Prayer Need ...

The following comes from missionaries that our church supports in Thailand. Please pray for this young girl and her family. Thank you!


May 3, 2010
Dear Friends and Family,

We are asking for your prayers concerning friends of ours that are missionaries here in Thailand. Their daughter - 14 year old, the same age as our daughter Hannah was admitted in the hospital about a week ago and since then the family has seen her condition only worsen. This is an update that a friend just sent to us so that we would continue to pray for her. Please be praying with us.

Thank you,
Dan and Laurie

UPDATE

I know that Joseph and Edwina feel the strength of your prayers. If any of you (in Thailand) wish to send Joseph and Edwina an SMS (text message) of encouragement, their mobile numbers are as follows: (It's probably better not to call as they will probably be keeping the phones open for calls with family).
Joseph: +66827164982Edwina: +66827164983

Yesterday, was an eventful day.The doctors had hoped that by relieving the pressure on the brain, Azaria's condition would improve. However, she did not wake from the operation and remains in a coma. The swelling on her brain continues. At lunchtime yesterday, the doctor wanted to take a further CAT scan as he was concerned by what he saw during the operation. The CAT scan confirmed his fears that the fungus has penetrated the brain and has reached the brain stem. Due to this, he had to tell Joseph and Edwina that there are no further surgical or medical options remaining. Azaria has lost much of the function of her brain.

Last night, the doctors assessed Azaria's condition and concluded that she was not brain dead, though her condition remains critical. The doctor added that if she survives, she could remain in a vegetative state. At the moment, the life-support equipment is keeping Azaria alive. It has to be said that the medical staff have been excellent. They have kept us well informed, they have shown sensitivity, and they have tried a number of different treatments. Dialysis continues at regular intervals.

Today Azaria's condition remained the same, though she looked slightly more swollen. Last night, Joel (8), Azaria's younger brother came to see his sister. Joseph and Edwina described how Azaria looked and explained that she may not survive. Joel decided that he wanted to see his sister and was in the ICU room for a couple of minutes. It was not easy for him. I traveled into Bangkok with Joel today and he wanted to talk about football and the World Cup in South Africa. When we arrived at the hospital, he said he wanted to see his sister again. He spent a minute with her. Please pray for Joel. These have not been easy months for him.

At the moment, the family are staying at a guesthouse in Bangkok. The youth pastor from their church is staying there with them, and tomorrow, Edwina's sister will arrive from South Africa to be with the family.