Hi all, (From Sandy, Joy's sister)
(Gail's brother, Mike, Joy and son Justin) are in Africa with Heavenly Treasures.)
I just received a call from Joy from Kakuyuni, Africa! They had a long trip and arrived safely to the village where they will be ministering. The bus ride wasn't as long as they thought, but it was extremely bumpy and rough.The guest house was expanded and now has a dining room and another wing. The walls were painted and Joy said it was nice.
The village people have been very warm and welcoming. Joy says the men there who are working tirelessly are so helpful and eager to show them everything. Immediately she says you could see how primitive everything is and how hard everyone works to keep just the water supply. The women carry the water to the village and Joy says that if they could somehow get a well for this village, it would change their lives dramatically. The team walked through the village and talk of perhaps a community center and starting a farm and garden would really give this village a more sustaining way of life.The children were amazed at seeing the team's children. They wait patiently for them to come out of the guest house and the kids have made an instant bond with the village children.
Joy feels that the team's children will have a great impact on reaching this village and all the kids. Simple things like blowing bubbles has brought so much joy to the village kids.
Pray for the following:1. Mike will be speaking tomorrow at the church service. (Sunday Morning) They are 10 hours ahead of us.2. Pray for the team to remain healthy and well throughout the trip.3. Pray for the team to be able to minister effectively and find the best ways to help this village grow and become more life sustaining.4. Pray for the language barrier that they may be able to learn the language and have effective interpretation.5. Pray for God's everabiding presence and to lead this team every step of the way.
I'll hopefully hear back one more time before Christina Gaulton has to leave. She has the GPS phone!Send this update to anyone I missed since they can't blog from the village.Please put on the prayer chain message!
Thanks,Sandy
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Begin with the End in Mind
About 5 years ago, I drove up to Tioga Lake by myself and slept in my car and fished from sun up to sun down. It was some kick butt fishing. On Sunday before i headed home, I got my lawn chair and set it in the water on a ledge and wrote in my journal and prayed.
I was thinking about the future. The words 'Begin with the End in Mind' came to mind. I was thinking about my legacy. What would I want to leave behind for Devon. I realized at that point that the Word of God transcends time and will live forever. I realized that if Devon has the Word of God in his heart, he will be ok, even when I am gone. That was comforting at that moment.
Shortly after this, I got a phone call from my friend, Edwin about joining Bible Study Fellowship in Menlo Park @ Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. The interesting thing about this is that they had a kids program that ran concurrent to the men's program. I asked Devon if he would like to join me in learning more about God's Word and he said ok. He also liked the thoughts of perhaps of getting a snack.
We had daily reading and studying to do, (which was a good discipline). Devon also memorized a portion of the Bible every week, which was also valuable. That year, we studied the Minor Prophets. Very long reading, (skim Ecclesiates) but we learned about how ordinary people like us who screw up constantly are met by a God that is forgiving, patient and kind. We learned about how these men and women of faith faltered, failed and yet God sustained them.
In one of Devon's early blogs, he quoted one of his favorite verses from Zechariah. 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord God almighty.' This is a verse that Devon has said over and over and is still saying today. Never has this verse rung so true in our lives now and into the future. We pray that this would be everyone's belief and prayer.
Yesterday, was my first day back in Half Moon Bay and I was feeling a bit glum. I felt that I have so much to do and was feeling sorry for myself. However, this morning I went for a walk to the beach and the Lord used a comment on the blog to say that he remembers me and has not forgotten about me. A friend, Cindy, who I have not spoken to in years posted yesterday about remembering that it was our Anniversary today. Cindy of all people who I have not spoken to remembers our Anniversary! Wow! The Lord used this to speak to me that even when others may not remember or understand, He does.
The neat thing about how God works is that He uses people to communicate that he hasn't forgotten about what we are going through.
I was thinking about the future. The words 'Begin with the End in Mind' came to mind. I was thinking about my legacy. What would I want to leave behind for Devon. I realized at that point that the Word of God transcends time and will live forever. I realized that if Devon has the Word of God in his heart, he will be ok, even when I am gone. That was comforting at that moment.
Shortly after this, I got a phone call from my friend, Edwin about joining Bible Study Fellowship in Menlo Park @ Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. The interesting thing about this is that they had a kids program that ran concurrent to the men's program. I asked Devon if he would like to join me in learning more about God's Word and he said ok. He also liked the thoughts of perhaps of getting a snack.
We had daily reading and studying to do, (which was a good discipline). Devon also memorized a portion of the Bible every week, which was also valuable. That year, we studied the Minor Prophets. Very long reading, (skim Ecclesiates) but we learned about how ordinary people like us who screw up constantly are met by a God that is forgiving, patient and kind. We learned about how these men and women of faith faltered, failed and yet God sustained them.
In one of Devon's early blogs, he quoted one of his favorite verses from Zechariah. 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord God almighty.' This is a verse that Devon has said over and over and is still saying today. Never has this verse rung so true in our lives now and into the future. We pray that this would be everyone's belief and prayer.
Yesterday, was my first day back in Half Moon Bay and I was feeling a bit glum. I felt that I have so much to do and was feeling sorry for myself. However, this morning I went for a walk to the beach and the Lord used a comment on the blog to say that he remembers me and has not forgotten about me. A friend, Cindy, who I have not spoken to in years posted yesterday about remembering that it was our Anniversary today. Cindy of all people who I have not spoken to remembers our Anniversary! Wow! The Lord used this to speak to me that even when others may not remember or understand, He does.
The neat thing about how God works is that He uses people to communicate that he hasn't forgotten about what we are going through.
Gal Pals.....
These are some of Gail's pals from No. Cal. Most of you probably already know Kimberly, Carol Yeo, Gail, Sally and Anne.
Their cheers and spirit helped to fuel the Coastside Cougar 'Green Machine', Special Olympics hoops squad.
I saw Patrick W. @ Safeway yesterday and he asked when hoops start. Next year we will have another team to make 4 teams.
We will need more volunteers!
Friday, June 29, 2007
Bouquet of Memories
At Gail's second service we were limited in time to hear from people that may have had a memory that they wanted to share about Gail.
If you have a memory of Gail that you want to share with us and the community, please post it, or you can E-Mail to Jon @ desert_streams@sbcglobal.net. Nothing fancy is needed, just real.
Thanks,
Jon and Devon and Gail
If you have a memory of Gail that you want to share with us and the community, please post it, or you can E-Mail to Jon @ desert_streams@sbcglobal.net. Nothing fancy is needed, just real.
Thanks,
Jon and Devon and Gail
Monday, June 25, 2007
Mom's Celebration Service and my prayer requests
Hello everyone,
Thank you all for coming to my Mom's memorial service. It really meant a lot to me and my Dad. I do not know how to express my gratitude to all of the people that are sustaning us through this hard and unbelievible time of grief and sadness. I also want to thank God for all the great things and people he put around us. I am sure my Mom and the Lord was honored for the service and all the people who came. Still I feel like a peice of shit, being this sad and depressed. I feel really hurt and wounded that my Mom is not with me and my DAd I know God, family, and friends are with me, but that does not change that fact that my Mom is gone. My prayer request is that this blog will countinue to use at a shelter that we can all share are feelings not only about my Mom, but about life in general. I know that life must go on, but it is going to hurt really bad to try to move on. My other prayer request is to move foward and not dwell on this but to cotinue serving the Lord and others. I want my life to be a impact of a significant amount of people. My other prayer request is that me and my Dad will get more of the Lord's comfort and kindness upon us as we are still mourning the loss of such a wonderful person. Thank you for listining.
