into the house. He claims he will one day be the next “Steve Irwin.”

Mark has made a miraculous recovery. He is back to work and his employees have welcomed him and been amazed at his strength and will power to carry on. Just goes to show he has been thoroughly blessed with outward and inward strength from above. Activities with our family, friends and church seem to fill my days and be of most importance in my life. I seldom find time for much else. I love having my sister Christi and her family here to help us. It really livens things up around here and lightens our burden. We plan to join Mark’s family in Texas the day after Christmas and then return to Canada to reunite with the Canadian doctors and friends that assisted in our miracle.

I have no idea how we would have survived Christmas without the prayers, fasting and sacrifices made by so many of you. You have all helped to bring a magnificent miracle into ours life we will never forget.

Know that we are thinking of you and wishing you all the best for experiencing Gods miracles that are sure to be great in 2008.

Love,
The Andersons

Because I know how much you all care.

So sorry I have not been updating the blog as much as many of you would like. I can't really tell if Mark likes it when I update or not. I know he wants to keep everyone informed but he doesn't want me to be going on and on about stuff you all really don't give a darn about. So I will do my best to update but please understand why it's not always consistent.

Things seem to be clicking along here at home. We got a good report from Dr. Uthoff yesterday. He listened, poked and questioned to try and uncover how the recovery is progressing. He reduced the amount of blood pressure medication Mark is currently taking, and seems to think all is well. Mark assumed he wouldn't have to have another appointment but the doctor wants to continue seeing him on a regular basis. I was happy about that one.

Mark made it to the office everyday this week and is continuing to show signs of improvement. I do hope he doesn't overdo it, but I am trying to keep my mouth shut and allow him to do what he feels like he can. We have a doctor's appointment in Cape with Dr. New next week. Andrea from Arris is helping us with airline tickets to Canada. We greatly appreciate her generosity and are anxious to get back up there mid January.

We hosted a Duck's Unlimited commottee meeting in the "Man House" last night. We sauteed and boiled around 18 pounds of shrimp (left over from the banquet) and the guys enjoyed getting to pig out and visit for a few hours.

The boys are on there way over and we are looking forward to seeing them. Of course Justin has a double blind date tonight therefore he will probably drop Steven, say hello and go fill up his tank (because he can charge it to Mark's account) and race back to Paducah.

We hope you all have a great weekend. Thank you all for everything.

Love,
Stephanie

Making Huges Stride

Mark is doing very well. He has been working a few hours each day and he didn't make it home until after 5:00pm today. There have been several Mark sitings around town. He went to Buffalo Wild Wings with Brian Ottis, one of his Aggie buddies last week. To watch part of an Aggie basketball game. Then today he enjoyed having lunch with the "Testosterone Tuesday lunch club" and he took Clayson, Anya and Philip to school this morning.

He has a doctors' appointment with Dr. Fred Uthoff on Thursday morning and we are anticipating a good report. We have scheduled a follow up appointment with Dr. McCarval in Canada on January 22nd. We think it is necessary to follow up with the Canadian surgeon who performed Mark's surgery since no one in the states has performed this type of an aortic endograft stent. Mark also feels a great need to personally thank so many people who helped us so very much. He continues to amaze me with his ability to fight through the pain without complaining. He is working very hard to get his body regulated and be back in the thick of things quickly.

As we have transitioned back into the real world we have both been touched by many people we meet each day who have been praying for us. In a world filled with so much evil it is so wonderful to know there are soooo many wonderful people who have gone to God in prayer on our behalf and helped us through this tragedy. Many people who have been praying had never even met us but they have prayed and fasted for us and become another blessing in our lives.

We love you all and hope you are getting into the Christmas spirit as our family is now more than ever.

Oh yeah, he is back in his boots and out of the slippers when out of the house.

Love, Stephanie

Recovery Recovery Recovery

It has been a fairly quiet week around here. Mark has sworn off of pain pills (not that I ever got him to take many anyway). He hopes the wounds on his feet will continue healing because he is anxious to be wearing big boy shoes instead of grandpa slippers by the end of the week. He was able to attend one hour of church on Sunday. He has lost about 45 lbs. But with all the food that has been brought in including peppermint blizzards, he working back towards the fat boy program. He is resting a little better but far from what I would consider a good nights rest. I am sleeping circles around him these days but hoping he will follow my example. Christi and Jason are still here helping us make sense of our chaos.

Friends and family have been stopping by to visit and we continue to look forward to seeing all of you who have been a part of getting us home and on the road to recovery. Hope all of you are living life to the fullest and continuing to celebrate God's miracles.

We have heard a rumor that Stephanie Gleason is bringing some phenomenal dinner topped off with a delightful choclate triffle for dinner. Then Claysona and his cousins have plans for a hot tub party. So this evening will be a night to remember!

Love,
Stephanie and Mark

Love all around

Clayson and his cousins Anya and Philp

Happy Thanksgiving

So much to be thankful for. We enjoyed every minute of our Thanksgiving. Strange how a tragedy like we have experienced changes your perspective. Numerous times
throughout the day I reflected on the past month and a half and how grateful I am that our Heavenly Father's plan is so perfect and always right. I feel so unworthy of the multitude of blessings our family has received. As Mark has said time and time again it is a humbling experience. We know we will never be perfect enough to deserve all the many blessings our Father in Heaven has promised each of us.

Mark was disappointed we were unable to make it to Texas for Thanksgiving. He almost had me convinced he could make the trip but we decided we could not afford the chance of a set back considering the recovery he has managed this far.

I caught him on his way to his truck yesterday early in the morning. He was bundled up and heading to the Calbert's house to help Mark Calbert deep fry turkey's. Although I wasn't very excited about letting him out in 37 degree weather to get into his cold Excursion and drive himself to Calbert's. I knew it was only a few streets over and there is no stopping Mark when he has something he wants to do. He made it there and home without any problems. We had a great family brunch with the boys and Jason and Christi's family and then went to my cousin Niki and Scott's house in Cape Girardeau for a Thanksgiving day feast.

The Aggie's game has been the best medicine of the day. His "Crack berry" has not stopped ringing with friends wanting to here the excitement in his voice. It so nice to see him so excited. Thank goodness the Aggie's put a hurtin' on them Longhorns.

We hope all of you had a blessed Thanksgiving. Gig 'em Aggie!!!

Love,
Stephanie and Mark

Mark, Clayson and Anya

Mark, Stephanie and Clayson

Current pictures of our "Miracle Man"

Super Saturday

We are having a great Saturday. Justin and Steven are here and we have been enjoying some good old fashion family time. We are also so thrilled to be here at home with Mark. Gary Allen brought over some scrumptious chicken wings and Mary & John Engram brought over a delicious apple cake. Wish we could share some with all of you.

Mark is feeling a little better. We have struggled with the insurance company trying to get them to approve the medicines Dr. Uthoff recommended but it isn't going so well. If any of you have had to deal with insurance companies I'm sure you can relate. Other than that we have nothing to complain about. Chris Jarrett brought us a bag of movies and they are helping us pass the time and allowing Mark's body to continue to heal.

We are still praying for a full recovery and celebrating the small victories day by day. We know God has a plan for Mark's life or he would not be here today.

Love,
Mark, Stephanie, Justin, Steven and Clayson

T.G.I.F

No changes to report on Mark's condition. He did enjoy a visit to the office yesterday. We were there for almost two hours. He managed to get on the floor sweeper to make a trip through his warehouse. It was bit frustrating to not be able to breeze through on foot but we kept reminding ourselves that he was actually AT THE OFFICE and how many miracles had gotten us to that point. He has been on his computer a little and he is still humbled by all of our friends and family who have been in constant prayer in our behalf. He is still in a great deal of pain and struggling with being able to rest comfortably. Mark is not a proponent of any pain medicine and is resolved to toughing this out.

We are anxious for Justin and Steven to be here for the weekend. Our friends have continued to bring food almost daily and it has been a great help for me. We are so blessed. I wish I could thank each of you, but there are so many of you,that have done so much for us. I wouldn't undoubtedly unintentionally forget someone. Every one in our support system has been so willing to help and that is what will get us through this day and to the next.

We love you,
Mark & Stephanie

From one Aggie to Another

Dr. Uthoff and his sweet nurse Carolyn managed to get us an apointment with Dr. Brent New a Thorasic Cardiovascular Specialist in Cape Girardeau. As luck would have it he also was a Texas Aggie which immediately put Mark's mind at ease. He gave Mark a through examination and said our story was absolutely fascinating. Had this accident occured in the United States because the FDA has not approved the aortic graft that was used in Canada the surgeon's here would have had to cut him from spine to sturnum (quadrupling the chance of parpalegia).

