26 Days

When I wrote Day 26, I told you that it would eventually be replaced by a copy
of the testimony that I  delivered to our congregation at  CUMC.
 It will forever be the 26th and final entry, which represents the 26 days 
that Jolie spent in the hospital.  The following is the message I delivered on April 22, 2012:

"Do You Believe In Miracles ?

This week, many people have asked if I would be nervous today.   Actually my nerves are OK.   It's my emotions that I'll have to try and keep in check.  So if I pause at any point, just bare with me.  My eyes might tear, nose run, throat swell, and voice crack........ because I know it's going to be an emotional and spiritual day for me.   It's my hope that it will be for all of you as well.

Earlier in the week, I told Bob "please no sappy introductions."  I didn't want to begin crying before I even started to speak.   But it wouldn't have really mattered what he said,  I'm overwhelmed just looking around at how many people are here today for support.   But I guess that I shouldn't be surprised,  as we have had an incredible support system since day one.
So I would like to start today with some well earned thank yous.  First to everyone of Central United Methodist Church.  Several weeks ago, I wrote a letter to this congregation because I wasn't quite ready to talk about Jolie's amazing journey.  I hope that all of you had the opportunity to read that letter.  But I'm also really glad to be able to thank you in person today.  This church, its staff and its members, mean the world to our family.   The next group is all of our dear friends.  It would be impossible to go through an experience such as this, without an amazing group of friends.  And Jolie and I are blessed to have just that.   And the last group is the numerous doctors, nurses, therapists and EMT that helped in Jolie's recovery.  I'm very honored that so many of you were able to join us today.   I have a whole new appreciation for these caregivers and what they face on a daily basis.  Most emergencies don't have such a happy ending as ours.  So (and this is just my opinion), but I would think it has to feel pretty wonderful for them to be able to look over here today and know that they were a big part of this success story.    It really is impossible to completely explain how overwhelming everyone's love, support and prayers have been.  So from Jolie and I, and our families, we sincerely thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts.

I've always been impressed with how Bob steps up here every Sunday morning, notes in hand, but he never has to look down at them.   I'm sorry, but I will be looking at mine quite often,  as you can already tell.  I just don't want to leave anything out.

For those of you that know me, I'm sure that you are all astounded that I am standing before the congregation today.  I'll be the first to admit that I'm a quiet and reserved person.  And that speaking today is way outside of my comfort zone.   A friend and I were recently discussing this important day, and how difficult it would be.    He said "You know, some people that talk all the time can sometimes get tuned out by others;  but when someone quiet speaks out, then people listen because you can be sure they have something important to say".    And yes, I believe today is very inportant.  Quiet and emotional, probably not the best combination for speaking to a large group.   But if Jolie had the strength to get through her tremendous obstacles,  then I could certainly stand here and talk about them.   And it's just too amazing of a story not to talk about.

On January 29th, at approximately 9:45 in the morning from the children's Sunday School room here at Central,  Jolie turned to me  and said "I'm feeling dizzy".  And she then immediately collapsed.  At first we thought she had fainted, but quickly realized that wasn't the case.  Dr. Bennett later referred to this as ventricular fibrillation.   For the rest of us that aren't in the medical field, this means that her heart stopped pumping and began to just quiver.   For more than an hour, doctors , EMT and nurses worked continuously to bring Jolie back.  30 minutes here in our church, plus the ambulance ride to the ER,  and then another 30 minutes under Dr. Doug Phillips and his team in the emergency room.   After more than an hour, a heartbeat was miraculously established and then maintained.
  I didn't remember all of the conversations from that Sunday
between myself and Dr.Phillips, so I went back to the hospital about a month ago to talk with him.  Here's the most fascinating parts of that conversation:  He said  "Jolie kept showing signs that she wanted to stay, so we kept working.  I didn't put those signs there, they were put there by God.  This is truly a Miracle" he added. Pretty powerful words.   What Dr. Phillips is implying here is the fact that the ER normally wouldn't have worked this long.  They've seen this before.  But something was different this time.

I've had the opportunity to talk with all the doctors and nurses involved with Jolie's recovery.  During the first week, the conversations were primarily medical talk.... this is what we're doing, these are the things we want to try, and so on.    Then,  the conversations turned more personal and I got to see and hear how they were feeling.   Today, they will all tell you that they've never experienced anything quite like this before.  They will all tell you how amazed they are to see such an incredible recovery.  Yet they are unable to explain what caused this to happen.  They simply throw out all medical explainations and agree that it's an act of God.  A Miracle.  Direct intervention of God's power.

