Moving to www.caringbridge.com

Hi Everyone,
Many of you have already transferred your thoughts to Caring Bridge. Thank you! I know your messages of love and concern continue to be an encouragement to the family and friends, and hopefully Nancy too, as they are read to her.
Once again, it is http://www.caringbridge.com/ At the prompt type in Nancy's first and last name. Go to 'guestbook' to send your message. In a couple of days I will delete this blog (will print it first!) and hopefully transfer what has been said here to the new place, see you there!
Love in Christ, Beth

Words of Wisdom From Beth

Thank you, thank you Beth for using wisdom about the addresses, I didn't even think of the exposure.

Let's all e-mail Beth for these addresses and get a card to Nancy's family! And, let's be sure that we all let her family know how much we appreciate updates on Nancy's condition. Thank you, Lord.

SandyM

Addresses, etc.

Hi Again,
As Sandy M has mentioned, cards to the hospital, Nancy's Mom, Matt and Ashley is a great idea. Because this blog can be read by anyone, please email me directly at bspencer@nc.rr.com and I will be happy to email addresses to you! Thanks.

Email from Nancy's sister Sandy

Hi All,
Sandy, Nancy's sister, sent me an email to let me know she had set up a website for Nancy on CaringBridge. It is a great website and had I known about it before I probably would have started this one there. Sandy posted an update of Nancy's current condition, she will continue to do that, and she thanked us for the encouragement and prayers and invited us to continue to share our thoughts on caringbridge. She also indicated that meals would be helpful for Matt and indicated how we could get them to him. When I get home from work tonight I will discontinue this blog. You can go to CaringBridge anytime and use the Guestbook button to type your message. www.caringbridge.com. In the box on the home page type Nancy's first and last name (all one word). Thank you!
Beth

Update On Our Nanc

Thursday, march 6, 2008 2:00 p.m.

Dear Friends,

I spoke to a family member, Scott, this morning. Nancy's numbers are stable - and he believes that she will live unless something unplanned occurs. However, and we already knew this in our hearts, he said this was going to be a very very long road. Scott said just about the same thing that he said the other day. Sometimes she will respond to simple commands, moving the left side of her body to some degree. He seriously doubts that she recognizes anyone. There are some that might say differently, but Scott says it with emphasis. Thus, I believe we should take that to our hearts.

I asked Scott if I could come and visit this Saturday. He told me again that only 2 people (family) were allowed to visit with her and because of the flu issue we would be lucky if they would let us into the waiting room, but that I could try. Basically, nothing has changed except that Nancy's body lives. Her spirit still needs to come alive.

I would recommend that we continue to pray for Nancy and talk to one another on this blog. It makes me feel better when I see that we are all caring for Nancy in our own way even if we cannot see her. I also would recommend that we send cards to Nancy, Nancy's mother and Matt and Ashley. I believe we can call Duke Patient Care Information and obtain Nancy's Room No. It was 4213 n the Intensive Care Unit, but I don't know if it has remained the same.

Scott said that all financial issues were fine. Everything is in order. I asked him specifically if Matt and Ashley needed money for parking cards. He said that had been taken care of.

So, my sisters, we continue to wait upon the Lord. We must not grow weary in our task. Satan wants to discourage us as we wait patiently for God to make His will known. He doesn't know us very well. We will wait and pray and wait and pray for Nancy. God loves her more than we do.

Blessings to All,

SandyM

Praise God at all times!

Dear Nancy,
The Psalmist wrote, 'I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth.' In my daily devotional I was reading about Paul and Silas singing praises to God while in prison. A strong earthquake shook the jail and the doors opened and chains fell from the prisoners. I thought of you...imprisoned in a physical body that is not responding like it used to.

