“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you”
Isaiah 26:3
Hello sweet friends! When we posted the beginning of our story last week (you can click here) we were not prepared for the response we would receive. You all truly entered into our Everyday Living and we are so grateful. If there is anything we want you to take away from it, we pray that you can see, know, and believe that God is faithful even in our darkest moments. It is our prayer that our story will encourage you.
I guess the guys decided to go out to the store in Midway to get some bread. Thoughtful of them since I was to return in a couple of days. Hunters are known to share when it comes to food. But interesting to me is the store is on Highway 82 and there was cell service along that stretch of main road. Cell service was non-existent in a lot of places on our club land. That’s significant because while there, my hunting buddy received a cell call from my phone. All he heard was, “I’m hurt really bad”! That’s it. The 4 words! Remembering my earlier comment, he had a good idea where I might be. He was also wise enough to contact Union Springs and get an ambulance and other help on the way. I was found in a hardwood bottom by my hunting buddy who had listened well and knew the area well. You can get lost on a place this big if you aren’t experienced and very familiar with the land. He was probably the only person who knew exactly where to come. Not a coincidence.
I was found on my hands and knees struggling to breathe.
I had apparently fallen about 25 feet from a tree based on the evidence.
I have very poor vision and extremely near sighted. My glasses were gone and my cell phone was in my jacket pocket. It always stayed in my back pack while hunting and my backpack was not close by. Seems this one time I had placed the phone in my jacket pocket (and I keep it in a pocket now when hunting). His phone number was not one I was familiar with but it was stored in my contacts. With help of medics and others I was transported by ATV, 4 wheel drive truck, and then ambulance to a field where the helicopter was already waiting. It is clear that if the only person who would’ve known how to find me was not there, didn’t listen well, or either of us had no phone service, no one had reason to miss me until that night or have a clue where to search. A few hours too late no doubt. The fact that I was in the trauma center in Montgomery in what was maybe only a couple of hours or less is an absolute miracle. I understand that emergency personnel called for the helicopter even before arriving and knowing the extent of my injuries. I would learn later from doctors that the injuries I had were of a nature that survival past a few minutes without intervention was unthinkable. Puzzling? No! A miracle extended because of God’s sovereign will, grace, and mercy.
When the curtain was pulled and I entered the ER, Butch was completely still. I touched his face, no response. I held his hand, no response. I whispered I love you, no response. There were all kinds of machines hooked to him and a ventilator was breathing for him. His hunting clothes were all crumpled and lying in a corner, they had been cut off of him. Tears came like a rushing stream.
Was this real or a dream?
This wonderful man that I met in 1970, when I was only sixteen, had always been a tower of strength…a real man’s man! He was a marathon runner, a weight lifter, a hunter, a real outdoorsman who could do anything with his hands. He was smart with a gifted mind that could grasp and learn anything! He was so talented…a singer, songwriter, and musician. His work ethic was second to none. But with all of his strengths, he possessed the qualities of gentleness, kindness, and meekness. He had loved me so well through almost thirty-four years of marriage.
This just couldn’t be happening to us.
I thought I would always have his strong arms around me through all of life’s sorrows and heartaches and now he was fighting to live. He was too young!
No this wasn’t really happening.
At this point, I knew that both of his lungs had collapsed and chest tubes had been inserted. Little did I know this would be the beginning of hours, days, and weeks sitting in a hospital intensive care waiting room praying for a miracle. The sun would rise the next morning and it brought hope of some good news. That didn’t happen, there was no good news. Over the next couple of days there were neurologists, pulmonologists, orthopedists, and more specialists than I can even remember that attended Butch. I was given information that I couldn’t even begin to process. The kindest and most reassuring doctor was the trauma specialist who saw Butch two to three times each day. He was a believer and didn’t hesitate to tell me that they were doing all they could, but ultimately it was in the hands of our Creator. I knew that…and I was doing my best to place Butch in God’s Hands. I wanted to trust Him, even if He didn’t answer my prayers the way I wanted.
Over the next twenty days, I stood by his bedside four times each day at every thirty minute visitation. I can’t begin to describe those days, it would take a book to hold it all. So many days of heart-wrenching news…pneumonia…staph infection…blood transfusions…hemorrhaging around the brain. One of the toughest moments was when the neurologist, with absolutely no bedside manner, said, “I don’t know if he will live, and if he does I can’t say there won’t be brain damage.” I crumbled. There were a few days that our sweet trauma doctor said there was slight improvement, I clung to the hope he would survive.
