Anyone who wants to send some encouragement to Caleb

Caleb's NEW Address:
132 Hillside Dr
Norfolk, NE 68701



Elkhorn Valley Bank
Caleb R. Baber Medical Fund
800 West Benjamin Avenue
P.O. Box 1007
Norfolk, NE 68702-1007
Phone: 402-371-0722

Recovery in full swing

Recovery in full swing

Friday, October 31, 2008

Things are looking good

Today in Hydro they said things are looking really good. BUT, there is a portion of the flap on the left knee that is not doing so well. There, also is a portion that is doing really well. Please continue to pray that the left knee will heal exceptionally well. Caleb has had a fever the last 2 nights, but it has been breaking by morning. We think it could be coming from his knee, but they are also doing cultures to be sure.

Tues or Wed Dr. Summitt will address his chin & look at his left knee in surgery. In a perfect world this would be Caleb's last surgery.

Caleb got the O.K. to begin working with his left arm. Sam, his OT person gave him exercises to begin working that left forearm, wrist, and hand.

Dad & family are on their way here now & Mom & Todd are getting ready to leave. It is most bittersweet! I love you Caleb!

Love,
Tami (mom)

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Doing well

Caleb is doing well. He's been a little drowsy today, but we are managing to keep his pain under control. Thank you Lord! He's getting excited to see his sister, dad, and family. They should be here tomorrow evening sometime.

He just came back from Hydro & things looked GREAT! They've left his shoulder uncovered because it's looking so good. He will only need Bacitracin (neosporin on steriods) on it periodically to keep it from drying out.

We would like to take a minute to Thank all the people who have been working with Caleb here in Nashville for their excellent care. From the Dr's, nurses, lunch personnel, housekeeping personnel, maintainence, care partners & anyone else we may have missed. It has made the hospital experience a much more bearable one. We feel like they truly care. Again THANK YOU!!

Love, Tami

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Comments

I just wanted to thank all of you who have posted comments on the blog. I read them regularly. They are a great source of encouragement to me. THANK YOU!!!

When Todd & I go back to NE, Caleb has asked me to continue to post on the blog for him. I will be calling him at least twice a day for updates.

Please pray for me going back to NE. I am ready for a little "home" time, but it will be difficult to leave. I thought it was not easy when he came to TN for college in the first place.........but I have a wonderful husband to help me through that.

Again, thank you for the comments. I so appreciate them.
Love,
Tami
There is not much to really say today. Caleb is doing well. He went to Hydro right before noon. Things looked very good this morning on his wounds. Better than they expected. He is back in his room sleeping at the moment. His spirits have been high & he's even joked about not having feet. We still have many obsticles ahead of us, but we are on the road to recovery.

Again, please pray that he is able to keep that left knee. It will aid him so much in his rehabilitation process. We are also praying that his left shoulder heals well to help him get around during that process.

I am so proud of my son. The choices that he has had to make were not ones that you want your child to have to make, but he has shown so much maturity throughout this. He has been such a testimony to me about clinging to "this is where God has me". I fully expect him to do well in the rehabilitation phase of his life. He is a very hard working young man & I'm sure that will serve him well during this time in his life.

We will never be able to truly express our gratitude to all who have offered up prayers & support on our behalf. THANK YOU!!!

Love, Tami

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Surgery went well!

Surgery went very well. The right leg was a perfect amputation. The left leg, Dr. Summit put at the same length, and pulled things (muscles) around. He is leaving it "open" for swelling etc, to go down before he would put a skin graft on it. It is still imperative that we pray that his left knee will be workable. The damage on that leg went slightly higher than his knee & you could see some bone during wound care. But for now, Caleb still has both knees.

The burn on the left inside elbow was pretty much healed on it's own, so it didn't require any skin grafting. The chin was not addressed today, but will be at a later date. Please continue to pray for his shoulder to heal as Caleb will need good usage of that shoulder for leg rehab.

Dad & Tammy & kids are coming down this weekend with Mom & Todd going to NE. Grandpa Baber will be relieving them on Tues/Wed. We are thinking he will stay about 10 days, with Todd & I planning to come back after that.

Thank you for all your prayers & support! What a Mighty God we serve!
Love,
Tami

Surgery at Noonish

Caleb is scheduled to go into surgery about noon. Like with the flap surgery, that is subject to delays. We have had a good morning, with lots of Peace. Caleb has been talking to family members most of the morning, which he has really enjoyed.

