Thankful At Thanksgiving

Jim continues to do pretty good most days. He has had several more days where he has having to take several naps to get through the day. He gets so gray especially around his eyes. I know he is so tired and that his circulation is bad. We had to call the doctor again today because of dizzy spells, shortness of breath and increased fatigue. We are praying that God will give us more time.

We had a great Thanksgiving. At the congregation we attend, Ironaton church of Christ, we fix food plates for those that are shut-in, those in nursing homes, those that have fallen on hard times. We buy food from Cracker Barrel. You know that stuff is good. Jim wasn’t able to help this year. He was just too tired. Julianna and I went and helped to fix over 200 plates. It was AWESOME! Then we went to Jim’s parents home. We got to eat with them and his sister and her daughter. It was so good. Then later we went to see Bo Foster, a friend that we made about 3 months ago when we were in the hospital. He has been waiting on a heart transplant for over 6 months. He got a heart on Tuesday and we couldn’t wait to see how the family was doing. We are so excited for him. We have been praying for it for a long time now.

Julianna is half through the 5^th grade. She is so beautiful. She is starting to have some growing pains. I think she is honestly trying to be a teenager and a child all at the same time. I guess it is that awkward time where you are still young enough to play and run around but old enough to look like a teenager. She will be turning 11 soon. I pray to be as understanding and as consistent as possible. She is looking forward to basketball season. I can’t wait to see how the team turns out. Hope she gets to enjoy herself and learn a lot in the process.

Cameron is doing pretty good in school. He has started coming out of his shell. He is speaking up more and is participating in class. He asked me today, that if he was good all year in school could he have this snow globe Christmas ornament at the end of the year. I was like…really? He is so easy to please. He loves rocks, sticks, anything unusual…like a mattress pad…bubble wrap. He is my sweet little cuddly man.

I can’t believe the semester is almost over for me. I have 2 more weeks of classes and then finals. I have only gotten to know a few of the students really well this time. Unfortunately, so many have had health problems, family problems, or other things hindering them from class. I really hope that Jim is able to get a heart before the year is over with. I will have plenty of time to spend with him. Money is tight and we need every penny we can get. So I hope to work at CACC as long as possible. I know my number one job behind being the best Christian I can be is to take care and support my Jim. I love him and want to help him. It has been a roller coaster ride to say the least. Waves of emotions come and go in minutes, or throughout the day. I pray that God will help me to have the best attitude and to know that He can see how things are going to work out. I know God is so good to me and my family. I just want to bring glory to God in my attitude and actions, in private and in the public.

We deeply appreciate the numerous individuals who have made recent donations to our medical fund. We would also like to thank the Waco church of Christ for their generous donation and continuous support. We are always getting cards from the Waco and Glencoe churches of Christ and from Ken and Billie Sue Butterworth. It is a beam of sunshine when we get those cards. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. That is by far the BEST thing you can do for us. Remember our children. They need your prayers and support as well. Thank you all so much. May God bless each one of you that faithfully server Him. Your service is such an encouragement to us. Keep on fighting the good fight.

*********************BE A HERO…BE A DONOR, SAVE JIM*********************

In Home Health Care

I can’t believe it is already November. Where has this year gone? Jim has been declining ever so slowly but surely each week. He has begun retaining more fluid. He can gain anywhere from a pound a day to 4 lbs. It is mainly showing up in his abdomen and face, but even his tiny bird ankles have started to swell. He has been requiring more rest and has been out of breath more. The nurse, Michelle, has brought a machine that can track his oxygen level, blood pressure, heart rate and weight. This can give the nursing staff early warning signs that something is going on. He has to increase his medication that he receives through his picc line and they have put him on some meds to reduce fluid retention. If you are walking and talking with him, he is liable to get quiet because he can’t catch his breath while he is walking and talking. Even when he moves positions, it takes his breath away. Last Friday, we had to call UAB, because he came so close to blacking out. I saw him staggering and told him to sit down. I call the docs immediately. They thought he might have been dehydrated but he has had an increase in his dizzy spells. Despite all that, he has pressed himself to help a congregation up the road that is without a preacher. The preacher has cancer, and is not doing well. Jim has agreed to help them temporarily. I honestly don’t know how he does it. He is so drained and so weak but he gets up there and he is so beautiful when he is preaching. I have honestly tried to discourage him from doing it. I am scared he will overdo it. I pray that I will let him live his life and continue to do what he loves. What if he doesn’t get a heart, what if it is months from now? I should be ashamed for discouraging him. I am only human. I love him and want him well and with me as long as possible.

