Laura has been dealing with a great deal of ups and downs over the past few days. Don’t let this alarm you; it is a normal part of the TBI healing process. As her level of awareness steadily increases, the frustration and anger will become more prevalent. Severe anger and even rage about these life-altering circumstances (remember back to the packet that was sent on “Stages of Coma Recovery;” it is still posted under the Updates link!) is a difficult, but necessary step. We have all noticed this increased agitation from Laura over recent days. We can remain at peace and even smile knowing that through these short-term struggles, long-term measurable progress is being made. Before we worry you too much, the past few days have been significantly more up than down (maybe an 80/20 ratio). She is performing the same types of tasks, but at higher levels. We want everyone to know that anger and rage signal progress. We want you to be prepared for it as we are doing the same!

There is a piece of uplifting news. Laura has now been at St. John’s skilled nursing center for over 4 months. During this time period, the staff has become more and more familiar with Laura as a patient. In addition, we have had the chance to explain and describe Laura’s personality in depth. They remark at the unbelievable potential for Laura’s future. They confirm the personality that we so frequently describe. While it may be awhile before Laura fully returns, it will be the same Laura that we’ve all grown to love; only better!

We all have storms to overcome in our lives. In the Bible, no one’s faith was challenged more than that of Job. In his life, Job completely lost his health, his family, his business, and his livelihood. Every time he was brought out of these calamities, his life would take a disastrous turn. He had every right and was even told to curse his God. Did he do that? Absolutely not! In fact, he credited God and fixed his eyes on the end prize. How could someone with these circumstances glorify God? In our generation, any one of these tragedies is usually enough for people to lose faith and blame God. Regardless of the size of your problems, God is your constant friend and companion. He is the one constant peace; the calm during your storms.

I AM LEAVING YOU WITH A GIFT – PEACE OF MIND AND HEART. AND THE PEACE I GIVE IS A GIFT THE WORLD CANNOT GIVE. SO DON’T BE TROUBLED OR AFRAID. (John 14:27)

We love you,
Jeff and Laura Laughlin.