We are asking for some specific prayer requests though. That there would be good muscle & tissues around the knees with which to build a good support base for him. That the left knee is able to be spared. It will increase his mobility so much. Pray that we are able to firm up some decisions about the next step, i.e. rehabilitation.

Please pray for all the family members that are unable to be here. Pray that they would have peace throughout the procedure. I will be calling family first & then I will post on the blog after surgery.

Again, thank you all for the prayers & support that you have offered for us. It means so very much!

Monday, October 27, 2008

Tuesday is the day

Caleb talked to Dr Summit this morning & told him that he wants to go with prosthetics. Dr Summit got him on the surgery schedule tomorrow. We are pretty sure it's in the afternoon, but we have not been able to confirm that.


We have an appointment tomorrow morning with his case manager to discuss where he will go from here. Please pray for wisdom in that decision also. Caleb still has the burn wound on his shoulder, but will need a little different rehab for his legs.


Dr. Summit is also going to address a few of the superficial burns on his leg, & the inside of his elbow. He will address the legs first & then anything else he has time for. Dr. Summit has promised he will do everything in his power to keep the knee on the left leg. He has had patients with worse burns & was successful at keeping the knee. The burn goes up to the knee on the left leg, but with prayer, we are hoping to keep it.


Caleb was also able to meet Meri Lee. She is the parent of a classmate that has opened her home to us to live while we are here. Caleb was able to personally express his gratitude. We are so thankful that God has provided our housing need through them.


He has also been sleeping & eating well, which will help with continued healing.


Here are the lyrics to that song I've been clinging to......


Voice Of Truth LyricsArtist(Band):Casting Crowns
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Print the Lyrics
Send "Voice Of Truth" Ringtones to Cell Phone

Oh,what I would do to have
the kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown
Where Jesus is,
And he's holding out his hand
But the waves are calling out my name and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me time and time again
"Boy, you'll never win, you'll never win.
"But the voice of truth tells me a different story
the voice of truth says
"do not be afraid!"
and the voice of truth says
"this is for my glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
Oh, what I would do to have the kind of strength it takes
To stand before a giant with just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand
But the giant's calling out my name and he laughs at me
Reminding of all the times I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me time and time again
"Boy you'll never win, you'll never win."
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
the voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the voice of truth says "this is for my glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
But the stone was just the right size
to put the giant on the ground
and the waves they don't seem so high
from on top of them looking down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
when I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
singing over me
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
The voice of truth says do not be afraid
And the voice of truth says this is for my glory
Out of all the voices calling out to me (calling out to me)
I will choose to listen and believe (I will choose to listen and believe)
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
I will listen and believe
I will listen and believe
the voice of truth
I will listen and believe 'Cause Jesus you are the voice of truth
And I will listen to you.. oh you are

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Slept & Ate well

Caleb had a great night last night. He ate & slept well. He ate all of his breakfast & lunch. He gave Todd & I the grand tour of the Children's Hospital today. It's been a relaxing day. Until we came back to the room. Then there were just a lot of little things to take care of. For example wound care, eat supper, a few phone calls that Caleb wanted to be able to really concentrate on, etc. Caleb was getting frustrated, but we worked through it. He continues to have great peace about his decision.

We thank you all for your support! I have been meditating on the song by Casting Crowns "The Voice of Truth". It has been ministering to my heart!! Have a GREAT evening!!

Love, Tami

Friday, October 24, 2008

The Decision

After much discussion with several Dr's about Caleb's options with his legs/feet & what kind of mobility he can expect to have with what muscles, tendons & nerves that he has left, Caleb has made the decision today to have both legs amputated below the knee.

Dr Summit brought up the possiblity of amputation with him yesterday. Caleb cried for about 20 seconds & then God gave him great peace about this.

The surgery will take place as early as next week. This will change the focus of Caleb's rehab. He will no longer be needing a burn specialty place, but amputation rehab. We have not explored all the options yet, but we will begin that process fairly quickly.

Please pray for the decisions concerning the rehab process. We thank you all again for all your amazing thoughts, prayers, & support through this. God has been so good to us throughout this entire month. Caleb & I reread Psalm 30. And we love you all & thank you so VERY much!!!