Love,
Devon
Thank you all for coming to my Mom's memorial service. It really meant a lot to me and my Dad. I do not know how to express my gratitude to all of the people that are sustaning us through this hard and unbelievible time of grief and sadness. I also want to thank God for all the great things and people he put around us. I am sure my Mom and the Lord was honored for the service and all the people who came. Still I feel like a peice of shit, being this sad and depressed. I feel really hurt and wounded that my Mom is not with me and my DAd I know God, family, and friends are with me, but that does not change that fact that my Mom is gone. My prayer request is that this blog will countinue to use at a shelter that we can all share are feelings not only about my Mom, but about life in general. I know that life must go on, but it is going to hurt really bad to try to move on. My other prayer request is to move foward and not dwell on this but to cotinue serving the Lord and others. I want my life to be a impact of a significant amount of people. My other prayer request is that me and my Dad will get more of the Lord's comfort and kindness upon us as we are still mourning the loss of such a wonderful person. Thank you for listining.
Love,
Devon
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Better Off.
Today is the celebration service for my Gail and Devon's Mom. What a life we've had up to now, soooo rich and full. Not that it was an easy life. Because it wasn't. What made our lives full is that Christ, in His mercy could take sin-dead lives make them them alive. If he could do that for us, he could do that for anyone.
One prayer that I prayed early on after Gail's episode, was that each and every person would somehow be better off by what transpired.
How might a loving God, named Jesus want you to be better off as a result of Gail's death?
And......as Gail would say; 'What's it gonna be?'
One prayer that I prayed early on after Gail's episode, was that each and every person would somehow be better off by what transpired.
How might a loving God, named Jesus want you to be better off as a result of Gail's death?
And......as Gail would say; 'What's it gonna be?'
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
This, just in from my Dad. Thanks Dad!
Dear Jon,
I called Devon at Mike's and they were going to look at a DVD. I plan to go out with him tomarrow. Lauren may be coming up to pick him up, so I'll have to see what his plans are.
I reminded him to pray and read the Bible before he goes to sleep and he said he would. We are enlisting many to pray for you and Devon during this time you are away from him.
Have a good nights rest in the Lord. Love you Dad and mom
I called Devon at Mike's and they were going to look at a DVD. I plan to go out with him tomarrow. Lauren may be coming up to pick him up, so I'll have to see what his plans are.
I reminded him to pray and read the Bible before he goes to sleep and he said he would. We are enlisting many to pray for you and Devon during this time you are away from him.
Have a good nights rest in the Lord. Love you Dad and mom
The Rubber Meets the Road
Devon road down with my parents on Monday. Carol and Stephen Yee went down also. Devon seemed ready to go.
I took last week off just to have 'hang time' with Devon. I think that we both wanted to make sure that we were both doing ok. Devon also had some low-key interactions with friends and attended both a graduation party and his youth group @ church.
We celebrated Father's Day with the Yees, Greg, Kim and the Holmes. We barbequed. It was a nice closure to Mom and Dad's season with Devon and I. Devon, Dad and I went to Mariners on Sunday and it was nice to worship together with both my Dad and my son.
I went back to work on Tuesday. I'm glad that I did. Work is part of the whole and I'm glad that I didn't wait until 'I get well' to go back to work. The company has been great about allowing me to transition back into full capacity understanding that part of my mind is on my grief and loss. They are willing what I have to offer, even if it may not be very much.
Last night after working a full day, I was tired. I don't think that I left a lot of things just laying around, but I found myself taking quite a bit of time, cleaning up after myself and right now, there is just one of me. Wow. But I continued to work and not leave things for tomorrow. I woke up this morning and the house was clean, dishes were washed, trash was out and I left the house with less clutter on the brain.
Tonight I talked to Devon. He called. He is now processing his grief and is feeling sad and a little mad. I think he might be feeling bad for feeling mad. We talked about how it is ok and natural to have a wide range of emotions and that sometimes the emotions are unpredictable. Like tears. He heard me crying in the bathroom. When I came out, he told me that I didn't have to go into the bathroom to cry. I told him that I was crying while I was going to the bathroom, not anticipating when the tears would fall. We had a good chat about how it is ok to have feelings and that they are real.
Tonight two of family friends called. They are gal friends. Both prayed for myself and Devon. One of them called the other night and prayed a very steadying prayer. That night, I was feeling over-tired and fried. She quoted from Psalms 73 about the Lord's goodness and presence even when our flesh and bone feel shaky. I was shaky and these good words spoke to me. Another friend, Sandee called and as she prayed, she saw a picture of me on a lily pad that was holding me up. I told her, that that must've been one huge lily pad. We laughed while we prayed. The sense was that the Lord was holding me up using these lily pads that seem so fragile.
This journey of mourning and loss is still bittersweet. The tears of sadness are still intermingled with tears of the Lord's goodness.
I took last week off just to have 'hang time' with Devon. I think that we both wanted to make sure that we were both doing ok. Devon also had some low-key interactions with friends and attended both a graduation party and his youth group @ church.
We celebrated Father's Day with the Yees, Greg, Kim and the Holmes. We barbequed. It was a nice closure to Mom and Dad's season with Devon and I. Devon, Dad and I went to Mariners on Sunday and it was nice to worship together with both my Dad and my son.
I went back to work on Tuesday. I'm glad that I did. Work is part of the whole and I'm glad that I didn't wait until 'I get well' to go back to work. The company has been great about allowing me to transition back into full capacity understanding that part of my mind is on my grief and loss. They are willing what I have to offer, even if it may not be very much.
Last night after working a full day, I was tired. I don't think that I left a lot of things just laying around, but I found myself taking quite a bit of time, cleaning up after myself and right now, there is just one of me. Wow. But I continued to work and not leave things for tomorrow. I woke up this morning and the house was clean, dishes were washed, trash was out and I left the house with less clutter on the brain.
Tonight I talked to Devon. He called. He is now processing his grief and is feeling sad and a little mad. I think he might be feeling bad for feeling mad. We talked about how it is ok and natural to have a wide range of emotions and that sometimes the emotions are unpredictable. Like tears. He heard me crying in the bathroom. When I came out, he told me that I didn't have to go into the bathroom to cry. I told him that I was crying while I was going to the bathroom, not anticipating when the tears would fall. We had a good chat about how it is ok to have feelings and that they are real.
Tonight two of family friends called. They are gal friends. Both prayed for myself and Devon. One of them called the other night and prayed a very steadying prayer. That night, I was feeling over-tired and fried. She quoted from Psalms 73 about the Lord's goodness and presence even when our flesh and bone feel shaky. I was shaky and these good words spoke to me. Another friend, Sandee called and as she prayed, she saw a picture of me on a lily pad that was holding me up. I told her, that that must've been one huge lily pad. We laughed while we prayed. The sense was that the Lord was holding me up using these lily pads that seem so fragile.
