[Oe List ...] Brian Stanfield

[BG Robins]

 Our colleagues, friends and loved ones in Australia and around the world,  
A WORD ABOUT BRIAN STANFIELD:                           

Jeanette has asked me to write this.  She herself has demonstrated a most profound care for Brian over the last two weeks and has allowed herself to be thoroughly supported by the many emails that have flooded in from around the globe, some surprise visits, and a local 'cadre' who in many ways have offered support.  The sense of 'the family' in prayer have been very real to them both.

 Brian has been in the other world in the midst of this one for two weeks.  During that time he suffered the most serious of many smaller strokes.  The Doctors and nursing staff of the Flinders Hospital have offered extraordinary care.  The doctors have done almost every test known to science, most of which has been most helpful.  However, they have had to admit that there was something quite mysterious about this patient (Jeanette has whimsically said, "As if we haven't always known that!")  

 Last Friday, Jeanette was physically exhausted and decided to take the day off to recuperate leaving s small team of colleagues to sit by Brian throughout the day.  It was as if Brian said, "Well, if Jeanette can take the day off, so will I".  He slept a most peaceful sleep throughout the day and night.  Before Jeanette left for the hospital next morning, the staff rang to say that Brian was sitting up, feeding himself and managing a joke or two with the nurses.  He has continued in that stance and style.

 Our word to you all is one of cautious hope.  The stroke has left Brian somewhat paralysed (though one of those limbs was his right arm, which he is now using to feed himself!) His ability to speak is very  limited.  The future is still unknown and any hope has to be tentative.  But there it is!

 Jeanette's niece has decided to come out to be with her.  That will be a great support.  So, my dear colleagues, we can only carry Brian in our prayers into an unknown future, in the sure and certain knowledge that this tough little character journeys with the mystery, undaunted by the way.  

 Grace and Peace. 

 

Brian Robins