Love, Tami & Caleb
Well, I got to spend the night with Caleb. There is a lot of commotion that goes on in the hospital room, so I took a small nap this am also. Caleb is currently in hydro. That's where they clean up his wounds. I've learned that nothing goes very quickly here. He should be back any minute. Other than that, things are O.K. Please keep the decisions needed in your prayers. I am asking for God's Wisdom & Peace concerning all decisions that are made. When Caleb has made decisions, I will let you know what the next step will be for him. Thank you! Love, Tami

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Back to "His" Room

I just realized that I forgot to post this earlier in the day. Caleb is back into the room that is posted on the blog. He is settling in & getting comfortable. Please continue to pray for God's Wisdom & Guidance concerning all decisions, and care that are in Caleb future. He is an incredible young man & I am very proud of him!
Love, Tami

Moving Day!!!

I just got a phone call from Caleb & they are moving him back to room 18 & I can go up & help, so this is REALLY short!!! I just wanted to pass along that info!! Love, Tami

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Much gratitude!

I've just spent the last hour and a half making sure I had recorded all the cards that Caleb has received. There are soooooo many!! Thank You!!! He loves getting his mail everyday & mom is doing her best to record them in an address book so he can keep track.

Amy Cornic, it was sooooo good to hear from you......I will be sure to tell Caleb we've heard from you when I go up for the 1:00 visit. He'll be checking online when he gets moved to another step down room.....should be today or tonight. As soon as I know what his new room number will be I will post it online.

I have a request from Caleb, his phone died & he got a new one. He was able to salvage his music, BUT he lost phone numbers. So he is asking that if he had your phone number in the past, if you would text it to him, he will then put them in his phone as he has time. He would really appreciate it!

He's looking really well this morning & STARVING!!!! Kaitlyn Mizner, he said he'd like steak, mashed potatoes, & buttered corn when he comes back to Norfolk!!!!

Again, thank you so much for all the thoughts, prayers, cards, etc.........We love you all!!

Love,
Tami

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Doing Well

Caleb came out of surgery 30 minutes ago & things went really well according to the Dr. He is on his way back to his room, so I am headed up there to see him. Please be in prayer that the transplant would be successful. There is always a possibility that the transplanted muscles won't make it, so please keep that in prayer! He's had a long & day & so have I, so this will be short!! I'm gonna go see my kid! Love, Tami

Gift of his Word

Psalm 30

1: I will extol thee, O LORD; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. 2: O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. 3: O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. 4: Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. 5: For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. 6: And in my prosperity I said, I shall never be moved. 7: LORD, by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled. 8: I cried to thee, O LORD; and unto the LORD I made supplication. 9: What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth? 10: Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper. 11: Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; 12: To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever

I just felt led to share that with you while I'm waiting!!! Love, Tami

Patience is a Virtue!!

I've been passing the time in the main lobby & decided to check on Caleb's status on the board. (For most of you, the board is a TV screen where they list the patient name & their status. i.e. in OR, or in Recovery) Well, his name was not on the board, so I had to do some tracking down. He is actually in an OR in the Vanderbuilt Clinic, and he had just gone into surgery. Sooooo, things will be delayed as far as an update. They are estimating that he will be in there until 6:15 or so. I have moved to the new waiting area & will stick close by. I just wanted to pass along that information for those of you who might be checking the blog for an update. I was able to hang out in Caleb's room from 12:00-1:00 when they took him to surgery. We were able to say a prayer together & then he slept most of the time. Thank you for your continued prayers! Love, Tami

Monday, October 20, 2008

I just wanted to send a quick update. Caleb is having his flap surgery tomorrow at about 1:00. I don’t really know much more than that. We have not been able to speak to the Dr about how his bones look as of right now. After that, we are really just waiting to see where Caleb is at with this process.
Love, Tami
Uncle Josh & Aunt Kristie went home today. They were able to spend the entire 9:00 visit with Caleb & I stayed back at the apartment & dusted & vacuumed.......who-hoo! It was in need of cleaning. So it worked out well for everyone.

The last we've been told anything he is scheuled to have the flap surgery tomorrow at 7:30am. I will post after surgery as soon as I get the family members called. Please keep this surgery in prayer. They will be moving the Latt muscles to cover the armpit. I am hoping to have some information concerning the legs also tomorrow. Caleb said he is scheduled to get his MRI done at 2:45 today. We are continuing to pray that things are looking good.

We have come to the place, that no matter what the circumstances, we are just praying for God's perfect will. It's so easy to want specific things to happen, but as God so clearly showed last week when the flap surgery didn't happen, that He knows best......He knows all the little workings in Caleb's body & the future & we are at Peace with knowing he is so in control.