The Cost of Transplant (Great News)

Jim has been feeling bad all week. He went to the doctor today. They did lots of blood work and decided to increase his IV meds. He is just not feeling like his old self at all anymore. Please continue to pray. We know that God is at work for us. His time is the best time.

We found out about the medicines. For two months every year his medicine will be $4700. For the remaining 10 months of each year, his medicine will average $1500+. We ask for your prayers that we will get an outstanding heart for Jim and that we will be able to afford the medicines. We know that God will provide a way. We know that God will MAKE a way for us. Help me Lord, to trust You. To lean on You and to know that nothing is too hard for YOU.

Be A Hero Be A Donor

September 1, 2012

Think about it....You can be a hero to someone in need. Visit http://www.alabamalifelegacy.org/ and register today. Tell your family about your decision. We appreciate your consideration. www.organdonor.gov

September 3, 2012

Ok. Jim is feeling bad today. We are in need of some ideas. How do we get the word out about being an organ donor? As a Christian we know that once we die our soul and body separate. Why not give the gift of life to someone? What if they had more time to help others get to heaven? What if they had time to do more for the Lord? You would be responsible for that.
BE A HERO....BE A DONOR.
I welcome your ideas. We are in the process of making a design for signs, shirts, brochures, whatever it may be used for. Thanks for your prayers.

September 5, 2012

I have some flyers made up about being a donor. If you would like to have the file just email me. You will have to print them at your own expense. I am going to try and go to a print shop today and have some made. These are good to put at places of business, restaurants, churches, etc. I appreciate your help.
themurrellshome@bellsouth.net Please make sure you put Jim's flyers needed in the subject line. Thanks so much.

Well, I didn't make it to the print shop but I did go to the Daily Home (newspaper for Talladega County). We are running an ad in the Daily Home and The Anniston Star this next week. Sunday for Anniston, Wednesday for Daily Home. It is estimated to reach at least 70,000 to 80,000 homes. It was quite expensive. If you would like to help with costs just send me a private message. The only reason I mention this is because several have mentioned helping and we plan to run an ad at least once a month. Thanks so much. We really appreciate you helping us to get the word out.

Officially Listed For Transplant

Just got the phone call from UAB. Jim is now on the active transplant list. They can call anytime there is a match.
PLEASE CONSIDER BEING A DONOR AND TELLING OTHERS. THE GIFT OF LIFE IS SO PRECIOUS.

Now we begin a new journey. I am going to hold on tight.

Decision Day

DECISION DAY....FAITH IS THE VICTORY! NO MATTER WHAT...OUR GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD!

He was approved to get on the list. The insurance will be preapproved for him to have surgery then he will officially be on the list. Thanks for all your prayers. It means so much to us to have your love and support.

Took Jim to meet the stars of The First 48 in Birmingham. It was awesome. Got to see the interrogation rooms, conference rooms, meet the Homicide detectives. Sgt. Jacobs was great. He also got a cup and two DVDs that had not been released. He was grinning all the way home.

Transplant Classes

August 21, 2012

Jim goes for more tests on Thursday. Then transplant class on Tuesday. Thanks for all the visits, prayers, cards, donations, food, calls...God is so good.

August 23, 2012

Jim and his dad are on their way to UAB. Jim has blood work, then appointment with heart failure group and then meeting with the social worker. My heart is with him. Trying to teach today. Praying that all goes well.
Transplant classes on Tuesday. Then docs will be ready to make a decision. We expect one no later than Thursday evening. Thanks for your continued prayers and support. It means so much.
OUR GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD HE REIGNS IN HEAVEN ABOVE WITH WISDOM POWER AND MIGHT...MY GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD!

