An old friend found the finished video I was watching on her itouch the other day. Thought I’d share it with you all.
Patience.
Dedication.
Enduring faith.
Unstoppable hope.
Strength.
Determination.
Perseverance.
Grace.
An advocate.
Courageous.
Devoted.
Compassionate.
Conviction.
Generosity.
Committed.
Tenacious.
Inspirational.
Extraordinary.
THAT is my wife.
I’m having a rough go of it today.
The Wednesday after this happened, I prayed for the strength of Samson, the wisdom of Solomon, and the courage of Daniel. If I get a couple of others in there, I’ll be Shazam.
So, this morning, I woke up needing some encouragement. I was looking for a particular post Anissa did about me. I just spent the past 20 minutes or so scrolling around her website and can’t find the one I’m looking for, but what I did find was laughter. It was like scrolling through a scrapbook, and I could hear those words coming out of her mouth.
Yesterday they turned the breathing machine down to its lowest setting. A good sign. For about 10 hours, she was essentially breathing on her own, and was just exhausted at the end of it. There were some moments of encouragement. I’m 100% positive she saw us and was trying to communicate with us. She kept her eyes open for a good 2 hours. We THINK that’s because she was uncomfortable and unable to sleep. We gave her some meds for that. I was hoping for fireworks. I told her that we were going to get up. 1-2-3, get up. She tried. Lifted her head, arched her back and pushed with all her might.
Not yet. Not even close, but the encouraging thing is she’s trying.
Today, I’m making videos of the kids to take up. They want to help. Peyton’s having the toughest time these days. She misses her mom. She used to sneak her way into our bed and crawl in between us. As a parent, you sometimes turn a blind eye to things…this was one of ours. Last night, I got to hold onto Peyton for most of the night. Not as good as her mommy, but it got us through.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:27 pm
Anissa has always spoken of what an amazing man you are and we’ve gone back and forth jokingly a few times about whose husband is more awesome and other silly things.
she’s right. You are amazing. Your strength and your faith are inspiring. My husband is awed by you, as am I.
God knew exactly what he was doing when he put you and Anissa together.
Bless you, and thank you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
We’re still praying for you all.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Your wife is amazing, Pete. So are you. Stay strong.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
I pray everyday that she gets up and give you a great big hug! She is strong. You are strong. I pray for your continued fight and to give you continued strength.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Wow. Just wow. Damn Anissa. Even she can do a stroke better than us.
I am so glad to hear such great news, I pray it only gets better (and quicker) from here.
You’re doing so great, Peter. Anissa is so vary lucky to have you by her side. As are we.
Thank you and Bless You!
Xo
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
i’m thinking of all of you. i only met anissa this past summer at blogher. i spoke with her on twitter many times. she is a beautiful person inside and out.
take care.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Still praying for you guys! ♥
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Stay strong! She needs you to be strong for her while she’s trying! You’re doing the best you can and that’s what matters~~~
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Sending you prayers & love…I have been touched by all the love in the blogosphere without knowing your family…so the best I can do is send the love back.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Don’t give up Peter. Nissa is working so hard. She has made progress and I know she has such a long road ahead of her that it must seem intimidating but she won’t give up until she is rubbing her boobs in your face once more. She’s a fighter.
You are EXACTLY what she needs right now. Be kind to yourself in all of this too and don’t forget to take care of yourself every now and then too.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Your wife is the awesomest person I know. She has made my life better in very real, very concrete ways. She is nothing short of magical.
Thinking of you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
i appreciate your updates and have your family in my prayers so very much. keep speaking truth to yourself and her….He can do this.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Those fireworks are on their way. I truly believe that. Anissa is inspiration to so many families of children with special needs.
Just like she is inspiring the rest of us.
I have her name on just about every Temple roll in the state of Utah. The prayers are really powerful there.
Sending lots of love.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Praying for strength for you, Anissa and your children. God bless you!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
The news continues to encourage me, though the journey ahead of you is hard.
Hugs to your family.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
If anyone can make it through this, Anissa can. That is one seriously strong spirit in there, and my guess is, it won’t be suppressed for long. Pulling for ALL of you today.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Praying for you all.
