Updates

-written by Cynthia

The storm has passed. It went through Germany much faster than anticipated. England was the hardest hit. Lives were taken in England, Germany, France, Holland & in the Czech Republic; at least 28 so far reported. All the trains were stopped, but most should restart today once the tracks are checked and damages repaired. The wind woke me up several times sounding like it would take off the roof. Thankfully we had no damage. It is still cloudy & rainy, but the temp was already over 50°F when I woke up. This weekend though they call for colder temps with snow flurries. Nothing like going up and down and up and down!

Today, I'm on my way to the meat farm to pick up some beef and to the organic dairy farm for milk & eggs and veggies. The farms are on the sides of our town and they each have their own little shops, so it is very convenient to buy food there as well as it being very good quality. After that, it's laundry & house cleaning! FUN!! But hey, Gerhard gets to go to the dentist for his check-up and teeth cleaning. More FUN!!

From here on is the update about Steven Mauch that was sent last night (Thursday).

Steven is one week old today-and it's so hard to believe it!

Friends, we are in desperate need of prayer. As most of you know- Steven had an MRI performed yesterday to see if there were any brain abnormalities that would be the cause of his paralyzed vocal chords. Fortunately, they found nothing. Unfortunately, they found something unexpected. They found an area of his brain that had an injury (more than likely - no oxygen reached that area). Naturally, they are very concerned. They only see this in preemies and Steven was not premature. The outcome of this in preemies is Cerebral Palsy. I am so numb right now - I can't think straight. Steven's Doctor will be giving the tests to the Head Neurologist for a second opinion and he (the Head neurologist) will be speaking to us soon. In six months, Steven will be seen by a physical therapist to test his motor skills and his development. They will also retake the tests he's already been through. In the meantime, Steven will be coming home with us Monday or Tuesday.
Tobi & I are so shocked and numb we don't know what to do or say. I went back into the nursery where Steven is - and looked at his beautiful face - I love him so. I need some strength. I don't know if I can take any more, and he's only a week old. On Sunday, we'll be spending the night at the hospital and we'll be in our own room with Steven - for the first time. Please pray that we'll be able to handle this! They want to see how well we can calm Steven (with the problem of his vocal chords).

Thank you for your prayers!