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Superintendent Roger Brumbalow |
Read Letter from Superintendent Brumbalow
Click Here for Letter or Click Here for Video
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UPDATE |
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July 11 - Becky just called with the great news that her white blood count is up from 1.2 to 4.6. This is an excellent increase and allows her to continue the chemo treatment. When she called to give the news she was taking the chemo. Becky said that she is to continue treatment through Thanksgiving. Becky also wanted everyone to know that Roger's doctor called and said that he does not have to take insulin any longer. This is another item to check off for Roger's complete recovery. Becky came across Roger's medication profile. When he left the hospital he was on 26 different medications and now he is down to 5. They are methodically removing another one. As Becky often says, "It is a great day for a miracle!" | ||
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July 9 - We rejoice in the faithfulness of our God. He has blessed us with His love and kindness. Yesterday was full of appointments from early to late afternoon. The MRI taken at 8:00 am and viewed by the neurologist, radiologist, and oncologist was just what they had hoped for. The test showed no cancer and that the brain was healing. Each doctor was excited and exclaimed that the radiation and chemo had done their job. In fact, the radiologist released him. I, too, am appreciative that my praise goes to my faithful Lord who has heard our prayers and is working on our behalf. Rog will be coming off most of his medicine, which makes both happy. He will begin chemo again on Monday night. This will be for five nights a month for the next six to twelve months. The length of time will be decided later. We both praise our Lord for His goodness and thank you dear family and friends for you love and prayers. It is a great day for a miracle. I go for chemo on Friday we will see if my count is up. After Friday, I will give another update. Isa. 3 & 4 - "Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, all you who remain in Israel. I have cared for you since you were born. Yes, I carried you before you were born. I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you." - New Living Translation | ||
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July 8 - We’re doing well. On Wednesday, I took Roger to the Rehab Center at the Coliseum Hospital. After three hours of assessments and workouts, he was ready for home. We both left knowing they would be working him just as hard as Emory. I don’t think he’s looking forward to going back. However, we’ll return tomorrow, Monday, July 7th for an hour each with speech, physical, and occupational therapist. Later that evening, we will leave for Emory. Tuesday morning at 8:00am, Roger is to have an MRI. He will see the neurosurgeon, the oncologist, and the radiologist. It will be a full day but after it’s over, we’ll return home. This past Friday, I went for my chemo treatment, but was unable to receive it. My white-blood cell count was too low. They said, ‘go home and rest’. That’s easier said than done for I’m busier than I’ve ever been. It’s is good to know that this temporary. I’m blessed by family who comes to help and many friends who continue to pray. I was reading in the Amplified Bible the other night and came across this. It truly describes Roger and I… Psalm 33: 20 -22 ‘Our inner selves wait (earnestly) for the Lord; He is our Help and our Shield. For in Him does our heart rejoice, because we have trusted (relied on and been confident) in His Holy Name. Let your mercy and lovingkindness, O’ Lord, be upon us in proportion to our waiting and hoping for you!’ Yes….it is a great day for a ‘Miracle’! | ||
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June 27 - Suitcases are unpacked and things put back in their place…the first time in ten weeks. We rejoiced when we got home knowing it was for good. This was good for our heart and mind. We both have slept soundly in our own bed. There truly is no place like ‘home’. I thought we were to go today for Roger’s therapy assessment but it was yesterday. I just missed the date; however, we continue to do what the therapist gave us for homework. Roger groans when I tell him it’s time to do our exercises or speech therapy. We laugh and cry through them together knowing that one day this will all be behind us. I had decided to have our garage and front porch acid-stained while we were gone. We had talked about this before the surgery but did not get around to doing it. I made certain the company knew it had to be completed before we arrived home on Wednesday. Well….it wasn’t done. We pulled into the driveway and there was his Z and my car parked in front of the house. He got out of the car, took one look at the closed garage, and asked, “What’s going on?” I quickly explained that I had the garage floor stained as we had talked about. He looked at me and said, “Yea!” Once inside the house he immediately went to see what was going on. He knew I was up to something. I really wasn’t, but he has watched the guys close as they finish the job. I’m not sure what he thinks now…..but I’ll know soon enough. Just want you to know—we’re home and do not have to return to Emory until July 8. That day we have an MRI at 8:30am and three doctor’s appointments following. Praise the Lord for all He has done and continuing to do! It’s a great day for a miracle! | ||
