I’m having a tough time keeping up with life these days. I will try to start posting more frequently, so you guys don’t have to wade through my own personal versions of War and Peace.
Among other things, one extremely important duty I have while all this is going on is to make sure my wife has a family to come home to. Rachael had a little mini-implosion the other day. It started with a simple argument with her sister and ballooned up into the actual root of the problem. She had been nasty to her sister all day, so I sent her to bed early and told her she had 5 minutes to figure out a good reason why it was ok for her to be mean to her sister.
I waited for 4 minutes, figuring I’d have to wait for her to quit crying to get her to calm down.
I walked in, she was sitting on the bed, crying, and a little panicky. She argued with me that she hadn’t had enough time to come up with a reason.
I gave her that extra minute.
I sat in silence. She sobbed and watched the clock.
When it was time, her teary, runny-nosed response was, “Dad, I’m sorry. I just want this to be over and to have mom home. I’m done.”
She waited unsure as to how I’d react.
I told her that that was the best response to that question ever and gave her a big hug.
We both sat there and sobbed a little. I held her and rocked back and forth. I told her that we all wanted that more than anything, and we’ll get that soon. I PROMISED her we’d get that soon. But, in the meantime she couldn’t take things out on her sister or her brother or her grandma.
I told her that when she was feeling like that, it’s ok to talk about it instead of just being angry and treating the people she loves badly.
I wanted her to come up with the answer. Yes, I know she’s 8, but she’s a very smart 8. If I let her answer with her standard, “I don’t know” we would’ve had a repeat performance. I told her that it’s healthy to talk and to cry and to get things off her chest.
I asked her the following:
“Who’s the strongest woman you know?” Mom.
“Who’s getting better every day?” Mom.
“Who has His hands around us and is protecting our family daily?” God.
“Who is going to keep our family together?” God.
She didn’t pause on any of those answers. This is Anissa’s amazing little “mini-me” and she’s raised her right.
Earlier in the evening, I told Anissa that Rachael was having problems. I had asked her if I should deal with it hard or soft. Anissa told me to go soft because she’s been through so much.
I now know I’m going to get my family back. I’m positive of that. It’s like I can see it through the Macy’s store window. It’s got a big price tag that I can’t quite afford yet, but it’s something I can work toward. It won’t be the same as it was, but, that’s kinda what life changing events do.
For the past few weeks, Anissa’s been working on the assumption of a 5 step program: Wake up. Get out of hospital. Get out of nursing home. Get out of rehab facility. Get home.
So, let me tell you guys about step 4.
Actually, before I do that, let me back up a bit first and make a somewhat controversial statement.
You all know we’ve been down the pediatric cancer road already. Well, going through pediatric cancer at All Children’s and now CHOA, is like going through hell in a Cadillac. It’s no fun, but they do their best to help you along the way and to make you as comfortable as they can, from the top down, at every level of the respective organizations and in as many aspects as possible. It’s filled with people who aren’t just doing a job, instead they have careers, and, most importantly, they care.
Another thing about pediatric cancer is that the kids know they are sick, but they have no pre-conceived notions as to the possible outcomes. If you tell an adult they have cancer, they understand that it’s a grim situation. If you tell a kid they have cancer, they still want to be a kid.
As soon as I walked in to tour what would become Anissa’s new rehab facility, I was at peace. In truth, I didn’t need to see all of the facility, I just needed to feel the energy that exudes from this place and their staff. I toured it anyway. It’s flippin awesome. It’s a team that will let me take my hands off the wheel (and maybe get some sleep) for a little bit, because they absolutely care.
It gives hope. It’s Disney for recovery.
And her therapy team, we’ll call them, Ariel (ST), Belle (OT), and, Jasmine (PT), is EXACTLY who she needs right now.
Why?
Because Anissa is starting to progress at an impressive speed.
She’s now officially on normal liquids and ground foods. She’s starting to get around pretty decently in a wheel chair. She’s learning new ways to do normal things. She’s stood. She actually walked the other day. It was with a lot of help, and she had to throw her right leg in front of her, but she still walked. They are working her extremely hard, and she’s responding, very well.
