BLESSED IS HE WHO TRUSTS IN GOD'S MERCY

Today was another "cliff-hanger" for us.  Having returned to ICU because of breathing trauma, Dad had a breathing crisis early Monday morning at around 4.  Rosie rushed over only to spend the whole day watching him suffer (more).  We have corresponded with his pulmonary specialist and neurologist to discover the following:
  • Dad has blood clots in both lungs and legs (this is not good because the only way to treat them is with blood-thinners, and blood thinners are a no-no for stroke survivors because of bleeding on the brain).
  • Whereas a tracheotomy is just about the only thing (though not desirable) that would possibly alleviate some of his breathing trauma, it would, in theory, go against his wishes as stated in his Living Will -- not to mention the many risks involved.
In summation (of these and other unstated facts concerning his condition), it is our understanding as of today's meeting that Dad is in fact dying.  We are thus preparing our hearts to celebrate with and for him as he inches towards his reward.  He has suffered so much -- more perhaps than many.  The doctor confirmed that he is in a very small percentile of people who have survived this long given his extreme condition.

Dad made it very clear when he was still speaking that what he was going through was "hell" and that he was ready to be with the Lord.  

We so VERY MUCH need your prayers through this difficult phase and hope that you will understand our position.  We are truly grateful and sincerely covet the privilege of praying for you and your family in any way in the future.

"Hope that is seen is not hope..."

Kirk

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

No question that prayers are going up in force for Rev. Whalum. The Lord's will be done. My thoughts are with you all during this time and ALWAYS!!!!!

Anonymous said...

When I got the e-mail to share my "Favorite Rev. Story," the one that immediately came to mind was one that very few people know of:
The Celestial Voices were on tour in New York and I had gone out with the gang on Saturday night. I had gotten separated from the group (don't ask!) and I had to find my way back to the hotel. I arrived at approx. 7:00 AM. (I said..DON'T ASK!) I was waiting for the elevator and when the door opened, off walked Rev. on his way to the kitchen to check on the arrangements for the morning breakfast. I was frozen stiff and couldn't move. As Rev. moved past me and walked down the hall, he said over his shoulder, "boy you'd better hurry and get on that elevator; you ain't got but about a good hour to take a nap! Needless to say that was one of the longest Sunday's I've ever had in life! LOL!

More than my favorite story though, I want everyone to know that Rev. Whalum and his belief in education is one of the reasons that I am finally graduating from college. I was listening to the radio one day and there was an advertisement for an adult studies program at Olivet Nazarene University. I thought the name Olivet was so appropriate because it was Rev. Whalum and Olivet Baptist Church that paid for me to go to college the first time. I completed my Associate's degree in 2006. When I receive my B.A. in May 2008, it will be dedicated to Reverend Kenneth Twigg Whalum, Sr.

Rev. Whalum will always hold a special place in my life and heart.

My love and my prayers to the entire Whalum family.

Paul E. Washington
Chicago, Illinois

Stroke of Hope said...

Whalum Family,

My prayers are certainly with Rev. Whalum and the family.
Truly, only those who are faithful can move through this journey with a loved one and known that god is still in the mist.

Blessings through the night... and peaceful journey into the light...

Audrey J.
strokeofhope.net

Anonymous said...

Family:

My children and I continue to pray for Rev. Whalum. He is in so many ways, "father" to many! He is responsible for me working on my very first job and when I was struggling with my two sons, gave us housing through the housing ministry at Olivet Church. I treasure the "Olivet" experience for he led us lovingly on many wonderful journeys in worship and fellowship. I really treasure the flight he afforded me to meet the congregation at Dr. Charles Adams church because I was "very pregnant" with my daughter (his godchild) Desiree. He is a wonderful servant of God and just earlier this year he gave me wonderful encouragement to continue singing. I will, "Rev", as I continue to "walk by faith and not by sight"!! Much love to you, Rose and the family!!

Deborah Manning Thomas
Memphis, TN

Anonymous said...

Rev. Whalum remains in our intercessions at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston. A life lived in the service of God and God's people will continue to transform all he has touched. Be comforted, dear Whalum family, and know of our love and prayers for you.

All blessings,
Raphael Villareal
Houston, Texas