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June 22 - Yea, Roger and I are in the final stretch and headed toward the finish line. Wednesday will conclude Roger's radiation treatments, and therapy sessions on the Emory campus. We never anticipated that it would last this long or be this difficult. These past 69 days have forever changed our lives. More than ever we know that God is with us and we are always in His care. We will return to Macon on Wednesday, after three therapy sessions, radiation, and two doctor's appointment. It will be great to be at home for good. Roger will begin therapies at the Coliseum Hospital the next week. I have completed two rounds of the seven rounds of chemo. Each morning I awaken to a perfectly good frost job laying on my pillow as my hair continues to fall out. I will pull out the wig soon! Please know that Roger and I both feel good and considering all are doing great. We are ready to move to the next part of the journey. Words seem inadequate to express our appreciation for all the cards, letters, and notes of encouragement. Each has been a refreshing rain on a dreary day. Each visit, each call, every prayers sent upward on our behalf has blessed us greatly. We would not have made it without the love and support of you, our family and friends. We are rich indeed. Updates will be made once or twice a week. I thank you in advance for your continued prayer. One day we will have an opportunity to tell you personally of the good things that our God has done! | ||
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June 13 - I left Roger in the care of my brother‐in‐law, Eddie and headed to Macon for my treatment early this a.m. In fact, I’m in the chair where I’ll be for the next five hours. The tumors have ‘gone down Yesterday, two of Roger’s doctors reduced the dosage of medicine they were giving him. That’s We learned on Wednesday that we will have a ‘new little Brumbalow’ early next year. Keith, our | ||
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June 11 & 12 - One might think that we are still at the rehab center for we were up and ready when the physical therapist arrived. She gave Roger a good workout – strengthening and stretching his muscles. There were several moments that he was not a happy camper; however, she won the battle this day. The occupational therapist came and offered no pity as well. They both understand what they must do to help Roger continue on the road to recovery. When they left, he was ready for a nap…but life is real here and appointments must be kept. Radiation is going well. His hair is thinning in one area where mine is falling like Christmas snow. Go figure…. Two weeks from today – radiation and therapy will end here at Emory. This will be a joyful day to be headed home for good. Of course, he will continue therapy in Macon, but the difference will be he’ll return home to sleep in his own bed. I’m doing well. Treatment continues and life goes on. I see my dr. on Friday and will learn the results of my tumor marker test. I know it will be good. Roger and I are both grateful for God’s loving care and for family and friends who keep calling our | ||
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June 10 - We returned to Emory Holiday Inn on Monday afternoon. On the way to radiation Roger corrected me on every lane and gratefully so or I would have missed the turns. After radiation, I wanted to Panera Bread and he wanted Captain D’s. He won out! We had a great night sleep. The therapist assessor just left and she just could not believe the quality and the high level at which Roger is operating. They will begin the three therapies tomorrow – Speech, Occupational, and Physical. The therapist said, “We do not see any reason that he will not regain the full use of all his limbs.” Praise God for His faithfulness in answering all your prayers. Thank you! | ||
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June 7 - We are home! And the rest has been wonderful. We arrived to a large "Welcome home Roger" sign from the District Team. The closer we got to the house the bigger Roger's smile got. He walked through the house, checked everything, and then went to bed. He has slept soundly for the past two days. He is doing well and so happy to be home. I make sure he gets his meds on time and he is eating like a horse.
