Hi MCM readers,
Here is a website that has information about my friend Bob. If you know him or even if you do not I ask that you take the time to read this post and commit to praying for this amazing man. He is a true apostle of Christ and has been committed to serving the Lord as a missionary for as long as I have known him. Bob and his family serve the poor youth in inner cities. He has started an amazing ministry called 'Vagabond Ministries' and he and his family of seven have been shining example of Christs love to everyone they meet.
Thanks everyone.
www.prayfortheb.com
Reflection 9/24/09
I haven't been to the hospital yet today, so this is a bit more of a reflection on the past week or so than an update.
Last week when this all started, we thought that Bob went to hospital with some sort of bad migrane. I remember telling someone to pray for Bob and told them what was going on, and they asked me if they had ruled out a stroke. I think I looked at him like he was a fool; I thought to myself, "A stroke? My brother is 31 and in terriffic health - that's so dumb." Sure enough, a few hours later, I got a phone call from my sister-in-law Kate, telling me that Bob had had a stroke.
I remember when I told someone about this they had told me to tell Bob not to give up; the person told me about how they had a stroke and the long process they went through to get back to health. I politely thanked that man for sharing his story, but informed him "that my brother was okay," and "that he just had a minor stroke." I was pretty sure this was going to be over in a few days. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
I also remember go into the ICU to see Bob for the first time. I was waiting for my brother Bob to jump out at say, "I got you!" and find out this is all some big, sick practical joke. But sure enough, there he was in a hospital bed.
Here's what we know about Bob- Bob had 3 strokes and the main stroke was pretty massive. Praise God that Bob's not in any immediate danger anymore of having more strokes. They've located the source of the stroke and the blood thinners should have by now broken down that clot. The parts of Bob's brain that were affected by the stroke can't heal or come back, however, what normally happens is that other parts of the brain compensate for those that are not working. Since Bob is so young and in great health, the doctors believe that Bob can make a good recovery. We know that Bob can only get better from here. That being said please realize the situation is still very serious.
Bob had 3 strokes and only time and rehab will tell exactly what comes back and what does not. This is why we continue to ask for your help in praying for Bob and for donations for his family. Thank you first of all for your prayers. Our entire family is so thankful that you would pray for Bob and his family. We are also so overwhelmed by your donations to his family. It's really amazing to see how everyone's been a part of this through their donations. Every bit helps- I've been touched by those who have given even $5 - knowing that for some people that's a sacrifice. I am reminded of the story from the Gospel of Mark of the widow who gave her last "penny" to God.
If you are reading this and don't know Bob that well, please know that Bob's never really lived his life to collect a big paycheck or been focused on money. In fact, his family of 7 lives a pretty simple life. I remember that once Bob bought a modest HDTV only to give it away a few weeks later to the poor because he and his wife thought it was too extravagant for their lifestyle. We (Bob's family) are just trying to ensure that Bob and Kate don't have to be concerned with finances for the time being while they are going through all this since Bob is self-employed.
We also know that God is in control and that God is at work even through this situation. More than anything please keep on praying.
One of the things that Bob has been repeating over and over is that "he feels really loved," and I can speak for all my family and tell you that we all feel that way.
Andy
Update 9/23/09
Bob began intensive rehab and will be on a pretty packed schedule of rehab every day. His spirits are still good and he believes that he can do it with God's help. He's told me numerous times that he told God, "he doesn't mind getting fat, as long as he gets bettter." He learned today how to push his own wheel chair, which was a little dangerous when he started going into other people's rooms and turning the lights on. Everyday Bob will have to go through both physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Bob will have a long journey back to health and I want to invite you to send emails to Bob letting him know how you and your families are praying for him, send him some words of encouragement, and/or let him know why he has a special place in your life. I will print those emails and give them to Bob.
Pray for his wife Kate- she has been with Bob pretty much around the clock. Pray that she would get some rest and that God would be her strength in the days ahead. Pray for a miracle.
If you want to send cards to Bob in the hospital they can be sent toBob Lesnefsky, Room 6234UPMC Mercy1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Please no visitors without checking with the family
Thanks for the prayers. Keep them coming. Andy