August 24, 2012

Good day yesterday. Jim had blood work, saw heart failure doc, and then finished up with the social worker. No big major tests. YEAH! Doc said he would need to do his dental check-up then go to class on Tuesday. They should make a decision by Thursday. Social Worker gave us great news instead of costing tens of thousands of dollars it is figured to be under $7,000 right now. We haven't checked the...cost of the meds yet. I cried. God is SO good. We used to have around $50000 raised but after two prior transplant evaluations and being in and out of the hospital we have about $4000 now. Medicare kicked in the first of May and that has helped a lot. Thanks so much for all the countless prayers on our behalf. I don't know how people do it without God and a church family. God has always been so faithful to us and I pray that daily we will serve and glorify Him.cost of the meds yet. I cried. God is SO good. We used to have around $50000 raised but after two prior transplant evaluations and being in and out of the hospital we have about $4000 now. Medicare kicked in the first of May and that has helped a lot. Thanks so much for all the countless prayers on our behalf. I don't know how people do it without God and a church family. God has always been so faithful to us and I pray that daily we will serve and glorify Him.

August 25, 2012

Thanks to Jeff and Meghan Stacy for your visit. You drove over an hour...just to see us. It was so good to see y'all again. You both are really special people. Thank you for doing what you do. We love you both and we pray for you and your work. God has great plans for you and He will give you everything you need. May God bless you richly as you faithfully serve Him.

August 29, 2012

Transplant classes yesterday. Wow, learned some weird facts. Did you know after a transplant you are not supposed to go fishing on a lake? Can't be around cats? Before they do the surgery they shave everything from your chin to your ankles. The average wait time is 18 months for a heart. Two of the medicines you have to be on for life can cause cancer. Let's just say it was information overload that lead to a migraine. Going tomorrow to UAB to see if Jim will be put on the list or not. Thanks for your prayers. We love you all.
***GOT A SPECIAL TOP SECRET SURPRISE FOR JIM***
Can't wait until he finds out. :D

Our Longest Hospital Stay Yet

August 12, 2012

Thanks for all your love, support, and prayers. Jim remains in the hospital and will until Tuesday, unless the docs change their minds. Got to sleep in a real bed at home with my children. Wow, it was nice. Going to worship God today and then see my hubby. So thankful that it is church day.

August 13, 2012

Jim had a rough weekend. The place where they went in to do the cath started bleeding yesterday and they couldn't get it stopped until about 4a.m. this morning. He has been making pit stops in the room. Going for one test after another. I can't believe what all his body is going through. He is doing it all for me and the children. WOW. They have to do a pic line today and he is presently gone on his second test of the morning. Thankful to Jim’s mom for her staying with Jim so I could see my children and go to church. Thankful for my church family who gave me hugs, encouraging words and some monetary gift. It is so expensive to eat in Birmingham. Got an awesome snack bag from Alice and Billy and Brandi Hayes. I am snacking it up. God WILL provide. He is my strong deliverer.

More tests...picc line went in good. IV out. Docs came by and said there are still several tests to go. May get to go home either tomorrow or Wednesday. May have to come back to Bham to do more tests as an outpatient. Docs are trying to get everything finished so they can put him on the list as soon as possible. Chris and Melissa Clevenger and Phillip, Amy, Kelsey and Tyler Gallahar all came by to see us. What a great visit. Made Jim's day. Jim is trying to rest. I have been doing word searches and reading. Thankful for all the prayers. Thank God for my church family.

August 14, 2012

Good day so far. It has been a long one. Docs about to come by. picc site won't stop bleeding. Trying to figure out what is going on. Thanks for all your prayers and support. We couldn't do this without our faith in the true and living God and our wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ. Thankful for the brethren at Logan Martin church of Christ for their visit, monetary gift, and my chic-fil-a sandwich:D
Hold me fast, let me stand,
In the hollow of Thy hand;
Keep me safe 'til the storm passes by.

August 15, 2012

11:30 p.m. HOME SWEET HOME. Julianna's sick but at least we are all together again. God is so good to us. Thanks to all for your love, prayers, visits...words are not adequate enough.
Lam 3:25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.

