Our Trip Back to the States

Yes, we have just spent ten days back in the States.  With Matt's stem cell transplant therapy, he needed someone to be with him 24/7, so that he could stay in an apartment near the hospital in Indianapolis instead of staying in the hospital which would be so much more expensive.  Each of our other four sons  took a few days stint with him after Tana's spending the first 8 days.  But, with school starting again, etc. there was the need for Rob to come and spend 10 days.  And, with Brittany having a baby boy on July 11th, there was a need for me to help her as well.  So Bryan took over for the beginning of the next round, replaced by Rob, then Clay, and finally sweet Heather who missed the first day of school for her kids in order to be with Matt. This has been such a touching experience for all of us.

As I think we've mentioned before, there is much more "wiggle room" for Senior Missionaries to return home when there is a family need.  So with the approval of the Area Presidency, we headed back to the States.  It's been a little surreal to be back - we were able to do work via the computer, but it was still strange.

Rob, Bryan, and Matt when Rob arrived to take over his turn.

Clay coming to replace Rob

Heather and Matt just before he was able to leave to come home

Rob was so glad to have been able to spend this time with Matt.  Matt has been really sick this time (well, he's sick all of the time, but it's been harder these past week).  Fortunately, Matt's tumors have shrunk somewhat, so that is a sign that the cancer is being wiped out.  I have so much admiration for Matt - he remains upbeat and positive during this extremely difficult time - we are so grateful to the Lord for blessing and sustaining him.

He headed back home today where he will recover over the next month or so before returning to have surgery to remove the tumors that are not affected by chemo and will need to be removed.

And I had a delightful time with Brittany and baby Robbie. Brittany is such a good mom and has everything so well organized.  She is just amazing!   Clara is really helpful, and they are so happy.  I was so grateful to be able to lend some help - a very little I'm afraid.

 Isn't he a cutie?  He looks just like a Weiler!

Wish you could have seen him better in these photos!

But now, it's back to the sunny island of the Dominican Republic!  By the way, when we landed and took the drive home from the airport, it really felt like we were coming home (not permanently, of course!)