That We Might "Not . . . Shrink" (D&C 19:18)

Cassie and I watched a powerful devotional talk given by Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (found on YouTube on the "Mormon Channel" site). As you all have followed the blog, or have reacquainted yourselves with us in person, you have seen the amazing progress that Cassie exhibits. It is nothing short of miraculous. Our faith has been tested, and I have oft wondered the purpose of these experiences. Cassie has been stalwart in maintaining an optimistic attitude towards the whole recovery process.

At times, we both feel the incredible burden with the many unknowns yet to be, and what we have already endured. I have not always reacted or done things as I ought to have, to show my love and support of my wife as she handles her new lifestyle. She has been gracious in forgiveness when I fall short. In turn, I know that when she feels the overwhelming burden that I have sought to be there to comfort her. 

The beauty of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that we can, through the merits and grace of the Savior, demonstrate the faith to be healed and the ability to submit to the will of God. As Elder Bednar taught these principles, through insight found in a medical example similar enough to our own, Cassie and I gained a better understanding of these things. We would like to share the link with everyone, and send out the invitation to watch. 

http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=_cpyPUEQlDY&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3D_cpyPUEQlDY%26NR%3D1%26feature%3Dendscreen

Concert on the Green

There is a new page that bloggers can look at: Perspectives of Close Friends. So far there is only one entry.  My good friend Mady wrote it, and I would like everyone to hear it.  It made me think about my stroke.  Mady has been my best friend.

On Sunday the 14th, I went to the Concert on the Green, an annual event at Mark and Liz Stoddard's house.  Sacred music was the theme for the night.  As a part of that, my stroke was highlighted because I was the guest of honor.  At the beginning of the concert, my husband and I sat inside.  In the intermission, I went outside and said, to the audience, a simple "Thank you."  After that, I went out and greeted the many people that came to show their support.  It was great, because my friends Jena, Sydney, Aubrey, Kaitie and Brooklyn were there.  I got along with my friends easily because they came one-by-one; I didn't have to talk to them all at once.  Those close friends were in a circle and I didn't have a hard time, but outside of that I still have a hard time talking.  I'm grateful for all the donations that still come to me.

It's All Coming Together

By July 2, my blister was almost gone. I was ready for the 4th of July: I got my patriotic wreath and patriotic flowers done to decorate my house.  I went to breakfast up at my family's ward with my husband.  It was quite a good night because we saw, as we drove home, multiple firework displays all the way home.  It was a fun holiday and glad to be with my husband.

The night of Independence Day

My new patriotic shirt!

It's been getting so busy lately! I have been busy with the letters informing you of our fundraiser, held at the Stoddard's house.  I have been so impressed with the generosity of other people.  I want to thank you all.

My husband and I have also been looking into disability insurance.  At first I was turned off by it: the thought that I couldn't go to work and get paid was unacceptable (I realized this in the hospital before I could speak). But I know it's the right thing to do, not leaving my husband to pay for every thing. And we have friends helping us survive.

A Letter for Your Friends

Blog and Facebook group update!  There are two new files uploaded to the Facebook group's file page.  They are both the same thing, just one in DOCX format and the other in PDF format.  It is a letter that you can use, possibly personalized, to send to those who you might think might appreciate a hard copy of information concerning Cassandra's progress and the intentions of the fundraiser.

We have already been quite humbled with the outpouring of love, whether it be through donations or just the comfort and strength necessary for Cassie and I to make it through this difficult challenge.  We love you all and appreciate you so much.