Monday, August 31, 2009

All signs are currently positive for Tommy's return home on September 10th. Many, many people have asked how they can help Robyn and Tommy during the coming days as they transition. Kelly Stuckey is working to schedule meals. If you would like to provide a meal please e-mail Kelly at stuckeykas@aol.com. Also, Kathy Bell is organizing a list of people to be "on call" each day. Each person will take one day per month to be available to run errands, pick up kids, etc. if the need arises. To be a part of this effort e-mail Kathy at kathybell@northstarpg.com.

Also, please mark your calendars for October 9th to celebrate and support Tommy and his family. Plans are currently being finalized for a fundraiser called "Tommy's Night Out." More information on the fundraiser and coordinating website will be available soon so check back!

On a personal note, I have been greatly blessed by watching so many people use their unique talents to support the Van Zandts. It is truly amazing how God can use every imaginable gift to care for His children!

From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:16

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Due to an infection that is currently being treated with antibiotics, Tommy's homecoming has been postponed again. He is currently scheduled to return home on September 10th. There are still plans to greet him on the road to his home upon his return. More details will be posted once the date is confirmed. Robyn has been successful in putting together a team of health care providers to care for Tommy once he is home. Thank you for your prayers in that regard. Praise God for the provision of the care givers and for working out the details of Tommy's transportation home. Please continue to pray for good health that will allow for Tommy's return home.

"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet upon a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." Psalm 40:1-3

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

A new date has been set for Tommy's homecoming. He is now scheduled to return to Fayetteville on September 3rd. Although Tommy is very excited to return home, he and Robyn both appreciate the cautious care of the Craig staff members who are working to make sure Tommy is in the best possible condition before leaving. Tommy continues to work and improve with the pacer while at the same time maintaining a physical therapy schedule. On the home front, renovations have been made to Tommy and Robyn's home to accommodate Tommy's needs. A big thank you to Cody Crawford and so many generous people for sharing their time and talent to make all the changes! Robyn is busy interviewing home health staff to be a part of Tommy's medical team in Fayetteville and is encouraged by the health professionals she has met. God is truly working out the details!

Homecoming Plans: There are plans to welcome Tommy home by lining the street leading to his house as he arrives. All are invited! Feel free to bring a sign or just blow kisses! Tentatively, his arrival is scheduled for around 12:30 on September 3rd. As the time draws nearer, we will post more details.

No Visitors Please: Tommy is extremely anxious to see everyone and personally express his gratitude for all the love and support. However, the trip home and transition are expected to be difficult so the Craig staff has strongly advised that Tommy should have no visitors for the first few weeks while the medical team and Tommy adjust. Robyn will be working around the clock helping train the new staff during the transition. Any break will be needed for rest. Please understand the importance of the no visitor request at this time. It will be difficult for all of us to stay away but it is necessary. Tommy and Robyn will immediately let us know when they feel the time is appropriate for visitors. They are hoping and praying it will be soon. They look forward to being back among friends!

The blog will continue to be updated as we get news of Tommy's progress at home.

Praise God because He is good! Please continue to pray for success of the pacer, wisdom and discernment in regards to home health care and joy and peace for the VanZandt family!

"I have come that they may have life and have it to the full." John 10:10