It's quite amazing now, to go back and look at every detail that had to line up in order for us to be here today.   First keep in mind that we're starting with a healthy 35 year old woman.  That went without a heartbeat for an hour.   That was given breaths by someone else for an hour.  And who was shocked numerous times to attempt jumpstarting her heart.  This event could have happened any time / any place.  But it happened right here in church.  Seems like a pretty good place for God to watch over you.  Turns out to be a great place because of the quick action and willingness of nearby church members that morning, who just happen to be doctors, nurses & EMT.  Also pretty convenient considering both the ambulance service and the emergency room are located just blocks away.
 By all counts, Jolie left us for about 1 hour that morning.  Temporarily leaving behind a husband, two children, a mother, a father, a brother, a grandmother and many many friends.    Yet here we are today.  Without heart damage, without lung damage, without brain damage.  For me, even today, this is all still difficult to completely  understand.    God laid everything out, and put all the right poeple, in the right place, at the right time.   So yes, I completely agree with every doctor's evaluation:  What we've experienced is a Miracle.

And maybe the most powerful sign for so many of us was the prayer service held on the very next day.   Where people filled this church to pray for Jolie, and then to see those prayers answered immediately as she opened her eyes for the first time.  I don't claim to have all the answers, and I wish that I knew why some prayers are answered and some seem that they are not.  I wish that I could some how comfort those that struggle with this.  For me,  I will always believe that there is a reason behind everything, and sometimes the answers will come to us at a later time.   I am also unable to completely explain why Jolie was selected to go through this.  But I think we have already began to see some of those reasons.  And again, with time, I believe we will understand more of why she was selected.

Bob Peden allowed Jolie and I to select the song choices for this morning.  We looked through the long list of songs the praise band already knows.  But we also began to think about other songs that were fitting for today.  One song stood out, "What Faith Can Do" by Kutless.   My thanks to Paul Goldman and our praise band for learning this song over the past 5 days.  I feel like it was written for our family.   My favorite verses:
I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do

I've always considered myself a Christian.  Always thought that I had a pretty good relationship with God.
The truth is, through all of this I have realized that my relationship wasn't
what it could be or what it should be.
I am now able to see what really matters in life.   Prayer takes on a whole new meaning.  Relationships with family and friends are so rich with love.   And most importantly, my relationship with God is forever better.
This makes me want to be a better person.   This makes me want to do more.   The list of things that I want to do continues to grow.  And I will do them.  No more just talking about them or thinking about them.  Speaking today is just step one.

As frightening as this experience was,  it was also one of the most incredible experiences for so many us.   All you have to do is look around this room to see evidence of that.   I know that Jolie's life, and my life,  have been forever changed,  but we're not alone.    Just ask Dr. Lawrence Mason.    or CCU Nurse Kellie McLelland.  or Sabrina Williams.  So many lives have been touched by this story.  Hundreds, just in our own church.  Thousands, just within our hometown.   Tens of thousands?  Absolutely, nationwide.  What about hundreds of thousands?  I don't know.   The exact total will never be known.  But what I find so beautiful, is that this number continues to increase.  As we talk today, it increases some more.  As we talk about it tomorrow, it will increase some more.

Jolie is often stopped in public by individuals that she's never met.   And she has received flowers, notes, letters and cards from people that she has never met.  Many of them start off by saying... " you don't know me, but I'm a friend of so & so,  or a sister of so & so.  I live in San Francisco,  or I live in Myrtle Beach.   You're story has inspired me so much.   I just wanted to let you know that I'm praying for you everyday."  Jolie and I both find this so incredible.   That poeple so far away are so touched by her story and are praying daily for her  recovery.

Not everyone has been touched the same way.  Obviously some more than others.  But the level doesn't really matter.  Because from what I've seen during the past 3 months,  poeple are sharing this story with one another.  And this has led them closer to Friends, closer to Family, closer to their Church, and most importantly closer to God.

So the question now is:  We've experienced a Miracle..... what do we do now?   To me, it seems like an incredible waste to have witnessed a Miracle and not do anything about it.  or to not share it with anyone that will listen.   or to not take a closer look at how I, or you, or we can make a difference.  You see, I think this Miracle was also intended for me, and for you, and not just for Jolie.

Let us always remember how incredible those days and weeks after January 29th were in each of our lives.   How close we all became, and how much love we shared.  With whom do we spread that love to now?  Bob Rambo talked about spreading that love a few weeks ago in a sermon.  He said that he did not have any amazing personal life stories, and referred to his life as vanilla.... plain & ordinary.  I can't say that for myself any more.  I feel that it's not only my obligation, but my privelege to share this Miracle with others.

On most Sunday mornings, Bob ends his sermons with an open ended question.  Always challenging us to go out and make a difference.  Well, I accept this challenge.  And I hope all of you will join me going forward.  I'm not going to stand here and say that I've led the perfect life to this point.  But simply suggest that it's never too late to change.  Can one person make a difference?  I think we all have been shown the answer to that.  Just look at the ripples created around just one person, from one event, three months ago.
I would love the opportunity to come back and share my experiences with everyone 6 months from now, or 12 months from now.  To share how I'm being a witness for God.  To share what's different in my life.  And to share what's different with the lives that I encounter along the way.  We've witnessed a Miracle,  what will we do now?