This journey of mourning and loss is still bittersweet. The tears of sadness are still intermingled with tears of the Lord's goodness.
Friday, June 15, 2007
God's Weaving Love
This post is from Carl Yoshimine, Devons Grandad (Ji-Chan)
From the beginning when we heard at Anaheim about our beloved Gail, we have seen God's hand weaving His Love through every single day. We were all at the church: Bachan, Merry, Mike, Joy, and Jordan. We were in shock but it was coming to the Lord there as we prayed together that brought each of us strength to come up North.
Everyday God brought special touches through host of persons coming to the hospital, being present, bring food, drinks, treats that we sectioned off 1/4 the waiting room just to be together. The visitors were from various sector's of Jon and Gail's relationships...C-Pals (Special Olympics group); New Wave friends; church friends, relatives from No.Cal who came daily, So. Cal. all coming to be a network of encouragers.
The fabric of God's love which was being woven everyday through all of you. Some times the strands were bright with hope, then dark threads appeared when we heard from the nuerologist about what was happening to Gail. But our hope in our Lord held us together. Our hearts were darkened by pain and the threads of your prayers continued to hold us and keep us bound to the Lord. We acknowledge that Gail's life continues to live because of the seeds of love empowered by God are touching lives up here and wherever she walked. But the greater hope we have is she is with Lord fully recovered, joined with her father, brother, and friends.
Moving to Half Moon Bay and having the memorial service once again revealed how God wanted to reveal His love through every experience. Jon must of shared these since I have not read or kept up with this. But God once again was lifted up throughout the service. Friends as far as Washington, So. Cal, No. Cal, Central Cal,Costal area worshipped and honored our Lord and Gail.
The weaving of God's love continues to draw us closer to God and more grateful to Him. In our quiet family time this morning we sang "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and "Trust and Obey". How grateful we are for God's Faithfulness to us and in response that we have trusted Him. In our quiet time thoughts we read from "Experiencing God Day by Day" about the way God chose Noah to be faithful and how his son's had to make a choice to follow thier faith and also follow their father's faith.
They were safe in the ark. We reflected about Jon and Gail and Devon's life...they too lived in an ark in Anaheim which was a provision for their safety and life growing to be a family. God has continued to call them to Himself each day as they lived among us in Anaheim, and as their ark of safety moved up to Half Moon Bay. WE again acknowledge that God has chosen us and wants us to continue to be bring others along with us to enjoy the life and LOVE He has shared with.
Your prayers has been a source of strength, of hope, and of encouragement. Miko and I want to thank you for being there for Jon, Devon and our families: Toguchi's and Yoshimines.
Miko and Carl
From the beginning when we heard at Anaheim about our beloved Gail, we have seen God's hand weaving His Love through every single day. We were all at the church: Bachan, Merry, Mike, Joy, and Jordan. We were in shock but it was coming to the Lord there as we prayed together that brought each of us strength to come up North.
Everyday God brought special touches through host of persons coming to the hospital, being present, bring food, drinks, treats that we sectioned off 1/4 the waiting room just to be together. The visitors were from various sector's of Jon and Gail's relationships...C-Pals (Special Olympics group); New Wave friends; church friends, relatives from No.Cal who came daily, So. Cal. all coming to be a network of encouragers.
The fabric of God's love which was being woven everyday through all of you. Some times the strands were bright with hope, then dark threads appeared when we heard from the nuerologist about what was happening to Gail. But our hope in our Lord held us together. Our hearts were darkened by pain and the threads of your prayers continued to hold us and keep us bound to the Lord. We acknowledge that Gail's life continues to live because of the seeds of love empowered by God are touching lives up here and wherever she walked. But the greater hope we have is she is with Lord fully recovered, joined with her father, brother, and friends.
Moving to Half Moon Bay and having the memorial service once again revealed how God wanted to reveal His love through every experience. Jon must of shared these since I have not read or kept up with this. But God once again was lifted up throughout the service. Friends as far as Washington, So. Cal, No. Cal, Central Cal,Costal area worshipped and honored our Lord and Gail.
The weaving of God's love continues to draw us closer to God and more grateful to Him. In our quiet family time this morning we sang "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and "Trust and Obey". How grateful we are for God's Faithfulness to us and in response that we have trusted Him. In our quiet time thoughts we read from "Experiencing God Day by Day" about the way God chose Noah to be faithful and how his son's had to make a choice to follow thier faith and also follow their father's faith.
They were safe in the ark. We reflected about Jon and Gail and Devon's life...they too lived in an ark in Anaheim which was a provision for their safety and life growing to be a family. God has continued to call them to Himself each day as they lived among us in Anaheim, and as their ark of safety moved up to Half Moon Bay. WE again acknowledge that God has chosen us and wants us to continue to be bring others along with us to enjoy the life and LOVE He has shared with.
Your prayers has been a source of strength, of hope, and of encouragement. Miko and I want to thank you for being there for Jon, Devon and our families: Toguchi's and Yoshimines.
Miko and Carl
We are Grateful
All-
We are grateful to Jesus and to you, for our family and Gail have been the recipients of such amazing offerings of prayer, presence and resources. Thank you for welcoming our family into your midst.
We're thankful for such a demonstration of support and presence at Gail's celebration service. Thank you all for 'showing up'. It meant the world to our family. We wish that we could have greeted each one of you personally. It brightened our hearts to see the interaction of the community united and working together. It was a joy to behold!
It blesses us to hear from friends from years past. Hearing from you has brought us both comfort and cheer in these hard times.
From 'The Message'
'My response is to get down on my knees before the Father, this magnificent Father who parcels out all heavens and earth. I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit-not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength-that Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you'll be able to take in with all Christ followers the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb its depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God!
God can do anything you know-far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.'
Ephesians 3:14-20
We are grateful to Jesus and to you, for our family and Gail have been the recipients of such amazing offerings of prayer, presence and resources. Thank you for welcoming our family into your midst.
We're thankful for such a demonstration of support and presence at Gail's celebration service. Thank you all for 'showing up'. It meant the world to our family. We wish that we could have greeted each one of you personally. It brightened our hearts to see the interaction of the community united and working together. It was a joy to behold!
It blesses us to hear from friends from years past. Hearing from you has brought us both comfort and cheer in these hard times.
From 'The Message'
'My response is to get down on my knees before the Father, this magnificent Father who parcels out all heavens and earth. I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit-not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength-that Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you'll be able to take in with all Christ followers the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb its depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God!
God can do anything you know-far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.'
Ephesians 3:14-20
Thursday, June 14, 2007
A Tribute to Gail Yoshimine by Veronica Nicole Navarro
This is the poem that Veronica Navarro wrote and recited at Gail's celebration service. Your love rings out true and clear!
A Tribute to Gail Yoshimine
By: Veronica Nicole Navarro
Patience, Caring, Woman
Three words that described her well.
She who loved to help any man,
Even those who seemed invisible to man’s eye
Because she wanted all humans to succeed
She who handed out uniforms that made us feel united,
A team.
She who celebrated the disabled,
For who they were
For their ability.
That they had to offer the world
She who loved smiles on others faces.