When I mention that we are going back Monday morning for therapy, he says "oh no." We are going anyway! June 25th will complete the radiation and therapy at Emory. Therapy will continue in Macon. We will stay in touch. Thank you for praying. | ||
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June 5 - Roger left the rehab yesterday and we had our first experience for total care with him. Having never taken any medication he now takes multiple pills, which will eventually end as he continues to heal. He is a trooper. Once the wheel chair was in the car, he will not let me take it out any more. He chose to walk in and out of buildings. He stood this morning to shave and brush his teeth for the first time in 48 days. He is determined to do things himself. He slept peacefully all night, which means I too slept peacefully all night. We are enjoying being together. Roger is still trying to help me with my driving telling me to go faster, move up closer to the line, etc. My hair is falling out regularly. I am not sure if it is because of Roger or the chemo. However, he still has his hair. | ||
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June 3 - The final day of rehab is here. Very much like everyday, but full of therapy and today we say ‘goodbye’ to people who have worked hard to help Roger come back from total helplessness. In seven weeks, Roger has come a long way. Their diligent work has paid off. Today we say goodbye to many new friends who have lovingly pushed, peeled, pricked fingers, changed beds, taught him to walk, work with muscles that said no, insisted on him speaking and saying it right, and helped him find life again. These angels, otherwise known as doctors, nurses, techs, therapists, caseworker, receptionist, janitors, and patient dining services have extended hope and kindness to us on every level. Their servant heart has blessed us in many ways. Rog is ready to go; however; I will take over as nurse dispensing his medicine throughout the day and night. We both need a night of uninterrupted sleep. It is not in sight. It will be great to be together even if it is temporary at a hotel. Saying goodbye was the worse part of the day for me. We covet your continued prayers as we begin Chapter 2 on this journey. Our faithful God will once again strengthen us for the journey. Resoundingly, “Yes, yes….it is a great day for a miracle.” ROGER WILL WALK OUT OF REHAB! | ||
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June 2 - We are in the final days at Emory Rehab. The nurse met with us first thing this morning to give us instructions for medication. Before leaving, she turned to me and said, “I’ve not met anyone like him before…he has far exceeded our expectations.’ This is an answer to many prayers. To God be the glory! Roger continues to work very hard during therapy and excels in bringing a smile to everyone’s face. Chemo nor radiation have slowed him down once the nausea medicine was adjusted. Thus far, he has lost no hair. The past 45 days have been the most difficult days we have lived through, but we have seen first hand the faithfulness of our great and mighty God. We have also been strengthened by the prayers of many friends. Since we will be leaving here, please send cards to ’248 Pebblebrook Lane, Macon, GA 31220’. | ||
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June 1 - Today, we begin our last week at Emory rehab. We will leave on Wednesday and go to the Emory University Inn until space opens up for us at the Hope Lodge. Roger will continue radiation everyday and home health will send the therapist to where we are. Other than where we will be sleeping, radiation and therapies will not change. We are excited about this move. After radiation on Friday, we will head home to Macon; the first time roger has been home 49 days. I will be cooking his favorite meals. This will go on until June 25, the last day of radiation treatment. God is so good and it a great day for a miracle. | ||
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May 29 & 30 - Video from Becky | ||
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May 28 - When I arrived at 7:00 a.m., the nurse met me with “you will not believe what Roger did this morning.” Roger surprised the nurse this morning by getting himself out of bed and into the shower before she could get to his room. He is determined to regain his use and strength on the right side. Roger’s speech has made such marked improvement that he astonishes everyone that has not seen him for a couple of weeks. It looks like we will move to the Hope Apartments June 4. The doctors want to finish Roger’s radiation treatments here, before they release him to outpatient therapy. The progress is amazing, but we serve an amazing God. | ||
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May 27 - All the therapies that were missed because of the holiday were made up today. The physical terrorist pushed hard, they began waking Roger without assistance of the cane. Two therapists walked with him at a natural gait. He walked a 150 feet which worn out, but there was no stopping him. He had to do it again. He surpassed all they had for him to do. Today he hit his first hole in one, well actually two hole in ones (putt putt). Standing up with no help and left handed, he hit nine golf balls. He hit two that went straight for the hole and three stopped at the hole. Watch out friends he is getting short game ready. He is working hard on his speech and his right arm. Both continue to get better each day. All are amazed and delighted. But we serve a God who is amazing. He is working his plan. It is a great day for a miracle. I am doing well and I have experience no nausea or tiredness. When this is behind us, I am going to sleep for a week. | ||
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May 26 - Roger had a great weekend in the apartment at Emory. We were able to have home cooked meals and just enjoy being together. Today Roger is back in his regular room and doing group therapy. We miss being able to be at the annual Southeastern Golf Tournament this weekend, but look forward to attending next year. It is a great day for a miracle. | ||