I would be remiss not to mention how family and friends stood by us during this dark time. I was never left alone during these long days and nights. The round trip drive from Gadsden to Montgomery is almost three hundred miles. So many made great sacrifices to bring comfort and love. Through church friends of my precious cousin that lives in Montgomery, I was given the use of a two bedroom 2 bath guest house for as long as I needed it. It was fully furnished and was truly a God-send. I didn’t want to leave the hospital, but I was physically and emotionally exhausted after four days and nights without leaving. I was only at the house to sleep, but different friends would stay with me each night. While I was away at night, at least one friend was always present in the ICU waiting room. Gift baskets of food came pouring in as well home-prepared meals and gift cards. Every possible need was met by our family, our loving church, our pastor and his wife, our friends, and business associates. I will never forget all the kindness that was shown. As a matter of fact, I kept every card that was sent as a reminder that our great God will meet all our needs.
Waiting was excruciating, but I found great comfort and peace in God’s word and prayer. I was on a journey of trusting God…and eleven years later I am still on that journey. Psalms 91:1-2 has always been a favorite passage because He is my refuge and I am still learning to trust Him.
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.””
I was so scared that something would happen to Butch while I was asleep. The thought of not being there for him was terrifying. God speaks through His Word. Only He could give me peace to quiet my thoughts and calm my fears. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
John 14:27
This was too big for Butch and me. An enormous mountain we could not climb. I would have to trust God to make it small enough for us to make it over, knowing He would be with us every step of the way. I prayed my wishes and His will would be in harmony.
God is always working and he wasn’t finished writing this story!
“…Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”
Psalms 30:5b
We invite you to come back Wednesday as we share the final chapter!
Linking with: Journeys In Grace, Grace & Truth, Counting My Blessings
What an amazing story! What a testimony you are, Pam!
Thank you dearest Karen!
Dearest Pam and Butch, I was in the process of setting up my new computer so I wasn’t able to see the 1/18 post until just this morning. Your life experience touched me in a way that I know only too well because I have been at death’s door several times and lost my precious daughter when she was just 28 years old. But I will not go into detail because this is not my story–this is yours. I only bring it up to share that I fully understand and know with all my heart that ONLY God made it possible for me to be here today, able to read YOUR miraculous story. Every line brought back so many memories and so many tears of gratitude for God’s care, and also for precious folks like yourselves whose scriptures with every post have helped to carry me on some tough days. I am so thankful Butch is here today and that you are both able to tell this story of faith and courage that I feel certain will profoundly touch the lives of others, just as much as it has touched mine. Big hugs!
Bobbi, you are so kind! Oh, I so want to know your story. I hope you will share it with me. It is so encouraging to see how God uses our life story to bring glory to Himself. I can only try to imagine the grief of losing a child. Hugs and prayers, dear Bobbie.
Your real life story does encourage me how faithful God is. How He walked with you through a very difficult time and how you trusted Him.
Your story is a powerful witness to the truths in God’s word. I am so glad you shared your story and the scriptures that you leaned on.
Thank you Bonnie, God said He would never leave or forsake us and He was and is always there!
A tear! Thank you Jesus. He counts them. A sure sign that he was with you.
Yes, he was! Have a great Monday, Alice!
Praises be to our Holy God. Thank you for sharing your story. God is in the details. This has really touched my heart.
Dianne, God was so present in every detail! Thank you dear friend!
We are on His hands…Hugs,Pam and Butch…Have a lovely day!
Thank you Maristella!
Dearest Pam and Butch, what an amazing and powerful story of faith, love, and hope. Our God is most precious and always guides and helps us through the most difficult of times. Casey and I are so touched by your story. We will be back Wednesday to read the rest. Take care, and enjoy your day!
Shannon, thank you and Casey for reading! God is ever present!
Of course we’ll be back for the final chapter but it is so good to know that we kind of know the ending, at least the ending as it is this very day. And I am so grateful for the skill of doctors, the kind people and the prayers that were answered.
Yes, Jeanie. Prayers were answered. People were so kind and comforting, and we are thankful for all the doctors!
I remember this very well, I prayed over and over, I asked Winston mostly of any news. Once Monica and I were in K Mart and met one of our` church people, who asked if I had any up dates. and proceeded to tell me” you had to make the decision to pull the plug.” I spoke out ” No he will not die but live and be restored” .She actually argued with me, as a nurse you know he is brain dead, and cannot live this way.. I am a nurse, but GOD is GOD and he will not die”. Praise GOD, I teared up over the years of watching you and him sing , because he wasnt supposed to be here…love ya
Thank you so very much Rhonda. We appreciate every prayer that you prayed! We love you and miss seeing you! To God be the glory!
Butch, I am so thankful to God that he saw he was not finished with the good works that you began and the people who would be touched by your testimony in both words and music. GOD performed a miracle in you, my brother, and I praise him for it!
Pam, I’m so thankful for your faith, strength, and reliance in GOD! Your constant prayers throughout his ordeal, no doubt GOD heard. So thankful for you both!
Thanks so much! God definitely performed a miracle and we thank Him and give Him praise!
