One Foot in Heaven

I have asked myself and God many times: "How much more can Merrym take?" When she got the infection before her amputation, this was one of those times I questioned God. I was praying she would not have to have an amputaion. Even though her little leg was not that attractive, it served its purpose. It gave her balance when she stood and she could walk with a walker.

When Merrym told me the doctors felt like she needed an amputation, she wanted my opinion. I was very angry with the doctors. I figured it was not their body and they really were trying to find the easiest way out. I tried to convince her that God could heal the infection and that she should wait. Later I was at the hospital when they took the bandages off and I realized how truly bad the infection was. There was a part of me that still wanted her to wait, but I knew it was not my decision and it could be,HER LIFE!

As Merrym said, a lot of the family came to be with her. We prayed and cried. Why Merrym again?! Why not one of us this time?! But Merrym always seems to have courage that is beyond understanding.

Merrym says our family handles everything with prayer and humor, but not all of us. There are times I know that Merrym is covering feelings and fears with humor. After all, I am there when everyone else goes home and reality sets in. I handle things with prayer and practicality. I am always planning ahead, trying to figure out if Merrym can still live on her own or does she need to move in with someone? etc. Fortunately, I eventually let God take over and take care of things and it all works out.

After the surgery, Courtney, Ace and I had to meet with the surgeon. He had the personality of a barracuda. He instantly said that Merrym needed to lose 100 pounds (Yes, Merrym had gained weight from inactivity over the years). We asked about counseling for her to adjust to her situation, but he acted like Merrym should just be able to accept this and go on as though nothing had happened. I was upset and so were the kids!

As we hesitantly went in to see her after talking to the doctor, we didn't know what to expect. The first words out of Merrym's mouth was: "I have one foot in heaven already!"

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy path.
Proverbs 3:5-6

Love, Mother Hen Glory