Dr. New assured us that Mark is as healthy as can be expected and said we should use good old common sense about how quickly to progress into the main stream. He removed the pick line from Mark's left arm so now he can shower without press and seal plastic wrap. Yes! We have a follow up appointment in one month for additional some testing. We are still in a dangerous stage for contracting virus and pneumonia so we have to be cautious about where we go and how much we do.

Thank you all for everything.

Love,
Mark and Stephanie

Road Trip!

As far as we know we are finished with the IV antibiotic!!! You all have no idea how much easier that will make our lives. The option care nurse took a blood sample from his pick line this afternoon. The results from that will tell if the infection is gone. If he is infection free they will remove the line tomorrow.

I woke around 6:00am and Mark was gone. He had gotten up on his own sometime in the night and made his way to to couch in the family room. Bad news is he didn't get much rest, good news is he was able to make it from the bedroom to the family room with no assistance. He didn't even use his walker (commonly know around here as "Walker Texas Ranger").

Mark and I took Jerry to the airport in St. Louis. Yes that is right Mark demanded to be allowed to ride with us all the way to the STL airport. He survived the trip pretty well. In fact, I didn't think it would be appropriate for us to go into a restaurant for lunch. Since he had on his slippers. He began to get so hungry he told me to go through the McDonald's drive through. I thought oh no Mickey D's??? That might kill him. He preceded to order a Big-n-tasty and he ate the entire monster burger. A few miles down the road he spotted a Taco Bell and asked if we could make a run for the border. I couldn't stop laughing at his newly acquired appetite. Luckily when he saw two school buses full of kids already waiting for Taco Tuesday he said he wasn't that hungry. We then had to stop for a bathroom break and when he got to the men's room and found it occupied he headed straight to the ladies room. All the strange looks he was getting didn't even phase him.

We appreciate all your love and support. We are enjoying the miracle of having Mark back home and hoping and praying for a full recovery. Thank all of you for everything especially your prayers. i have taken some pictures of Mark and will try to down load them and post them asap.

Love,
Mark and Stephanie

Daily Anderson Update

A good Monday was had by all! Mark was doing quite a bit of shuffling from here to there, without the walker today. Clayson was so excited to see his Daddy and Uncle Jerry pick him up from school. I know Mark liked seeing something other than the bed, bath and family room. Unless we can convince him to stay Jerry (Mark's brother/physical therapist) is planning to leave us high and dry tomorrow morning. I think Mark will be fine but Clayson and Anya may suffer from withdrawal symptoms after he is gone. Mark continues to gain strength and energy. I just hooked him up for what we hope will be his last dose of IV antibiotic. Woo Hoo!!!

Now that is exciting. Mark is still enjoying quick short visits from friends and family. Just stay clear if you are even thinking about getting sick. Give me a call if you want to stop by and see the miracle man.

Love and God Bless all of you,
The Anderson's

Aggie lost but Mark Survives!

Despite the abuse the Aggies took by the Tigers. Mark had a pretty good day. We are all tired of dealing with IV antibiotic but the end appears to be in site. Three more bags to go then adios pia'. We are monitoring his blood pressure and he is staying within a healthy range.

Mark was able to get a good nights sleep. He surprised us all this morning by saying he was going to take a shower. Somehow he found the strength to shower standing on his own and shaved himself.

Clayson has been enjoying having his Uncle Jerry and Anya (his 6 year old cousin) here. He had him on the trampoline and playing ball until way after dark. Anya had Uncle Jerry coloring butterflies this morning it was quite something to watch. Clayson is on the couch snuggled up to his Dad and we are watching "The Rifleman".

We have continued to be blessed by an outpouring of love, through prayers, visits and food. Oh my, the food has been wonderful. Going from a month of hospital food to home cooked and Susie's cuisine may throw my body in to shock. Thank you for all your prayers and support.

Christi's husband Jason and their son Philip will be flying into St. Louis tomorrow and Jerry will be flying home to Texas on Tuesday. We are going to have plenty of time to get caught up on any good movies so let us know if you have any suggestions. We enjoyed watching the Sentinel last night. Thank God for cable TV.

We love you,
The Anderson's

Friday Night

Oh what a night! Dr. Fred Uthoff stopped by and examined Mark and put our minds to ease that he seems to be doing much better than we should have expected. He will be contacting us on Monday about further follow up.

Just as we finished our last bite of food (that the Mothershead's supplied). A few members of the P.H.L.'s (The Pink Hat Ladies, i.e. Sarah Garner and Anita Eby; along with Larry Eby and Jerry Adkins a couple of Mark's buddies came busting through the front door. The PHL's captured Christi and me and forced us out of the house leaving Mark in good hands with his brother and buddies. The girls spent some quality time entertaining each other with girl talk. Mark and the guys had a challenging game of who "had the lowest blood pressure:. All Mark had to do was take his beta blocker and he won hands down. Of course the football game was blaring and noises were exploding out of all the extra holes in their bodies. Anya and Clayson enjoyed an evening at parents night out. So we all had a wonderful Friday night.

After a day filled with A LOT of activity (thanks to Jerry) Mark sleep like a baby. He managed to sleep for a four hour stretch then another 2 hour stretch. This is more rest than he has had for days. We were a little late getting his antibiotic started this morning but I feel like sleep is vital to Mark's recovery. We are anticipating a great Saturday. Gotta run and get some breakfast started.

Love, Stephanie, Mark & Clayson

First Friday Home

Mark's parents headed back to Texas early this morning. Jerry, Mark's brother is picking up where the soup Nazi' nurse from St. John's left off. He practically pushed Mark into the shower and made him wash his hair and shave all by himself. Jerry then preceded to convince Mark to walk all the way to the porch of "Man House" stop for a rest then truck back to the house. Mark said he felt like he had ran a marathon.

Christi, my sister secretly made me a hair cut appointment and when we got back the boys (Mark and Jerry) were GONE!!! That's right, I was gone less than 1 hour and they had made a trip to Confluent, Sonic and Phil Boyers pond. He had to give Phil one last chance to put his licks in on The Aggies, are something like that, it really makes no sense to me.

I am home now and Mark is resting. Dr. Fred Uthoff is going to stop by this evening and take a look to make sure our patient is progressing as he should. Mark seems to be getting stronger each day, but it is a long slow process. We are still asking friends and family to be patient about visiting. We really want to see everyone but visiting can be exhausting. So don't give up, get mad or forget about us. I am anticipating him wanting people here in full force over the course of the next week or so.

Love,
Stephanie and Mark

OUr Family

Update from Clayson aka "Gomez"

I am so glad my Pa is back home. I missed him so much while he was gone. I am waiting in my bedroom for Daddy to come and watch my lizzards eat crickets. Thank you all for praying for my him.

From,
Clayson Reed Anderson

Watching the world go by

Mark had a big day. He woke early as usual and decided he would sit in our big picture window to watch everyone else go to work. If you have to travel up N. Ranney on your way to work don't be surprise if you spot him planted in the window.

Jamie Calbert came over and cut his hair and he enjoyed his first real shower in way too long. So I'm not sure he feels any better but he looks alot better.

Mark's brother brought him one of his wives world's famous Nowalk Chocolate Cake all the way from Texas, and Mark is back on the wagon. This has made our friend Sarah very happy, considering she is wasting away to nothing after committing to not take another bite of chocolate until Mark does.

Tonight was our first night in over a month to have family dinner together it was very therapeutic for all of us. Even though Mark was face down on the table before it was over. We were proud of him for making it to the table and cleaning his plate even if he doesn't have much of an appetite. Friends have been very gracious to bring in an over abundance of food and we all appreciate it.


Love to all,
Stephanie, Mark, Warren, Marjean, Jerry and Christi

Mark's Family

HOME SWEET HOME!!!

Mark somehow managed after spending almost a month in ICU to wake up and go home a few days later. He surpassed every possible prediction! He is truly a walking, talking miracle!

My friend Salwa laughingly commented, "Mark was so determined to get out of there, who can blame him. No wonder they kept sedating him, he was ready to walk right out of there a month ago". Nearly everyone who has laid eyes on Mark over the course of the last few weeks has noticed the power of God in this. We are all so blessed to be witnessing the miracles God is pouring out on Mark.

So we are home and we are both exhausted. Option care arrived only minutes after we got home. With pumps, syringes, hoses, etc... I told Mark he really should have married a nurse. He said, "you can do it". Although around 3:30am when the pump started beeping and finally failed he may have retracted that comment. This nurse thing is not really in my blood, but we will muddle through and keep reminding ourselves home much better this in than the hospital.