I’ve never met Anissa, just recently found the website Aiming Low. From what I’ve read and from the outpouring online, she is an amazing person only because she has an amazing man pulling for her every day.
I can’t wait to meet her someday.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Praying for you today. You are doing an incredible job, and God will continue to give you the strength to help Anissa recover completely.
With love from Texas,
Shannon
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Such encouraging news- thank you for sharing and being such a positive presence and backbone for her.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
My prayers are with you. I never met your wife before the stroke, (blogging buddies) but i hope I can one day. It is encouraging that she is staying awake longer. I used to work in a hospital on a rehab floor, so I kinda know what a family goes through when one of the members has a stroke. And I have seen some miraculous recoveries if they can just make it past the initial weeks. Your wife will MAKE it to rehab. It sounds like she already has aLOT of strength already. Just so you know, I’m praying for U and the kids.
Try and have a happy thanksgiving. I’m sure your wife would want U too.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
All of our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Sending love, hope and prayers.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Still waiting with you.
and my LORD she is a fighter.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Such encouraging news. So glad to hear it, thank you for continuing to keep us up to date, so appreciated. Love to you, the kids and to Anissa. Be strong my friend, you will pull through this soon!!!
XOXO
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Stay strong. You’re doing great. Better than great. Anissa is lucky to have you. The two of you are proving to be quite the dynamic duo. Thinking of your family…
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
Baby steps. She’s taking baby steps and that’s great.
Peter, the other day, you said something on here that has stuck in my head for a week. You said this is a marathon, not a sprint. It makes so much sense. She’ll get there. I have faith in her. We all do. Just know, it’s okay to have bad moments, it’s okay to need help. We’re all here, praying for all of you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Your family is still in our loving prayers every day.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
You married one of the strongest women I have ever known. She is beyond amazing, as are you.
I know it must be so hard on you all, but these updates make me smile at how well she’s doing.
We’re praying as hard as we can. I believe this to be a miracle in progress.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
The two of you together can and will move mountains…this mountain will be gone.
Continuing to pray – extra prayers being sent to Peyton. Sending love to your family and to that hilarious and courageous wife of yours.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Hearing about her improvements is so encouraging! It seems one always hears the worst about strokes, I had no idea so much could be regained and so much progress could be made after such an event.
Praying, praying, praying!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
Thank you so much for keeping everyone in the loop. I’m in awe of her strength — and yours, as well.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
You speak like a true man – your faith shines true. Your situation will be a testament to many, as it has been. Stay strong. Keep your faith. Don’t back down.
I have my family praying for you and your family.
I hope other men read what you are writing, so they can see what it means to be a husband and father. To be a leader of their house, even in times of crisis. Not that they are bossy or over powering, but that you are full of love and compassion and your are guiding your family through this, through faith.
You are blessed!
-Aman
Mishi Reply:
November 24th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
This comment is so wise and true and heartfelt.
Pete, I am continually thinking of and praying for Anissa, you, and your family. You never leave my thoughts.
I was fortunate enough to talk with Anissa about you, on our way back from Birmingham, and I had a sense of her deep-rooted LOVE and respect for you.
I thank you for being her Advocate. Those words? They describe YOU, too!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
You are doing such an amazing job through this. Your strength is unbelievable. Prayers for you, your kids, your wife. So glad to hear the encouraging news that she is fighting.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Pete -
It’s always been great to hear and see how you and Anissa interact with each other. While I’ve not met her in person yet, I have seen how you light up when the two of you are texting during the work day. How she brings a bit of sunshine to our poorly lit office.
I’ve also read her blog(s) for such a long time now, that I can see how that sunshine travels both ways.
Anissa is making great progress. You are stronger than you know. Your kids are amazing. You will all get through this darkness somehow with the light you bring each other and the light of all these thousands of people praying and hoping and sending strength and positive thoughts to all of you.