Jim has just been released after nine days in the UAB hospital. His increased fatigue and dizziness were of great concern to us and the doctors. A new heart cath was performed on Friday August 11^th and revealed what we had already feared. The right side of Jim’s heart has become much weaker to the point the doctors stated it was hardly working at all. Because of this they immediately placed Jim on an IV medication 24/7 (via home health) that forces his heart to squeeze harder. This medication is considered only a short term treatment intended to extend his chances of survival until transplant. This brings up the next important milestone. The doctors have now agreed that now is the time to proceed with transplant. Jim will be formally be added to the list soon and willl be awaiting an available donor match. This is something we have tried to put off for some time but have taken the doctor’s advice with highest regard and trust. Please pray for us in the coming days as we will encounter the most trying and expensive part of our journey.

Things Friends Say

God gave us two good Samaritans today. Dad and I went downtown going to eat lunch and bring lunch to a dear couple who are in the hospital. I have known Jennifer Cobb Murrell since I was 11 and her husband Jim has heart failure. While we were trying to get me into the car from the wheelchair, a very nice man pulled up beside us to block cars from hitting us while I got into the car since we had to park on the street. Also, dad dropped several 20's while he was paying for our parking at the hospital and a lovely gentleman returned the money to us, dad had no idea he had dropped it. I have to say Jim and Jennifer Murrell's faith inspires me so much. Jennifer has battled illness of her own, often causing her to have to be in a wheelchair, and Jim has known he needs a heart transplant for most of his whole life. They both have an unwavering faith that Jim will receive a heart and that God will take care of him. The faith they have really strengthens me when I start to feel bad about my situation. Jim, although in the hospital now, is determined to be with us at our church to preach this Sunday, a commitment he made before he had to go to the hospital. Please if you are so inclined; please join me in praying for this family the Murrell's: Jim and Jennifer and their two kids Julianna and Cameron. 8/14/2012 Missy Hopkins Gilliam

 

My heart goes out to my buddy Jim Murrell and his beautiful family. Jim is in need of a heart transplant. Please help me in asking for a miracle, stroke of luck or answered prayer (whatever your faith or beliefs allow). Jim is a great man and the world still needs him. Timothy Taylor 8/11/2012

VBS In VA

We are trying to enjoy being home. Julianna and I were able to go to ICYC with Billy Hayes as director. Brandi Hayes and Stacey Rogers were Julianna’s counselors. They were awesome. I worked in the kitchen. Wow, never really appreciated what cooks do until now.  Cooking dozens of eggs, over 250 hot dogs, over 250 pancakes, my hat goes off to you Darenda Stephens, Amy G., Eric of J’ville “TC”, Christina of Hawaii “George”, Mac “Papa”, Sara Beth, Millie…you all were amazing. So thankful to Billy for an outstanding week. What a shot in the arm! Great lessons, young people loving the word and responding to it….WOW!

We came home early to spend one night in our beds then off to Virginia to help with a VBS. In Harrisonburg the true church is very small and weak. Bob and Tammy Horn have been working with a congregation (Central church of Christ) for some time up there. It was so great to see all the work they had done to decorate the rooms, handmade visuals, posters, food was brought and prepared. The congregation normally has about 40 there on Sunday morning. Each night we had 58 or so there. It was a learning experience and a real joy to be a part of that effort. The children got to me the most. They loved being there. They loved to learn the scriptures and they loved singing “Pharaoh, Pharaoh, let my people go!” We stayed for a whole week and we want to especially thank the Horns for all the food and free room. Anna, you were so gracious to allow us to use your room. If anyone needs any artwork, Westin Horn is fabulous. Please keep Bob and Tammy Horn in your prayers as well as the congregations in that area those who seek to teach and do what the Bible says.

After leaving the Horns we stopped in Newport, TN to see Patrick and Chantelle Swayne. They are in the process of seeking support for their mission work in Singapore. Patrick did a great job preaching, what an inspiration to spread the gospel like we are supposed to. Chantelle is such a strength to him and she is bright light for all of us to learn from. Please join my family in praying for them by name every day and also seriously consider supporting them yourself monthly. Ten dollars, twenty…is all adds up to help. You can have a part in helping others learn about Jesus.

