Bishop's Health Update

Dear friends,

First of all, let me say, "thank you," for all the prayers, encouraging cards, calls and emails I received. They were an great encouraged. I received so many that I could not reply to all of them.

I have been set free from "house arrest" and have the doctor's release to drive again. I guess they didn't want me on the road not knowing what lane I was driving in or where I was going! I had to cancel several appointments and travel plans, but I am doing fine. Praise the Lord!

The doctors did diagnose the problem as a "TIA", which is commonly called a minor stroke. That means that the blood (and, therefore, the oxygen loss) flow was only temporarily restricted, so the effect is not serious. The doctors ran numerous tests and took lots (and I do mean lots) of blood to see if they could determine if I had a heart attack or where the restriction or blockage came from. I began to wonder if I would have any blood left in me! But, "thanks be to God", there is no indication of any restriction or blockage anywhere. So, I am very grateful for that. But, this kind of stroke is a warning that something went wrong, so I am disciplining myself by reducing the sodium, sugar and fat in my diet, as well as, exercising more. I will need to monitor my cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as, my blood pressure. So, it was a wake up call, to say the least!

I returned to the office on Tuesday and obviously have been trying to dig my way out of the "stuff." But, I am delighted to back in the flow. It has been an extremely busy week but enjoyable. Somethings may have gotten overlooked, so I forgot to do something or follow up on something please remind me. I have had a little memory loss. It's like I know it is there, but I can't seem to pull it out of my brain. Fortunately, it seems to be only very minor things. I can't afford to forget any more than I already do!

As I learn how to take the "easy yoke" of the Lord, He is teaching me every day about His grace and peace. The Lord had prompted my heart with a promise from Isaiah 26:3-4 before all this happened, so I have been in "perfect peace" (shalom, shalom) as my "mind is steadfast because I (he) trust in you (the Lord)." I am sure I will be sharing more of what the Lord has been impressing on my in the days ahead.

Lynn and I both want to express our heart felt appreciation for all your encouragement and prayers. We cherish your friendship and prayers.

Grace and peace,
Dayton Birt