Hugs –
Nita
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
We find out more about a persons character in how they handle their struggles more than their successes. Your family has the strength and character to conquer anything. God Bless.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
We’re all here with you Peter. I’m enormously grateful for the updates. Tell Anissa that when she wakes up, I’ll send a case of hostess cupcakes (she’ll know what I’m talking about)
In the meantime, I’m praying my brains out for her and all of you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
We’re all waiting along side you. You’re doing an amazing job, Peter. It’s helping her, I know it. Stay strong. xo
Megan
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
That video is amazing, just like Anissa! Thank you for another update so soon! You are doing an awesome job Peter! You are allowed to need encouragement…and we are here to give it to you! she is in there and she’s fighting her hardest to come back to you, just remember that! I am sending up extra prayers for Peyton today, that she will know her Mama is fighting to get back to her. videos of the kids….great idea! Take care of yourself, she needs you! XOXO
Desera
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Keep holding on. Keep the faith. Keep praying.
I am.
Love to you, Anissa, and your family.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
maybe the doctors can be talked into letting Peyton back in to see mom? Maybe she could carefully curl up with her… touch is one of the best medicines of all.
I’m glad the kids are making videos, hearing and seeing her babies will help
Much prayer
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Hi Pete: Thanks so much for the updates. Anissa is such a fantastic woman and she was right, you’re pretty awesome yourself.
Please tell Nathaniel that Avery says Hi and is thinking about him. They’ve been in the same class since 1st grade at CBCS. Anissa joked that we could be family some day b/c of the crush he had on her!
We’ll be heading through GA on the 26th of December, please let us know if there is anything we can do. I figure you will be at about mile 11 of your marathon!
~Alta, Todd, Wesley & Avery
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
I am in awe in ALL of your strength. Still praying & sending love. <3
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
I am truly blessed to have Anissa as a friend. I know you’re having a rough go of it today, Peter, but she’s doing SO WELL. I’ve been there, I know. She’s so strong.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
I know you don’t know me, and I’ve only been following your family for three little days. But I hope that every comment I make is one that helps a little in your darkest moments. I could just read, and move on with my day, but I feel so compelled to tell you that you ARE amazing, and that we care so much. Sending love, thoughts and prayers, because there is never enough.
Mandy, Brock and Ronan.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Supporting and loving your whole family. I’ve had the wonderful chance to spend time with Anissa at three different conferences this year. SHe’s a good friend. I keep wanting to reply to the email she sent me a few days before her stroke.
I know I’ll get to reply to it. I’m holding on to it.
You have the strength of a million people and we’re all here for you. You and your family. We’re here. XO
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
She’s working hard! KEEP IT UP, ANISSA!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
thanks…stay strong and optimistic, as will we.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Thank you so much for your unselfishness in posting updates here for us. I have no words, just truckloads of prayers and positive thoughts.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Wow. It all sounds good, Pete. We are continuing to keep you guys in our prayers and constant thoughts. That video was played ovr and ovr again at Sam’s end of chemo party (just beautiful) and every time I hear that song, I think of Anissa …every single time (and it is my ring tone on my phone)…your wife is an amazing woman and she is lucky to have you by her side.
Wishing you a day of many blessings and all good news.
xo
Joanne, Sam & Matt
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Wow Peter, you are doing a great job! Continuing to send positive vibes from SoCal. Anissa, you are an amazing woman!!!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
She is SUCH a fighter, Peter! She’s going to make it because she is fighting and you (among many others) believe in God’s ability to work miracles! You and your family are constantly in my prayers, and I’ve requested prayer for you all everywhere I go. God is with you, and with Anissa’s fighting spirit, the miracle is going to happen! Sending you all virtual hugs!!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Progress is awesome!
Still praying for you all…..
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Hoping and praying and sending many good thoughts to Anissa and all who are supporting her.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Peter, I pray that you will find peace today, that God will bless you and give you strength that you will know comes only from Him.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Sending lots of prayers for strength, healing and joy for a full and wonderful recovery! You are an amazing father and husband to a SuperWoman mother and wife – truly a blessing to behold!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
Hugs and kisses to all of you Mayhews.
Can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through and how you find the strength to post here and write such beautiful things, but I know that Anissa is going to be GIDDY to read your words when she wakes up.
It won’t be long now…
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Still here and wishing to God I could will it so that I could use my strength to lift her. Thinking of you all.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
It seems fitting that Anissa would have such a kick-ass husband. But, it’s gotta be so hard. My heart goes out to you and the kids.
I know her progress is baby steps but I feel like cheering when I hear the things she is doing. She is such a fighter!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
I am glad to hear there is progress. I will keep praying. Hang in there. You will all get through this!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
You are a wonderfully strong and amazing support for your beautiful wife.