In spite of the circumstances that Nancy is in, I will continue to praise God for all His mighty works. Just as he released Paul and Silas from prison, it is my prayer that He will release you from the effects of the stroke. I believe that the secret to soaring above your circumstances is approaching God on wings of praise.
Standing on His Promises!
Mary L
Greensboro

Response to Jessie's post

Jessie, thank you for sharing one of Nancy's object lessons from the past. Most of can relate to what a wonderful Nancy teacher is - truly a God-given gift. As several of us sat together this past summer studying Daniel we saw the process, for the first weeks she was quiet, for the next couple she cried every time she tried to speak, then God must have hit the 'on' switch to some of the material and each week after that she 'went to preaching'! It was precious. My mind and words would be all tangled up - the study was incredibly difficult - but she would take over so articulately and eloquently -- Wow, just another reason we ask our God to restore her - we so need for her to be able to communicate! She is so faithful to Him in that way.

Prayer from and "old" friend

Nancy, my heart is heavy for you and the battle you are fighting. And like many others, I check the blog each morning, throughout the day and into the evening for news of your progress and improvement. I anxiously await an update that reads, “Nancy is back home and doing well!”

This event takes me back to a class you taught the ladies at Friendly Avenue several years ago about not putting all your eggs into one basket. You presented an illustration using a basket and real eggs, and the expression on your face when you accidentally broke one was priceless; a true Kodak moment! But it was so appropriate of life and how quickly circumstances change. For now it seems not only are your eggs broken, but your basket has been stolen, but I am confident God in His own time will weave another for you, stronger and bigger than before.

Holy Father, you are an awesome God due all praise and glory. Lord, you promise that if we knock, the door will be opened and if we ask, it shall be given to us. Nancy can’t knock on the door of health that was nearly closed last week or ask for the comfort she and the family need, but I am knocking and asking for her. Please Lord, open that door wide and restore Nancy’s health. Provide her, Matt, Ashley and the family comfort and encouragement from this.

Lord, Nancy has been a dedicated servant always putting you above all else. Please Lord, don’t let that servant heart stop beating; it’s way too soon. Allow Nancy to grow old, see her children marry and know the joys of being a grandmother. More importantly, allow her to continue her daily walk with you; always reaching out to others and telling them of your power and love.

It is through your Son I pray,

Jessie R.

Lamentations...

I remember sharing this scripture with you, Nancy, sooooooooooooo many years ago, and am still sharing it with you in spirit:

"...the Lord's compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.'...For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willlingly bring affliction or grief to the sons of men." Lamentions 3 (NIV) We are praying for you & yours constantly with much love,

Mary (Malacky) Bergeron

Pray without Ceasing for Nancy!

Dear Nancy,
What a blessing it is to know that we dwell in the shelter of the Most High and rest in the shadow of the Almighty. The Lord is our refuge and fortress!
As we wait to see what the Lord has in store for you Nancy, and for Matt & Ashley, I pray that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ (and mine too!).
God has a plan...His plan is NOT our plan...His ways are NOT our ways...As the heavens are higher that the earth, so are God's ways higher than our ways. His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. God will accomplish what He desires to achieve His purpose for Nancy, for Matt and for Ashley.
Take courage and do not be afraid. For the one thing I have learned in life is that God is faithful. Trust Him NO MATTER WHAT lies ahead. Be still and wait for the Lord of all the Earth to unfold His plan. He hears our prayers, He understands our sorrow and He will deliver those who trust in Him. And...one day we will understand why we are travelling on this steep and difficult path.
Waiting at the foot of the Cross,
Mary L
Greensboro

My friend

Dearest Father,
Bless Nancy, hold her, comfort her, cradle her in your arms. She has touched so many with your love. She has strengthened many with your strength. She has comforted many with your comfort. Return it to her now.
Let her love for you guide Matt and Ashley. Comfort Nina, Sandy and Joe. Watch over Mrs. Heard.
Thank you for Nancy and thank you for all the people who love her.
In your Holy name I pray.
Amy B

Sunday evening, March 2, 2008


My dear Nancy,

You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day. It was a beautiful day today. You can tell Spring is just around the corner. I spoke to your brother-in-law this morning and rec'd an update on your status. How I wonder where you are in your spirit? Would you respond if I spoke your name? Only God knows. Be-that-as-it-may, you have made it through another 24 hour period and our Father has answered prayers once more. I'll end this e-mail to you with a prayer as I have done now for a couple of days. One day we will sit down together and read through all your e-mails, especially the prayers. You would be very moved Nanc. You are surrounded by a bubble of faith with a hedge around it. We know God is listening.

