Friday, 23nd of March

Hi Everyone!!
So I decided to create a blog to most easily transmit information to everyone about Mom's status. All three of us are really touched by the number of phone calls and people praying for mom. Please continue your prayers as she needs all the prayers she can get. Mom's open-heart surgery was on Tuesday the 21st. The surgery lasted approximately 8 hours and she almost didn't make it out of the OR. But with my mom's will to live,God's grace, and your prayers, she made it through the surgery. For the past three days she has been in the ICU. She is still on a respirator but is able to use sign language, recognize our voices, and write with her finger on people's hands. She is incredibly strong and knows what she needs to endure and do to get healthy. We saw her open her eyes for the first time on Wednesday morning. Yesterday she opened her eyes for Bhau mama and me when Bhau mama went to say goodbye. Bhau mama was here for the surgery and left yesterday. Dad is hanging in there and doing fine as he and I have a lot of support from Bharti Aunty, Jagdish kaka, Sheila aunty and the Augusta community. One of my Dad's friends is visiting for 10 days to give him company all the time. Mom's health is now moving in the right direction. The improvements are going to be small and incredibly slow but she is a fighter. I am returning to school today and will be coming and going from Athens as often and as my academic schedule permits. Thanks again for all the warm wishes, prayers and positive energy!
lots of love,
shaylee