Saturday, January 17, 2009

Update 1/17/09

We talked to Jenn today, she is still in Pretoria in the guest house. She has had a pretty rough week, a couple of bad days (from pain and discomfort) and a couple of good ones. After stitches, staples, and everything was removed, she was very uncomfortable, her stomach where her spleen was removed hurts a lot, she can't sleep on her stomach, left side (because of her shoulder) and it is uncomfortable to lay on her back (where her four broken ribs are).

She is still very hoarse, and her voice is weak - she says it doesn't hurt to talk, but it does take some effort. The docs say her voice should come back in a month or so. The biggest problem she has is clearing her throat - coughing hurts her stomach and her ribs, so it is a real effort. That could become a problem because of her lung injuries.

Jenn has been able to check e-mails, but hasn't written much, because it is hard to do so. She also is limited in how long she can sit at a computer - she is still very weak, and can't go very long without resting. She spends most of her time sleeping - which is a good thing.

Looks like Tim will be discharged back to Malawi on Monday, the other girl in the house that was in a wreck has already been discharged. We don't have any idea how long it will be before she can come home - she says that Tuesday was the earliest possible date, but doesn't think that is going to happen.

Jenn is very aware of everyone's thoughts, wishes, prayers, e-mails and calls - she just doesn't have the strength to do much yet, and is still sorting things out. Your e-mails and calls are a lifeline to her. By the way, she is having problems making outbound calls, but inbound calls work well, and are very welcome.

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