Update 12/5/04

12/5/04 9:32pm

Dear Family & Friends,

Passing on an update from Lori. I just spoke with her to see how the weekend visit went with Gerry, and she gave good reports. She said the CNS notes showed that Gerry has been getting a bit feisty at times...probably tired of being constantly watched & told what to do. We thank you for your continued prayers for his spirit, as he likely has several more months there (God willing, with his continued improvement).

Lori also said he did wonderfully when they took him out to dinner, even when he had another episode of his jaw locking open. He did not get agitated, and after some time was able to fix it himself. On Sunday, they took him to church, and Lori said once again the pastor's teaching was phenomenal, and their new church friends very kind and welcoming. What a blessing to have Gerry able to receive such wonderful teaching when he needs it the most. She said he was so jubilated by the sermon, listening very intently and commenting appropriately. Lori spoke of how incredibly encouraging this sermon was, and afterwards she asked Gerry what he thought about the pastor's teaching, and he said "He smoked' it!", and "It was so good for my soul!" Praise God! As always, we thank you for your prayers!

Love,
Gina

--------------

Subject: Marinucci No. 68


Dec. 3, 2004

Gerard is making slow, but steady progress in his therapies. I have been
somewhat removed from the day to day events because of the distance and also
because there is no need to "micro-manage" every detail! It has been
refreshing to have Gerard in a facility that knows brain injury and this time has been a respite for me.

He has been participating in all the events at the apartments and it is
reported that he is very "social" (surprise, surprise!) Four-five times a week he goes out on evening activities such as the movies, hockey games, library, church, etc. He seems to enjoy these events and travels well. He has had a few "flare ups."
Monday, after a good day of therapy, when he went to board the bus, he
stated, "The bus is not safe, I'm not going on it." He was agitated when the RA
attempted to direct him, but stayed on the bus.

I plan to take the girls, along with my brothers' family for a visit this weekend.
I am thankful for the PCA church and those, new friends (friends of friends) that I have met in Bakersfield that have offered to come and pray, read scripture and sing
hymns with Gerard. God's family truly is loving!

On another note, Gina & Steve have offered to co-purchase a home in Aguanga
(30 min east of Temecula) out in the country. It is twice the size of my
current home, on 3 1/2 acres, in a gated community, with a completely fenced
yard, nearby fire station with a 24 hour paramedic, and a community pool. God's
timing is always surprising! (Should you know someone who is looking to purchase
a two bedroom home in Murrieta, let me know!)

I have consulted with family, my elders, Gerry and the counselors at CNS, and
they all believe this would be a good move for us. I am trusting God for
his guidance and covet your prayers for all the details a move requires, with
Christmas and visiting Gerry, it seems overwhelming. But what I have
learned this past year is - one day at a time and step back and watch God work in the
seemingly impossible.

Please pray I will keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and not miss the opportunity
for my girls to understand the beauty of His incarnation and the peace for today
as He still dwells with us by His Spirit.

Love, Lori