Remember when I said there were holes in her memory you could drive an Oldsmobile through? She’s quickly connecting the dots and filling those holes. We’re down to holes you could ride a bike through, and that is shrinking. I’m starting to ask her parenting questions. We’re joking about things and goofing off. We’re wading through pictures and she’s telling us about them.
She does get tired, and when that happens, she’s not as sharp. But that’s to be expected.
There hasn’t been a whole lot of purposeful movement on her right side yet, and I’m starting to get worried about that. Physically/mechanically there’s nothing wrong. We’ve just got to figure out how to get her mind to tell her leg and arm to move again. You can feel her trying at times, and at other times, not so much.
By my count, there have been several God granted miracles on this journey: The fact that she lived, the fact that she’s cognitive enough to be a mom again, and soon, the fact that so many have come together around the world to help my family in this. Is it wrong to ask for one more? Is it wrong to ask that her right leg and arm start to gain some purposeful movement? God being infinite, I don’t think it is. I’ll take her cognition level over movement any day of the week, but I keep going back to the “Things will work out” response that I got when I prayed about this way back when. I have faith that, in the coming days, something big will happen and she’ll start moving that right side again.
Today is my son’s 12th birthday. We’re going to spend it together up in the rehab facility. I’ve reserved a room for us to celebrate, and the gifts have been wrapped. On February 1 it’s Anissa’s birthday. I’ve already got something big planned for that, and it heavily involves Ariel, Belle, and Jasmine. We’re in the “sweet spot” of our year, family celebration-wise: Nathaniel, mom, me, anniversary. If that special gift were coming, now is definitely the time.
I’m praying for it and giving thanks for how far we’ve come daily.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:29 pm
Everyday is a gift.
And thank you for sharing this with us, we’re all continuing to pray for Anissa and your family.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:30 pm
Thanks for the update!
It is so amazing, the progress she has made.
I will be praying for your miracle.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:31 pm
So happy for so much healing and good news. Continuing to keep Anissa and the Mayhew family in my thoughts!!! XOXO
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:33 pm
So amazing and wonderful!! I prayfor your family and cannot wait for more good news!! Love from AZ, patty
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:34 pm
God *is* good.
You guys are amazing.
Prayer is a miracle drug, & you’ve got a lot of folks praying for you!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:35 pm
I was just thinking of Anissa and your family last night. So glad to hear of the progress and I’ll keep sending prayers ya’ll’s way.
Sherry
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:36 pm
I will pray for that movement. As amazing as Anissa is, I’m’ sure it will come in time, but I’ll ask God to speed it up a little.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Thank you for the update. I think of you and your family every day. The Macy’s window analogy was both moving and realistic. Keep saving and soon you’ll be able to afford.
Lee
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:38 pm
It’s amazing how far Anissa has come! SHE is amazing.
Be strong. I fully believe in the power of prayer. God does answer prayers, sometimes not as fast as we would like, but he does answer them. Keep the faith and I’m sure more miracles will happen. God Bless all of you.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:38 pm
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on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:39 pm
So good to hear that Anissa is working so hard and has come so far. I hope your family celebrations are the first of many many happy times to come for you and your family. You guys are amazing!! xoxo
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:41 pm
Thank you for the update Peter, it was touching as always! I’m amazed at your strength and love for your family. I am praying for Anissa and particularly for that right side movement. I’m also praying for your family. Rachael is a very smart and strong little girl, she is a lot like Anissa. HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATHANIEL!! I hope you all enjoy your big celebration today =)
Love you Mayhews♥ Anissa you ROCK!!!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:41 pm
I have not yet posted but have been following your story. I wish there was something I could do to help you, Anissa, and your kids other than keep you in my thoughts. I am not a religious person. However, in situations like this, I know that God can certainly help, so for you, I will pray. Wishing you the hope that Anissa will regain ALL of her mobility and mentality and return to you physically very soon. – Courtnay in Illinois
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:42 pm
Your entire family’s fighting spirit continue to inspire me. What fantastic progress.
Ann
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:42 pm
Continued prayers for Anissa and all of you. There is no doubt in my mind, she will recover!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:43 pm
Thanks for the update! I’m so glad she is progressing so well.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:44 pm
Happy Birthday to Nathaniel, and thank you, as always Peter, for sharing this journey. Sending love and positive energy and counting the days until I can get up there to pitch in.
