The evolution and change in Ben's rate of healing continues to amaze and astound us. I arrived at Ben's on Saturday for a visit. I was late. It had been a difficult day, with unexpected patient care issues that morning in my medical practice. The drive to the neurorecovery center had taken longer than usual in the afternoon rain and I was tired. I arrived at around 6pm and was greeted with a smiling Ben and the news that he had been granted day passes for Saturday and Sunday.  This news was unexpected and such a gift! My fatigue evaporated.  As the weekend unfolded, it was clear that God had much to show me. It was SO good! We got in the car, almost giddy with excitement. This was the first time Ben was on his own with just family and no restrictions.  I was about to see how God is equipping Ben to show others what a miracle is like.

The first item on our agenda was a haircut. Ben looked like a shaggy dog. Where do you get a haircut at 7pm in an unfamiliar town? I drove to two places with no luck. Finally, I called a salon located in a mall. At first I was told that they were closing in 10 minutes and had no stylist available. Ben and I were planing to go to church in the morning. He needed to feel good about himself. I briefly explained the situation and the salon stayed open an extra hour just for Ben. The stylist took an hour to cut Ben's hair. It isn't an easy task with Ben's skull shape from neurosurgery and the scars on his scalp. Ben looked amazing. The staff in the salon was very interested in Ben's story. We were able to share what God has done in Ben's life; even looking at photos on this blog. Afterward the young stylist shared that the day had been very discouraging for him until Ben arrived. Ben had made his day. I saw how Ben's story had ministered to him.

The next day Ben attended church with family at the church that has prayed for his recovery since the very first day of the accident. Person after person came up to Ben to be introduced. The people praying for Ben were seeing in "person" what prayer can do. I saw the joy on each and every face when Ben shook their hand and politely answered questions. During the service Ben said, "Mom, you are making me feel like the star of the show right now." After the service, our cousin, Elizabeth, introduced Ben to her large Sunday school class. To my surprise, Ben started to speak to the class. He thanked everyone for their "little prayers"for him. And with perfect timing added, ".......and if you didn't pray for me, that's ok, too." The statement and grin on Ben's face was priceless. The class erupted in giggles.  Ben finished with telling everyone that he has felt Christ in his life more than ever the past 2 weeks. I was astounded. Ben was poised, articulate and funny. The message was clear. Ben communicated it to everyone he saw. What on earth is God up to? 

Ben still has a long way to go. His memory is still extremely impaired. Attention and learning is difficult. He still needs prayer to heal. He is frustrated with the disability from the traumatic brain injury. He is desperate to return home. He is communicating with friends and family with texts via iPad and phone calls, but is tired of being by himself. Ben appreciates your prayers. It will be good!