I know that she is in heaven
With angels all around.
Know she is watching Devon
Down on the ground.
To see what he is doing around town.
Know she’s watching Kim and Greg.
And the kindness that they will bring
I know she’s watching Jon
She really loved to watch him do his thing.
And I know she’s watching me,
A kid on the team.
For a dear woman who I’ve only known a season,
I will miss you for many reasons.
I’ll remember your kindness.
And patience
Your soul
Your memory will last with me as I play,
Coach
And cheer
For the basketball team
Or when I go to Half Moon Bay.
And when someone else helps me see
The very special woman that I am and will continue to be
Thank you for all you’ve done for the coast-side special needs kids
From a kid on the Coast-Side Cougars
Who has NLD and CP.
A Tribute to Gail Yoshimine
By: Veronica Nicole Navarro
Patience, Caring, Woman
Three words that described her well.
She who loved to help any man,
Even those who seemed invisible to man’s eye
Because she wanted all humans to succeed
She who handed out uniforms that made us feel united,
A team.
She who celebrated the disabled,
For who they were
For their ability.
That they had to offer the world
She who loved smiles on others faces.
I know that she is in heaven
With angels all around.
Know she is watching Devon
Down on the ground.
To see what he is doing around town.
Know she’s watching Kim and Greg.
And the kindness that they will bring
I know she’s watching Jon
She really loved to watch him do his thing.
And I know she’s watching me,
A kid on the team.
For a dear woman who I’ve only known a season,
I will miss you for many reasons.
I’ll remember your kindness.
And patience
Your soul
Your memory will last with me as I play,
Coach
And cheer
For the basketball team
Or when I go to Half Moon Bay.
And when someone else helps me see
The very special woman that I am and will continue to be
Thank you for all you’ve done for the coast-side special needs kids
From a kid on the Coast-Side Cougars
Who has NLD and CP.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
From Devon...
HI everyone,
This is Devon. I just want to thank everyone for sticking with me and my Dad through this whole situation. Without the support you guys provided, we would not be as happy and contained as we are today. I am still sad that my Mom is gone, but she is with God and that is what is sustaning me and my Dad. Life without my Mom has been hectec. My prayer request is that life would move on but still remember my Mom still the same.
Love,
Devon
This is Devon. I just want to thank everyone for sticking with me and my Dad through this whole situation. Without the support you guys provided, we would not be as happy and contained as we are today. I am still sad that my Mom is gone, but she is with God and that is what is sustaning me and my Dad. Life without my Mom has been hectec. My prayer request is that life would move on but still remember my Mom still the same.
Love,
Devon
How You Can Help - Where to Start
Hi everyone,
Big Wave Group will be coordinating any offers for help for Jon and Devon. If you want to help in any way, please feel free to email Kimberly Brennan at: kimberly@bigwaveproject.org.
Thanks and much love!
-Greg
Big Wave Group will be coordinating any offers for help for Jon and Devon. If you want to help in any way, please feel free to email Kimberly Brennan at: kimberly@bigwaveproject.org.
Thanks and much love!
-Greg
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
I am grateful that.....
Many people have expressed to us how grateful they are in this trying situation.
If you would like to share something that you are grateful/thankful for...please post. Please share anything that you have found encouraging and/or comforting. The community would love to hear from you.
Love,
Jon and Devon
If you would like to share something that you are grateful/thankful for...please post. Please share anything that you have found encouraging and/or comforting. The community would love to hear from you.
Love,
Jon and Devon
The God We Know
The God we know:
is faithful to us even when we're angry at him. (devon)
does not abandon us (devon)
has a sense of humor
has placed family and friends by our side to remind us that we are not alone (devon)
sustains us through this time, because we know that our Mom is in heaven (devon)
is a God who is there as we weep
is understands the groans unspeakable.
word is true
covers us under his wings
loves us the way that we need to be loved
understands us, the way that we need to be understood.
The God that we know 'shows up'
In the chicken enchiladas that we scarfed down last night.
While reading the blog.
In making comments on the blog.
In the open house of family and family and more family last night.
In the reading of his word, the Bible
In just 'being there' with us.
Love,
Jon and Devon
is faithful to us even when we're angry at him. (devon)
does not abandon us (devon)
has a sense of humor
has placed family and friends by our side to remind us that we are not alone (devon)
sustains us through this time, because we know that our Mom is in heaven (devon)
is a God who is there as we weep
is understands the groans unspeakable.
word is true
covers us under his wings
loves us the way that we need to be loved
understands us, the way that we need to be understood.
The God that we know 'shows up'
In the chicken enchiladas that we scarfed down last night.
While reading the blog.
In making comments on the blog.
In the open house of family and family and more family last night.
In the reading of his word, the Bible
In just 'being there' with us.
Love,
Jon and Devon
Monday, June 11, 2007
Gail Yoshimine Memorial Fund
Jon has established the Gail Yoshimine Memorial Fund in Gail's memory to help defray some of the costs associated with Gail's passing, to support Devon's future educational needs and to support the several local organizations that were a significant part of Gail's life in Half Moon Bay. Contributions to this fund can be made by making a check payable to "Gail Yoshimine Memorial Fund". Contributions can be made by:
Bringing the contributions to either the Northern California service on Monday, June 11th or the Southern California service on Sunday, June 24th.
Sending your contributions to the Mariner's Church in Half Moon Bay, with checks made payable to "Gail Yoshimine Memorial Fund". The address is:
Mariners Church
225 S. Cabrillo Hwy 101C
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Thank you so much for remembering Gail in this way.
EDIT: Sorry it took so long to get this up, but I'm sick (is that really a surprise) Love, Jordy
Bringing the contributions to either the Northern California service on Monday, June 11th or the Southern California service on Sunday, June 24th.
Sending your contributions to the Mariner's Church in Half Moon Bay, with checks made payable to "Gail Yoshimine Memorial Fund". The address is:
Mariners Church
225 S. Cabrillo Hwy 101C
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Thank you so much for remembering Gail in this way.
EDIT: Sorry it took so long to get this up, but I'm sick (is that really a surprise) Love, Jordy
Open House
I have found that the door swings both ways. It is so much easier to give than to receive. It is easy to have an open house when I'm the one giving. But receiving??? That is another matter. I am finding that if I only give, and not receive I may be denying an opportunity to help. We have been receiving so much. It has been overwhelming.
Devon has been receiving so much love. He has, on his own decide to go back to school last Friday, the same today. He has gone to youth group and his friends have come around.
We hope that tonight will truly be an open house and that all are invited to partake in the goodness of our mighty and real God!.
Love,
Jon and Devon
Devon has been receiving so much love. He has, on his own decide to go back to school last Friday, the same today. He has gone to youth group and his friends have come around.
We hope that tonight will truly be an open house and that all are invited to partake in the goodness of our mighty and real God!.
Love,
Jon and Devon
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Thanksgiving
Hi Everyone.
The following are just a few things that 'our family' (anyone that we know)is thankful for:
for your presence with us through comments, prayers, thoughts on this blog. All of us are grieving Gail's loss and it has already become a means for ALL of us to process our loss. Someone told me years ago, that one of the best ways go through grief, is to talk about it with someone else. In other words, don't let it eat you up inside. Let others come around, share your need. Sometimes scary stuff. But needed. Never have I felt the need to share my (our needs) than now. Why? Because I cannot make it alone.