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May 24 - Roger is doing great today. He has had a very good week overall. The therapists are still amazed at the progress Roger is making. His stay here at the Rehab center has been extended to June 4. His speech is even better today than ever before. Some exciting news is that we will be moving to the apartment upstairs Room 522 for two days, Saturday and Sunday. I will get to stay with Roger and cook for him. We can still receive visitors in the apartment. Keith and Claire and their families will be bringing Roger some of his favorite meals. It is a great day for a miracle! | ||
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May 22 & 23 - This is a new video from Becky where she updates herself and Roger. The video is large and may take a few moments to play. | ||
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May 21 - Roger is feeling much better today. The nausea medicine is working well. The relief from the nausea medicine is allowing Roger to push through his therapy with his regular intensity. All seems to back to normal. We both look forward to putting this behind us. I come back to Macon tomorrow for another chemo treatment. | ||
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May 20 - Roger was scheduled to play golf today, but was unable to because he was so sick. They began chemo last evening. Today is a bad day for him. He is unable to attend all his therapy. Tomorrow will be a better day. It is a great day for a miracle. | ||
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May 19 - Roger is doing well and working hard. He is getting himself in and out of bed, shaving himself, and gets himself ready for therapy. His work ethic goes right over to therapy where he continues to work hard. After a weekend of rest, he starts back with radiation and his first chemo treatment. Monday means getting back to the hard grind. I am doing good and responding well to the chemo treatments. I am encouraged as Roger and I see the hand of God on our lives. Thank you for your cards and prayer. | ||
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May 16 - Since radiation began Roger’s day starts at 6:00 am. All the therapy must be complete by 2:30 pm since radiation is at 3:00 each day. Today, he walked 150 feet with the help of a cane and the therapist just touching to give direction. His strength and endurance are returning. His hip down to his knee is working, today for the first time; he was able to kick from his knee down. The use of his right leg is now returning. The use of the foot is soon to follow. The occupational therapist is thrilled with the progressive improvement of his right arm. Today in recreational therapy they took him to Home Depot. He was a Happy Man! He returned to radiation which last about 15 minutes each day. His head is turning rosy red like he has been playing golf all day. He was nauseated but medicine was given. He is resting and sleeping well. After 6 hours of chemo for Becky yesterday, she is doing great and feeling good. The Lord is our strength and our very present help. It is a great day for a miracle! | ||
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May 14 - The day began early for Roger at 7:00 a.m. He started with therapy until 1:30 at which time they picked him up for his first radiation treatment. In the radiation room they bolted his head to the table, took x-rays, and then radiation began. The radiation lasted about 15 min. He came out shaking his head saying “whoa” - exhausted, smiling, and glad to have it over for the first day. There are only 29 more to go. Therapy continues to go well with gradual improvement everyday. We are most thankful for your prayers and cards. Blessing to each of you Becky has her second treatment tomorrow. | ||
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May 12 - How could an arm and a hand, leg and a foot that has always worked for you become the impossible mountain to move? Every movement takes intense effort but movement is returning. The same grit that Roger has had forever is now working to his benefit. With minimal support he walked today with the use of a cane! His equilibrium continues to improve. A tennis ball that has never been a match now has become a hurdle. To squeeze it seems impossible, but this too shall happen! His quick smile and thumbs up brightens our day. His words are returning methodically. He is an A+ student, patiently pressing forward. Psalm 118:6a “The Lord is on my side, I will not fear.” It is a GREAT day for a miracle! | ||
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May 11 - Last night a storm passed through Decatur accompanied by much rain, thunder, and lightening. Nevertheless, this morning the sun broke through. Just as today’s storm passed over Decatur, so will the storm pass over our lives. The Son will come shinning through. We are confident of that. This morning Roger was up and busy about the day. Since there is no therapy due to Mother’s Day, he is quite bored. We attended church at Bedside with Adrian Rodgers. It is a great day for a miracle. | ||
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May 10 - Becky said that this morning Roger woke up ready for his Saturday golf game, however what he faced was 2 ½ hours of strenuous therapy. In therapy, he has gradual movement in his right arm and his right leg is improving weekly. He is a diligent soldier in this battle to return to normal. He feels good, smiles a lot, and strives to carry on in conversation. Each day we agree that he will walk, run, golf, and preach again. | ||
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Video update for Roger Brumbalow Video update for Becky Brumbalow | ||
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May 8 - Keith has been with his Dad all day. The Radiologist picked him up early this morning to fit him for his mask. Their plans are to begin simultaneously by mouth. He is talking up a storm. They have moved him to a private room. Room number 342. Same address. He returned to have lunch and 4 hours of therapy. He is anxious to get started. Keith said he is rearing to go! | ||