It is such a beautiful day out today. I pray that you all are able to enjoy it, (even if it's not so nice up at home!) We love you all & thank you again for demonstating God's love toward us!

Love,
Tami

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Beautiful Worship

Yesterday I asked Caleb if he would like me to read to him from the devotional that his roommate's mom gave me..........Today being Sunday & all. He wanted me to have Zach & Charlie "put something together". Zach got permission to bring his guitar in they were able to have their own personal worship with the Lord. I wasn't even in the room & when the two guys came out with tears streaming down their faces, I knew it was good!!!! They sang "Come Thou Fount" before they left the room.

I am so grateful that God has put such wonderful young men in my son's life. They are truly brothers in the Lord! We are all so grateful to each of you for your support through this "joy" in our lives.......I'm learning to say that thanks to Caleb......It is such a joy to watch God provide in so many areas & in such different ways in all of our lives. THANK YOU!!!

Love, Tami

Saturday, October 18, 2008

THANK YOU

Caleb & his family want to take a moment to thank all of you who participated in the Applebee's fundraiser. Your awesome show of support makes us weep with gratitude.........What a Mighty God we Serve!!!!!

Kinda Tired

Well, today has been uneventful. Caleb is tired the last time I visited. I usually tell him to go ahead & sleep when I'm in there. Todd & Levi flew home this morning. Todd had to fly out at 6:15, so it was an early morning for me too. I was able to go to the garage & get a little over an hour nap. It seems to have helped. I feel a little better.


I am asking for continued prayer for Caleb's family in general. It is taking an emotional toll of several family members & they are feeling the burden. I've encouraged those to call & talk to Caleb. He has been such an inspiration to me. Calling is a little more difficult with him in ICU someone must be in the room to answer the call. But he is at such peace.


I will write more if more goes on, but otherwise, the plan is to do the flap surgery on Tuesday. I do have a correction though......I thought it was the Trap muscle they were going to use, but it is the Latissimis Dorsi. I might not have spelled it correctly, but I did learn about it in 7th grade Health class!!!!


Sometime in the next couple of days, we should get word as to whether or not the leg bones are still alive.

Please pray for the decisions that will come with that information.

Thanks,
Love Tami

Friday, October 17, 2008

Please still keep Praying

Caleb is looking good today. They are keeping him in ICU until they can do the flap surgery on Tuesday. They took the wound vac off & just have a wet pack on his shoulder. I know he is disappointed to be back there. He so enjoyed having his quieter room & visitation from 9am - 9pm. Being back in ICU means that he is back to limited visitation. Please pray that God will continue to minister to him while he's alone. Also, he has ran a fever through the night. Please pray that it would come under control as they are monitering it & the antibiotics, etc. Todd & Levi will be flying home tomorrow, which is very difficult on them both. Please pray that God would give them peace. I think Josh & Kristie are here until Mon. Zach & Charlie are also here for fall break, but I don't know when they are leaving. The love that we have felt from friends & family is amazing!! Thank You ALL!!!!!! Love, Tami

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Caleb is coherant

Caleb is coherant & able to write on paper to communicate. They are planning to take out the breathing tube later today. His color looks good. Thank you all for the incredible turnout we've been hearing about at Applebee's.........I know that we have felt SOOOO loved from everyone through this............., as Caleb would say, this joy!!!!

Love,
Tami

A Scare & more praise

We got quite a scare last night. We received a call from Levi about midnight telling us that Caleb was bleeding from his shoulder. He didn’t really know much more at that time, but what had happened was a section in Caleb’s artery in his shoulder/bicep area had disintegrated & he was rushed in for emergency surgery. They took a vein from his left thigh area & spliced it in to the damaged area, & repaired a small hole a little further down. He is back in ICU for the time. We were able to go in & visit him at about 4:00am. He still had the breathing tube, but was able to respond to us.
My gosh, the God things never cease to amaze us……………first off Caleb shouldn’t be here once again. God woke him up & he was able to tell Levi, who “just happened” to be spending the night with him, that he was bleeding. Caleb would have not been able to call for help, it happened so quickly, but his little brother was right there to call for help.
If they had been able to do the shoulder flap the other day, we might not have found the cause of the bleeding in time.
God is so not finished with this young man. It has been comforting to feel His loving arms around us through each “bump”.
Todd (step-dad) was planning to fly back to NE today, but was able to change his flight to Sat. So I have the privilege of his company for a few more days!
We give God our Heavenly Father so much thanks for again watching over our loved one! Thank You Lord!!! What a Mighty God we serve!! Love, Tami

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Uncle Josh & Aunt Kristie from WA have arrived. Caleb has been able to spend a little time with them & he showed off his walking to them. Today he was able to walk about 30 feet. Walking was a little more difficult, but he still was able to walk under he own power. He wanted to walk further, but needed to go have a test ran.