Just yesterday, a friend, Peter, came over. I needed to get out and realized that I had not really taken a walk. I immediately realized that this was the same path that Gail and were walking for about the last six weeks.
I had gone in for a physical and the Dr. told me as one of the remedies, to make ca contract with Gail and walk for 5 minutes daily. I asked him, 'Why only 5 minutes?' then he said, 'Because if I say 30 minutes, you won't do it.' So true. He said that it would be good for my marriage with Gail because we will talk while we walk'.
Gail was the ultimate anti-morning person. Dr. Charlie said to do it @ 6:00AM. I felt bad about waking Gail up, but each time, she never complained, got up and we walked and talked. I know she wants me to finish what we started and to take care of myself and Devon. Thanks Gail for getting up with me.
Yesterday, as I walked this trail for the first time without Gail, but with Peter, I realized that I, Devon we all are not alone. We do not have to walk through life's pain's and tragedies alone.
Peter is a thoughtful person...he simply walked and listened. He didn't give me any advice or tell me what to do. He just let me be. That is through the faith that we have in the real person of Jesus Christ. It is personal. The faith is just not words, nor slogans, but real stuff given to us through family like yourselves. In you and your offering, we have witnessed the Love of the God in the flesh. In the here-and-now. There is no denying it. Why? Because I cannot even imagaine any other way that our family can be so thankful even in the midst of something so sad as this.
More later.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
The following are just a few things that 'our family' (anyone that we know)is thankful for:
for your presence with us through comments, prayers, thoughts on this blog. All of us are grieving Gail's loss and it has already become a means for ALL of us to process our loss. Someone told me years ago, that one of the best ways go through grief, is to talk about it with someone else. In other words, don't let it eat you up inside. Let others come around, share your need. Sometimes scary stuff. But needed. Never have I felt the need to share my (our needs) than now. Why? Because I cannot make it alone.
Just yesterday, a friend, Peter, came over. I needed to get out and realized that I had not really taken a walk. I immediately realized that this was the same path that Gail and were walking for about the last six weeks.
I had gone in for a physical and the Dr. told me as one of the remedies, to make ca contract with Gail and walk for 5 minutes daily. I asked him, 'Why only 5 minutes?' then he said, 'Because if I say 30 minutes, you won't do it.' So true. He said that it would be good for my marriage with Gail because we will talk while we walk'.
Gail was the ultimate anti-morning person. Dr. Charlie said to do it @ 6:00AM. I felt bad about waking Gail up, but each time, she never complained, got up and we walked and talked. I know she wants me to finish what we started and to take care of myself and Devon. Thanks Gail for getting up with me.
Yesterday, as I walked this trail for the first time without Gail, but with Peter, I realized that I, Devon we all are not alone. We do not have to walk through life's pain's and tragedies alone.
Peter is a thoughtful person...he simply walked and listened. He didn't give me any advice or tell me what to do. He just let me be. That is through the faith that we have in the real person of Jesus Christ. It is personal. The faith is just not words, nor slogans, but real stuff given to us through family like yourselves. In you and your offering, we have witnessed the Love of the God in the flesh. In the here-and-now. There is no denying it. Why? Because I cannot even imagaine any other way that our family can be so thankful even in the midst of something so sad as this.
More later.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
Friday, June 8, 2007
Justin and Lauren's Time
Hey guys this is Lauren and Justin. moreso lauren since justin can't type fast. so to those who are not familiar with us, we're cousins of devon and neice and nephew of Gail and jon. So just wanted to tell everyone that we're all okay and just thanks so much with all of your blog comments and keeping us in your prayers. anyways, God has just been so amazing during this time. its pretty overwhelming with everything that has been occuring this last week. justin and i are so glad we came up here when we did, and it being 'the day after' justin and i just wanted everyone to know what kind of miracles have been going on here despite the whole situation.
Here's how you can help part 2
Jon, my mom and dad, Gail's mom and my sister-in-law, Susan have been discussing how you can honor Gail. It's been so comforting to the whole family, especially Jon and Dev to read your comments on this blog. If at all possible, if you can ALL start posting your memories, stories of Gail that would be great.
The wonderful thing about the internet is...no matter where you are, whether you can come to the services or not, you can participate in the celebration of Gail's life.
Jon and Dev are looking forward to hearing from you all over the next few weeks.
Thanks,
Jordy
P.S. Jon wanted me to let you know that Devon will be blogging....
The wonderful thing about the internet is...no matter where you are, whether you can come to the services or not, you can participate in the celebration of Gail's life.
Jon and Dev are looking forward to hearing from you all over the next few weeks.
Thanks,
Jordy
P.S. Jon wanted me to let you know that Devon will be blogging....
Here's how you can help.....
It's me, Jordy, again. We are putting together pictures of Gail for both a slideshow and perhaps a photo collage. We would like as many pics from different areas and times of Gail's life. Send all pictures to bsrhunt@masudacentral.com. They must be jpeg files. Thanks..again if you have any questions you call me or email me at jordanyosh@aol.com
EDIT: If you can include the year the picture was taken, the event and who is in the picture that would be great. Thanks.
EDIT: If you can include the year the picture was taken, the event and who is in the picture that would be great. Thanks.
Celebrating Gail
Hi Everyone, Kimberly here.
I know everyone is anxious to come together and celebrate what a wonderful person Gail was and continues to be, and to share how she touched each of us. We will be holding a memorial service for Gail on Monday, June 11 at 7:00 pm. The service will be held at Mariners Church, located at Shoreline Station, 225 S. Cabrillo Hwy. in Half Moon Bay. For directions to the church, click here. If you would like to bring a finger food/appetizer to the service please contact Karen Holmes at holmzfam@sonic.net.
Mariners Church and Big Wave Group are setting up a Memorial Fund as well, and we will be sending out the details as we receive them.
Greg and I were fortunate to spend this past week surrounded by people who knew and loved Gail. There was a steady stream of visitors at the hospital and as introductions were made, one of the first questions asked was always, “How are you related to Gail?” In every response it was apparent that no matter what the relationship, or how short or how long a person knew Gail, the bond she had with each person was deep, strong, and lasting. As Greg and I go through the pain of losing Gail we are comforted by the love we feel from her family & friends, people that Greg and I now consider our family. Even in my sadness I feel joy, and I know in my heart that is exactly what Gail would want.
I know everyone is anxious to come together and celebrate what a wonderful person Gail was and continues to be, and to share how she touched each of us. We will be holding a memorial service for Gail on Monday, June 11 at 7:00 pm. The service will be held at Mariners Church, located at Shoreline Station, 225 S. Cabrillo Hwy. in Half Moon Bay. For directions to the church, click here. If you would like to bring a finger food/appetizer to the service please contact Karen Holmes at holmzfam@sonic.net.
Mariners Church and Big Wave Group are setting up a Memorial Fund as well, and we will be sending out the details as we receive them.
