February 2007

February 2007.
We are rejoicing in God’s goodness! These past couple of months we have continued to see little improvements in Antonia’s everyday activities. We are most thankful for the advancements in her speech. We are able to understand her better all the time, and she is even able to sing audibly now. One evening when Dean arrived home from the office she sang, “You are so beautiful, to me...” (It is truly amazing to witness these moments). She has also recently prayed with the kids at bedtime and they were able to understand her without any need of clarification—this was a real blessing to all. We also just heard that she was approved for the prosthesis for her mouth (Which we talked about in the previous update), and will be going for a fitting on February 28th. This should further enhance her speech and make sharper clarity a reality.
Kim continues to work with Antonia twice a week helping her gain greater strength, and she is teaching her some basic cooking skills. Last week Antonia chopped and tore some veggies up for soup. This is such an accomplishment for her as she really wants to help out. One day Shirley was washing down the cupboards and Antonia wanted to help, so she gave her a cloth and Antonia wore the cloth out scrubbing on the side of the cupboard (Her true personality shines through in these tasks).
Mary took Antonia back to the university and she was approved for more therapy. They could not believe how far she has come since they had last seen her. She has had two sessions thus far, and with the help of a nurse has taken steps in parallel bars with a brace on her left leg. When she was asked if she had enough, Antonia turned to the therapist and asked, “Why, are you tired?” One of the nurses, after seeing her progress, commented by saying, “This is going to be a good year for Antonia.”
Antonia continues to tell everyone she meets about the lord. She asks almost every stranger she talks to if they know Christ, and then proceeds to tell them that he died for them. This usually causes a funny and awkward moment as we usually have to translate for her and watch the victim squirm.
Antonia’s outbursts have also diminished greatly. She is sleeping better at night, and more aware of where she is. Please continue to pray for her short term memory and that God would grant complete restoration.
Blessings on you all,
Dean & family