Thank you to everyone involved in making our trip back home possible. I would not recommend any visitors until late morning or early afternoon, since Mark is banking on his first real shower in a month. We are so excited!

Minute by minute he is getting better but the doctors have warned us to keep the excitement to a minimum as not to take a set back. Thank you all for everything. We are so blessed.

Love, Stephanie

Going Home!!!

Somebody may need to pinch me. I feel like I must be dreaming. Dr. Sakabu has granted us permission to go home. They have been putting Mark through a torture chamber all morning.

Luckily we were save by Larry Stifflemen who brought us a fabulous lunch from Rick and Charlies Italian restaurant. That was a great distraction for all of us.

We were told we had to get an internist to agree to take Mark as a patient and Dr. Fred Uthoff agreed he would be up for the challenge. The care coordinator has made arrangements for option care to come to the house tonight and tend to the antibiotic he will need to take for the next 5-7 days. Stephanie Gleason has offered to lend us a wing back recliner. Which will give him an option other than the bed or couch.

After they insert a pick line for the antibiotic, Dr. Oliveri from neuro shares results from his evaluation and Dr. Westfall (a trauma surgeon who will be following Mark for the next year or so) stops by we will be headed to the parking lot.

Mark's parents are planning to spend one more night at the Bedell's apartment and pick up Jerry (Mark's brother) and his gun from the airport before returning to Sikeston.

Thank you all for your love and continued support.

Stephanie and Mark

Flyway Hallway

Physical therapist could hardly keep up with him this afternoon. He was out of bed and down the hallway faster than a speeding bullet. You should have seen the look on my sisters faces and Anya and Clayson when they say Mark crusing down the hall. They were whooping and hollaring for him. He passed with flying colors. I think the prayer he whispered before they therapist arrived must have worked.

The doctors have agreed to release him on Wednesday if everything goes as they expect, although I am not convinced Mark will not buck the system and earn an early release.

We love you,
Mark and Stephanie

Mark's Phone Info

For those of you who would like to contact Mark directly, here ya go!

Mark is in room 450 of St. Johns Mercy Medical Center and his direct # is 314-567-2450.

Thanks!

Trach Day

Before I even got to the hospital Mark was able to convince Doctor Troop to remove the Trachea. Mark's dad said Mark was scared to take a drink because he feared it would run right through the open hole.

When I arrive we dressed him in jammer bottoms and a long john shirt. The nurse last night said he looked just like Peter Gallagher. Personally I think he is a lot better looking than Peter Gallagher. I'm sure you all would have to agree. The same nurse while taking a blood sample told him he must have spiritual blood or something because he is healing so much faster than he should be.

Several friends and family members have been stopping by for short visits and they seem to lift his spirits. So stop by if you are in the area or sit tight if not looks like we may be heading South before the end of the week. So you all should be able to lay eyes on him soon.

Thank all of you who are tending for our house and things at Confluent and continue to pray for a full recovering.

Love,
Stephanie and Mark

Sunday Message from the mouth of Mark

Mark spoke with his Canadian friends Earl and Flo Chrsitensen today to thank them for all they have done for us. They informed us the heart surgeon that performed my surgery is ranked 3rd in the world. This was not just a run of the mill surgery.Dr. McCarval had only performed 2 aurotic endogrqafts previous to mine. Primarily because patients die before they make it to the hospital.

I am completely over come by the outpouring of love, concern and prayers in my behalf. It's hard to put into words how thankful I am to each of you, my friends and family for everything you have done for me and my family. Although I will never be able to thank all of you I know God will greatly bless each and every one of you.

Love,
Mark

What a Great Sunday Fun Day Nov 4, 2007

The wi fi @ St. John's is still down so I am using the nurses computer in Mark's room if I have to cut this short you will know someone came through the door and found me on this computer. Oh well, I figure worst case scenario they will kick me out of the room and confiscate the computer.

OK for the important stuff. I can't explain how great Mark is doing. He is off most off the medicines. No pain med, no sedative, no insulin. The doctor downsized the trach yesterday and said if today is good he will pull it out tomorrow. Mark wants the catheter out today and they said yes. Oh no one of his machines is beginning to beep nurse Denise will be here in a jiffy. Mark is overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and prayers he is feeling. I just arranged his bookshelves and stopped counting at 50 cards friends and family have sent.

I am anxious awaiting 4:30pm so I can make a run to the airport and get Christi and Anya and try to regain possession of Mark's shotgun from the claims office. Don't worry I will not let Mark know I have it. Keep your fingers crossed.

P.S. Sarah we are praying for your toe. I know your sacrifice of chocolate and I have tempted him more than once but he hasn't regained his love of chocolate this may be a long road for you. You should have kept up the fast with the Mormon's.

Love,
Stephanie and Mark

Saturday Afternoon

Stephanie is still having internet connection issues so here's the latest via Meg:

Last night Mark didn't sleep too well so he's catching up on his rest today. The doctors continue to be amazed at Mark's progress. They initially installed a large trach because they thought he would have it for a while. Instead they downgraded Mark to the smaller trach today and he can already talk louder. Apparently it gave him more control over his vocal cords. Peter and I even got to talk to him for a minute and it was strange to hear his voice so small after years of filling the room with his booming voice.

Soon the docs will install a trapeze over Mark's bed so he can pull himself to a sitting position. It's going to take a lot of work to get all the muscles to do what they're supposed to do. Stephanie hopes to have Mark well enough by next week for a transfer to Cape or maybe even home.

Keep those prayers coming! Stephanie says she can see the effects!

Thank you!

Meg

Friday Afternoon

Stephanie has been having computer trouble today so I'm filling in. She reports that Mark has had another great day today! His feeding tube came out and he had a liquid breakfast followed by solids for lunch.

Tonight Clayson is going to be delivered to the hospital for his first visit. It should be a joyous reunion! Stephanie is always looking on the bright side and helps me remember to be grateful for all that we've been blessed with. She is a great example for me.

Thanks (on behalf of Mark & Stephanie) for all your prayers!

Meg

Wednesday Night

Mark has been released from ICU it is 11:00pm and we are packed up and ready to move to the TICU (Trauma Intermediate Care Unit). Jackie Collins made a trip up to share some financial information with Mark. We were happy to see her and it seemed to give Mark some peace of mind about how Confluent is functioning without him. OK the nurses are here to take us on this exciting journey. I better go before I loose them.

ANOTHER DAY ANOTHER MIRACLE!!!

You have to celebrate with us wherever you all whatever you are doing. Stop and thank Heavenly Father for the blessings he is pouring down upon Mark.

He passed the swallow study and was given clearance for liquids. His first request was a Strawberry shake so of course he got a Strawberry shake the patient care technician then brought in two trays of food. We decided he probably didn't need to overdo a good thing so after a little nourishment and repositioning he drifted off to sleep. I am so relieved he is sleeping. He looks and feels comfortable.

The doctors granted us permission to move him from ICU to a step down unit. The only catch is that unit stays very full and they are not sure there will be a bed for the night. If he has to stay in ICU I asked them to slow down the blood sugar testing and monitoring from every 2 to every 4 hours. I wish we knew when he would be transfer to Cape or home but it's still to early to speculate.

He is getting better. I am so happy for him and everyone who loves him so much.

Love,
Stephanie

Thurs. Nov, 1, 2007

Stephanie reports that Mark had a restful night last night. He didn't sleep much,(about three hours) but he was resting. Stephanie was able to sleep also. She said she slept more than Mark, she really needed it, she didn't get any sleep the night before.

They have taken Mark down for part two of a "swallow test". He is hoping he passes the test because he is really hungry. One of the nurses told him he'd probably just get jello. He just smacked his lips. What he really wants is a strawberry shake. That is soft, maybe he can have that. If all goes well they will probably transfer him to a private room out of ICU. That will be great. He continues to improve every day. I think he is surprising even the Dr's. We are excited at his progress.
He really wants to go home, but he needs to strengthen his arms and legs.

We'll report more when we get the results of his test.

Mark's Mom and Dad

Spooktacular Night

Mark had a very active day. He began to talk and boy does he have a lot to say. Most of it pretty funny. He refers to his nurse as "The Soup Nazi". He says she has diagnosed him with some crazy disease I can't even begin to spell. He is trying to win all the doctors and nurses over with his carisma and I think he is succeeding. I know it's hard to imagine but you have to lean over close to him to hear him talk although I know that powerful load voice is still in there. He has become confused several times today but I am praying that is still due to the amount of time he has been down and amount medicine in his system.