He's currently got a fever, so please pray that if it's important the cause will show up. They are doing cultures, etc to find out why, and so far, so good.

We thank everyone for all they have been doing to help us through this joy. Caleb has been an inspiration to me today. He is content that this is where God has him right now.

On behalf of Caleb's entire family, we thank everyone for going to Applebee's today to help with the fundraiser.
Love,
Tami

"I would like all of you to know that I am most confident that my Heavenly Father will supply all my needs, especially through the fundraiser that all of you participated in. In Christ" caleb

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

A Little Disappointment

Dr Summit called, they were unable to do the flap today. They had to remove more dead tissue on the right foot & shoulder, & I believe the left calf. They were able to close up the left forearm. There is more concern about how much mobility he will have in the right foot. They will have an orthopedic person look at the right foot to help determine how much movement he will end up with. Please continue to pray for his extremities.

The Dr felt that we were able to make some forward progress by closing up the left forearm & they will try the flap replacement again next week.

I am reminding myself of the song God gave me through this process........"While I'm waiting"...... and I am begging for patience & trust.....

Thank you all so much for all your thoughts, prayers & support! God is so good! We have felt His love in so many ways these past few weeks......Thank You!

Love,
Tami (mom)

Monday, October 13, 2008

Training has begun

Caleb was given a list of exercises to work on 3-4 times a day & then he doubled the distance he walked. His Occupational Therapy "boss" Sam informed him that he is able to get up & sit in the wheel chair anytime he likes, he doesn't have to have her in the room.

He is looking forward to being able to meet with the kids that were with him on the hike. They haven't been able to connect yet, so today will be quite a day.

Thank you for all your support & prayers!

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Great day!!

We had another great day............Caleb got all cleaned up & was told that he looked like Matthew McConaughey.........Then he walked about 180 feet and we went outside for a little while. He's been sleeping much better in this new room & they've adjusted his med's so they are not interupting him so much at night.

Have a good night!! Love, Caleb

Able to Eat!!!!

I asked Caleb what he would like me to post on the blog & he said, "That I am starting to eat". We have a lot going on at the moment & I'll post more later! Love, Caleb

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Tuesday's Surgery - Rebuilding Begins!!

Today Caleb got to meet Dr Summit, his plastic surgeon. He wants to start the rebuilding on Tuesday. He's mentioned pulling the Trap muscle up over the shoulder area. He wants to look at the chin & forearm, also. (I didn't realize there was still more on the forearm.) They have not done the shark cartildge on the foot yet either. He said he wants to stay above the waist on Tuesday.

Today was a day of walking 36 feet, not too shabby!! Going for another wheel chair ride outside. The breeze felt so good. Caleb & I & Todd also read some of his mail.......we can't believe how many cards he's received!! Thank You all!! Then he used the laptop the school has let me use to get on facebook & check his email.....thanks Shelley for the emails.....he really appreciates them!!

We talked to one of his nurses tonight. She said when he came in, those first 2 days, he was really not expected to live........now to see him walking down the hall today......what a miracle!!!!!!

Caleb has been so gracious to everyone who is working with him & quickly becoming a "favorite" patient!! As mom, it's encouraging to see that after getting through the teen years!!

I know that all of his family hope & pray that if you do not know the Lord as your personal savior, that through this experience, you will come to know the Lord! And if you do know the Lord, that your faith will increase through this experience. I know that I am learning more about God's Grace through this, than I ever thought possible.

A note from Caleb

I hope I don't sound generic or ungenuine, but in all of this I still know that God must increase and I must decrease in the hearts of everyone who has so compassionately poured out all their love to me. I will eternally be grateful to each and every family member, friend, teacher, acquanitance, and even to those whom I've never met, who have poured themselves out in love for my sake. I guess that what I'm trying to say is thank you all from the bottom of my heart and I hope you find Christ in a deeper way through all of this. - caleb
A quick update.....C aleb was moved yesterday after surgery to a Step-down room.....woo-hoo!!! He is now in Room 11218.....if Zach or Charlie could change that on the website that would be great!!!