Greg and I were fortunate to spend this past week surrounded by people who knew and loved Gail. There was a steady stream of visitors at the hospital and as introductions were made, one of the first questions asked was always, “How are you related to Gail?” In every response it was apparent that no matter what the relationship, or how short or how long a person knew Gail, the bond she had with each person was deep, strong, and lasting. As Greg and I go through the pain of losing Gail we are comforted by the love we feel from her family & friends, people that Greg and I now consider our family. Even in my sadness I feel joy, and I know in my heart that is exactly what Gail would want.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Gail is loving us all from above.
Gail went home to be with our Heavenly Father this morning around 5am
after they removed the ventilator. Jon hasn't slept yet and is busy
making funeral arrangements. The thing about Jon and Gail is that
they were always taking care of others so of course Jon is busying
himself making sure that everyone will have a chance to say goodbye to
Gail. Please pray that Jon will be able to get some rest today.
While he appreciates everyone concern, please hold off any telephone
calls till after 6:00pm (and I'm thinking a even later than that) If
you need to get a hold of him or need any further information please
contact me at (619) 865-4019.
TENTATIVELY a service in Northern California will be on held on Monday
June 11th and another service will be in Southern California on
Sunday June 24th. Time and location still need to be determined for
both.
Thank you for your continued prayers, support and love. Jon shared
today that he was able to take his laptop into the room with Gail and
he read all the blog comments and from them his fear turned to courage
and then to love.
~Jordy
after they removed the ventilator. Jon hasn't slept yet and is busy
making funeral arrangements. The thing about Jon and Gail is that
they were always taking care of others so of course Jon is busying
himself making sure that everyone will have a chance to say goodbye to
Gail. Please pray that Jon will be able to get some rest today.
While he appreciates everyone concern, please hold off any telephone
calls till after 6:00pm (and I'm thinking a even later than that) If
you need to get a hold of him or need any further information please
contact me at (619) 865-4019.
TENTATIVELY a service in Northern California will be on held on Monday
June 11th and another service will be in Southern California on
Sunday June 24th. Time and location still need to be determined for
both.
Thank you for your continued prayers, support and love. Jon shared
today that he was able to take his laptop into the room with Gail and
he read all the blog comments and from them his fear turned to courage
and then to love.
~Jordy
New Beginning
Hi Everyone,
If you've read Jordy's post, you know where we're at and where Gail is. She and I are having some 'together time' in her room. It is quiet and peaceful and altogether precious. Gail is precious in her Father's sight. I sense that she is already safe and secure with Him.
Devon and I went out for a drive for a few hours and we were just talking about Gail both in the past, present and future tense. It was too a precious and needed time. The Lord has been so gracious to Gail and to our family. He has been setting everything in order for his ways are so much higher than our ways.
I am thankful to the Lord for Gail, my love, my friend, my understanding partner and Super Mom. Moving up to Northern Cal, 9 years ago, allowed Gail to focus on Devon and pour herself into him and as her health improved, she was able to help out with Special Olympics, C-Pals, Big Wave and helping out in Devon's home school class. This last week, she was doing what she loved doing and that's planning a party for special needs graduates. The Lord has been so gracious in that He has allowed Gail to follow her passion in bringing people together in community.
I am writing this so that I can document and remember what was going on on her last day on this earth.
I am also writing this to Devon to tell you that your Mom and I love you very much and will never stop loving you. Mom, Grandpa and uncle Craig, uncle Paul and others will be cheering you on and make sure that you aren't chugging too many rockstars. I think that Mom would say, 'Trust in the Lord, with all Thine heart, and trust not in your own understanding, in all things acknowledge Him and he will make your paths straight.'
Death does not have the last word as Gail is now standing with a new body and is safe and sound.
Thank you Gail, for this precious time together. Devon and I are looking forward to our reunion and we will be ok.
'God my shepherd!
I don't need a thing!
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
Even when the way goes through
Death Valley.
I'm not afraid
when you walk by my side.
Your trusty shepherd's crook
makes me feel secure.
You serve me a six-course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head
my cup brims with blessing.
Your beauty adn love chase after me
every day of my life.
I'm back home in the house of God for the rest of
my life.
Love, Jon, Gail and Devon
If you've read Jordy's post, you know where we're at and where Gail is. She and I are having some 'together time' in her room. It is quiet and peaceful and altogether precious. Gail is precious in her Father's sight. I sense that she is already safe and secure with Him.
Devon and I went out for a drive for a few hours and we were just talking about Gail both in the past, present and future tense. It was too a precious and needed time. The Lord has been so gracious to Gail and to our family. He has been setting everything in order for his ways are so much higher than our ways.
I am thankful to the Lord for Gail, my love, my friend, my understanding partner and Super Mom. Moving up to Northern Cal, 9 years ago, allowed Gail to focus on Devon and pour herself into him and as her health improved, she was able to help out with Special Olympics, C-Pals, Big Wave and helping out in Devon's home school class. This last week, she was doing what she loved doing and that's planning a party for special needs graduates. The Lord has been so gracious in that He has allowed Gail to follow her passion in bringing people together in community.
I am writing this so that I can document and remember what was going on on her last day on this earth.
I am also writing this to Devon to tell you that your Mom and I love you very much and will never stop loving you. Mom, Grandpa and uncle Craig, uncle Paul and others will be cheering you on and make sure that you aren't chugging too many rockstars. I think that Mom would say, 'Trust in the Lord, with all Thine heart, and trust not in your own understanding, in all things acknowledge Him and he will make your paths straight.'
Death does not have the last word as Gail is now standing with a new body and is safe and sound.
Thank you Gail, for this precious time together. Devon and I are looking forward to our reunion and we will be ok.
'God my shepherd!
I don't need a thing!
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
Even when the way goes through
Death Valley.
I'm not afraid
when you walk by my side.
Your trusty shepherd's crook
makes me feel secure.
You serve me a six-course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head
my cup brims with blessing.
Your beauty adn love chase after me
every day of my life.
I'm back home in the house of God for the rest of
my life.
Love, Jon, Gail and Devon
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
The latest update
This is Jordy again. Gail had another episode this morning. Both her eyes have been dialated for several hours and there is no longer any brain activity. She is no longer on any medication, but still on her ventilator. We are waiting for Gail's neices, nephew, brother-in-law and sister-in-law to get here to say goodbye. Please pray that she won't go into organ failure until they arrive later tonight. While she is physically still with us, she has already gone to be with the Lord, Gary and Craig.
I know Jon will blog later, but I just wanted to let you all know that we have constantly felt the love and support for the family over the last 5 days.
The Lord is our strength, our Rock.
Jordy
I know Jon will blog later, but I just wanted to let you all know that we have constantly felt the love and support for the family over the last 5 days.
The Lord is our strength, our Rock.
Jordy
Hi everyone, this is Devon speaking. Man, all of this seems like a whole nightmare. I am scared to death because my Mom has a brain hemmerage. I seem to blame all of this on myself, and God. I keep praying to God but it's hard to pray to him when I am pissed as hell. I keep asking God for forgivness but everytime I look at my Mom I keep getting mad at him. But I know that it's in God's hand. It's not in mine. Please pray that my Mom will be filled with God's holy spirit. Also pray that you keep the family intact in one peace. Right now though I feel like a peice of shit. But life goe's on and we must be strong. I appreciate the prayers all you are praying.