He went through phase #1 of the swallow study and did good but Brad, the speech therapist will have to do some type of an exray in the morning as he swallow to insure everything is properly going down the esophagus vs the lungs.

We are anxiously awaiting the trauma surgeon to come and assess him. As I understand he is what stands between ICU and moving to a private room out of ICU. Tara, a social worker is working on getting us our options for possible transfer to Cape or Sikeston when he is ready.

The email I receive lift my spirits and I love each of you. Thank you for loving us so much. When something like this happens you need everyone in the support system to make it through. Don't think for a minute I am any super strong person each of you would do the same thing for that special person that means the world to you. He is still not really ready for visitors one now and then is OK but he so strong willed he seems to try to over perform to let them know he is going to be OK.

Hope you all received lots of treats and no tricks! For those of you who saw my little munchin tonight I know you squeezed him a little harder and made him realize what a special little guy he is. Thank you.

Love,
Stephanie

Happy Happy Happy Halloween

Wow! We have had a wonderful morning. Our favorite respiratory therapist came in first thing and she had managed to get approval to put a trachea cover on Mark. He was immediately able to speak. In true Mark fashion he never skipped a beat. He almost immediately said "Happy Birthday Dad". No one had to tell him it was his Dad's birthday he read the date on the wall board and it clicked. What a birthday gift for his father.

We have been so blessed. As we listened to the Count your many blessings song last night Mark said he must have had 3 billion blessings. I simply agreed.

The doctor has ordered a swallow test. Passing that would allow him to eat solid foods and possibly transfer out of ICU by tomorrow. Mark wants to come home or atleast be transfer to Cape or Sikeston.

We are blessed to have the knowledge of the power of God.

Love,
Stephanie

Early morning update

This is the first night Mark has been completely off any type of support. He is breathing well and we are all impressed with how strong he is. He is looking great and was very alert most all day. He tried to write and use the computer to communicate this afternoon. We had the best luck with lip reading but it's hard for him to slow down his words.

I am staying with him tonight because he seemed a bit confused. Mark's parents went to the Bedell apartment and I will go rest when they return in the morning. He is not sleeping well but who does in the hospital environment.

Will update again tomorrow.

Love,
Stephanie

Mark in the Man House with his Duck's Unlimited Friends

Tuesday, October 30th

With a small dose of Ambein Mark managed to get a little sleep last night. He struggled with quite a bit of nausea. But was looking great this morning. The hospital staff has began telling us how good looking he is....duh! The nurse reported when she told him she would see him tonight we mouthed no he wouldn't be here. He said he was ready to go golfing.

Dr. Meyer and his staff said they are very pleased with his progress, but we must be patient and realize it is going to take time. He was able to sit on the side of the bed and then with some assistance be transferred to a recliner for a few hours. The occupational therapist gave him an A+ she could not believe the improvements compared to last week.

Mark's parents seem to be holding up like champions. I am very glad they are here for me and Mark. I enjoyed an evening at home with Clayson. He woke up asking for his Daddy. He asked Amy Alcorn his stand in Mom why we couldn't strap his hospital bed to the back of the car and pull him home. As you all know he is a "chip off the old block". Mark may be thinking the same thing.

I know it's hard for him to listen to everyone telling him what he has to do. Please pray for him to have the patience he is going to need to recover.

My heart goes out to all of you who continue to pray for Mark and follow his progress.

Love,
Stephanie

Mark and Boone

Mark and Justin

Monday Morning

After such a great day I had high hopes for a restful evening, but Mark did not get much rest. They had his oxygen on throughout the night and when I walked in this morning and I could hear him trying to talk. I asked him if he could talk and he said isn't that what I'm suppose to be doing? When the respiratory therapist came in he said Mark could not talk with out support yet. He isn't strong enough to move enough air to produce sound on his own.

He will have several more days in ICU. I have been pressing the doctors to be as aggressive as possible. I would consider moving him to Cape when they release him from ICU, but I am unsure of the level of care we are receiving here verses Southeast in Cape. They are not very aggressive with physical therapy compared to what they were doing in Canada.

I am planning to go home this afternoon and spend the evening at home with Clayson. Mark's parents have agreed to continue to stay with Mark. Larry Eby and Darrin Johnson may be visiting late this afternoon.

Slowly but surely the real Mark Anerson is coming back. We are having in there.

Love,
Stephanie

Sunday Fun Day!

Wow, we have had an incredible day. Mark is beginning to show many signs of improvement. He kissed me!!! I mean it, he puckered up his lips and looked into my eyes and kissed me. I was so awesome it made my foot pop off the floor. We are so blessed. He is turning the corner.

My concern is that in true Mark Anderson form he is now devising a plan to escape. Sarah has advised me to take the car keys and hide the cash. I think getting to see Justin and Steven was very therapeutic and while they were here he mouthed, "I'm going to be O.K.". I know it's not a coincidence that this wonderful day is Sunday. Prayer is bringing him through.

Love,
Stephanie

Sunday Afternoon

Mark is having a great day! He got to see his boys today and sat in a chair for three hours. He's also responding to a lot more commands and it seems like his eyes are focusing better. They're hoping to be able to put a vent on his trach which should allow him to speak. Overall, the doctors gave him an A+ for today! When Stephanie asked him if he was an Aggie, he nodded yes!

Thanks for your prayers! We are so blessed!

Mark's Family

He Did It!!!

Mark is finally breathing on his own!!! I'm am overflowing with joy. He is making such great progress today. I am unsure how long they will let him breath without assistance but for the moment he is my hero. After days and days of asking him to hold up two fingers he finally DID IT!!!

They changed his insulin from humalog is lantus which is a more long acting insulin. He is on a beta blocker to control his blood pressure. He body seems to be functioning much more independently now. He is trying to get up and out of bed.

Marjean just walked out and said his blood pressure is rising and they had to give him some haldol to relieve his anxiety. I better make a run for it.

Love,
Stephanie

Sunday Morning

Happy to report Mark is looking so much better this morning. We left him late last night in the hands of a nurse named Amanda. She has cared for him for three nights and is getting quite comfortable with his tricks. You can tell he likes the nurses and is trying to follow their commands. She did not have to increase his sedation through the night although he did experience a low grade fever. Mark is becoming very expressive he has us laughing at his silly faces.

The plan for today is to allow him to try to sit up a little and wean his oxygen. Will do my best to update throughout the day. I want you all to know you guys are getting us through this the support of friends and family continues to be overwhelming. Thank you all for the comfort we are able to feel. Let's pray for him to more consistently follow commands and complete recovery.

Love,
Stephanie

Saturday Night News

No excitement going on around here. I was disappointed that they gave Mark a dose of Haldol (a sedative) while we were out of the room so they could reposition him. It completely put him to sleep. He is still not as responsive as we would like. Then nurse Amanda just came in and decreased his pain medicine so there is a slight chance we may get a little action out of him.

His parents are glued to the Texas A&M game and he doesn't even know it's going on. It is so not Mark. I'm ready for him to wake up and cheer on the Aggies. He is looking better and does not appear to be in much pain. The plan is to try and wean him off the oxygen support tomorrow.

I am praying for a great Sunday. Justin and Steven are planning to come for a short visit, but the doctor's say family only and no more than two people in the room at a time.

Thanks for taking the time to stay up to date and send those prayers up to the Man above.

Love,
Stephanie

Blogger: Hunting Mark - Manage Posts

Blogger: Hunting Mark - Manage Posts

Saturday Noon

The doctors would like Mark to wake up today so they have reduced his sedation by about 1/2 the amount. He is exercising on his own...pulling his knees up and moving his arms. His eyes are opening wider and appear as thought he is trying to focus. He is breathing mostly on his own which is a big improvement. We are very pleased with his progress and are hopeful for a productive day. He is beginning to cough and we are glad to see there is some facial expressions of pain. We are sure all the broken ribs are very painful.

Melanie Glaus & David Duncan brought me to the hospital area dropping Clayson back off at the Alcorn's (also known as Clayson's disneyworld). So I am feeling refreshed and relieved that Clayson has a better understanding of the situation. Mark's parents are still here with us and seem to be handeling the stress beautifully. Thank you all for everything.

Love,
Stephanie and Warren

Mark & Baby Rudy Huewliott

Crystal Rain

Mark's parents just reported he is resting well and looking better than before they removed the ventilator but still not up to having visitors. Thank you for being patient. Keep those prayer chains in motion.

My friend Salwa wrote, "Through black clouds falls crystal rain." I think she is right...don't you?

