Update

I just got off the phone with the Physician's Assistant from Dr. Ahuja's office. Here's the scoop:

Based upon our phone conversation, she believes that John injured himself without really even knowing it. She said something as simple as a sneeze could have done it. She recommended number one that he not return to his second job until this flare up has passed. (John's response to that was to roll his eyes and give me a look that said, "How are we gonna pay the bills if I do that?" I ignored him and plowed ahead.) She also recommended increasing pain meds and changing up his muscle relaxer. She said he should be alternating ice/heat and should consider a massage or chiropractor's visit. We have been getting the sneaking suspicion that John should go to the chiropractor; however, (no offense Dr. Hyatt) the idea of being adjusted has been a terrifying thought ever since he had surgery. Finally, if this does not improve by the middle of next week, John will need to come in and see Dr. Ahuja and possibly have some more scans done to see what is going on.

We are relieved but exhausted. This is the worst setback he has had in many months. In fact, I do not recall it being this bad since he returned to work. There was the nagging worry that something serious was wrong, so it is much more comforting to know that it is likely an injury of muscles that are still NOT very healthy. However, we are EXHAUSTED! It is like without any warning we were tossed right back into the thick of convalescence. John has been in bed for two days straight now. He initially called in sick just to his part-time job, but since yesterday has been off from MU as well. And because "that's just how we roll" my work has been INSANELY busy for the past couple of weeks, and I am trying to juggle nursing him, working, and school for the kids.... the house is a wreck... I HAVE to get to the grocery store (we are out of jelly! that is a full-blown, five-alarm EMERGENCY!)... and I am T-I-R-E-D! I know (not just in my heart but from EXPERIENCE) that His grace is sufficient and that we will get through this, but it wouldn't hurt if you could shoot up a few extra prayers for us:

1. Pain relief for John from the spasmed neck muscles and the WICKED headache

2. Peace and WISDOM about working his second job

3. Superhuman abilities and SLEEP for the Momma to juggle all of this

4. grape jelly! well actually that I'll get time to go to the grocery store ;)

Thanks so much our faithful friends! We really appreciate you!