There could never be a more beautiful Bethany Rose

Well, today has been the best day, by far. The doctor had Bethany put on a PCN, whereby she is receiving 1mg of Dilatid every hour, throughout the hour. After the initial boost of Dilatid, she has been managing well all day. She's woken up a few times, opened her eyes (with much effort), squeezed hands, wiggled toes, etc, and can understand commands. When I have asked her if she was comfortable, she responded affirmatively. That's awesome.

Her vitals have been the best that they have ever been; all of her cultures (blood, urine, etc) have returned negative; her drain and incision are totally dry and without leaks; she is not writhing in pain. She is not only on the PCN, but she also has a TPN drip (nutrition), a sedative drip, a catheter and a drain. Yes, it's been a good day. Bonnie left early this morning, for the airport, to return to Texas, while my sister, Debbie, came for the day to keep me company. Little did I know that Chris was surprising me a little early, and they arrived at the same time.

Shortly afterwards, Joy, Rob and Jonathan arrived, and then Heather, Joe and Lori. Chris and I went downstairs to de-compress, and everyone just whispered about Bethany's progress.

I've learned a LOT today and throughout this entire ordeal. I should that I have not only learned a lot, but also a lot of what I already knew has been reinforced:

•God is good all the time; no ifs, ands or buts about it; He is good all the time;
•God may not give you the desire of your heart at the moment, but He will give you what is best for you;
•Just as courage and strength are innate within a lion, they are truly innate within Bethany Rose;
•Heroes come in all sizes, including that of a 18 1/2 year old, blonde haired, blue eyed, sister, cousin, daughter and friend, Freshman child of God;
•God will make a way when there seems to be no way;
•This experience, albeit difficult at best, will make everyone involved stronger.

I am looking forward to getting a good night's sleep tonight, as I am sure that Bethany will, too.

Blessings and peace, many thanks,
Shari and Bethany