Hallelujah!

Although I realize for many of you this story began yesterday with my public post, it has been a story we have been living for many, many months.  How happy I am to tell you that today, we got a good 'ending'.  :)

Marvin and I got up this morning to drive down to Columbia for his procedure.  The drive down was not nearly as enjoyable as the drive back!  We have the best possible news - our number one choice of scenario actually happened!  They were able to locate the bile duct obstruction and also remove it!  Hallelujah!!  And it was a wonderful thing to hear the doctor say, "I think you and I are finished."   :D

Our primary worry was that the scar tissue from Marvin's war injuries was causing the obstruction.  Our liver doctor had alerted us that this was a real possibility.  He stated that if scar tissue was the cause Marvin would have to go to St. Louis for a specialized surgery with a specific surgeon.  Actually, our doctor said if this first procedure didn't work he would have to refer Marvin to "God", or Dr. P.  :)  We are quite happy with the way things worked out!

Marvin is now home and resting.  He is uncomfortable and on a liquid diet but will be in great shape in time for the wedding and festivities this weekend.  Just typing that makes me want to cry tears of joy.  Hallelujah!

He is struggling a bit with the fact that everyone else is coming in to do the work around here, but we are both so incredibly thankful for the outpouring of support, love, and prayers from all of you!  I feel like I am in a Hallmark movie!  That scene near the end where the family in distress opens their door and the community has shown up to support them?  That is what it feels like you all are doing for us! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts!  We are blessed beyond measure!  And we are really looking forward to this beautiful wedding!  :)

A funny to close... when I walked in to recovery to see Marvin he looked at me and said, "I saw a buffalo."   What???   "A buffalo walked by me in recovery.  I've never seen a buffalo in recovery before."   :D   What a great moment of laughter and relief!  That one is a classic, I do believe!!  :D

More glimpses of God's grace - they are everywhere!!  :)
Incredible care from everyone at Boone.
The fact that Marvin was able to recover from his attack that happened on our west trip and get home. They actually mentioned today that he could have easily ended up in the hospital out there.
Although we were told that it would be a long day, with a long wait to even get in since Marvin was a 'work-in', he was taken back for the procedure within 10 minutes of our arrival!
Marvin and I both felt your prayers.  Such a comfort and strength.  Thank you.
Buffalo sightings.  :)  Thankful for humor in the midst of messes!!
Bile duct blockages that are easily removed!!  :)
Hearing 'other than this blockage, there is absolutely nothing wrong with you'.   :D
Messages from all of you offering your love, support, prayers, and even assistance getting this wedding ready.  You are absolutely incredible!

a sunny window view makes everything better