Monday

Bent Tree Fund

A number of people have asked about ways to contribute or start a fund to help Jenny and Nick offset some of the current and future medical expenses. Nick's employer, Bent Tree County Club has one established. To make a donation, checks should be payable to Nick Griffin % Bent Tree Couty Club 5201 Westgrove Drive Dallas, Texas 75248-2026 Att: Linda Moseley Administrative Assistant.

Marilyn

Sunday

Sunday Evening

Nick just said it all...I missed the big outing..had just returned to the hotel for a few minutes when they all decided to take a field trip! Wow...what a deal..the nurses were so kind and Jen loved the feeling of fresh air for a bit..we all look forward to trying it again soon.

Margene and Judy left today..so wonderful to have them for a couple of days. Terri and Richard were here too..they brought her some healing music C.D.'s that we are going to try..Jenny has always loved music so much so we are hopful that this will give her some peace. She is going to have another surgery tomorrow to change her dressings again...we are all anticipating that she will be able to stay off the vent during this ordeal...and keep moving forward.

We are all looking forward to the arrival of Nick's mom, Marie, from Australia, on Wednesday. She will be a great help to all of us and I am sure will lift Jenny'spirits.

Many thanks again my friends for all of the love...we have met the most wonderful people here that have all lifted us up and continually rely on our friends from home..what a journey..we know we aren't making it alone.

Goodnite..look so forward to hearing from you all..Love, Marilyn

PS..keep Sharon Ringler in your prayers..she is back in Houston at MD Anderson..and needs us.

Jen's Field Trip

It was one of the funniest things you will ever see. Jen being wheeled through the parking lot of Medical City while still in bed. She had the opportunity today to get some fresh air and feel the warmth of the sun and the cool of the wind. Thanks to all the nurses for taking Jen on the trip for about 30 mins. Again it was an example of the simple pleasures that make my baby so happy.

She is really enjoying being able to eat solid foods, it seems like yogurt is at the top of her list. She has also had the chance to hear from some of the nurses just how serious things were at the beginning of this whole ordeal. She understands how lucky she is to be still alive and it was her strength and determination that pulled her through. It is these traits that will help us tackle he challenges that lie ahead.

Only a few more weeks in ICU babe then off to Rehab hospital. I know you cant wait to get home and I cant wait to get you home. I cant wait to lie with my head on your chest and listen to your heart beat, its the sound I miss most and one that I will never take for granted again.

Love Hubby.

Friday

Strawberry Malt Milkshake!

Jen finally had the opportunity to eat some regular food today. She had a light lunch and finished it off with a milkshake, she looked so happy to have a simple pleasure of life returned to her.

She looked very good today, she is breathing well and voice is getting stronger than ever. At the moment she is having trouble sleeping but hopefully soon she will be able to get a good night of slumber, which she deserves.

Thank you so much to the wonderful people of Broadlane where Jen works for a great card that must of been signed by 100 people. Jen read every single one of the comments and had a huge smile while doing so.

Babe, seeing you in those new pyjamas drinking a strawberry malt milkshake was an awesome sight. You had one of the biggest grins on your face I have ever seen. It makes me so proud seeing you handle what has happened with such heart and courage. You are truly one of a kind and I am the luckiest man alive.

Love Hubby.
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Thursday

Thursday Morning

Jenny just returned from having her bandages changed for the first time since surgery. This was considred another surgical procedure but the great news is...she didn't have to be placed back on the ventilator and the doctor reported that all was looking good. He will need to perform this again at least 2 more times next week as she begins to heal.

Dallas had horrible storms last night so Randy and I just stayed put at the Residence Inn and actually went to bed by 11..Nick stayed with Jen and reported that they had a great conversation and were making lots of plans for the years ahead.

Gaylin and her sister Bebe were here for a couple of days and Gaylin gave Jen a massage..which was such a hit Jen made her promise to come back soon for another!

We continue to be overwhelmed with the love and support that have come our way. As I said before one of the doctor's told me that she is in the fight of her life and will need an army to help her win. You, our dear friends and family, are just that. I am always shedding tears when I read the wonderful words of love and encouragement or receive the cards and gifts that have come. My dear freind Connie, (whom many of you know has been with me since we were 13) sent me a laptop so that I could be in touch more often...I am just getting it all hooked up but how nice not to have to wait in line for the computer at the hotel. I will now hopfully be better about keeping everyone updated.

We are looing at at least 3 more weeks in ICU before they will consider moving her to rehab. but..her eyes sparkle now and she can talk to us which is so wonderful. Today the nurse is going to try and put her in a regular nightgown...what a great boost from the hospital one she has been wearing for 6 weeks!

We are continually told she is a miracle..and I KNOW that she is still able to fight like she is becasue of all of the prayers...combined with her own spirit. Please continure to remember her on your prayer lists...as we do you.

Love, Marilyn

PS..she has loved hearing about some of her high school friends writing and sending wishes...can't wait until I can print everything off and she can sit and read them herself..how good that will make her feel.