Dearest Father, thank you for this beautiful day that you gave to us. It is the changing of the seasons and although Nancy cannot understand that now, it is our prayer that one day she will know the season once more, know her family and loved ones once more, and pray with us once more.

Father, allow her to see the angels all around her - in protection around her. Give us the courage to be still and wait upon your perfect timing where Nancy's needs are concerned. We do become impatient, Father. but we love her. Yes, I know you love her more.

Take care of all of Nancy's family, Ashley, Matt, Nina, Joe, Sandy & Scott and their children, and most of all give an abundance of grace to Mrs. Heard. Nancy is her child and I know that she is aching for her baby. Thank you Lord for listening and for caring. We place her in your hands again tonight, knowing you'll wake her in the morning.

In Jesus' name, Amen
SandyM

Sunday, March 2, 2008 2:24 p.m.

This morning Scott, Nancy's brother-in-law, called me about 10:00 a.m. He was on his way to pick up children which had been "farmed" out for Saturday evening. The following is a summary of what he told me. I hope I remember correctly.

Nancy is still fighting. She does seem to respond to some direction i.e., lift up two fingers. However, Scott does not think that Nancy has a clear recognition of anyone at this point. He said that she is in a guarded, stable, critical condition. If she continues on from where she is, the doctors may, and the word is may, attempt to move her one step down from intensive care next week. It's still up in the air. Scott told me several times that the outcome remains to be seen. I told Scott that I had not been there because of this intense cold that I have. He replied that it's ok, because the last thing that she needs right now is a flu bug. Duke Hospital continues to be vigilent in keeping people away who may contaminate patients.

So, the "road is long with many a winding curve." I was so glad to see that there are things that we can do here in GSO while we are waiting to be able to see Nancy. Thank you sisters.

If I hear anymore, I'll certainly place it on the blog. Praise God - she did make it past Midnight on Saturday evening. Thank you dear Lord, for a miracle.

SandyM
Greensboro, NC

To Zoe from Colonial Baptist

Zoe, sorry I didn't see your comment before, I am so grateful that Colonial is connected. Your class means so much to Nancy. Just last Sunday she invited me (again!) to come. See my post below on some practical ways to help. Many thanks!

Sunday Morning

Hi Nancy,
For this little community of bloggers, you are continually on our minds. We so wish we could hold your hand, hover over your bed, read some psalms, and remind you (and ourselves for that matter) that our God is trustworthy. I know this for sure, if you could speak, you would insist that we praise Him in this storm. How many times in your life have you done just that? The things you have lived through and still you live for Him -- stronger and more passionate, especially for others to know the only hope we have -- amazing! While we sit here and wonder why you?, why now?, your answer would be 'why not?' Good and faithful servant - I can only imagine the pile of treasure and reward He has waiting for you when you finally cross that eternal threshold. Nancy, we all pray that isn't now, it is way to soon for us!

God, in circumstances so devastating, it is hard not to lose hope. We see a long battle and you say 'Just a little while longer'. We want to ask you why this would happen, because you are the only one who knows. We want you to fix it because you are the only one who can. When those who don't believe wonder where you are in this, we won't know how to answer. We know you are, because you say 'I AM'. We trust in your words, but our trust is not blind God, we have heard of your fame, we have seen your wonderful works. Do it Again! Take this nightmare and redeem it, in anyway that pleases you and brings you glory. I believe you God, but help my unbelief. In the name of the one who has already been where Nancy is, and has made a way for her, Jesus her Savior!