We then made it to Glencoe church of Christ. It was so good to be with them. F.Y.I. It is possible to go to church on Sunday when you are traveling. You have to be determined to put the Lord first and make a few phone calls if you have too. May more members of the Lord’s church not take a vacation from services. God never takes a vacation from helping you.

We made it home and as soon as we opened the door, we knew something was wrong. The air conditioner was making a horrible noise and it was 89 degrees inside. The fan burned up because some wires got caught in it and the AC man couldn’t come out until Monday morning. Cliff and Beth Goodwin offered to let us spend the night with them but we really wanted to spend the night in our own house no matter what. We all took cold shower and slept in one room with one sheet and two fans blowing right on us. When I woke up the next day the repair man was already working and before we knew it we had less money but a cooler house. Thank God for AC.

Julianna and Cameron have been enjoying the summer. They are part of the reading program at the Munford Library and we have been able to see lots of family and friends already. I have seen my sister and Lord willing, I should see my brother next month. We got to see Jim’s sister and her family for several days. I guess we won’t see Jerry and them for a while.

The heat has been bothering Jim and I. I have had to really drink a lot of water to keep from feeling so bad. I am still having more flare ups than I would like. I am just thankful that I have more good days than bad.

Jim has been feeling rough the past week. He has been dizzy and feeling like he is going to pass out more. We go to the doctors on the 23^rd. We will be there all day. Blood work, tests, visits with docs, etc. It is the transplant re-evaluation. We will let everyone know what goes on as soon as possible. Thanks for your continued support and cards. We just ask that you keep us in your prayers. Mention us by name. We really appreciate it. When someone goes before the throne of God in prayer and mentions our names, what a privilege. Thank you and May God bless each one of you as you faithfully serve Him.

Another Transplant Evaluation

Time is starting to go by faster and faster. Each week is passing as quickly as a day. It is so urgent that we daily examine ourselves to see if we are truly doing what God would have us to do or are we carried away by the cares of this world. We have been in the midst of trying to take our 2 bedroom/1bath house to 3 bedrooms. We took our office/dining room and turned it into Julianna’s bedroom. It has taken us a while considering our health and we have been busy going to gospel meetings as well. One thing that has been bothering me is our family Bible time. It seems as though we are fighting a tendency to rush and we have so much on our minds it is hard to focus at times. But do we have problems focusing on Andy Griffith or the local news…not so much. We are striving to do our best with our children. Our health issues make is more challenging. You can feel great one minute and the next you have to go to bed. We are striving to do as Deuteronomy 6 says and teach our children no matter where they are or what we are doing. God help us to do that.

We went on April 26^th for another transplant evaluation. They did another stress test and echo. We then saw the doctor. We were there all day. It was exhausting to say the least. The doctor stated that Jim has declined since this time last year. They want to do the reevaluation in 3 months to check him again. We have been noticing more problems so we were prepared to hear the news. He is extremely hard headed and for the most part very upbeat. He will not let how he feels affect what he wants to do. He preaches from time to time. Churches have been contributing money for our medical expenses. With insurance, tests, labs…we spend well over $1500 a month. Jim will be eligible to begin Medicare on May 1. I remember when he got on disability and thinking 2 years is a long time to wait. Thank the Lord he has made it and hopefully it will help out a lot.

Personally, I have been having numerous flare ups. I partly blame the stress of seeing Jim decline and the other part on me being hard headed and still trying to do too much. I don’t know when to stop. I just want to do so much. I love working in the yard, keeping the house straight, helping others, teaching 2 Bible classes…I will have a meltdown one day…but maybe it will be a while yet.

Julianna is about to finish fourth grade. She is so beautiful and I thank God that she does not like boys yet. Maybe that will be a long time away. She has made all As all year. She has been on her best behavior and she was also recognized for raising the most money for the American Heart Association at her school. She is a real go-getter. She is really into listening to music, riding her bike and playing with Max and Jesse, our dogs.