Love,
Devon
Love,
Devon
Offerings....
Hi Everyone.
Thank you for your ovrewhelming support, prayer and presence. The Holy Spirit is taking your petitions and thoughts and personally laying each one before the feet of Jesus. Your prayers and thoughts and actions are honoring the Lord and filling Gail's, Devon's any my cup. When we feel depleted, something happens that again fills our cup. For example two days ago, we received some tough news and were, I think, kind of down. In walks Bertha Villa and her son Raul from work testifying to the goodness of the Lord and this encouraged us.
Gail's condition did not change too much yesterday, which at this point is a good thing. The reason for this is that when one is placed into a state of being in a paralytic coma, there are other serious side effects. Thankfully, she did not have any of these side effects. The Ct scan taken yesterday showed that there was no additional bleeding (good, good, the ventricles in her brain did not swell up.
The location of the aneurysim is the Posterior Cerebllum, next to the brain stem. It is dome shaped, and not the shape of a balloon.
This morning, I called the nurse and she said that last night was a better night than the last, as Gail did not have any seizure or vasospasm.
We were not able to speak to the Neurosurgeon yesterday to get an idea of a game plan, but part of the reason, I think is that Gail has to get stable first. But the nurse will see to it that we can have some time with Dr. Baiz. One thing that is clear, even in the best case scenario, this will be a long journey.
Please pray that:
1. Gail would remain stable and show signs that the induced coma is not necessary. This, I think, would be based on the absence of complications over a period of time.
2. That the Lord will heal the aneurysm and all associate effects of the bleed.
3. That the Lord will continue to use this hardship to bring us closer to Him.
4. That our friends and family that do not yet know the Love of Jesus Christ, will be open to knowing Him on a personal basis. There is absolutely no denying that He is already working wonders!
Moving forward, please pray for wisdom and discernment as to some of the following issues/concerns
1. Moving visitors from the hotel to homes. I think that we might keep one room at the travel lodge and have the last person that is with Gail every night stay there.
2. How to balance being with Gail and the need to rest and take care of everyday things especially for Devon. We will probably go home for awhile today.
3. We have given two dear friends the authority to advocate on our behalf for Devon's education. The principal of HMB High School has already said that Devon can take his final's when he's ready. We need to be able to retain his current grades, do make-up work and plan for this summer and the fall. (adjustments to schedule)
More prayer requests
1. That we can process this grief safely under the protective hand of the Father.
2. How Devon processes this and when and how to help him to do this.
How is Devon doing?
Devon's home school buds, Allie, Taylor and mom Lisa came to hang with Devon. Some other friends (siblings) hung out.
There are a lot of people, and I think that Devon needs to process more on an individual basis. I will take him out and probably back home for awhile today. We will do some normal stuff around the house.
How am I doing?
I haven't had much time to think about it, but both Devon and I have been sleeping well. I have been waking up before my alarm. This has been good, so that I can have some quiet time and think through some things and do this blog. I know that as time goes on, we will need people to sit with us and walk with us, not do say anything, or do anything, but just to be there. This isn't easy to do. It is often awkward, especially for us guys, but I think that that is what we need. I think that we will have people just sit with Gail in her room, have people just hang with Devon and people to walk/sit with me. There is a lot inside that needs to come out.
It's good, because both Devon and I have been emoting and lamenting already.
Gail would want you to know that she is grateful for your acts of love and kindness on her behalf.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
Thank you for your ovrewhelming support, prayer and presence. The Holy Spirit is taking your petitions and thoughts and personally laying each one before the feet of Jesus. Your prayers and thoughts and actions are honoring the Lord and filling Gail's, Devon's any my cup. When we feel depleted, something happens that again fills our cup. For example two days ago, we received some tough news and were, I think, kind of down. In walks Bertha Villa and her son Raul from work testifying to the goodness of the Lord and this encouraged us.
Gail's condition did not change too much yesterday, which at this point is a good thing. The reason for this is that when one is placed into a state of being in a paralytic coma, there are other serious side effects. Thankfully, she did not have any of these side effects. The Ct scan taken yesterday showed that there was no additional bleeding (good, good, the ventricles in her brain did not swell up.
The location of the aneurysim is the Posterior Cerebllum, next to the brain stem. It is dome shaped, and not the shape of a balloon.
This morning, I called the nurse and she said that last night was a better night than the last, as Gail did not have any seizure or vasospasm.
We were not able to speak to the Neurosurgeon yesterday to get an idea of a game plan, but part of the reason, I think is that Gail has to get stable first. But the nurse will see to it that we can have some time with Dr. Baiz. One thing that is clear, even in the best case scenario, this will be a long journey.
Please pray that:
1. Gail would remain stable and show signs that the induced coma is not necessary. This, I think, would be based on the absence of complications over a period of time.
2. That the Lord will heal the aneurysm and all associate effects of the bleed.
3. That the Lord will continue to use this hardship to bring us closer to Him.
4. That our friends and family that do not yet know the Love of Jesus Christ, will be open to knowing Him on a personal basis. There is absolutely no denying that He is already working wonders!
Moving forward, please pray for wisdom and discernment as to some of the following issues/concerns
1. Moving visitors from the hotel to homes. I think that we might keep one room at the travel lodge and have the last person that is with Gail every night stay there.
2. How to balance being with Gail and the need to rest and take care of everyday things especially for Devon. We will probably go home for awhile today.
3. We have given two dear friends the authority to advocate on our behalf for Devon's education. The principal of HMB High School has already said that Devon can take his final's when he's ready. We need to be able to retain his current grades, do make-up work and plan for this summer and the fall. (adjustments to schedule)
More prayer requests
1. That we can process this grief safely under the protective hand of the Father.
2. How Devon processes this and when and how to help him to do this.
How is Devon doing?
Devon's home school buds, Allie, Taylor and mom Lisa came to hang with Devon. Some other friends (siblings) hung out.
There are a lot of people, and I think that Devon needs to process more on an individual basis. I will take him out and probably back home for awhile today. We will do some normal stuff around the house.
How am I doing?
I haven't had much time to think about it, but both Devon and I have been sleeping well. I have been waking up before my alarm. This has been good, so that I can have some quiet time and think through some things and do this blog. I know that as time goes on, we will need people to sit with us and walk with us, not do say anything, or do anything, but just to be there. This isn't easy to do. It is often awkward, especially for us guys, but I think that that is what we need. I think that we will have people just sit with Gail in her room, have people just hang with Devon and people to walk/sit with me. There is a lot inside that needs to come out.
It's good, because both Devon and I have been emoting and lamenting already.
Gail would want you to know that she is grateful for your acts of love and kindness on her behalf.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
Update From Jordan Yoshimine
I just wanted to give people who wanted to know an update for Tuesday. There really wasn't a change in her overall condition. It still remains critical and Gail remains in the induced coma. There have been times of increased blood pressure and her left eye dialating. The Dr was monitoring this, but didn't really give an explanation why that was happening. They began feeding her this afternoon about 3pm, but at a very slow rate. She hasn't eaten since Saturday.