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May 7 - Yesterday Roger had an appointment with the Medical Oncologist, Dr. Lawson. They have made plans for radiation and chemo to begin within a week. This should not interfere with his rehab since the chemo will be by mouth and the radiation will be in the afternoon after rehab. Pray for his strength to continue! | ||
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May 5 - Today's update is a video from Becky. Click Here for Video | ||
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May 3 - Becky gives the following report "Roger is becoming more independent each day. Today he took the razor from me and shaved himself. That is job that I gladly relinquish. He has wheeled around the floor twice and is going up and down the elevator. He is looking out every window and into every mirror. The doctors and therapist are pleased and surprised by his progress. It is a great day for miracle." | ||
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May 2 - Roger continues to progress. For most of us, it would be snails pace, but for rehab, it is giant steps everyday. Today he walked 100 feet with assistance. He is beginning to form words and read. Becky said that we know he is getting better because he is getting more frustrated. He wants to get up and get out. Each step takes great determination. The movement in the right side is beginning. It is slow but it is progress. Becky said that she hardly ever dreams, but that last night she dreamt that she was walking on a path and a snake appeared. The scripture came to her mind that she would crush the serpent’s head with her heel. It is a great day for a miracle. | ||
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May 1 - Roger is doing well and working hard. Yesterday during speech therapy, they were doing music and the therapist played the Beatles which Roger knew most every word. Then she played Silent Night and in the course of mouthing those words, he bowed his head and began to weep. The room filled with the sweet presence of the Lord proving once again that when man reaches up God reaches down. Roger’s personality, sense of humor, and sly grin are all in tack. He recognizes the people as they come to visit. Today is a great day for a miracle. | ||
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April 29 - After a weekend of rest, Roger is much more alert and stronger. He may not be able to speak, but he lets Becky know he is still in charge. Becky will meet with the therapist and caseworker today and will receive a probable discharge date. Roger’s mustache is growing back, and Becky is happy about its return. Roger will see a mirror Thursday. Today they are moving roger to a window view in the room, which will be much better for him. | ||
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April 28 - Becky is having the PET Scan today. She made a new video this morning that updates Roger's condition. You can click her to view the video. Today is Becky's birthday! | ||
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April 26 - Becky said that she and Roger are learning Psalm 27 and especially verse 13, "I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living." Becky says they are seeing the goodness of God everyday! She said Roger has been through Air Borne Training, Ranger School, Sniper School, and Viet Nam. While he completed these extremely rigorous steps, they do not even compare with the rigors of this phase. The rehab will be a long journey. However, Becky also wants everyone to know that the progress is good and the therapists are delighted at his determination. Becky and Roger want to thank you for the cards. She reads and shows every card to Roger. Your thoughtfulness means so much. | ||
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April 24 - Roger slept good last night. He wanted Becky to shave him with a real razor (talking about faith). Roger will be with the "physical terrorist” all day. The doctors and therapist are very pleased with Roger’s determination, progress, and speed of recovery. | ||
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April 23 - Superintendent Brumbalow underwent occupational, speech, physical, and recreational therapy today under the supervision of those who are affectionately known as "the physical terriost". He will be evaluated Friday. Roger and Becky will have better information about what lies ahead after the evaulation. Becky will have a PET Scan Monday, April 28, to clarify her rising tumor markers. She will not have the results from the PET Scan until May 6. Click here to see Becky's video. | ||
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April 23 - Roger has been transferred to the Emory Center for Rehab room 308. He will undergo evaluation and therapy today. Visiting hours are Monday - Friday 4 pm - 8 pm, and Saturday - Sunday 12 noon - 8 pm. Visits should be kept short. Prayer is appreciated and requested. You can send cards to Roger and Becky at the following address: | ||
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April 22 - Brother Roger underwent physical, speech, and occupational therapy yesterday. The doctors continue to be amazed with the progress that Roger is making. | ||
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April 21 - Becky just called and said the doctor’s assistant said the MRI shows that they were able to get all the tumor. Roger had a restless night. However, his strength and speech are progressing at a rate that amazes the doctors and nurses. He is actually setting up in a chair. | ||
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April 20 - Brother Roger had a restless night. He tried to walk and is speaking more. | ||
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April 19 - Brother Roger rested well through the night. All his vital signs are excellent. He will have another MRI today to see after surgery results. Roger is expected to be in ICU throughout today. | ||
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April 18 - Surgery 7:30 a.m. - Surgery was complete by 1:30 p.m. The tumor was removed and the doctor gave a good report to the family. | ||
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April 17 - Day of prayer for Superintendent Brumbalow. |
