While not as immediate as he would like, Pastor Tom Higgins continues to gain strength and medical improvement at a steady pace with incredible patience and calmness. Sunday he spent four hours up in a recliner breathing on his own with the breathing machine turned off. He was absolutely wide awake and alert and managing simple, brief communication by pointing and facial expression. Tom, his friends Susan and Carol and I shared and savored the "communion to go" sent by Immanuel UCC, Wright City. He remains VERY week and needing much quiet rest time. Pastor Tom gave a strong nod YES and pointed to PLEASE on a word list when asked if he wanted his love and appreciation for the concern and prayers conveyed to those at St. John's UCC, High Hill; Immanuel UCC, Ferguson; and Immanuel UCC, Wright City and others.
Continuing with cards and prayers is much appreciated while Tom, his doctors and his Medical Power of Attorney continue to feel it not yet time for visitors. Tom agreed having come so far with God giving him patience the prayer word for now is STEADFAST...that he may be steadfast in being calm and remaining patient with himself in whatever time his body needs to heal and recover.
In Christ's Love,
Rev. Dianna Niemann-Harris