I'm sorry, but I can't even come up with a title for today's blog entry. This is the hardest thing for me to write, but I feel that I owe you all an explanation and to not leave you hanging.
Obviously, I do not have good news. The doctors were able to get the MRI done today and confirmed my worst fear. Dr. Fiorella came and took me and Diane to his office to show us the pictures. There, he explained the extent and location of the stroke that Jimmy suffered in his brain stem. Although the bypass still looks good and the coiling is fine, his body just couldn't handle the trauma, and he clotted off in an area that has taken away all his brain function except for basic reflexes. That is why his eyes were able to open and he would 'extend' in response to pain. They don't feel that Jimmy ever regained any form of consciousness after his last surgery, which means that he has not suffered any discomfort, for which I am so grateful.
Based on this prognosis and the lack of possibility for any kind of improvement or recovery, I have to make the incredibly painful decision of letting my Jimmy go. I can never put into words how my heart is breaking.
I have had to tell my children this horrible news without the comfort of being able to hold them in my arms. They have all chosen to fly out here to say their "good-byes" to their Dad before we take him off life support. I am so glad that we will have the opportunity to be together and to comfort each other.
I am praying for God's strength and comfort to help us all through this grieving process. No husband or father was ever loved more, and I thank you for loving him too. It was Jimmy's wishes that, should this happen, we would let him go to Heaven to find comfort with his parents who are waiting with loving arms to receive him.
I will try to follow up with this in a few days to let you know of our plans. Right now I am a little too muddled to think ahead that far. I do want to take this opportunity to thank every one of you for all of the love and support you have shown Jimmy and our family. He will be so very missed, but his love and faith will help us to continue on as he would want us to.
With love and gratitude,
Krissy, Michael, Rick, and Jenna
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Kris, Mike, Rick & Jenna,
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about your loss. You guys have always extended such amazing hospitality towards me and I will always remember Jim's smile and laugh. I looked up to him as THE person to aim to be like growing up. I remember some of the pranks we'd pull on each other at recitals.. :)
My heart is aching and I can't even see clearly through the tears. I love you guys so much and please just trust God's timing and works through this.
I know its probably ridiculous to say, but if I can do anything for you please let me know. I pray that you all can make peace with this and find comfort in each other.
In love and reverence,
Craig
wasnt expecting to read this
ReplyDeleteJim... man what a cool guy! he seemed to just try to live life and laugh as much as possible over the past few years. Im so sorry you and the kids have to say goodbye. Im sorry anyone does! geez that guy has such a presence about him that effects everyone around him. Im really going to miss running my crazy business ideas by him.
Kris if you need anything you know I and Kathy will try to help, that goes for the kids as well.
Jerrett
Kris, Michael, Rick and Jenna,
ReplyDeleteYour husband and father was such a huge presence in our lives it is hard to imagine that amazingly vital and full of life person not being around. He has influenced and been a part of so many people's lives that there will definitely be part of him with us all forever. We just feel very blessed that we had the chance to know him and you all are his legacy - I know you will be strong and be there for each other in the days ahead. Along with everyone else if there is anything we can do....
Love you guys!
Paul and Rhonda
Trying to find the words to comfort all of you, and shared these words with Judy this morning - Life will never be the same without Jimmy, but is so much better because of him!
ReplyDeleteWrap yourselves in his warmth, he will be with all of us forever, and for that we can't be thankful enough.
Love you with all of my heart, and I'm breaking with sorrow.
Love,
Sandy
Dear Kris, Michael, Rick, and Jenna,
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to all of you for your incredible loss. I have been following your blog since day one and prayed along with everyone for his recovery. Please accept my family's sympathies.
Your cousin,
Linda, Bob & family
Kris, Michael, Rick, Jenna, Steve & Bob,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this news about Jimmy with tears in my eyes and a lump blocking my throat reading the blog ... I wish to extend my condolences with the deepest sympathy about Jimmy your husband, dad and brother who truly was the greatest character and friend!!!
KRIS,
THANK YOU for the strength in writing Jimmy's blog to help us all follow these most difficult times in life to truly understand everyone's greatest efforts around Jimmy and most important Jimmy's efforts himself during the last month ... Thank you again for your amazing words & strength in Jimmy's blog.
With Love and Sympathy,
Shyde
Mark Schelde
Reynolds Family,
ReplyDeleteWe have been following Jims journey and had been praying for a different outcome. Jim was a Maple Grove icon and will be so deeply missed. His memory will live on forever in our minds. He was a wonderful man. May Gods strength continue to guide you during these difficult weeks and months ahead. All our love,
John, Julie and Paige Poyer
Words will never be able to express the sadness of anyone. I'm praying God can give you strength at the times you need it most.
ReplyDeleteMuch sympathy,
MaryBeth & Matt
Reynolds Family-
ReplyDeleteWe are so sorry to hear of your loss, our family's thoughts and prayers will continue for you during this time. I feel truly fortunate to have known and worked with Jim and have been able to get to know your family as well. Your strength and love is an inspiration and Jim's memory will be with me forever. All our love and support.
Erik, Emily and family.
Dear Kris & the Reynolds Family;
ReplyDeleteThis morning we heard about our dear friend Jim and your most difficult decision. Please know that we are all collectively Praying for your Strength and Your Family's Peace at this difficult time. Jim is clearly held "In the Light." He was a Beautiful Man with a Huge Smile, a Generous Heart and a Warm Spirit which will be so very missed by me and all of us. Lynne remarked over lunch today how sweet it was to have a special dance with Jimmy on New Years Eve. He was a very special man and we will hold his Memory "Close to the Heart." Anything we all can do to help Celebrate his Life - just name it.
With Great Sadness & Love,
Wayne & Lynne Cullinan
Dear Kris and family:
ReplyDeleteYou are in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you Kris for keeping us updated on the blog. We will miss Jim a lot. We are sending hugs for all of you! See you at the memorial.
Adam & Jenny Holm