Thursday, December 22, 2005

We just returned from a trip to Birmingham for a visit with the head of the
Thoracic Dept. at UAB's Kirklin Clinic, Dr. Cerfolio. He wants to take a
firsthand look at Jason's airway himself, so we will go for outpatient
surgery on January4th at UAB. He said it sometimes takes more than one
dilation of the trachea for a complete success. The trachea resection
surgery may still be necessary, but he would like to try the dilation again
and keep that as a last resort. This doctor comes highly recommended, so we
value his opinion. We feel that he is a Christian man from the things he
said about praying for Jason and "God bless you!" as he left the room.
Please pray with us that this surgery on Jan. 4th will be successful and
that the trach can be removed without further surgery.

Jason received his new power chair. It was custom built for him and is
everything we had hoped it would be. Since it follows his commands (unlike
the loaner chair he was using), he feels more confident in his driving
ability.

Things are going well here at home. We are so happy to be home and together
for Christmas. We thank you for your prayers, encouragement and support over
the last few months. We know that God has something special planned for our
family and we are looking forward to giving him glory for the outcome. We
will never give up hope in believing that Jason will have a complete
recovery!!!!!!

God bless you all and Merry Christmas!

Allen, Lorrie, Jason and Lacey Deal