Sunday, December 14, 2008

Where have I been?

Just wanted to let everyone know why I disappeared.
On the morning of November 22nd Paul suffered a stroke....and then early the following morning he had a second, more severe stroke.
We are on the ride from hell!
Paul has lost the ability to speak, read and write.....for a writer this is devastating. He also has a significant lose of vision and his right arm and leg are also tremendously paralyzed.
He is struggling with his lose with humor and determination!
I am constantly amazed at his grace!
My heart breaks 50 times a day as I can only imagine his suffering!

Keep us in your thoughts and whatever form of prayer you practice.....even smoke signals are appreciated!

12 comments:

Kimberly said...

I love you both! We are all praying here--for you and for Paul. I think you're doing such a wonderful job. Just your love for him means so much to him I know. We are praying for strength and peace for you as you pour your life even more into his. It must be--overwhelming. It would be for anyone. The right words are often hard to find, but know that we are surrounding you both with love and prayers.

BaileyZimmerman said...

Kim,
Thanks for your very thoughtful response!!
In the toughest moments I'll surround myself with your love!
xox
Aunt L

Anonymous said...

We love you guys and have been praying as well. I can't imagine what you and he are going through but we're here and will support you guys however we can...even so far away. We're praying for strength, wisdom, peace, rest and patience during these difficult times. We hope you'll sense our love and rest in that.
Love,
Carey

BaileyZimmerman said...

Thanks Carey,
Emotions and progress change by the hour!
Today, Paul had a good day....made some real progress.
Swallowing seems to be easier....can you imagine be grateful for the simple act of swallowing?...sigh!!
xox
L

Anonymous said...

No I can't imagine. It certainly makes you grateful for the very simple things in life and the small victories. We'll keep praying that each day gets better. Love you (and Paul!). Carey

dee said...

I've been an avid reader of Paul's work for 10+ years. His writing is generous - and through him I feel I know you. I certainly have felt welcomed by the wealth and depth of your relationship. I can only imagine how heavily you're drawing on that reservoir now. My hopes, thoughts & patience are sent your way.

Elizabeth said...

Thinking of you both, Linda!

XOXO

Beth

Mike said...

Ms. Redhead,

Please know that y'all are in the prayers of many people. I am a tremendous fan of Paul's writing. He is a scholar in a sea of lesser sportsmen. No-one else has his depth of insight into both the technical aspects of the game as well as human nature. I don't know how to wish him well without seeming selfish. I want Paul to get better soon so I can continue to read his thoughts, but mostly I want him to continue to be able enjoy his rich life with you.

Prayers and peace to you both.

Mike

(Go Falcons)

BaileyZimmerman said...

Beth...Thanks so much for thinking of us!!
Are you coming to New York any time soon?
I need a Spice Market fix..lol!!

Dee & Mike,
Your words mean so much to me!
Knowing that everyone is pulling for Paul is a tremendous boost!
Once again he's charging ahead.....he is not giving up!!
Thank you...thank you!!

Anonymous said...

My heart goes out to you both - I too am a tremendous fan of Paul's writing and I cannot imagine how difficult it is for him to be unable to write - or for you to bear witness.

From Dumas: "Until the day when God will deign to reveal the future to man, all human wisdom is contained in these two words,—‘Wait and hope.’"

Hope to you both.

-Hamilton

Jay Monk said...

My families thoughts and prayers are with you and Paul.

Jay

BaileyZimmerman said...

Thanks to all of you for such thoughtful and HELPFUL comments.
Hamilton...beautiful quote!!

Of all of Paul's accomplishments recovering from the stroke may prove to be his greatest....his grace and humor and strength are heroic!!