I will close today as I did with each journal written during our many nights at the hospital.....
I Love You All !
What an Incredible God We Have !"

Dear Central

Dear Central United Methodist Church,

Sabrina asked me the other day if I was ready to address the  

congregation with an update on Jolie.   I sort of already knew the  

answer to that question, but told her that I would take it under  

consideration.  I promise that I did actually think about it.  But the  

events are still too current in my heart. There will come a time when  

I am able to share this amazing journey with everyone, and I really do  

look forward to that time.  But just not right now.

I have to be honest,  I get emotional inside at some point every  

Sunday morning.   This is something that has occurred most of my adult  

life.  It may be certain lyrics to a song.  It may be the beautiful  

voice of a soloist.   It may be the harmony of the praise band.  It  

may be the words in a sermon.  I can't explain it, but I certainly  

love coming to our church and getting that feeling.  So to imagine  

myself standing in front of our congregation and talking about how the  

previous four weeks have forever changed my life, is nearly impossible  

right now.

CUMC means everything to my family. When my father was transferred to  

Meridian in 1977, this was the first church that we joined.  And I  

have been a member ever since.  Once we had children of our own, our  

involvement with this church really increased.  But today, more than  

ever, I truly understand how important this church is in my life.  And  

I realize how

fortunate we are to have such a wonderful staff.  I don't really  

consider them as staff anymore,  as they have been so much more over  

the past four weeks.  We have all become very close, and those  

relationships will forever be different.

I am overwhelmed to see how this entire church has wrapped their  

hearts around Jolie's recovery.  I am tearful everytime that I think  

about it.  We've proven together just how amazing the power of prayer  

can be.  Speaking of prayer, how did you organize Jolie's prayer  

service so quickly?  I heard it was beautiful.   So many of my friends  

have exclaimed that they've never experienced anything so moving before.

Once you have read this, Jolie should be out of the hospital and  

resting at home.  It won't be long before she has gained enough  

strength, and feels ready to return to church on Sundays.  That first  

Sunday back might be a little crowded.  We have a lot if people that  

have already asked to join us.

I encourage all of you to share Jolie's story with anyone and  

everyone.  If anyone doubts the existance of our God. If anyone  

doesn't believe in the power of prayer.  If anyone has given up hope.   

If anyone doesn't believe in miracles.  Jolie's story can make them  

believers.  What she has overcome shouldn't be medically, or humanly,  

possible.  But all things are possible with God.  You are welcome to  

share my words if that helps: 

www.sharingjolie.blogspot.com or

www.caringbridge.org ( visit site name : joliecarle ).

I hope that all of these words express how much I love this church.    

And how much I love the people inside of this church.   Thank you all,  

from the bottom of my heart for your constant support and prayers.  I  

Love You All,  Jimmy Carle

"The LORD is my strength and shield.  I trust him with all my heart.   

He helps me, and my heart is filled with Joy.  I burst out in songs of  

thanksgiving." Psalm 28:7

Lost

I passed the hospital today.  My car really wanted to turn into the 
parking garage.  It came so routine over the previous weeks.  I 
typically drove in & out of that garage a minimum of 3 times daily for 
26 days.  Numerous times, I found myself searching for my car.   
Couldn't always remember where I parked.  I'd get lucky sometimes, 
and  could hear the horn as I walked around pushing the lock button.  
Once I discovered the car to be on the next floor above me.  Another 
time I finally realized that I parked in the lot across the street.   
And on the day that Jolie checked out, yes I had to wander around the 
garage to locate the car.   I blame all of this on lack of sleep.  
Much like life, we all get lost every now and then.  It's great to be 
found.   I Love All Of You !   What an incredible God we have.  Jimmy 
Carle

Heading for Home

Not sure where to even begin.  There's so much to be thankful for.   
So many enriched relationships.   So much revitalized faith.  Such a 
new perspective on life.   Yes, this has without a doubt been the most 
frightening experience that I've ever faced in my life.   But now, 
after 26 days, I have to say it's also the most valuable experience of 
my life.  Nothing will ever be the same.  Every day will be a 
blessing.   Tomorrow morning we will go home.   We will get some 
rest.  We will continue to help Jolie with her recovery.  But most of 
all,  we will just be a family again.  I Love You All !   What an 
incredible God we have.  Jimmy Carle   2/23/12

My Friend

Romans 12:15
"Rejoice with them that do rejoice,   and weep with them that 
weep."       As I numbly stood over Jolie that morning in the 
children's arts & crafts room, you stood by my side.   As I waited 
alone in the ER waiting room, you were the first to arrive and we 
immediately prayed together.  As I spent countless days in the waiting 
area,  you were always there to check on me.  As I finished each 
journal at night,  you were the first that I shared with so it could 
be posted.  We've laughed.  We've cried.  We've prayed.  We've 
celebrated.  We've both grown from this journey.  We're both different 
now.   I Love You !  What an  incredible God we have. Jimmy Carle   2/22/12

Happy Birthday !