The debridement went well yesterday things are looking ready for reconstruction. Caleb's surgeon was in this morning & decided that Tuesday is looking like the day for starting that. He told Caleb he would like to work from the waist up.

I am closing this post, because I am going to post a personalized note from Caleb........

Love,
Tami

whoop whoop

stinkin awesome news

a fundraiser is set for here in springfield (missouri )

its going to be october 22 and it will be at one of the best coffee places in town (potters house)
im not sure if its going to be a percent thing or a love donation thing, but either way we got one here so im pretty excited. on monday i am going around to the sorority and fraternity houses at msu to see if they can help me spread the word at their campus (missouri state university)

(for some reason i have an abnormal amount of parenthesis in this post)

k bye !

oh, caleb, i love you !

-burgie burg

Friday, October 10, 2008

Eric,  get ahold of Charlie, Zach, or Levi to get the number for Caleb........he'd love to hear from you too!!!  Maybe tonight or tomorrow with surgery going on this afternoon!!!  :)
Great day yesterday!  We made it to Nashville after driving through the night & when we came to town we were able to go in and see Caleb at 1:00.  Levi flew in on Wed evening to spend fall break with his brother.  He was able to spend the morning with Caleb.  They went for a couple of rides in the wheel chair......and they were able to go outside.  

And then.......CALEB WALKED  almost to the nurses station!!!  He held the nurses hands for support. Levi was the witness........We spent a couple hours with Caleb & were able to go outside also.  We got a picture with Mom.  

They tried to hook up the internet in his room through his T.V.  There are a few snags that need to be worked out, but I hope that works well for him.  We were able to show him this website.  We didn't have time to really read much, but he was very interested in reading the blogs & comments.  So if there is anything you want to say to Caleb, he will be checking this site out in the next few days.  

He/we Thank you for the upcoming fund raiser at Applebee's.  He's very touched by all the generosity we have experienced!  We thank you from the bottom of our heart!
 
Today he will have more possible tissue removal.  I haven't heard about reconstruction today, although it's not out of the question.  He will be going in for surgery around 12:00.  I will post after the necessary phones when he is done.   

God is moving in incredible ways through this entire situation & we are all so Blessed to be included in the Blessing!!  
Love,
Tami (mom)

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Marc called & they had to give Caleb a colostomy during surgery today. I really don't have much more information. I did a quick review on the internet & this will allow his colon to "rest" ....... Todd & I will be taking off in the next 12-24 hours. If I have time , I will write more later! Thanks so much for all the prayers!!!!
Tami
A Bump in the road.......

I got a call from Marc this morning, & Caleb's colon/large intestine is leaking......instead of doing whatever was planned for surgery today, they are planning to work on this problem. Please be in prayer concerning this.......I will update as soon as possible after surgery. He is first on the list for surgery........

I am reminding myself that God is still in control, and I am clinging to Him. Thank you!

Tami

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Good Morning!

Marc said that Caleb is doing well. He is expected to have surgery tomorrow for more debridement. We have not been told that they will work on recontruction, maybe his chin, but I don't think Marc has talked to the Dr's yet today. If I hear more, I will post more.

Please pray for wisdom concerning the rehabilitation process. Because of the extent of Caleb's burns, it is vital that he get excellent rehabilitation. The results will have lifelong consequences.

Again, it's a busy day trying to train someone so Todd & I can go back to TN on Thursday.

God Bless! I am so awed watching God move in this journey!!!

Thank you!!
Love,Tami

Monday, October 6, 2008

Greetings!

I spoke to Marc the this morning to get an update. Caleb was pretty "with it" most of the day yesterday. And today Caleb is a little cranky it seems. In the scope of things, it sure seems minor, but please pray that God will give him a gentler spirit.

It looks like Marc & Bob (grandpa) will be heading to NE sometime on Thursday, & I will be heading back to Nashville to be there on Friday. We'll try to coordinate as best as we can.

This is going to be short as I am back at work & as you can imagine, there is LOTS to get caught up on & then training someone to fill my shoes. I'll talk to you all tomorrow!

Love,
Tami

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Well, I am back in NE & we had a safe journey. Thank you to my brother & his wife for the ride home! It is with such mixed emotions that I am here. Caleb's dad & grandpa will be staying with him until another family member is able to go. For the moment I need to take a respite to keep the balance in my life, because this is going to be a very long process. The mom in me wants to be there for every visit, but I remind myself that Caleb is in God's hands ALWAYS.