Continuing to pray and support your family!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Peter Hugs to you all.
You all are in my prayers and thoughts every day.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Thank you so much for keeping everyone updated. I actually do not really know Anissa except for sharing a few odd tweets, but as I am sure you already know it does not take much for your amazing wife to leave a positive effect on someone. Thinking of you, Anissa and your family.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Sounds like Anissa will be up and running before you know it.
Let Anissa be the encouragement you need. She needs you and so do your kids.
I will continue praying for Anissa and your family!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Despite all of this, the thing that is strongest in my mind is how lucky you all are to have each other. You, Anissa, your children. Lucky. So many prayers for you and your family.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 2:53 pm
If I had ever found a man as wonderful as you appear to be, I might have actually gotten married. But since I’ve only got about half of Anissa’s traits (I hope) I only got to the engagement phase.
God never gives you more than you handle. When she wakes up, there may be a bigger job for her that only she can do.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 3:19 pm
Thank you for sharing updates about Anissa with the world. This is a very private time for you and your family, but we are crying with you, hoping with you, praying for you, and being encouraged by you.
Hang in there and lean on those around you, both physically and figuratively.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
So happy to hear that Anissa is fighting so hard. She will get better – she has so much love in her life to live for. You are an awesome family.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
Hang in there Pete. We’re all pulling for all of you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
What a beautiful post. Anissa’s efforts are amazing. So are you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 3:40 pm
You and your family haven’t been out of my heart for one single minute since I heard the news. Thanks again for taking the time to keep us updated. We are all rooting for you, Anissa, and your kids.
Stay strong.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 3:42 pm
There WILL be a miracle at the end of this. When you got married, you knew there would be a moment, at some point, someday in your life, that it would be the hardest of all. That point is now and when its over, you will be stronger because of it.
Keep living for that one minute it all is better.
~Trisha
momdot
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
I don’t know you and I only know Anissa from blog lurking on occasion, and via some other blog friends I have. Just know that I’ve included her and your entire family in my prayers – hoping and praying for a full recovery for her, as well as strength and peace for all of you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
Even from a hospital bed, she is an inspiration! Such a fighter. I admire her so much. And I admire you too, for your strength, your spirit, your patience, and your obviously incredible love for your family.
You guys are both amazing.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
The recovery she’s made already is a really good sign. I know how hard this is for you. And it will be hard for a while. Even when she is up and walking around and talking and making decisions and doing all the stuff you want her to be doing right now. The world looks different when someone you love enough to die for almost dies.
Are you drinking your water?
Another thing about strokes – when she’s out of the woods and in recovery (which actually sounds like it’s around the corner – boy is the medical world aggressive with rehab) keep in mind that doctors don’t know anything about recovery. That’s not their expertise. Recovery will be the realm of physical/occup and speech therapists. And you. Especially you. Now is the time to do a crash course on how the brain works because you’ll need to know all of that. With all that free time you have.
Anissa will make a full recovery and you will too. Amen
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 4:31 pm
I’m so sorry you’re having to go through this. I can’t even imagine, but very happy to hear of her continuing progress! Go Anissa!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 4:48 pm
I love hearing news of progress. Way to go Anissa!
As for you my good sir, you are doing an admirable job. Keep up the good work, it’s far from over, but you are doing amazing. Remember it’s ok for you to take a few minutes here and there to collect your own thoughts.
Hold on to your babies extra tight as you are already doing. Those invoked feelings and securities in you as a father will last a lifetime.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Anissa is amazing!!! Peter: God will see you through this! Praying today especially for you and for Peyton.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Still checking the blog a few times a day, delighted with updated. I’m sorry it’s so agonizingly slow, but so glad that every day there’s a little bit more progress and, with that, hope.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:12 pm
I cried when I watched the video. I cried when I read about Peyton. I cried and then I prayed. I’ll continue to pray as will the friends I’ve asked to help here in coastal NC.
You are in our thoughts and prayers each and every day.