Love, Stephanie & Clayson

Stephanie,

Just found out a couple days ago about Mark's accident. Please know that you are all in our prayers! Mark was always so kind to me when I worked for him. Even after I quit, when my Mark's shop burnt, Mark was one of the first ones to offer help of any kind. Now it's our turn to offer you all the same. If you need ANYTHING (but from reading the blog I'd say your friends have it covered) but if you do. Please let me know!

Keep your chin up. You're doing amazing! Such a pillar! I will continue to check the blog to see how things are going! Take care and God Bless you all.

Lee Ann & Mark Miller


"Nobody gets in to see the wizard...not nobody...not no how!"

Mark, Clayson and Boone

Stephanie & Mark
>
> I'm glad to hear things are going well. Steph I'm worried about you
> (are
you getting enough sleep and food) all the things you are going to need to keep up with fighting Mark. "ha ha" I know you have Larry and Anita with you right now but a any point that someone is not with you just call and I can come up about anytime. I have plenty of people that want to keep Dallin aka Ricky Bobby.
>
> Just letting you know that Mark, you and the family are in everyone of

> my
personal prayers and our family prayers. Bug ask every day how is Mr. Mark and where is Clayson. Mark and you are very special to our family. Hope to see you soon.
>
> Lots of Love and hugs
>
> Jamie C.
>

The news of the CT scan was such a thrill to me, it is just one gift after another everyday, God is with us Stephanie and he is good!! We are celebrating all the little successes with gratitude to a good and gracious God.

love you forever,

Salwa

Stephanie!!

That was so wonderful to be with both of you!  I feel so privilleged!  Stephanie, when i saw Matt and Patty this morning and they told me the good news, i couldn't hardly think straight, i was pushing wrong buttons on the elevator and going wrong directions because i was so stinking excited i couldn't even function.  by the time i got up to you guys in the room, (which i didn't know if i was allowed to come into unannounced, but didn't care!) I felt like Tigger!  i was so on cloud 9 no one could of stopped me from barging in there with my oatmeal!  ha ha.  I just had to squeeze all of you one more time before saying good bye and that news just made my heart sing.  He is here, of course he is here!!  I couldn't sleep all night Stephanie thinking and thinking and thinking about Mark, and after that excellent news, i couldn't believe the tears of excitement that came flowing as i left that room this morning.  What a beautiful experience it was for me to be with all of you.  Stephanie, it is going to be o.k., the miracles are going to bring him through this!  You are beautiful and i love you, thank you for letting me share those precious moments with you and Mark, and sweet Sarah (oh by the way, now i know she reminds me of Sarah the dutchess of York!)  she just needs a nice thick British accent.  I loved finally being with you again Stephanie, it felt so good!  Please remember to show me a picture of Sunny next time, i really wanted to see that.)

(p.s. we had a friend come into town from Minneapolis tonight, he leaves early in the morning and Paul is back up to st.louis again for the week.)

love yah,

salwa

The Power of Prayer

The surgeon from St. John's just informed me the tracheotomy was a SUCCESS! His words were it went lickity split no problems to reports. Dr. Myer's was able to suction Mark's lungs and they are hopeful for a full recovery.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am overflowing with joy!!!

All my love,
Stephanie

We are hanging in there

I received news that Mark had a restful night and opened his eyes for his parents this morning. They are in the process of performing the tracheotomy now. His parents are in the waiting room.

I am home with Clayson. We had a great reunion last night and he wrapped his self around me this morning and said no TV, no toys, no school, his stomach hurts and he wants to watch the "Momma show". Mark's nurse, his parents and Darrin Johnson assured me they will not try to wake him until Saturday morning so I should spend a little time at home verses the waiting room.

Everyone has been so great at taking care of our every need. We had a kitchen full of food here when we arrived, Stephanie and Sarah brought me clean clothes, Rich and Kathy Pelczynski brought Clayson a gift bag full of fun things last night, David Glaus took care of our cell phone bill, the Engram's (our neighbors) have offered assistance, etc....the blessings are flowing.

P.S. Clayson is aware his Dad is in the hospital, has several broken ribs and is not feeling well. I still feel it is in his best interest to shelter him from the details of this tragedy.

I will do my best to stay in touch throughout the day.

Love, Stephanie

Not much news to report in Mark's activity today he continued to rest comfortably and his blood pressure remained stable.

It has been decided it is in Mark's best interest to have a tracheotomy preformed. This should allow him to awake in a more calm state verses waking with the ventilator. His swelling is down so he is looking better and we are feeling more comfortable with the care he is receiving at St. John's.

Mark's parents arrived this afternoon which allowed me peace of mind to make a short trip home. Sarah dashed to St. Louis and brought me home to see Clayson. Melanie Glaus or Stephanie Gleason will be taking me back in the morning. Looking forward to some snuggle time with my sweet little boy.

We are so blessed. I love and pray for you all.

Love, Stephanie and Clayson

Doctor's came by but Mark was resting so well they did not want to distrub him. He does have a low grade fever making them think there may still be some infection in his lungs. Kelly is his nurse for the day and she wanted to try to incubate but the doctor needs more assurance that he is going to be able to respond and protect his airways. They are considering the option of putting a temporary trach in if he continues to struggle with the ventilator. They just took blood cultures from two different sites to try to determine what and where the infection may be. He was on a beta blocker and ace inhibitor to lowest his blood pressure but Kelly just stopped the ace inhibitor and he seems to be under control. The are going to decrease the (versate?) sedative and see how he responds in a few minutes. Hang tight and keep up the prayers.

Mark's parents should be here soon and I may come home for a few hours tonight. Andy and Tina Piepenbrock stopped by to visit with me for a few minutes. Andy said a prayer with Mark. For anyone who doesn't know please keep Andy's mother in your prayers she is battling breast cancer and they are on their way to Rodchester now. There are angels all around us. Thank you.

Love,
Stephanie and Mark

It is amazing how many people are praying for Mark and his family. I know just on my end that it is 100s of people. I hope somewhere inside Mark is feeling all of heaven's blessing pouring down on him and I hope you are feeling the same. I get emails all day with people asking about his progress.

Take care and keep us posted.


Christina L.Anderson

Thursday morning update

Mark had an eventful night. There was a heated wrestling match which occurred last night in ICU room 474. Mark, Larry and Nurse Hilda all seemed to be holding there own until Larry got the boot to the waiting room, Nurse Hilda took Mark down with a powerful dose of night night juice and claimed victory enjoying the funky chunky chocolate covered pretzels Anita and Sarah brought to bribe the staff. Mark continued to show his strength and escaped from his restraints. They put, what I think look like boxing gloves on each hand. They battled with his blood pressure and respirations through much of the night. All caused by his agitation. Hilda is gone, Larry is back and Mark is in dreamland. All is well. Anxiously awaiting another miracle today.

Love,
Stephanie & Anita

Almost over the Hump day (Wed)

Mark has remained fairly stable throughout the day. He still seems to have his days and nights confused. He rested most all morning and began to come to life mid afternoon. As Stephanie G. was leaving and Anita Eby stepped in he began to work harder than ever to wake up and show us what he could do. His blood pressure became elevated and the nurse had to bump up his sedative. Then he bounced back and forth between states of restfulness and activity.

One of his surgeons visited and complimented the incredibly good job Dr. McCarval (the Canadian surgeon) did. The doctors would like to see more consistent responses but are still hopeful that will come.

Please pray he will have a restful evening and be able to have the ventilator removed tomorrow.

Mark's parents will be coming up after they take Clayson to school in the morning and I am going to try to run home for the night and return Friday morning. Thank you all the the cards, emails, voicemails, flowers, food and most importantly prayers.


Love you,
Stephanie

Hello Stephanie and Mark:
 
Glad to hear that Mark is starting to show signs of healing.  We check the website first thing every morning and last thing at night.
Glad to also hear that you, Stephanie, are finally getting some well deserved rest. It has been fascinating, reading the website everyday and keeping right up with what is going on.  Wish we could be there with you.  Good job Sarah and Stephanie.   
 
I also think that it is really nice that people are taking time out to stop in and say hello and let you know that you are in their prayers.  Perhaps if I may be so bold as to say, that I think you need a night or two to go home and hug Clayson.  I am hoping that someone out there will be able to stay with Mark while you do so.  It may be what us "Canadian Doctors" would prescribe.
Wish we could be there.  Please know that we are keeping you both in our thoughts every day and that we tune in anxiously waiting for the day when we hear that Mark is awake and well again.
 
