New Surgery Date -Email update

We have not written in a while. Scheduling the next surgery for Zac has been a challenge, but we finally have a date; January 13, 2009. It could have been in Dec., but for several reasons it should be easier to have the surgery in January. This is the second surgery in the process on the left leg. Zac has had the external fixator on this leg since July. It is taking longer, but we are expecting better results. This surgery will involve moving the bones in place and possible knee reconstruction. It was after this surgery on the right leg that we learned that it would not be possible for knee reconstruction on that leg. We are praying for the best possible outcome. Remember, I was prompted to pray for knees...we still believe that it is possible for Zac to have a knee joint of some kind! The fixator will remain on his leg for a month or 2 after this, and then it should be removed and casted, before the brace fitting.

If there is knee reconstruction his physical therapy will increase up to 5 days/week. We are also in transition with our current Physical Therapist.

We have also learned that Dr. Paley will be leaving his current Hospital in July, 2009, and he has not yet announced where he is going.

As we look to Thanksgiving tomorrow, we are also thankful for God's faithfulness. He does not promise an easy rode, but He is always there. Sometimes it is in the simple things that if we are not looking we miss. I got an e-mail today from another parent who has a child with TARS; I met his sister in a store the other day. She stopped me and said that her niece has the same thing. Remember this is rare, and there are only hundreds of cases in the US. It is just nice to get a tap on the shoulder from someone who "has been there!"

We ask that you keep us in your prayers, life has been challenging on all fronts for us lately. We are seeking God's will on where we should be living and working. We covet each of your prayers.

Thank you,
and Happy Thanksgiving!!!

James, LeAnn, Cai, and Zac