Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Update on Grandma Sally



Hello friends,

Several of you have expressed that you  are waiting for updates about Grandma Sally. For those who are not aware, Grandma Sally has been in hospital for almost 3 months.  Many different medical interventions have been needed during that time and it has been an emotional roller coaster for those involved in overseeing her care since they do not live in the town where Grandma Sally is admitted to hospital.

Grandma Sally has been in ICU for almost all of the 3 months she has been a patient.  She has also been unable to speak for much of that time and most recently had some growths (tumours) on her lungs.  Doctors recommended surgery but the family was reluctant due to Grandma Sally's advanced age.


After discussion with doctors, the course of treatment was changed to some powerful medication.  It seems to have worked but in the recent week or so, Grandma's health deteriorated and she has been on life support. The family's goal has been to keep Grandma as comfortable as possible and not do anything that would jeopardize her comfort.  They would like to see a more natural transition for her rather than more medical interventions.  Among other things, I've been guiding the caregivers during the various courses of treatment and helping them with questions to ask the doctors and so on.  The hospital and it's doctors do everything to prolong life and assist Grandma Sally but they conclude that Grandma Sally is transitioning from this life.  No one knows how long it might take.

Interestingly in today's news, an elderly man of 104 years travelled from Australia to Switzerland to get medically assisted suicide.  Grandma Sally is more or less than same age, but she does not fit the category of someone unhappy with life.  Nor is she, or the family seeking euthanasia. In fact everything possible has been done to treat her symptoms and give Grandma Sally the best possible life for as long as she is alive.

Grandma Sally is a very faith filled woman and also a very physically strong woman. The family got the doctors to remove life supports except for oxygen. They are now working to get medical assistance and transport Grandma to her home where she can see out her last hours and days. They think this is how Grandma would want it and I agree.

Grandma's house in the village


It has been difficult for family and friends near and far. Many have traveled long distances to say their goodbyes.  Having no funds for good or lodging it is difficult to remain in the local area for a funeral that no one knows when it will occur.  They all travelled when it seemed Grandma Sally was slipping away fast and they have been patiently awaiting her transition. 

Pray for everyone involved;  for the dear ones that need to say goodbye and are grieving. Most do not understand the end of life process.  Pray also for strength for the family and loved ones, especially those overseeing Grandma Sally's peaceful and comfortable transition.  It is a stress for them as they also do not live in the town where Grandma is getting care.

All in all we trust that God is in control. When Grandma Sally was first admitted to hospital almost 3 months ago it wasn't long before she lost her ability to talk.  At the time it was evident her mind was still working.



She was always smiling at hospital staff and family carers making motions about praying and praising God. While she could still talk she was encouraging family members to walk the path of faith and to ensure they did not deviate from reliance upon God. She is truly an inspiration to me and to her family members. She is well loved and though she is not my biological Grandma, I am pleased to call her Grandma Sally. I love her as if she were my own dear Grandma. May she move over to a new life free of pain and struggle and hear the words "well done, my good and faithful servant".

Rev 21:4

 

#miracles #GrandmaSally #Godisgood #prayer #KenyaMissionsofHope #Kenyamedicalmercymissions

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16 comments:

Jo said...

Oh Penny, this is a sad situation for the family. I pray for all of Grandma Sally's loved ones. I pray to that this dear lady is transported safely and with God's hand giving her comfort, across the miles to her home. Bless you for all you do for the people of Kenya and this family. Jo xx

Joyful said...

Thank you dear Jo. xx

shayndel said...

Grandma Sally is so beautiful and precious, I am inspired by her and how she speaks of her faith and Praises God and smiles always. I agree with Jo Mays prayer and your prayers for Grandma Sally and her loved ones. God Bless you Joyful and your beautiful heart of compassion and sharing with us about Grandma Sally and this special part of the world in God`s heart and from your heart.♡

Joanne Noragon said...

All my best to Grandma Sally and her extended family. Light and love will prevail.

Jeanie said...

Thank you for updating us on this brave woman. My prayers join the others for her comfort and when the time comes, a peaceful transition.

happyone said...

What a wonderful testimony Grandma Sally has.

Rhodesia said...

Thanks for the update but I wonder why they are keeping her on life support or was it just temporary. It is sad, but she has obviously had a tremendous life and one that should be celebrated with great memories. My thoughts are with the family. Diane

Mari said...

I read about the man from Australia. I think Grandma Sally is doing this the right way and has been a great example to so many people!

Terra said...

She is a beautiful strong Christian lady who sets a shining example of being dignified in these difficult days.

Joyful said...

Thank you everyone for your kind words and prayers. xx

Pamela M. Steiner said...

thank you for sharing Grandma Sally's story with us. Praying for her peaceful transition from this life to life eternal as God directs. There is a reason for her to still be here...loved ones who need to see her peaceful walk with Jesus and get a glimpse of the glory that she is seeing with her eyes of faith...May God bring salvation to those who still need it around her. What a beautiful story for Mother's Day...

Toni said...

God bless Grandma Sally and her family and you for your compassion and caring. A beautiful testimony for a lovely Christian lady. My heart and prayers go out to her.

Annie said...

still praying for her and you. I know how much this must touch your heart.

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said...

Sometimes the transition from life is a long and painful one but Grandma Sally sets the example of great strength in her faith.

Angie said...

Ever since I first learned about Grandma Sally, she has been on my prayer list. Of course, only God knows how our prayers are answered, and sometimes it is not in the way we would expect. She is truly an inspiration, in that she has continued to praise God and be an example, even when her voice has failed her. Maybe that is the answer to the prayer …

And you are a blessing for all you have done to support her and those around her during this journey … I hope you have a peaceful week ahead.

Breathing In Grace said...

Oh, what a special Lady. Thank you so much for the update. I can see why you adore her.

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