All my love and love from my family.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Adding my prayers, too, for that special gift.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:52 pm
You remind me that God exists. And is good. The Mayhews are a great Bible.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:53 pm
Praise the Lord! It’s so good to hear that Anissa is making such great progress. I’m sure she’s thankful to have such a wonderful husband and to know that you are helping to raise your kids right.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:54 pm
We’re always praying Peter, always for movement and always for progress. She’ll get there and those Disney princesses will make it a mission.
You might also want to tell Anissa that her friend Heather (Spohr) had a baby girl yesterday. I’d like to think that that wonderful news would make Anissa as happy as it has made the rest of us who know Heather and Mike.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 1:56 pm
Continuing to pray for you, Anissa, and your children.
~ Michele in Staten Island, NY
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:01 pm
Your entire family is truly inspiring! Jenny @ thebloggess is who I first heard of Anissa through, and have since been reading. First time to comment. Its amazing to me how your family is handling this all with such grace as well as faith. Keep the faith! Prayers are powerful! Best wishes!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
You all amaze me. Dealing with the aftermath of a stroke is hard. You’re doing great. Happy birthday to your son!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
I love you guys, each time I read a post it makes me just want to give you all a great big hug. Can’t wait to see you all, and I am so happy to read of Nissa’s progress! GO Team!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:13 pm
Peter, you’re an amazing man, with a huge heart and the patience of Job. The grace and understanding you’ve managed in keeping your family strong and supported through all of this is admirable. We’re all still praying. Anissa will continue to amaze us all, that’s who she is.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:16 pm
I’m new to this blogging thing, but it didn’t take me long to hear about Anissa. I started at the beginning (with Peyton’s diagnosis and treatment) and went forward. You family is so strong, and so full of love, it amazes me. And I find myself coming here nearly every day, hoping to see a new post and to hear great news. And hearing about her progress is wonderful news!
Although I don’t know Anissa, other than what I’ve read in the past two or three weeks, I know that she’s going to come through this stronger than she went in. You are all in my thoughts.
Keep up the great work Anissa!!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:23 pm
Happy tears!
God is so much bigger and powerful than we can even imagine. I can’t wait to see what he does for the Mayhew family!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:27 pm
I was just remembering, I think it was the week before Thanksgiving when you felt you were to pray specifically over her for 7 days, and you wondered if maybe something big were going to happen on the 7th day (my details may be off, I’ve been through some of my own medical issues lately). If I remember correctly, there was no dramatic changes that day. It occurred to me right now though, that perhaps it was more a spiritual battle thing that the Father had you praying about. Like, maybe that was a critical time spiritually, instead of physically, and your prayers were a defensive act of war against the enemy. I don’ t know, spiritual warfare stuff can sound so hokey sometimes, but it IS a very real thing… so… anyway… maybe that will encourage you some. I don’t know.
I’m so glad to hear she’s making such great progress!!!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:39 pm
I look forward to these updates so much. Happy Birthday to your son!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:46 pm
I just have to say that you are absolutely remarkable. Everyone should have a husband/father like you. I’m rooting for all of you.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 2:46 pm
Happy Birthday to the little man, and soon to Anissa. I’ll be praying for an extra special Birthday Gift for the whole family.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 3:01 pm
I am glad to hear of the progress Anissa is making. You handled the problems with Rachel amazingly well. Very few parents would have allowed the child to come up with the real answer on their own. I am praying for you and yours daily. When is your anniversary? May God’s blessings fall on each of you and follow you around wherever you go and whatever you do.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 3:17 pm
I’ve got no doubts in the infinite possibilities that God can bring. I’m so inspired by Anissa’s resolve and your strength. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Happy Birthday to your young man, and may you have a very special series of celebrations to come. My thoughts are with your family ~ you are truly an inspiration of love, togetherness, and hope & faith.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Wonderful update, thank you for taking the time out of your day to share these updates with us. Each update is a reminder of how amazing Anissa is and how she will let nothing get her down.
Happy Birthday to Nathaniel. I hope he has an awesome birthday hanging out with his mom.
You guys remain in my prayers.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 3:57 pm
Peter – you are an amazing husband and father. The way you handled Rachel’s “implosion” was absolutely perfect.