I spoke with Marc this morning & Caleb was able to get some sleep last night (thank you Lord) which led to a more "normal" Caleb at the visit today. That could change by the 1:00 visit. I remind myself that he is heavily medicated for pain, and he will not be himself, really, for quite awhile.

He is experiencing a low grade fever that they are trying to determine the cause of. So far the cultures haven't shown anything. Please keep the threat of infection in prayer.

I would like to take a moment to thank all of you for the support that has been given. WOW! God is so good to provide such an amazing support base to help us all through this, whatever our role is. Whether it be family that is with Caleb is person, family & friends that are with Caleb in prayer, Todd & Tammy for holding down the homefront, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Grandparents, all of Caleb's wonderful friends, the people that really didn't know him but have been touched by this situation & led to send a card, the support through our respective jobs through this trial, all the churches that have him on their prayer lists, I am hoping that I haven't forgotten others & if I have, please forgive me, but I/we THANK YOU all so much!

God will get the Glory through this. That is my utmost prayer!

I will be calling to get an update every morning & will post it as soon as I am able.

Love,
Tami (mom)
p.s. When I ask Caleb to smile for me, he flashes the most beautiful smile!!

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Weekend Brief

Tonight is going to be short: 1) because there is not so much that is happening for Caleb today and 2) someone has to watch the Husker game for him:). But seriously, this weekend is again predominantly a time for him to rest and for his body to recuperate from surgery and prepare for up coming operations. Caleb has been slightly combative and restless, largely because of the medication which he is taking; obviously, not conducive to good sleep. Continue to pray that Caleb would be able to be alert when he is awake and that God would give clarity to the doctors and family on how to proceed with the medical decisions. Also, pray against the constant threat of fever and infections. This is probably all for the weekend but if their is anything new that arises I'll let you know. If you didn't hear about what happened after Caleb's surgery on Friday just check several posts before this one. Have a great rest of the weekend. God bless

Friday, October 3, 2008

I just reread Zach's blog & realized it's a draft, he should be publishing it soon. It will have more info. Please just continue to pray.........Caleb is strong & healthy & God has saved his life for a reason!!!! We CANNOT forgot that!!!!!!!!
Well, I just noticed that Zach has updated you all ............I guess that about sums things up.
Although today they closed up the fasciotomies (sp) on the right leg, the inside of the left leg & the left forearm. They left the right foot, the left calf, the shoulder & the chin for possibly next Wed.

I will try to write more later.......it's just not a very easy time at the moment, but I tried to get here as quickly as I could because I knew people were waiting. Sorry it took so long!

Tami (mom)

The Next Mile

Hey everyone,

I talked to the family again today after the surgery. The doctors are really uncertain how usable Caleb's left leg will be. Because of the nature of burn wounds, the physicians have to keep removing tissue that is dying and there is a critical point where even if the leg survives, so much of the muscle will have been removed the leg won't be useful. This brings up many questions: do we keep the leg and see how well it funtions; should we consider prosthetics etc. If they do try and keep the leg there are numerous, complicated surgeries that would be necessary, some of which even if they work require removing tissue from other parts of the body. There is enough damage to his right foot as well that the doctors don't believe he will have total functioning capacity either. The medical staff is looking to do more surgery next wednesday, potentially on Caleb's chin and neck
Though Caleb initially talked clearly to his family, he doensn't remember the accident right now and is confused about where he is and what is happening. This is difficult for two reasons: 1) we want to be able to talk to Caleb and know how he is doing but 2) it also makes the decision making process very stressful.
Caleb is not really clear enough mentally because of the medication to make these decisions. A deep request from Caleb's parents is how to approach this. Let's pray that God gives Caleb the ability to think clearly and know how he is supposed to proceed confidently from this point. Being as Caleb is 20, his parents don't want to make decisions for him that will significantly impact the rest of his life without his agreement. We can only imagine the weight of that.
The family,though thankful for where Caleb is now, is very tired and truly needs strength in this time. It is really critial that we pray for them because if they are exhausted, frustrated, or just overwhelmed with the situation, it has a huge impact on Caleb. So please continue to pray specifially for Marc Baber, Tami Tucker, and Bob Baber as they are down there. We really need to come alongside in this time.
Also, as we want Caleb to wake up and be cognisant and alert, pray that when he does God would keep his heart from bitterness or anger. These kind situations are life-altering. Ask that the Lord would make himself so real to Caleb and aware of his Love that resentment and anger would not have an entrance into his heart.