Karen
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
You, Anissa, your children…. are in my thoughts and prayers. I have told my mother, my husband, several friends about you guys. I don’t even know Anissa. I don’t even know you guys, but I am so hopeful that all of this praying will work, ya know? I want so badly for her to heal. I pray that you guys get good rest at night, so that you are all strong for her. I have been reading through the archives, and she has got to be one of the strongest women I have (n)ever met! She WILL get through this.
Hugs to you and your babies. Your sweet wife (& their sweet mom) is getting stronger every day.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
you are such a blessing. thank you for all you’re doing to keep US informed.. and for loving her in such a caring, and amazing way. we should all be so lucky.
i’m thinking and pulling for her all the time. can’t wait until this is all a distant memory and something we can look back at and say “remember when? holy shit..” or something.
i’m ready for her to wake up now. i wish it was that simple.
hang in there. stay strong. you are amazing and she knows it. and now we all know it too.
xoxoxo
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
I’m waiting with you, I hope it contributes just a tiny bit to the love and support around you. It’s wonderful to read your encouraging news.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 5:54 pm
Thanks for the update! Stay strong for you, Anissa and the kids.
Praying for Anissa!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
I don’t know Anissa, I first heard about this from Barefootfoodie. I clicked on the link to check it out and ended up reading most of her blog that day. Your wife is an amazing woman, with never ending strength and courage. Even though I didn’t know her before this I find myself thinking about her every morning when I wake up and more than a dozen times during the day, praying that she will be okay. Every time I read you updates it renews my hope and get’s me through another day. Thank you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Sending many prayers and much love to your entire family. I am so happy to read the encouraging new. Thank you so much for keeping us posted. Thinking of you all, always.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Praying for a truckload of extra strength for you today Peter…..and for Peyton……and for Rachel…….and for Nathaniel…….and, of course, for Anissa. God Bless you all and hold you all up to deal with whatever she needs.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
The news is positive and encouraging. I hope it keeps on this way. I am sure it will. Prayers still ongoing for you all.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
I am just in awe of your strength and the strength of your whole family. You are changing lives by living yours. We continue to pray for you all.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Keeping on sending positive thoughts and inspired by the love you show.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Sounds like encouraging news – but still, I know how hard this is for you from a similar personal experience. Continuing to send healthy thoughts…xo
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
We sleep with our youngest at least part of the night, too. It’s a special thing. When he was in the hospital and I couldn’t lie in his bed I missed co-sleeping more than I ever thought I would. I teared up reading the last bit of your post. I felt it – it hit hard.
It sounds like Anissa is making some big improvements. That’s amazing! I’m feeling very hopeful, and I hope you are, too. If not, the rest of us will carry you for a while. That’s what community is all about. Rest up *hugs*
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
Praying that the fight in BOTH of you continues to rise until this is all behind you. He is made strong in our weaknesses… let Him be your strength!!!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
I loved the video & am praying for your whole family….to be a whole family SOON. I discovered Anissa through a string of blogs and have been laugning and crying for months now. You have one hell of a wife there, she fighting to get back to all those she loves! Mare
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
Again Peter, she is amazing and so are you!
I remember a couple of lines from the movie Evan Almighty that I always love. “Do you think if a man prays for patience that God grants him patience or gives him something to learn patience from”.
“Do you think if someone ask for their family to be closer, God makes them closer or gives them something to become closer while doing it?”
Peter I think you have been granted all of these… The strength of Samson, the wisdom of Solomon, and the courage of Daniel.
I am so amazed at the progress she is making, the signs she is giving. But from everything I have read about her, that’s just the way she is, amazing.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
I’m listening. I know you will come through this. I know your wife will come home. Happy Thanksgiving.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
Anissa continues to fight; and you continue to remind her of why she’s fighting.
Much love to both of you. Know that there are so many people sending love, thoughts and prayers to your family.
Keep being you; as your role is critical in her recovery.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Amazing community here. The LOVE is astounding. Keep strong, Peter! You’re an amazing husband and example!!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you daily. I love your wife’s wit. She is so funny. I follow her on Twitter, and she makes me laugh AT LEAST 10 times a day. I miss seeing her tweets, but look forward to seeing them again soon. Get well soon Anissa!! God bless all of you.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
Remember from all over the world we are looking in on you and praying for you each moment of each day! Peter you are so strong and such a great husband. The kids know how strong their mom is too so we just will keep believing and knowing that things will be better soon…….. thank you for the updates that help us all who are worrying so much for Anissa and your family. I hope you feel the love and pray that is being sent your way.