Things that might help the family

Sherrill Blazer. and Helen Bates. offer some suggestions to help the family who will be spending long days at Duke:
-Parking Cards: They can be purchased in the Duke Gift shop.
-Restaurant Gift Cards: Subway, Friday's, Chipoltle, Chai, Cosmic Cantina, George's Garage, Whole Foods, Cinelli's. Google for locations and information.
-Waiting room care packages: Cold bottled water, juice, fruit, healthy/energy stuff, etc. (Can somebody deliver Edie Solomon back to us??? The best coolers full of stuff you've ever seen!)
-Calls/Visits/Cards to Nancy's mom who has had surgery herself recently and can't be at the hospital. Please email me directly at bspencer@nc.rr.com if you need her contact information.

Sherrill and Helen thank you for these great suggestions! Thanks also to everyone of you with a heart to share this family's tremendous burden.
Yours in Christ, Beth Spencer

Pray our tears

Hello again to Nancy and family,

I’m sure many if not all of us have shed some tears over Nancy’s circumstances.
Here is something I wanted to share to encourage us to cry, knowing that God hears our
prayers and sees our tears and sorrow.

"-Tears are a biological gift of God. They are a physical means for
expressing emotional and spiritual experiences. But it is hard to know
what to do with them. If we indulge our tears, we cultivate self-pity.
If we suppress our tears, we lose touch with our feelings. But if we
pray our tears we enter into sadness that integrates our
sorrow with our Lord's sorrow and discover both the source of and
relief from our sadness.
You've kept tack of my every toss and turn
through the sleepless nights,
Each tear entered your ledger,
each ache written in your book. (Psalm 56:8 in The Message)
-from Living the Message-Daily Reflections with Eugene H.
Peterson(p.304)"

We love you Nancy. We are encouraged by every accomplishment we hear about.
God holds you in His hands. He won’t forget you!
Judy Marshall
Goochland, VA

Saturday, March 1, 2008 12:00 Midnight

Nancy, I'm getting ready to go to bed. I have a terrible cold and doubt that I sleep much. That's why I've not been to the hospital to see your family. I know I won't be able to see you, but I wanted to hug Ashley, Matt and even Tip. I pray that you've had a good day. I hope the Son has filled your body and your heart. I hope you have heard words of love from your family. You have no earthly idea how many people love you, Nanc. I guess it takes a tragedy like this for people to express their love for one another.

Father, I come before you boldly but with humility and lift up my dear friend, Nancy, to you yet again. Father, you have given her another day with us and we greatly thank you for her sweet presence. Father, we wait upon you and your will for Nancy. We want you to heal her body, her mind and her sweet spirit. We want her here for days, weeks, and months and years yet to come. But I know she, like all of us, was not meant to live forever upon this earth. So, those of us that love her, leave her in your hands for yet another night. Place your angels at the head and foot her her bed and give her peace. Thank you Father, thank you Jesus and thank you Holy Spirit for delivering this prayer to the Maker and Sustainer of life. Amen.

SandyM
Greensboro, NC

Prayer for Nancy

This is the day the Lord has made and I will rejoice in it!
Rejoice??? How can I rejoice while my dear friend Nancy lies in the valley of the shadow of death?
I will rejoice because the Father and Son know Nancy's name.
I will rejoice because the Father and Son are with Nancy all the time.
I will rejoice because all of our prayers for Nancy's healing are being heard.
I will rejoice that God has used the thread of Nancy's life as a beautiful part of His tapestry of life to accomplish His Plan.
I will rejoice that her thread of life has intertwined my thread of life- and yours too.

Lord, you weave the tapestry of life with majesty and grace. In your hands are strength and power to give strength to all. It is my prayer that you will heal Nancy so that her thread of life will continue to accomplish Your Plan!

Lord, show us the fullness of Your Plan in Nancy's suffering. Help us to see beyond the knotted side of the tapestry of life. We yearn to see Your beautiful masterpiece tapestry from heaven's vantage point. Give us strength and courage to wait for Your Plan to unfold for we know that blessed are those who wait for Him.
In Christian Love,
Mary L in Greensboro