I keep you all in my prayers every day. You and Anissa are an inspiration and have managed to help me keep my life in perspective. I’m so glad you are not willing to limit God in what He can do for Anissa. He is an AWESOME God!
Hang in there and give my love to ALL the Mayhews!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 4:12 pm
Thanks for the update, Peter.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 4:12 pm
I have been following this blog since my sister pointed out Anissa’s stroke. She read Anissa’s blog before that. I am so amazed at the strength you and your family exude. I am positive God will not overlook that strength and faith. Keep posting because I know I speak for all of us who read these posts – we want to see this though to the other side along with you. Thank you for sharing your story with the world…and thank you personally for continuing Anissa’s story in her absence.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 4:28 pm
Thank you for updating us. I’m keeping you, Anissa and your family in my prayers and thoughts daily. I believe you’re going to get that amazing gift you all are hoping for.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 4:45 pm
You have every right to ask for more. Why not? People ask for ridiculous things every day and get them. But this, this is the important stuff. Enjoy the birthday celebrations and your Disney away from Florida. Praying for all of you.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 5:24 pm
Thanks for keeping us updated, Peter! I’m so thrilled to hear the good news… and I’m still trying to work my Jedi-mind-trick miracles all the way from Montreal. You’re all at the top of my list of requests from the Universe. This new rehab centre sounds awesome, and I’m so pleased that your “team” of faeires are so caring and loving. Yay!!!! (And Happy Birthday to your wonderful boy… squeeze him a lot!)
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Happy birthday, Nathaniel!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Happy birthday, Nathaniel!
Thank you for updating us, Peter. You’re all in my thoughts and prayers every day; I’ll add Anissa’s right side to my requests! <3
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 5:44 pm
Your whole family’s strength and faith has been so inspiring. I have said many prayers for you all and will continue to. I am thrilled she has come so far- it’s amazing!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Amazing. Every post, still blown away. Keep kickin’ butt Mayhews!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:04 pm
Truly wonderful to hear! God is truly GOOD! My family and I will continue to pray for Anissa and the family! How Amazing :0)
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:04 pm
So good to hear such great news
Have a wonderful celebration month, I will continue praying for your miracles and for your family. Anissa, I’m gonna miss you in Nashville but I know we will all see you soon!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:07 pm
So happy birthday to your son! I bet Annisa will have a great big present for you guys on her birthday! She seems just like that!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:12 pm
So glad to hear this update! It’s the first thing I look for when I open my Reader and I was thrilled to see an update. Happy Birthday to Nathaniel! Go Anissa Go!!!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:15 pm
Happy Birthday, Nathaniel!
I’ve never met you, but I think you are an amazing father. In a situation that seems like it should be too much to bear, you’re keeping it together with incredible strength and grace. I’m thrilled to hear that Anissa is doing so well. And, yes, it’s obvious that she’s strong and a fighter. But you deserve just as much credit for the way you’re supporting your wife and your children. Not everyone could do it, and not everyone would do it.
I’m sending all of my love to your family today and I’m hoping that 2010 is a year of miracles for you all. You deserve it.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Praise God! Continually praying. Thank you for the update!!!
Steph
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 6:26 pm
God is Good all the time! Praying your family through this time. Happy birthday to your son and strength to you and Anissa!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 7:13 pm
You keep on, Mayhew Family….I’ve been trying to help some vet troops get supplies to Haiti…and by sheer will, the deed is done! By Anissa’s will, she will get it done!
In case you haven’t heard…The Spohr’s had Annabel Violet yesterday!!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 7:35 pm
praying for continued progress!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 8:18 pm
Very happy to read all this. It must be so tough on all of you. But her progress has to keep you hopeful.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Are you kidding? You guys are in my thoughts daily. I’ll pray like crazy for that right leg to pick up on its own and for Anissa to get home soon to her family. You’re doing a great job.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 9:18 pm
Happy birthday Nathaniel! Keep going Mayhew family. Sending many prayers and well wishes your way.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 9:50 pm
I cannot wait to see her and make her work that right side for me.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 pm
I came to your blog about a month or two ago through another one I read. I am amazed by you and your family and your strength, humanity, and perseverance. You are such strong and wonderful people and are in my thoughts daily. I hope the pace continues and all is closer to normal very soon. Thoughts coming your way for that right side movement! Bless you all and enjoy your family celebrations that are coming up!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 10:05 pm
Thank you for posting for all of us to follow in the journey with you…You have amazing strength, and are handling everything very admirably!