May God give you the strength that you need right now ~
Lisa
Unmet friend in IL
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
You’re right she is all those things but you are also described in all those words. I’m praying for strength for you and determination for her. She’s in there AND she’s coming back! Hold the kids and let them hold you. She will be sooooo proud of her family when she wakes up!
Hugs and Prayers
Shelley
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 10:49 pm
Encouraging news!
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
All of you are making me cry…I mean all. Anissa. Peter. All of the Kids. And the rest of you…commenters, friends, family….making me cry out of hope, love and support. Wow, just wow.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 11:02 pm
We met Anissa at the HP/Aiming Low event in Boston last month, and we immediately fell in love with her personality, kindness and sense of humor. She’s an awesome person who constantly poured out positive stories about her loving family, and she was a fantastic host at the event to boot. We’re sending all of our love and prayers to you and your family! A speedy and complete recovery is on it’s way. XO
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 11:17 pm
Thank you for the update! Those are great signs. Praying and waiting along with you…
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
Praying for Anissa and your family. Keep strong and be fearless. His strength will get you thru.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
I came over for an update. Thank you for letting all of us know the status.
Wow, those sound like wonderful signs. She’s aware & making an effort. Very good. It must be all of those prayers. I’ll keep it up and pray for her to return home healthy.
on Nov 24th, 2009 at 11:51 pm
Keep fighting. We’ll keep praying. May you be Blessed this Thanksgiving.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 12:31 am
I don’t know you or your family, except what I’ve read these past few days. When you wrote your first post, I thought it was Anissa writing, or that I had an old post… but no, you write with the same voice and perspective. She is obviously remarkable, and I imagine she would choose no lesser partner for herself. I am a stranger holding you and your family in my heart, and I look forward to getting to know Anissa (and you) better.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 1:52 am
You are doing such a fabulous job. I can just imagine the posts Anissa is going to write about you when this is behind her. AND she will be so proud of you for blogging while she was “taking a break.”
BTW, both of my kids still need us to snuggle them in the night. So you just keep snuggling sweet Peyton!
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 2:13 am
Peter – I am amazed by your strength and your honesty. You are clearly the ‘other half’ of your spectacular wife. Love to hear how hard she is working to come back to her family. I would expect nothing less from her. Prayers and love.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 2:52 am
Oh, if only we all strived to be all those things like Anissa, like you, Peter.
Thank you.
Many prayers for Anissa, you, and those precious children.
Steph
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 6:32 am
hi
i just wanted to say… i know she’s had a stroke before but.. this year my sister had a brain injury and went through recovery and rehab with stroke patients.. and.. these first few days.. first couple of weeks are looking just like how my sister was… no recognition, high need for support for breathing and tons of lines in… but… she broke out of it… i cried my eyes out for ten full days… and a couple days after.. she made one glance and one word … “hi” at me.. and i knew she was back.. it’s six months later and she’s still recovering.. but those first couple of months were the most stressful and horrendous of my life.. and until i heard that recognition from her i thought i had lost her forever.. but it sounds like your wife’s brain is trying to recover from the damage it suffered from the stroke… she’ll get there.. hold in tight
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 6:41 am
You know, you can do it. Some days will be easier than others. My Gram had two strokes before she was 45- in the days they sent you home to vegetate.
It was really because of her that I had such an interest in medicine, health. She had a great life, despite that sentence. A person’s will is the key and Anissa more so than anyone, has enough to go around and then some.
Hang in there!
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 7:56 am
Our prayers are with you.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 9:02 am
Thanks for taking time to update us on such a stressful day. None of us out in the Internets can take your place by Anissa’s side or snuggling with your daughter, but please know we are there with you in spirit. You have a family of fighters. My best to you all.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 9:05 am
Thinking of you, Peter, and your little ones. You are an amazing husband and father and I can see how you and Anissa are made for each other. Sending the best…
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 10:03 am
My prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for updating us on her progress. Its great to hear that she is fighting!