Our thoughts and prayers for you both,
 
Your friends from the North,
Brenda & Wally

Hey Mark and Stephanie!   I just wanted to let you both know that Kevin and  I are thinking about both of you and praying that you will be back to yourself asap.  Stephanie, there is a package floating around Canada somewhere for you.  I told Jackee and she said that she would take care of it.  All of us here at NewWave will continue to pray and keep things moving as smoothly as possible so tell Mark not to worry.........it is all under control.  If we can help with anything, please let us know and God Bless both of you!!
Thank you,
Kristi Goetz

Hello out there. We are still here at St. John's in St. Louis. Yesterday morning was a morning of progress for Mark. Mark responded to questions by nodding his head and responded to the command of squeezing a hand. It was cause for great joy and celebration. The doctors came in and said the day continued to be a focus of finding the appropriate medicine to keep Mark calm yet more responsive to command. This is necessary in order for them to pull the ventilator. We are finding as the days go by that Mark's pattern is to make these baby steps of improvement in the morning and the rest of the day is a holding pattern. On the one hand, the baby steps are always joyous and we are so thankful for any progress, yet on the other hand, the day then becomes a bit long as we are so anxious for the next step.

Yesterday afternoon one of the doctors came in and explained to us that it is very common for someone who has been in ICU for any length of time to develop what he called a "hysterical dilerium". What this means is that Mark has been so medicated for so long and his body is becoming used to those meds and it causes him to lose touch with the concept of time and any orientation to where he is and what is going on. As he is weaned off the sedatives and placed on a more mild medicine, this should slowly go away.

Stephanie continues to do better than you could ever imagine. Yesterday afternoon was a long day for her and she is very exhausted, both mentally or physically. It is so important to her that everyone continue with their prayers. It is still not a good idea for Mark to have many visitors. While making wonderful progress, he is still critical and it is best that he have this quiet time to heal. We had a visitor yesterday, George Rand came by while in St. Louis. Stephanie made the comment that it was so nice for HER to have a visitor and there was no level of expectation to go back to see Mark. So anyone who would like to come up and visit with Stephanie for a little bit, she said that was a wonderful diversion for her yesterday.

Stephanie called Ted Lewis yesterday to come up and spend the night with Mark. One of the hardest things for Stephanie to do is to leave Mark at night as his pattern has become that that is the hardest part of the day for him. While we stay until 10 or 11 or so, Stephanie has got to leave to get some sleep. Having Ted with Mark as we left last night gave her a great sense of peace and comfort. Ted shared with us this a.m. that Mark did indeed have a very active night and his sweet little nurse also said this a.m. that Mark kept her very busy. Stephanie is thankful for Ted and his coming to spend the night

We have not seen the doctors yet this a.m. We are anxious to hear from them today as they have monitored his level of responsiveness. That will dictate how today goes. Stephanie, at this time, cannot think beyond the next few hours as to what her schedule will be. I have to reiterate what my sister posted the other day. Being a third party in the room with Stephanie and Mark and watching the amount of love, compassion and care Stephanie has for and with Mark is one of the most beautiful things I have ever witnessed. She is hovering over him and is taking such good care. She is keeping his lips moist, his hands and feets lotioned and massaged and keeps up a running commentary to him at all times. We joke that if she was a momma babboon, her baby would have no bugs as she is constantly picking, stroking or just holding his hand. It is a priviledge to experience Mark and Stephanie together.

Mark's folks have made it to Sikeston which also comforts Stephanie. She is excited for Clayson to be home with them and to know that Clayson can be in his own home with all of his animals for a few days.

Stephanie remains positive and focused on all of their blessings. Please, if you are in St. Louis come by and see her. We are looking foward to a positive day. I have to go home but Anita Eby is coming and will stay today, tonight and tomorrow morning with Stephane. The apartment we are staying in is wonderful and convenient to the hospital. We leave so late at night that Stephanie should never head there alone.We will let everyone know what today brings and just again ask that you keep Mark and Stephanie in your thoughts and prayers.
Stephanie G. and Stephanie A ( Or Stephanie 1 and 2 as we have been called)

October 23, 2007 12:00PM

Here is an update from a recent phone call from Stephanie:

Mark had a rough night last night but overrall things are going very well. Yesterday the doctors performed a Cat scan and reported a "perfectly normal" brain. Since he IS Mark Anderson, we didn't know how that could be true! But it was great news anyway. The doctor asked Mark a question and Mark responded with a nod so that was a very good sign. The next hurdle will be getting him awake enough to let him get off the breathing equipment. We're taking that nice and slow to keep him from violently pulling everything out.

One funny thing is that Mark had to get a new bed today because his other one was way too small. According to Stephanie, he looked all squished up in it and the staff kept asking how tall he is.

Thank you for keeping those prayers and well wishes coming!

-Mark's Family

Stephanie,
I am beside myself w/ joy!!  I am shocked the pneumonia is almost gone. Things are progressing very well it seems.  Keep your head up girl cause everyone else has theirs down praying for both of you! 

Nickie

I wanted to send you my favorite prayer: Psalm 23...

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Mark,
 
Julie Millington emailed me about your accident and I've been keeping up with the blog messages your family has been posting.  I can tell from the messages you are surrounded by lots of love and support.
 
I just wanted you to know I continue to pray for you and your family.  I pray the Lord blesses you with a full and speedy recovery!
 
God bless.
 
Sharon McCombs
Business Account Executive
Comcast Cable

Stephanie-

I have been following Mark's progress and have prayed for him every night! I live in Saint Louis and if you need anything please let me know!

Thank you

Andrea Wegley

Stephanie,
Hello!!  Brian and I are so glad you were able to transfer Mark back to the states.   I know having him closer to home is one less worry for you.  We have both been remembering you, Mark and your families in our prayers.  By now, I am sure that you know this is a long road....but keep the faith, roll with the punches, and remember that to win the war, you must first win the battles.  We will continue to remember all of you in our prayers and wish Mark the speediest of recoveries.  If there is anything AT ALL that you need, just let us know. 
 
Take care and God Bless,
Brian and Leigh Anna Manley

Stephanie--
 
I don't know if this the email will reach you.  From the blog, it is very evident that Mark is the fighter that we all know that he is! We are so pleased that things are improving.  What I am learning is how much of a fighter you are as well!  You are truly amazing and an example of what we all need to be for those we love.  There are prayers and offers in abundance.  But, if there is a single thing or dozens of things that cross your mind -- Rod and I will be glad to help. We keep praying for you all and Clayson has been on my mind so much.  But, from the reponses that you have from friends and family, it is clear that he is being treated as wonderfully as he deserves.  It is so apparent that your family is indeed special; the outpouring of support warms my heart.
 
We have put you and Mark out to our prayer chain and there are many of our friends praying for him across Georgia and Mississippi---and quite of few of those have hunted with him.  I get emails asking for updates daily.  There are many times in life that we see the power of prayer and I can sense it with you all.  In fact,  even early after hearing about the accident, I had a sense of peace.  Much of it I believe had to do with the faith I know you all have and the strength of character you all show.
 
Later this week, I will try and send a little "love from Georgia" package.  If you would like some special treat, entertainment, etc...let me know and I will include it.  One thing I have is a cute video of the turkey hunt Rod and Mark went on last year.  Rod put it together and never sent it out to the guys. It is quite funny and I believe it would make you smile! 
 
Just add us to the list of those you know are praying and thinking of you guys....

Love, Sadie,

Rod and Barry Kate

From Christina Anderson:

Stephanie,
 
Andrew and Peri Speckhard are some of my dearest and best friends from the A&M days and I have made sure to keep them posted on Mark and his progress.  Andrew asked that I copy and paste this for Mark to read. 
 
I have several comments from others and when I have time to  copy and paste them into once document I will get that together for Mark to have later.
 
 
We are grateful to hear about the progress Mark is making. He continues to be in our prayers. I've thought a lot lately of all the good times we had so many years ago. I remember going with Mark to brand some cattle and he told me to take my hand and hold the cow between her nostrils?? I remember roofing the apartment buildings, I remember all those midnight yells, I remember road tripping to a lot of football games. Tell Mark I'm counting on him getting well and that we love him!
 