Cameron will graduate from kindergarten on May 22^nd. Every child gets to say what they want to be when they grow up. Cameron says that he is going to say “I want to be a hunter and a preacher when I grow up.” He has been enjoying looking at nature magazines, collecting caterpillars (watching them turn into “raccoons”), collecting rocks and following his big sister around.

I am so thankful for each day. I pray that God will help me to continue to grow spiritually as we walk this path. The road is quite difficult and bumpy but I can always see the SON!

Seek ye the LORD while he may be found,

call ye upon him while he is near:

(Isa 55:6)

 

Special thanks to:

Michael Shepherd for an outstanding gospel meeting, your enthusiasm for the Bible encourages Jim and I so much. May God bless you to keep up the fight.

 

Brandi Hayes for being an inspiration to me. What a friend and a great example. I adore you.

 

Cliff and Chris your friendship to my Jim has helped him in more ways than one. You keep him laughing and your love for the truth and your desire to preach the whole counsel of God sustain us. We love you both and your sweet families.

 

Our Ironaton church family and our brethren throughout the world, thank you for your constant prayers. The Lord is so good to us. One of our richest blessings is our extended church family. Thank you for understanding and for your unwavering love.

 

John 9:4…We can do it!

 

I’ll Push On

Out of Breath, chest filled with pain,

Still I see the cross with blood stain.

Weak and dizzy, I can hardly stand,

I hear His words ringing with demand.

Feeble in body but spirit pushes on,

People must be saved, souls won.

Anger filled, down and out,

I can’t scream, I can’t shout.

My Saviour suffered more than me I know,

So on I must go, seed must I sow.

Time will come, when life will end,

Till then I will teach, reach, I will mend.

Dedicated to Jim, for your enduring faithfulness…love Jennifer.

Written on 9/5/2011

Undefeated In Basketball

Julianna ended her basketball season undefeated or as Cameron would say “undepeeded.” We had a great time being number one in our division. 10-0…WOW! This was my first time coaching basketball. The children were so much fun. Julianna came a long way from the beginning of the year. She became aggressive on defense and scored a few points. I am extremely proud of all of my players. They maintained a good attitude no matter what other players tried to do to them. Julianna was also in her first beauty pageant the “Junior Miss Munford Pageant.” We told her if we found a modest dress and we could afford it, she could be in it. Well, we found one at a consignment store. She did so great on stage. She was nervous but walked so gracefully. She did not place but it was overall a great learning experience. Special thanks to Danielle Smith for doing her hair and make-up.

Cameron will be getting his cap and gown pictures taken this Friday. He will graduate from kindergarten soon. I know I am going to cry. He has changed and grown so much since last year. He is reading so well. He is one of the few students that have been allowed to bring home books from class because he is reading so well. I am so amazed. Cameron has also gotten into playing angry birds. He and I play together and we jump up and down when we finally beat a level.

Jim has been getting hurt a lot here lately. He has broken his hand and bruised his leg real bad due to a fall. He fell again and got banged up pretty good. He smashed a finger where it was swollen 3 times its normal size. We are sure he is going to lose his fingernail any day now. He is so tired all the time. The Advanced Heart Failure clinic is going to do another transplant evaluation on him in April. His medicine has helped so much. It has allowed him to continue up into this point. I give the credit to God for all the prayers that are lifted on our behalf each day. Jim recently preached at the Lineville congregation. He has been teaching the morning adult Bible class at Ironaton church of Christ. Right now he is with Chris Clevenger visiting at areas hospitals in Birmingham.

I am giving my mid-term exams this week. I am in my 3^rd semester at Central Alabama Community College. The students are so fun and challenging all at the same time. I am so thankful that I am able to work as much as I do and that I have a job. I have been having a lot of flare-ups. I have met a new doctor. He has given me some medicine that seems to be helping. It will be a battle that I will face every day until I die but I plan to fight every step of the way.

We don’t get as many cards as we used to but we know that you are keeping us in your prayers and that is all that matters. Thank God for you. No matter what may come, we need to be thankful for each day and to be content. May God help us all to do His will and help ourselves and others to go to heaven.  Please be faithful…He is faithful to His children.

 

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.

So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.

Psalm 119:165

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.