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 10:05 am
Michele from Omaha. Peter you are an amazing husband and father. Keep strength. She NEEDS you more than you need her right now. She needs your love, strength, FAITH, endurance….the whole nine yards. Those kids need you, they are missing part of their world too. I’m going to email everyone I can think of with this site, prayer is amazing in numbers. One day you were a stranger and un-none…today, you and yours are a part of my life forever. Give the scary stuff to God, he can handle all the un-known and known. Give it to Him. I will pray for you and yours. And thank you so very much for keeping your site going even when you have little time or energy. Your family has touched me in a way I never thought poss. Amen.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 10:22 am
Sending big hugs, warm thoughts, and lots of prayers your family’s way. I hope you get some good news today.
I always try to remember….if God brings you to it….he’ll pull you through it! (Sometimes is easier than others!)
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 11:17 am
thoughts are with you.
please go here and read the book: http://www.mystrokeofinsight.com/
she has amazing info on stroke recovery. much of this would have helped my father who had three massive brain bleeds in 1978, long before the MRI.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Sending love and prayers from San Diego… thank you for the updates. It means everything to all who were touched by Anissa. And now we’re all touched by you. . Hang in there, Peter… we are all behind you!
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Praying for you guys. For strength and healing.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Wow. She really is fighting. Stay strong, Pete. I know its hard, but all of Anissa’s bloggy friends are with you in spirit! Thinking of you and your family.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Thanks so much for taking the time to update us on Anissa’s condition and how your family is doing. I thrill at every mention of movement and communication, and my heart is with you.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
What Schmutzie said! Breathing…check. Awareness…check. Movement….check. Good thing you are both fighters! We are holding you close in prayer.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Your updates are so comforting and so hopeful.
Your words on pushing Anissa reminded me of Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor who I heard speak recently. http://drjilltaylor.com/about.html
Discussing the early days after her stroke, she mentioned how important it is to get sleep and rest in order to make progress.
I can’t even imagine how difficult it must be to be so patient.
I hope writing is helping you— as much as it is helping the rest of us following your story.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Sweet Peyton. You all are in my heart and mind. xoxo
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Still praying! Thinking of all of you often.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 5:48 pm
Anissa is a true “superwoman”!
I was overcome with emotion while watching that video. To imagine all that Anissa and your family has had to endure already and now to have this mountain to climb… it just seems so unfair.
But at the same time, I think the tough terrain before has built up her strength and will help her pull through this.
I am keeping praying. We all are.
Your family is well loved.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 6:17 pm
you’re an amazing husband and father.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
This is all very encouraging. What fighters you are! I’m praying with so many others for more good news.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Praying for you all. Hang in there!
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Praying for your wish that she’ll wake tomorrow.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 10:36 pm
Thank you so much for keeping everyone updated.
I hope you and the children can feel all the love that is being sent your way. My son’s (Coston and Caden) went to Central with Nathanial and Rachael, they love them & Mrs. Anissa and have been praying for her and you and the children. I would like to share a bible verse with you that I came across this morning as I read my bible…..
Psalms 61:1-2
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee,
when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
We know that the Father hears our cries….keep crying to him…he will comfort you and meet your needs.
We love you all and are praying daily.
Stanley and Stacey Bryan and Children
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 10:47 pm
Anissa is so amazing and so inspirational. I’m continuing to pray for all of you and hoping you continue to get the signs from Anissa that she is there and fighting to get better for you guys.
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 11:38 pm
staying strong for you. -x-
on Nov 25th, 2009 at 11:51 pm
I pray for you all every night.
on Nov 26th, 2009 at 1:17 am
Praying. Praying. Praying.
All the time.
on Nov 26th, 2009 at 2:02 am
Wow, it sounds like she is really trying hard! She’s there. She knows what’s going on. No doubt. And she WILL get better!
For her- I can’t imagine how it would feel to have your brain know what s going on, but then your body is just on a completely different page. We’re praying hard that this is over soon! You guys just stay strong and have faith in God that He is hearing all of these prayers.
on Nov 26th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
A teeny tiny step, but still a step
on Nov 26th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
Tenacious. Without a doubt. He can move mountains and you both know it..thank you for sharing all this Pete..Anissa, One day when you’re feeling up to reading all these posts..I hope you’ll remember I love you! Hugs..Melanie
on Nov 28th, 2009 at 10:20 am
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