 
 
Andrew Speckhard
Territory Manager, General Aviation
Caribbean and Latin America

Hello Steph!!! I just got the website to your blog so now I can keep up with what is happening. I have had continous prayers for your entire family since I found out about the accident! I have also shared Mark's story with my Bible study group at Church and we have been praying for him as a group every Monday night when we meet as well. I look forward to any new Blog you post ecspecially if it such wonderful news as the last one! Tell Mark he HAS to get better because my email sure has been boring without his funny jokes! I, along with my church will continue to pray for strength and guidance for your family and for Mark.
Much love,
Leslie

Stephanie-
It was great to read the about Mark's progress this morning and so glad to know you are back in the USA!! St. John's is a terrific hosptial - that is where I had David and Kathleen and I think they are miracle workers. Keep the good news coming and we will keep delivering the prayers.
Beth

Mark,

We have been reading your blog to keep up-to-date with your progress. We are so pleased to hear of your improvement. It is that sturdy maroon blood that is keeping you strong! We have told every Aggie we know
about you and they are keeping you in their prayers, too. We know you
will be up and about back to your normal self before long and as equally frustrated with your football team as we are. At least basketball season is almost here! God knows the Aggies could use your help right now! You are a very lucky man to have such a supportive wive, friends and family. You have a lot of prayers behind you. We wish you a speedy recovery.

Gig'em and God bless,

Doug and Kelley

Hey Mark and Stephanie!   I just wanted to let you both know that Kevin and  I are thinking about both of you and praying that you will be back to yourself asap.  Stephanie, there is a package floating around Canada somewhere for you.  I told Jackee and she said that she would take care of it.  All of us here at NewWave will continue to pray and keep things moving as smoothly as possible so tell Mark not to worry.........it is all under control.  If we can help with anything, please let us know and God Bless both of you!!
Thank you,
Kristi Goetz
Accounts Payable
NewWave Communications

Stephanie,
Hello!!  Brian and I are so glad you were able to transfer Mark back to the states.   I know having him closer to home is one less worry for you.  We have both been remembering you, Mark and your families in our prayers.  By now, I am sure that you know this is a long road....but keep the faith, roll with the punches, and remember that to win the war, you must first win the battles.  We will continue to remember all of you in our prayers and wish Mark the speediest of recoveries.  If there is anything AT ALL that you need, just let us know. 
 
Take care and God Bless,
Brian and Leigh Anna Manley

Slowly but surely

Since yesterday morning the ct of Mark's chest and internal organs all came back very good. The doctor said that as far as his internal injuries are concerned,we are now in the time healing and he is well on the way of recovery of these injuries. He remainded sedated as they had to do so to accomplish the testing. Mark continues to breath very well on his own even though he is still on the vent. Dr. Myer a critical care doctor came and explained that the goal now is to back off the sedative and try to get him to start responding to commands. He will have to be about to accomplish this to come off the vent. The doctor explained this will be a slow process and somewhat trial by error to find the right balance of medications to accomplish this.

The wound care specialist visited late yesterday and was able to upgrade him to a much bigger and better (Cadillac type) bed. (Sarah you would be so proud.) He looks much more comfortable.

Stephanie G. convinced me of the importance of going home to the Bedell's apartment for a good nights rest and I am feeling revived this morning.

The nurse said it was a tough night for Mark and the new sedative was not going to be the right medicine for him. They put him back on the sedative he has been on to attempt to calm and comfort him. We are anxiously awaiting this day to unfold and see how God's will will be done. Please pray that they find the right sedative that will work for him and that he will respond to commands to increase his chances of getting off the vent.

Love,
Stephanie 1 and Stephanie 2

Monday a.m.

Good morning!!
Happy to report that it was another uneventful night for Mark and another good 7 hours of sleep for Stephanie!
There really hasn't been any change in Mark's condition since yesturday afternoon. He continues to do really well with his breathing which is wonderful. For the night they did put his oxygen to 30% which meant that Mark inniated his breathing and the ventilator would just give him a little extra kick!
Mark does have a big morning lined up. They are going to do a MRI of brain, chest and stomach so he will be out of the room for a while. We don't think that we will see the doctor until he gets the results back so I really don't think they will make the decision about taking him off the ventilater until all his results are back.
Stephanie did get some wonderful visitors last night. We forgot the computer back at the apartment so i have hunted down internet access in the medical building so Stephanie is not with me right now so I apologize that I can't do a bettter job with everyones names!! Salma from the church came up and that meant so much to Stephanie and I know Mark as well. Her prayers and incredible wisdom continue to lift Stephanie up. She brought all the cards and pictures that had come from the church and Stephanie and I really enjoyed going through and reading all the wonderful things that everyone had to say about Mark and Stephanie as well. Salma and Stephanie and Mark spent quality time in prayer and reading and talking with her later I could see how much that helped her. We also REALLY appreciated the fact that she sent up a home cooked meal!!! Though i have to say that we are not complaining at all about the food in the cafeteria, they have Krispy Kremes, which for two Sikeston girls is very exciting!!
Later in the evening there were two missionaries, Elder McGaughlan and his companion came to pray with Mark and Stephanie. We both really enjoyed their visit and he did a great job of educating me more on the Morman church.
All the prayers and well wishes are so appreciated by Mark and Stephanie and it has been such a blessing for me to be able to be available to Stephanie during this very difficult time. As i watch them together you can feel the love that they have for each other and i feel so incredibly blessed to be in the presence of such a beautiful love. Duty calls and i will be leaving this a.m. to go back to Sikeston. My sister Stephanie will be taking over for me and i know that she will do a very good job. She is much more efficiant than i am!! I hate the idea of leaving them as I know that Mark is going to be making incredible stides forward over the next few days and would love to be there to see it but I also know that there are so many people standing in line waiting to there for them as well and I apprecaite so much being able to be here for time that i have.
There might not be a posting again until late this afternoon or this evening but don't anyone be concerned, everything is going very well there just might be any news until then.

WOW, GREAT NEWS TO REPORT!!!!! Stephanie just gave me a complete heart attack!! I am somewhere in this huge complex posting this and Stephanie just come running into the room and MARK JUST RESPONDED TO HIS FIRST QUESTION!!! After i realized what was going on i am sure this very serious phyisian next to me is going to be talking all day about the two crazy ladies all but jumping around in circles. Matt Raymond and his wife are up visiting and Matt asked Mark if he had seen his parents and he shuck his head no!!!! We have felt all along that he is there and know what we have been saying and now we have conformation!!!! I have got to run up there and check on him I told Stephanie she had to get back there and again feel so blessed to be here to witness all of God's miracles!!!

God Bless you all,

Sarah Garner

Mark felt your prayers!!!!

Mark has had a very eventful last couple hours, and it is all good!! They continued to back down his sedative around 9:45 a.m. and by 10:00 a.m. he was really moving around. They eventually got to the point that they had completely STOPPED the sedative and let me tell you, Marks arms and legs work just fine!!!! For almost two hours they allowed him to be without the sedative and he was not getting any oxygen, he was breathing perfectly on his own. When the doctor came in Mark responded to most of his commands. He moved his hands, legs and even toes when the doctor asked. There was discussion today about getting him off the ventilator since he was doing so well breathing on his own. The doctor feels like he needs another 24 hours and they will reevalute him at that time. When we asked about how the pneumonia was responding to the antibiotics he said he does not see any traces of it any more!! They will probably have him off the antibiotics in the next couple days!! ANSWERED PRAYERS!!!

He continues to really respond to Stephanie's voice and if she lets go of his hands to rub on his feet he will start turning his head back and forth as if trying to find where she went. The swelling in his hands, feet and face is MUCH better today. Since his kidney function is continuing to be good they increased the diuretics and the fluid is really being flushed out of his system. It is nice to see the Mark Anderson chin and dimple!!

Stephanie is a trooper!! We had the conversation around 10 that hundreds of people would be entering into church services and that Mark would be getting hundreds of prayers during the next two hours. We had no doubt as we watched Mark respond and continue to breath on his own that he wasn't feeling each and every one of those prayers. Please keep them coming as they lift Stephanie's spirits and Mark continues to improve.

We should have a couple hours of little activity as Mark rests from his big a.m. they gave him a light sedative so he should sleep for a while. We will update later in the day!!!

Sarah and Stephanie

P.S. You can email comments to Marks email address and Stephanie can post them for all to read.

Sunday Morning Update

It's a good thing Mark was able to get rested up yesterday because he has a lot going on today. One of his doctor's was in early and they have decreased his oxygen to see what his lungs are capable of doing. In typical Mark fashion he has impressed them. He is taking good deep breaths and keeping all of his oxygen levels high. The nurse used the term "athletic lungs". His physical therapist has been in and they have begun exercising Mark to keep his muscles working. We were also visited this morning by Dr. Jeanne Cleavland (a personal friend of Larry Eby's) and she is very encouraged by the progress he is making.

As for me...Sarah forced me into a 7 hour sleep marathon. It's just what I needed to recharge my battery to be strong for Mark.