The rest of week is a critical time for Gail. Please continue to pray. The blog is on at all times on a laptop in the waiting room at the hospital. We all have been reading the comments throughout the day. The love, support and prayers have been the food that is sustaining Jon, Dev and Gail.
Thanks again and continue to post.....it gives us encouragement throughout the day.
Jordy (Jon's better looking brother)
The rest of week is a critical time for Gail. Please continue to pray. The blog is on at all times on a laptop in the waiting room at the hospital. We all have been reading the comments throughout the day. The love, support and prayers have been the food that is sustaining Jon, Dev and Gail.
Thanks again and continue to post.....it gives us encouragement throughout the day.
Jordy (Jon's better looking brother)
Monday, June 4, 2007
Alive in Christ
It is the end of a trying day. Please pray for the Gail's condition to remain stable and that there are no complications. She has had some spasms that have caused additional bleeding so the Dr's have set her on a heavy dose of medication to induce a near paralytic condition with the aim of gaining stability.
She has been stable now for 12 hours.
Devon and I spent time with her and Devon was peppering the nurse with questions. It's good that he wants to know what's going on with his Mom. We sang, 'Jesus, Lover of my Soul, Blessed be your Name, I Love you Lord and Give Thanks.
Your many prayers have been filling Gail's cup and our cup, just when we get some tough news like today. We know that the Lord is up to something good. We see evidence of this in our family and friends that are meeting one another. Gail, Devon and I have always longed for our family and friends down south to meet our family and friends that we have made in the community of half moon bay, through basketball, C-pals, Mariners and Bay City. We have seen with our own eyes evidence of God's provision for instance:
1. When Gail blacked out on Saturday, she sat down on the couch. The paramedics were there in less than 5 minutes.
2. I was familiar with the neurosurgeon from work and was comforted having someone that I knew.
3. Devon and I were not at breakfast like we had planned on Saturday morning.
4. Gail was not in the car on the way to emergency with us to Moss Beach. (She would have had to have been transported to another hospital and delayed treatment.
5. Our cousin,Laura Jong, is a neurologist and has given us a clearer understanding of what is going on.
6. All the friends and family and work mates that have called, prayed and visited.
7. Gail remains peaceful. And we have a sense of peace that passes all understanding, because this is so darn hard to understand.
Thanks for you comments and prayers. They are our life and drink.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
She has been stable now for 12 hours.
Devon and I spent time with her and Devon was peppering the nurse with questions. It's good that he wants to know what's going on with his Mom. We sang, 'Jesus, Lover of my Soul, Blessed be your Name, I Love you Lord and Give Thanks.
Your many prayers have been filling Gail's cup and our cup, just when we get some tough news like today. We know that the Lord is up to something good. We see evidence of this in our family and friends that are meeting one another. Gail, Devon and I have always longed for our family and friends down south to meet our family and friends that we have made in the community of half moon bay, through basketball, C-pals, Mariners and Bay City. We have seen with our own eyes evidence of God's provision for instance:
1. When Gail blacked out on Saturday, she sat down on the couch. The paramedics were there in less than 5 minutes.
2. I was familiar with the neurosurgeon from work and was comforted having someone that I knew.
3. Devon and I were not at breakfast like we had planned on Saturday morning.
4. Gail was not in the car on the way to emergency with us to Moss Beach. (She would have had to have been transported to another hospital and delayed treatment.
5. Our cousin,Laura Jong, is a neurologist and has given us a clearer understanding of what is going on.
6. All the friends and family and work mates that have called, prayed and visited.
7. Gail remains peaceful. And we have a sense of peace that passes all understanding, because this is so darn hard to understand.
Thanks for you comments and prayers. They are our life and drink.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
Big Challenge
Hi Everyone,
We just received some disappointing news about Gail's prognosis. The latest CT Scan revealed a large aneurism that cannot be addressed by usual means due to the size. Gail's blood pressure has been more up and down which could mean more bleeding. Not a good thing. The neurosurgeon said that she is in critical, critical condition. It is our understanding that very few people survive this type of condition. This gives us a better idea as to how to pray, which we have. Family is here, friends and their presence and ongoing prayers in our faith community have sustained us.
Please pray that Gail would not be fearful but rest fully in the Father's perfect love. We too need to be comforted as this news is difficult to take. Please pray that the Lord would close up the hole, and that the bleeding would stop and that she would regain full health.
Devon is up next.
I am really worried about my Mom's health. She is in a very critical situation. Although she seems very sick, she is not strugguling. Me and everyone at the hospitial is praying their guts out. Me and my Dad really appreciate it. I am asking that all who know about this are praying. We can't do anything but wait and pray. It's not by might or by prayer but it's by my spirit said the Lord God. Zaceriah. Thanks so muc h you guys.
We just received some disappointing news about Gail's prognosis. The latest CT Scan revealed a large aneurism that cannot be addressed by usual means due to the size. Gail's blood pressure has been more up and down which could mean more bleeding. Not a good thing. The neurosurgeon said that she is in critical, critical condition. It is our understanding that very few people survive this type of condition. This gives us a better idea as to how to pray, which we have. Family is here, friends and their presence and ongoing prayers in our faith community have sustained us.
Please pray that Gail would not be fearful but rest fully in the Father's perfect love. We too need to be comforted as this news is difficult to take. Please pray that the Lord would close up the hole, and that the bleeding would stop and that she would regain full health.
Devon is up next.
I am really worried about my Mom's health. She is in a very critical situation. Although she seems very sick, she is not strugguling. Me and everyone at the hospitial is praying their guts out. Me and my Dad really appreciate it. I am asking that all who know about this are praying. We can't do anything but wait and pray. It's not by might or by prayer but it's by my spirit said the Lord God. Zaceriah. Thanks so muc h you guys.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Gail is doing better.
Hi Everyone.
Gail is resting peacefully. She is resting in her Father's arms, safe and secure. According to the nurse, Gail's condition has changed for the better since she first came into ER yesterday. Gail has been responsive in her hands and feet. Her main risk at this time is for a vasolspasm that could trigger a stroke.
Tomorrow we will have a better idea if surgery is needed. If not, then they will try to gradually wean her off the ventilator. Please pray for us as we consider how to handle the rest of his school schedule.
Thank you for your prayers on Gail's behalf.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
Gail is resting peacefully. She is resting in her Father's arms, safe and secure. According to the nurse, Gail's condition has changed for the better since she first came into ER yesterday. Gail has been responsive in her hands and feet. Her main risk at this time is for a vasolspasm that could trigger a stroke.
Tomorrow we will have a better idea if surgery is needed. If not, then they will try to gradually wean her off the ventilator. Please pray for us as we consider how to handle the rest of his school schedule.
Thank you for your prayers on Gail's behalf.
Love,
Jon, Gail and Devon
This is for Gail, family, and friends
Welcome!
We've created this space for everyone to get together and track Gail's progress, as well as share our love, support, stories, and feelings for this wonderful, wonderful wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, and more. Please feel free to post your thoughts and continue to check in for updates.
We've created this space for everyone to get together and track Gail's progress, as well as share our love, support, stories, and feelings for this wonderful, wonderful wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, and more. Please feel free to post your thoughts and continue to check in for updates.
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