Pam and Butch, What a testimony of God’s faithfulness and answers to heart cries. This story is so riveting! So very thankful to know that Butch came out of it as a testimony to our Healer. Thank you for sharing this-I can’t wait to read the rest of the story.
Blessings!
Noreen
Noreen, thank you. We are so thankful for God’s healing!
Butch and Pam, I honestly do not know what to say except, Thanks be to God, the Great Healer. Thank you for sharing your testimony. Maybe someday I will tell you my story about how a serious accident 5 years ago brought me back to church after almost 40 years of not attending.
Thank you Roxanne. How we would love to hear your story if you can share. God is always working!
Dear Pam and Butch: I really don’t have the words to express what a powerful story of God’s love your story actually is. And, it is equally a story of your utmost faith. The telling of your story is a great reminder to all of us about both. Thank you for sharing with us, I know that has not been easy, Anytime we talk or write about an extremely difficult time in life – we relive the moments. Blessings.
Sandra, thank you! It has been hard, but really special to relive that difficult time and realize how thankful we are for God’s mercy, grace, and healing!
What I know is that the end of this story is a good one. You will be forever grateful, and I’m guessing you will spend the rest of your life giving back.
Thank you Linda! Yes, hearts of gratefulness!
An amazing testimony and story. ♥️
Thank you Beverly!
Pam, I never knew about this until I read your story today. I have learned that God is bigger than anything that can happen on this Earth – this temporary home. I also know and pray I will always trust that He knows what is best. Thank you for sharing, may He bless many through your words.
Kathy, thank you for reading. Yes, God is so much bigger! Hugs and blessings~
Impressive story of what happened to Butch, I understand the horror of the moment and all the time in the hospital. The anguish of waiting to see the evolution of Butch I imagine, but God is always … always, although at times it seems that he does not … He is always there.
Wishing to know how the anguish of those moments ended, I send you a huge hug.
Dolores
Dolores, sé que entiendes la espera mientras te preocupas por tu precioso esposo. Pero Dios nunca nos deja o nos abandona, ¡Él está siempre presente! ¡Concluimos la historia el miércoles! ¡Abrazos!
Pam and Butch, my heart has about stopped several times reading the testimonies you have shared. Being in a family of hunters and several of us gals being huntress this has struck a cord with me. I appreciate your willingness to share and to allow others the opportunity to see the healing hand of our Lord. I plan on sharing your story with my husband and my family but I will wait until the final chapter. God’s mercy is more than we can imagine. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Thank you Cindy! We so appreciate your encouragement! Hugs and blessings back at you!
Dear Pam and Butch, for some reason, I thought that you were going to share the next part of the story tomorrow. I was so touched by your story and the courage you both have to relive such a terrible time so that we can see God’s work through it all. Last week I did not know the rest of the story, but I knew the results…. two people who share their love of God through the words of the Bible, family, and God’s beauty through photography, and music. After reading this last part of your story, I am so touched by your moving description of the events that occurred. It is such a miracle that Butch survived. When my husband had a punctured lung, the surgeon told us that to have both lungs punctured was almost certain death. Because of a personal life-changing event that happened in our family, I know how difficult it is to write about such things…it is almost physically painful for me. The date of the accident is just at the same time that we were going through the hardest time of our lives. When I realized that you were going through so much at the same time we were….I just did not have the words last week to respond. Please look at my husband’s Facebook page and scroll down to see a story and video about our precious granddaughter by Fotolanthrapy. It is not far down as he shared it again recently. Thank you so much for sharing your story and your deep faith. Love and prayers, Betty Phillips (Phil Phillips)
Betty, I do not think meeting you was by chance. You have encouraged us immensely! I responded to you on messenger this morning. We would never choose life’s pain and sorrow. But our great and loving Father can turn ashes into beauty! Love and prayers for you dear Betty. I would love to meet for lunch one day at Panera maybe?
Pam, this line – “An enormous mountain we could not climb. I would have to trust God to make it small enough for us to make it over” spoke to me in such a powerful way. I have been there and have experienced God’s mighty hand making a way when there seemed to be no way. With your permission, I would like to share this with my sister who is going through a very difficult time right now. Thank you again for sharing with us God’s story in your lives.
Libby you may share with anyone, we pray that God will use our story to encourage and bring glory to His name. Thank you !
What a miracle! God is so good. He heard every word you prayed and he answered your prayers in his own way. It is incredible what he can do molding and shaping us all the while so we can live to tell of his marvelous faithful love.
Yes, it is a miracle! Thank you Sherry. Yes , He always hears our prayers and is molding us and shaping us
Truly a miracle of divine intervention. I cannot imagine your fear and your pain in the thought of losing your soulmate, your true love.
It was a very difficult time, Shirley!