I hope for a wonderful gift for all of you very soon!
http://www.therehanfamily.com
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 10:12 pm
A fellow Aquarian – she’ll kick ass just to be perverse.
Happy (early) birthday, Anissa, and happy (now) birthday, Anissa’s son.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 10:29 pm
Peter- you’re doing a great job. You’re a great dad and husband. Don’t forget to replenish your emtional, mental, and physical stores.
Rachel-hang in there honey. Your mom will be there as soon as she can.
Nathaniel- happy birthday dude! Have a great time at your party.
Anissa- keep working honey. There is no such thing as”good enough” right now. Keep fighting your way back! We love you!
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 11:00 pm
This is awesome. Anissa is blessed. My aunt had a second stroke 20+ years ago and she has only recently made the same progress Anissa has in 3 months. GREAT news!!!
Also, great job to you Dad. I look forward to meeting you sometime this year. As well as Anissa herself. (I am Angie’s(a whole lot of nothing) husband)
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 11:26 pm
Thanks so much, Peter, for keeping us in the loop. I can’t imagine how trying this all is on you. Your strength is amazing and you are both truly blessed with each other.
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 11:38 pm
Hey Peter!
. Also – you have this amazing ability to just keep doing the next right thing. I don’t know how you do it, but I get a real sense of calm when I read your posts. Or, maybe you are just exhausted. Or both.
Still working on details to use the handbag as a giveaway for anyone who donates a gift card…trying to find the best way to collect donations. I’m hoping to have it up and running soon so when Anissa DOES GET HOME you guys can have a few easy dinners to order out
Janine
on Jan 23rd, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Thank you for sharing this. It is not at all wrong to ask for miracles. That is the business God is in, right?
You are all an inspiration and we pray for your family.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 12:58 am
Marvelous news. Thanks for updating here, Peter. I’m tearing up over here, though I’m blaming it on stress and sleep deprivation.
Go, Anissa!
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 4:58 am
Thinking of your family daily.
Love and light.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 5:08 am
Amazing and wonderful news! Keep on trucking, Anissa is doing wonderful!
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 9:41 am
Thank you for the update; I think of you all daily, and I’m so glad that Anissa continues to make progress!! xoxo
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 12:41 pm
I’m so glad things are continuing to improve. ((hugs))
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
When you mentioned that, in walking, she had to throw her leg, I thought of my uncle. He was born without the proper muscular structures in his upper right leg. Doctors then told my grandmother that he would never walk. Not only does he walk, but he can run, swim, ride a bike, drive…you get it. He was even a fireman in his younger days! I thought of him because he walks the same way – by throwing his leg. So while I’m sure that Anissa hopes that she’ll re-learn how to walk more normally, tell her that if she can’t', it’ll be okay
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 3:56 pm
When you’re tired, there will be someone to lean on. All of us watching from afar may not be able to be there physically, but we’re there in spirit, cheering you along as you make your way on this trip without a map. May you continue to feel moments of peace, and may those moments become more and more frequent. Having a great healthcare team is truly a blessing and it makes all the difference mentally as well as physically. Continued thoughts and prayers for things to work out as they should.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 5:02 pm
God is good! We are continuing to pray for your family. I am so glad to hear about the progress that is being made. Praying for God’s will! Hugs
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
Great news. Wonderful, wonderful news. Sending all kinds of prayers/thoughts/white light, hoping that you’ll get your wish for her right side during these Mayhew “sweet spot” days.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 5:47 pm
Still checking here for news every day to follow along with Anissa’s recovery, and thinking and praying about your family every day, too.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
ACCUPUNCTURE. ACCUPUNCTURE. ACCUPUNCTURE. That is what woke up my mom’s right side after her left lobe stroke. And it happened an hour after the first treatment. She went from not even being aware of her right side to moving her right foot up and down. I mentioned accupuncture in one of my first comments and I believe so hard in it that I wish I could yell loud enough for you to hear all the way across the country. If you have any questions please email me. Anissa is doing so well and yes it is best to have the cognition back but wanting that right side back is really correct. She needs her body too.
