Loss

Late last night we received word that Debbie, Doug's oldest sister, was not doing well.  Doug was able to connect with his family via telephone and even speak a few words to Debbie as she lay fighting for her life in the hospital.  We got word this morning via the Caring Bridge site that the Dr.s have said that it is likely she only has hours to live.  Her fragile lungs have been valiant in their fight against this horrible disease and yet in the end, the cancer has become too much.  Our earthly lives will never, ever be the same without Debbie in them, but I know that I stand among the myriad of people who are so thankful that they got to know Debbie.  We rejoice in the hope that is ours through our faith in Jesus Christ that we will all be reunited one day.  We are grateful to see Deb's earthly suffering end and yet we are all so devastated by losing her that it's a bit surreal at the moment.  Of course the miles that separate us at this time are excruciating. 
It is the middle of the night in Minnesota right now (7.30 a.m. in Stockholm) so we likely won't talk to anyone until early afternoon today.  Our hearts are heavy and sad.  Please continue to pray for Debbie's peace and comfort, for Doug's parents who are facing an unspeakable loss, and for the entire family as we let a beloved sister go into the arms of her eternal home.