One day at a time

bah....

hey friends

this is whats up...

i have been trying to get ahold of the apple bee's in cleveland, prescott ar, springield mo, and wichita ks BUT it is becomming very hard to set up a fundraiser for caleb at these locations because they are all corporate and do things differently.

it is for sure set that the 15th of october will be going on in norfolk and soiux city so that is stinkin sweet

BUT

its still not set for these other ones.
im trying hard guys to get ahold of the right people but its getting frustrating

for Him,
burgieburg
Good Morning!

Caleb's surgery is tenatively scheduled for 11:00. Please keep him in prayer & I will updated the blog as soon after surgery as I am able!

You have all meant so much to us & I agree.......Caleb is gonna enjoy reading this one day!!! For the moment he's pretty doped up & that is a good thing!!!

We love you all!! The support is so incredible!!!!

Love
Tami (mom)

Thursday, October 2, 2008

It's later than normal & I apologize. At the 9:00 visit the Dr's let us know that they were about to take him in to look at his wounds & assess things & they wanted to talk to us after that, so I've/we've been hanging around the waiting room.

They've decided to have another surgery tomorrow. They are going to try a new technology with shark cartilage on his right foot. It may or may not work, but it will give a base for new tissue growth. They would like to put a wound vac on his left calf, more dead tissue removal on his left bicep/shoulder area and they needed to confer with the plastic surgeon about the chin.

Please be in prayer that this new technology will work. They feel that it's their best shot & with prayer I am confident that it will work. He is still having fevers periodically so pray that it continues to NOT be infections. He is also really "out of it" in many ways.

I need to get going to spend some time with my brother & his wife, so I will update if I learn anything new.......thank you so much for all the prayers & support......God is so Good....he's been carrying me when I've needed him to & he's provided my Best Friend!! Thanks!!!
Love,
Tami (mom)
It's been pointed out to me that people would like to know where other people are. A lot of Marc's family was here last week.

Uncle Josh & Aunt Kristie flew in from WA, they had to return on Sat. Brother Levi drove with Dad & flew home on Sat. Sister Rani drove with Dad & flew home on Sat. Grandma Bonna, Uncle Jim & Aunt Kristin flew in last week & flew home on Sun. Step Dad Todd & Step Mom Tammy flew home on Tuesday. I know that it was so very difficult for them to leave during this time & we all appreciated all that you've done as family!! THANK YOU!!

My cousin Darrin & Missi & kids from the area stopped when they were driving through, yesterday. My brother Scott & his wife Theresa & their daughter Hannah are here now & will be giving me a ride back to NE.

I am getting ready to go see Caleb, so I will close for now & give you an update after I see him.

Thank you ALL for the cards, letters, phone calls, etc I know that for (step dad) Todd & (step mom) Tammy being at home has been difficult, but I want you to know that we love you both!! Thank you!!!

I'll write more soon!
Tami (mom)

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Praises to our God & King

Caleb woke up this morning!!! It was so good to really see him for the first time. He's been talking a little but because of the tube in his throat for so long he can little more than whisper. With Mom's crappy hearing I almost had to crawl up on the bed to hear him, but what a beautiful sound it was!!! He said he was sorry that he was so stupid.........Oh Caleb, please don't think about that now.

I am just so happy it's hard to control the tears!!!

They are thinking about another surgery on Friday to possibly close up his right leg & his left arm with skin grafting. I dont' know what that will mean in terms of being awake, but for the moment we are enjoying seeing our Caleb with us!!!

One thing I want to point out is he has a team of Dr's. There are four all together. One is not here yesterday or today, & we just talked to the one about surgery on Friday, so I'm sure they will confer & make the final decision about Friday on Thursday.

Please pray for me, mom as I am looking to go home & work the next week. There are just some things I need to "train" people on & then return the following week so Marc can go home. That is such a hard thing to think about, but we don't know at this point how long Caleb will remain here. I want to stay so badly, but I really feel God is leading to take care of work, banking things for Caleb etc. But I am asking for prayer. I am understanding how hard it's been for his sister & brother to leave when they did.

Anyway, I wanted to share that WONDERFUL news with everyone............God Bless & thank you for the prayers!!!

AMEN!!!!