I pray a prayer of intention – God, please help Anissa’s mind and nervous system and muscles start working together so that both sides of her body operate as one glorious reflection of your love.
Amen.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 6:57 pm
Anissa may be amazing, but you’re no slouch yourself! Your strength and support and optimism and faith are amazing as well!
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 7:49 pm
God is Good! It is always so wonderful to see the proof. I am thanking God for his miracles and that Anissa’s right side will kick in soon.
Love to you and your family!
Thanks for the miracles God, keep em coming!
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 9:20 pm
THAT is so AWESOME. I have one very pretty purple blanket that was made by a lady in my church! I will be sending it out very shortly! I hope that she is able to wrap up in it or lay it over her lap and know that she is being blessed and prayed for!
God is good! And you both are such GREAT parents as well!
Still praying here in Germantown!
~Jana B.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
You are doing an amazing job keeping the focus on your family. It is out of love (and perhaps some fear that Anissa will kick your butt if it falls apart
). I love reading of her progress. Soon you all will have the peace in your home of a weekend afternoon full of rambunctious kids, a bantering wife, and a comical husband. I have much love for your family. My thoughts are with you.
on Jan 24th, 2010 at 10:54 pm
I am so happy to read your update! Anissa is amazing!
The prayers continue for your family.
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 12:01 am
Such wonderful news!!! Thank you again for the update. I cry every time I read your blog entries! God please bless this family!
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 12:40 am
Everyday I am reminded that you are really a true hero — you’ve been an amazing husband, father and person. Thank you for sharing these stories and keeping everyone updated. I send your family love everyday…and health. Lots of health.
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 12:40 am
This is the best damned news I’ve heard in ages. Praying hard for the miracle of movement for you guys!
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 6:52 am
Brilliant news. I hope the movement is the next breakthrough -or maybe the one after that. You know that patience is a virtue, even if it’s not one of Anissa’s normal traits!
It’s not just Anissa that deserves to get better, you, Peyton, Rachel and Nathaniel all deserve to have her back. I am sure God can see that. I know he works in mysterious ways, but I am sure he’ll shine on you. Keep strong.
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 1:42 pm
Praying that miracles continue to happen. I am so happy to hear how much Anissa is progressing. I am glad that the new situation will hopefully give you the chance to get some well deserved rest. Thinking of ya’ll every day.
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Thanks for the update! I am so happy to hear that Anissa is getting stronger. Happy Birthday to Nathaniel!!
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 2:22 pm
God is good!
“with God, ALL things are possible ” Matt 16:23
Keep asking and keep expecting, He is faithful!
on Jan 25th, 2010 at 10:45 pm
I am not so good with God, not great with prayer, but I’m witnessing miracles here. I am going to try and as I do I am going to send you, those kids and Anissa every thing I can.
on Jan 26th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Happy Birthday to Nathaniel and thank you so much for these updates. The right side will come through!
on Jan 26th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Praying for you guys still,
on Jan 26th, 2010 at 7:37 pm
Oh, Anissa is such a sweet inspiration. Her strength and YOURS are amazing. Continuing to pray – with special prayers to her right side.
on Jan 26th, 2010 at 10:54 pm
It’s not wrong to ask God for more, Anissa has had faith all these years and so have you.
So many people love her, I suspect, so does He. Ask, ask, ask for more. If you are persistent, He listens.
I’m so glad to hear about Anissa’s progress, she’s a fighter, a damn good mom and a great wife and friend. The entire world is in her corner.
Keep fighting Anissa!
on Jan 27th, 2010 at 3:14 am
Such amazing miracles… I am so excited to hear how well Anissa is doing!!!!
I believe she will get back to full form. I can just feel it.
on Jan 27th, 2010 at 4:39 am
amazing amazing amazing!! Your wife is amazing!
I haven’t visited hte blog in a few weeks, and I’m so so happy that she’s had this much progress
on Jan 27th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
so excited that Anissa is improving and at such a rapid pace. Thank you for sharing what little bits of time you do have with us to update us as to what’s going on.