We will continue to post as the day progresses.

Love,
Stephanie & Sarah

Saturday evening

Though the day was very quiet for a while, the afternoon was busy for Mark. The Doctors came in and switched his main line from the groin area to back in his neck (it was moved to the groin for travel). They also changed his feeding tube from his mouth to his nose. They explained why but with our limited medical knowledge we both just nodded our heads and said "Yeah, that makes sense" and then they left and we were clueless. Whatever the reason they assured us that it was the thing to do. Something about bypassing the stomach to get it further into the digestive tract. To switch all these things out they had to sedate him again so he has been pretty quiet since around 4 o'clock. He continues to react to Stephanie and as she talks to him (she sang to him once but he clearly was not impressed so she is sticking with just talking!!) it is comforting to know that he is reaching out to her.
All of his test results continue to come back good. His kidneys are functioning normally and he has not run a fever at all today. We really don't know what tomorrow will hold. The Doctor came in around 10 this a.m. and will be here the same time tomorrow. You can clearly see that this hospital is getting their own baseline data and today was the day to get him aclimated to this hospitals way of doing things.
Stephanie has had a long day. More than anything she is exhausted so as much as possible she has napped today. It is only in short shifts but seems to recharge her enough to keep her going. She continues to need prayers of strength as Mark continues to need prayers of healing. She is so thankful for all the prayers and well wishes so please keep them coming.
Will update again in the morning.
Sarah Garner

St. Louis!!!!! AMERICA!!!

Hello from St. Louis. What a wonderful thing to be able to say. We are so relieved to see them. The doctors are looking over all the information from Canada. They are wanting him to rest from the journey. From all indications, Mark made the travel well. He is responding actively to Stephanie when she is talking to him. Mark is definitely there and wanting everyone to know that he is on his way back. Stephanie continues to amaze all of us at how well she is coping with all of this. She is as beautiful as she always is, and many of us know that there are few of us that can pull that off after what she has been through. She is taking a NAP! The doctors have asked for little visitors and to limit to family only. We know everyone is anxious to see him, but right now he needs to be kept calm so he can heal. He did swell some from the trip. The doctors and nurses will give him a diuretic after the kidney test. The Bedells have offered the use of their apartment in St. Louis. MANY THANKS TO THE BEDELLS! Please continue the prayers. Mark is at St. John's Mercy Medical, ICU. We will update this evening on Mark as the day progresses.

Calbert, Jackee, and Sarah

Hunting Mark Makes it to the good old USA

Thank you Jesus!!! We got him back into the United States safely. He is such a strong man. I know he had to be scared out of his mind. I know I was. It may have been the longest 2 hour plane trip ever. It was a smooth trip I just pretended George Rand was the pilot and he would take care of everything. We are exhausted but we are here and all is well. They are working him over right now.

The Canadians were so nice to him one of his many nurses (Nurse Pat,) said, "Once in 3 or 4 years we get a patient that we all love and want to follow up on. Mark is that one patient". Even though he never said a word or looked into any of their eyes they are new he was special. They pampered us and even sent some rough rider t-shirts home for the boys.

I am going to grab a bagel and catch a quick nap in the waiting area. So stop worrying we are fine. Sarah and maybe Jackee and M. Calbert will be by to check on us in the morning.

I love you all,
Stephanie

Most up to date information....

Mark is still in Regina General Hospital, but his doctors have cleared him to fly back to the states. We are scheduled to depart Regina at 9:30pm and anticipate a safe arrival in St. Louis @ St. John's Mercy Hospital around 3:15am. We are flying in on a Canadian Global life flight with a Doctor/Nurse and R.T. We have had a challenging day with Mark's blood pressure, labored breathing and fever. He still in critical condition and has a lot of infection in his lungs. His doctors feel as if it is safe for him to travel. Dr. Jones expects us to be in ICU in St. Louis for 1-2 weeks if everything progresses as he would expect. As much as I want to see and hug each of you and I want Mark to hear your voices. I don't think it would be a good idea to have any visitors for a few more days. Justin and Steven will be trying to come up (with there grandfather, I think) Saturday evening or Sunday. Sarah will come to take care of me. After we get him back to consciousness we will schedule for others to come for a visit. Feel free to call me anytime after we get back to the states. I will make contact if I need anything once I get to St. Louis. I am not sure where I will be staying but I know there are many options. Mark's sister Karen is working to get a flight back to Utah and his parents are planning to fly back to Houston and drive to Missouri over the course of the next week or so. Please pray for a safe flight. The prayers are keeping us a float.

Stephanie said... Dear Family and Friends, Wanted to give a quick update before morning. Karen arrived safely and Nickie will be leaving in a few minutes. Mark's condition is stable. They preformed a ct scan and a chest xray this afternoon. We should get the results in a few hours. Not many other changes they kept him sedated most of the day. Trying to get him back to the states asap. Tune in tommorrow for more up to date info. Stephanie P.S. Please don't stop the prayers.

Oh my goodness!!!! I have the absolute best friends in the entire world. The waiting room volunteer just wheeled in a humongeous box!!! It was overflowing with everything we have been needing and missing. The robe you sent for Mark was awesome...I wrapped it around me and did a little dance around the waiting room. Everyone here can't believe the American support we are getting. I'm gonna be the cutest, sweatsuit wearing, gourmet popcorn eating, carmex wearing, Oprah reading, comfortable puffy eyed wife in this Canadian hospital!!! OK I must admit the pictures made me cry, Sarah's brutally honest comments made me laugh and I am amazed you all really know me so well. It was perfect, for a brief moment I didn't want to leave the BOX because I felt like I was home. I am getting by on faith minute by minute and your unconditional love is working. Gotta run check on the sleepy (but still really sexy) American dude in ICU. Love, Stephanie

Dear Family and Friends,Mark's doctor was in this morning and reported that he is showing improvements. His respiratory functions are better...needing less help from the ventilator. The antibiotic's seem to be fighting the infection. No fever throughout the night. He has developed a rash probably due to some of the antibiotics but they working to specifically identify the exact type of bacteria. White blood cell count is higher than he would like but not unexpected. His hemoglobin levels have been good. Kidney's seem to be back to normal. Plan for the next 24 hours is to continue the antibiotics and perform a baseline ct scan. They will not attempt to wake him today. All our love, Stephanie & Nickie

October 17, 2007 9:03am

Here come more troops! Mark's favorite (and only) sister Karen is flying in from Utah today and his parents will arrive there tomorrow. Karen will stay for a week and his parents will stay indefinitely.

We are so grateful to Stephanie's family for the immediate support that they have shown for Mark and Stephanie! Nickie was there before we could blink and she came in from Alaska. It couldn't have been an easy trip. And Christi was barely kept from flying in from Trinidad to take care of everyone and everything like the nurturer she is. It is no surprise to anyone since we all recognize how wonderful Stephanie is, and so she must have come from a fabulously warm and loving family!

And of course, friends from home are a huge help, too! The huntin' buds were stayed in Canada until Stephanie was settled. Everyone is helping Clayson feel like he's having the vacation of a lifetime! Mark and Stephanie truly appreciate everything you're doing and have already done.

Please feel free to read and add your own supportive comments to each of the blog postings. They're a great support to Stephanie and before we know it Mark will be trying to work from a laptop so he'll be able to read them all, too!

Thank you!

Mark's Family

October 16, 2007 10:56pm

This message is from Stephanie:

All,Bishop Smith arrived late this evening to give Mark a blessing to ensure a restful night sleep. at this time there are no major changes in Marks condition. The vascular surgeon, Dr. McCarvel stopped in to check the progress of the aoric endograft (T.E.V.A.R); reported no complications! Mark's kidneys are fully functioning. 2 liters of fluid were drained from the pick lines in his lungs. This decreases the oxygen levels which is good because it will allow him to breath on his own. The lab tests for pnemonia are not back as of today but they are aggressively treating the infection with a cocktail of antibiotics. Thats about all for now but will continue to provide daily updates.Christina, Justin & Steven,Clayson will be thrilled to see you all this weekend! I tell your dad daily how much you both love and miss him. I am so blessed to have such good friends and family and I want you all to know I have been at peace knowing Clayson is in such good hands. Although my heart is heavy that Nickie will soon be heading back to Alaska, she will never really know how much she has helped me through one of the most difficult trials I have ever had to endure. She has held me, cried with me, sympathized with me, rationalized with me, laughed with me. She has shown a true and never ceasing love to Me and Mark. I am looking forward to having Karen and Mark's parents here to provide comfort for me and Mark.

I love you all,

Stephanie