Jens Surgery

Yesterday as most of you know Jen had surgery. The surgery was related to the damage sustained during the original trauma to Jens tissue in her extremeties. For those of you who have seen Jen you could see that her hands and feet did not look good. Meeting with the surgeons days before the surgery it was explained to us that Jen would probably receive an amputation of below the elbow on both arms and somewhere around the knee in both legs. As it turns out the surgeons did a fantastic job and were able to provide a result better than expected, below the knee on both legs and saving the wrist on both hands.

I cant begin to imagine how Jen must feel right now, but she is handling like the amazing human being that she is. I know she is scared, angry, frustrated, frightened and confused. The coming months are going to be tough, no question as we enter rehab hospital and begin getting Jen back on her way to her old self. With the support of family and friends, which has been beyond our wildest dreams Jen will be up and running in no time.

To Jen, you will forever be my sunshine, my candle, my hottie biscotti. Your surgery has not changed Jennifer Griffin. You will always be the same person I fell madly in love with a few years ago. We will share many tears, battle lots of frustration and endure some tough times but we will always do it as a team. You are an amazing wife and I cant wait to get you home.

Love Hubby

Wednesday Evening

I have lost track of the actual date...but I think this is close. Nick will post a note later about her surgery but...she and we made it...another mile stone. I had forgotten in my last post to express our love and appreciation to a special nurse named Alex. She wrote a very heartfelt note this week...a comment to a post that Matthew made..and if you haven't had a chance..Please read. She has been an angel..and when she is with Jenny, I can actually sleep a bit.
Keep praying my dear, dear friends. She is climbing the mountain and is making some progress. Nick is her true partner and we and she are all so blessed that they found one another.

Martha and I are headed back to the hospital in a bit but wanted to check in. Again..we appreciate all that everyone has done and continues to do...Love, Marilyn

Keep On Smiling

First of all, what an inspiration Jennifer is to everyone! Ever since I have known her she has been hardworking, determined, motivated, and such an encouragement to everyone around her. I met Jennifer when I was in the second grade, as well as most of the Whipples. Ryan and I grew up together at school and we always seemed to find ourselves being able to annoy Jennifer and Matt. It’s amazing how much time can fly through the years. I used to think Jen was crazy for the fact she used to let Ryan drive her white Saturn while screaming through their Amarado neighborhood. Little did she know, I was probably the one scared. If you have ever driven with Jen or Ryan….you know exactly what I am talking about. I have so many stories in my head about the experiences through the years. I can only assume if you are reading this message you know what I mean. As I reminisce these events I can only think about one thing and that is her smile. She has such an embracing smile and the only way I know how to describe it is…..contagious. I can only imagine how uplifting it is to see her smile again. Before I take up the rest of the page I want to let the Whipples know that they are in so many prayers right now, there’s no way God could have turned down this chance to expose his abilities. So, we all hope your surgery went well today and we are all thinking about you.
Brandon H
(briefcase)
P.S. Nick…you are an amazing man who has obviously found the girl you used to dream of. Randy, Marilyn, Matt, and Ryan received the best man to take care of their Jennifer. Your family has the blessing of so many people.

My Favorite Big Sis

JEN, WE HAVE PUT YOU ON OUR PRAYER LIST AT CHURCH. GOD DOES AWESOME THINGS WITH OUR LIVES AND HE WILL YOURS TOO. I LOVE YOU AND I WILL BE THINKING ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. HELLO TO THE WHIPPLES AND I WILL CHAT WITH YOU GUYS SOON. YOUR FRIEND, TEX AKA CHRIS GREGG

Tuesday Evening

The doctors decided to put Jenny back on the respirator today to help her breathe easier. She will be going to surgery tomorrow early afternoon for her hands and feet. The doctor expects the surgery to last apporxiamtely 3 hrs...he will share with us his findings/opinions following. We again ask you to pray that God will be with the surgeons and Jenny during this time.

Our family continues to thank you all for the overwhemling love, support and kindness you have shown us.

Marilyn