Praying hard for you all
on Jan 28th, 2010 at 11:05 am
I think about you guys everyday. KEEP IT UP ANISSA!!!!
on Jan 28th, 2010 at 12:03 pm
This is incredible news!! Continuing to pray for ALL of you!!!
on Jan 28th, 2010 at 6:21 pm
I am still thinking of you all often. I decided to check in today because, I don’t know why, the coverage of Haiti reminded me of Anissa. I don’t know her. I didn’t know her before this. But based on what I have learned about her from all the blog posts praying for her, urging people to pray for her, I know that she would have been doing something, urging people to do something, probably leading a drive, a movement, to help Haiti. I am so happy to hear that she is making progress. She is strong. You are strong. Your children sound like they have inherited the strength from both of you. You are going to get out of this together.
on Jan 29th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
So, so AMAZING. This one left me in tears. I’m so happy for your family that mama bear will soon be back home where she belongs. Thank you for the update!!!
on Jan 29th, 2010 at 7:14 pm
The combo of the power of prayer and the power/strength of Anissa is an amazing amazing thing.
I’m so happy to hear she’s progressing and Happy Early Birthday to her!
on Jan 30th, 2010 at 3:05 am
So glad to hear such good news. I don’t know Anissa personally, but I’ve been following your story (we have many blogger friends in common). We (my family and I) have been praying for you all, and will continue to. You all are an inspiration.
on Jan 30th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Hi,
I have been following Anissa’s progress and am just so glad to hear the about her progress. I am just so inspired by your family, and by anissa. Her strength and determination is truely admirable.
Hearts and Prayers all the way from singapore!
on Jan 30th, 2010 at 2:20 pm
Anissa, I’m thinking about you all the time. All the time I tell you. Be well. Get well. Much love.
on Jan 30th, 2010 at 9:34 pm
I came to your blog through Heather Spohr and have been thinking about your family. I will ask God to continue to bless Anissa with recovery, and pray for strength and guidance for all of you, including all of her caregivers.
on Jan 31st, 2010 at 10:01 pm
here’s to another end to a week, more progress, more moments, more new, and more learned..and heres to a good start to this week. “measuring progress in moments, not minutes.”
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 2:24 am
Happy Birthday Anissa, on the 1st of February – Aquarians are amazing!
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 5:19 am
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANISSA!! Boy, this is gonna be a strange one huh? But it’s fabulous to read of all the progress you’re making and I’m praying that, on a different level, this will be one of your best ones yet. I’m sitting here just knowing in my heart that God’s doing great things with that body of yours. (And yeah, I can hear Pete and a few jealous girlfriends thinking he didn’t do a bad job of putting it together first time round!!).
Anyway Anissa, I’m wishing you joy and love today and always. Enjoy seeing family and friends that I’m sure are all around you – and know you are being sent lots of love across the pond! xxx
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 8:56 am
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Annisa, happy birthday to you!!
I hope you have a great day!!
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 10:46 am
Happy Birthday Anissa!! I am still praying for all of you.
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 11:11 am
Happy Birthday and continued prayers
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 5:20 pm
Continuing to pray for you and wish you all the health and healing in the world. Happy Birthday, Anissa!
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 5:21 pm
Happy Birthday Anissa! Thinking of you and your family daily. And Peter thanks for always sharing so much of this journey with us – I hope that all the positive thoughts everyone around the world is sending you will give you the final miracles you need. xo colleen
on Feb 1st, 2010 at 7:30 pm
I found my way to your wife’s site through the Barefoot Foodie site and I’m sitting on my couch counting my blessings that I did.
You have managed, through your site, to make me count my blessings again! (I DO mange to do this once in a while but not like I really should!) You, your family and friends have an amazing outlook on life. And I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers.
And I’m probably a little late but please wish your son a happy birthday from Jacksonville, FL!!
on Feb 2nd, 2010 at 2:24 am
became a fan of your site through Heather Sphor. Wishing Annisa the best on her birthday. I know you’re incredibly busy please keep us posted. Thanks:)
on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 11:39 am
I am praying for your family! Way to go Peyton!
Charlene Kingsley
on Feb 3rd, 2010 at 11:25 pm
Still praying for you all.