Today I offer a prayer of thanks and blessing to "volunteer donor" for his/her precious gift to my Dear Professor. They are an army of 5 before the day is done.
Five, the number of grace. How can I say thanks for such a treasure?
But there are more. A multitude. I offer gratitude to:
the calm voice answering the 911 call;
the emergency team who whisk him off into the night, sirens blaring, lights flashing, down our country road;
a young friend who leaves husband and child to surprise me in the ER asking, "how are you?";
a smile and hug from an old acquaintance now working in the hospital;
a brief visit from far away friends bringing a prayer, a touch, and a meal to nourish my body as their friendship nourishes my soul;
the skilled hands of paramedics, nurses, doctors, technicians offering compassion and care;
our scattered family supporting us over the miles with calls, prayers, email;
our faith community, encouraging and journeying with us;
Our Father, Great Physician, Giver of life, Quieter of fearful minds, Restorer, Redeemer;
There are more for tomorrow, but that is a start for today. My heart is full. My eyes overflow as I lean against my Dear Professor's chest and listen... to his heart... beat.
In the dim, he sleeps and I sit. Thankful.
(note: The above was written 3 days ago. My Dear Professor continues his recovery, gaining strength each day. For that I continue to be thankful.)