Today is my father's birthday.   I wrote in his card this morning.... 
"Probably not what you had planned for today but certainly worth 
celebrating".   It has been a blessing having my parents here during 
Jolie's recovery.   They have been a tremendous help with our kids 
during the past 3-1/2 weeks.  I remember when my grandmother began 
slowing down.  My father never missed a day talking with her.   And 
when my father's brother struggled with his battle with cancer, he 
also called to talk to him everyday.   There are many traits that I 
admire in my father, but compassion is at the top of this list.     I 
hope that I successfully pass these values down to my son.  Happy 
Birthday Dad !   I Love You !   What an incredible God we have.  Jimmy 
Carle

What's My Purpose ?

I spent a little time this afternoon with Bob Rambo at CUMC.  I 
touched on a topic that I had spent some time thinking about.  I know 
in my heart that God has big plans for Jolie.  But I also know that 
many others, myself included, have been deeply moved by this amazing 
miracle.  Is this our wake up call too?  our call to action?   I have 
spent a lot of time over the past few weeks, thinking about what my 
purpose might be.  I have also spent a lot of time thinking about what 
I could have already done, but haven't.   For me personally, it's time 
to re-evaluate.  And then it's time to get busy.  I have been blessed 
with a very fortunate life.  Great job.  Incredible wife and kids.  
Nice home.  Wonderful friends and family.  But what is my purpose?  I 
don't know the answer to that right now, but I certainly look forward 
to finding out.  I Love All Of You !  What an incredible God we have.  
Jimmy Carle   2/20/12

So, We Meet Again

As I mentioned before, I typically write each night on the most 
influential
event of the day.   Or I write about what was on my mind the most 
during that day.   Or the most emotional event or discussion from that 
day.  It was a very easy choice for tonight.  Today Jolie and I shared 
a long visit with Dr. Lawrence Mason and his wife Ginger.  We've been 
friends for a long time & we've spent a lot of time together in 
church.  But our friendship is very different now.   Lawrence was the 
first doctor to reach Jolie and begin CPR, which he continued until 
the EMT arrived.  Since that day, Lawrence & Ginger have been a 
constant part of Jolie's recovery.  They previously joined our family 
twice as we went to Jolie's CCU room.   But Jolie doesn't remember the 
visits due to the high amount of sedation that she was on at the 
time.  So today's visit was very powerful for everyone.  It was very 
important for all of them to share feelings & discuss the events of 
that morning.   But also equally important to just discuss the routine 
things in life..... Kids, School, Home, Etc. It's so wonderful to have 
such great friends.   True friends really shine in the darkest 
times.   I Love All Of You ! What an incredible God we have.  Jimmy 
Carle   2/19/12

Superheroes

Our very close friends are attending a Mardis Gras party tonight.  
Costumes are required, and they are going this year as superheroes.... 
Captain America & Wonder Woman.  I saw a Facebook post the other day 
that Jolie should be wearing this Wonder Woman costume.  I have to 
agree, she is a superhero.  She has fought against the worst of odds,  
and beat them all.  This Sunday will make 3 weeks of fighting, and 
succeeding.   If all goes accordingly over the next several days, 
Jolie will be fighting crime from home by this time next week.  She 
has been released by her neurologist.  She has been released by her 
cardiologist.   And now she is just clearing the lungs so she can be 
released by her pulmonary doctor.   Her voice is getting better 
everyday.  She continually walks twice as far with each new day. 
Absulutely AMAZING, when you think about where she started.  
SUPERHERO !  What an incredible God we have.  I Love All Of You !   
Jimmy Carle  2/18/12

Walk With Me

Have you ever sat in a waiting room at the hospital, and noticed 
various patients walking the hall in their gown? Or maybe you were 
visiting someone and you noticed patients pushing an IV stand or a 
monitor on wheels.  For me,  this has always been a gauge to determine 
if someone is getting close to being discharged from the hospital.  
Are they just able to go a few steps, or can they make it to the end 
of the hallway?  Or are they really pushing to get out of the 
hospital,  and cruising around the entire block?  Pure determination 
pushing them to go a little further each day.  A simple motivator,  
getting to go home and be with the family.  I'm proud to say we're 
somewhere in the middle of that gauge.   A few days ago, Jolie was 
just beginning to work her legs from the edge of the bed.  Two days 
ago,  she began standing and marching in place.  Yesterday, she walked 
around her room.  Today, to the end of the hallway.   Tomorrow, we'll 
go a little further.  It won't be long and she'll be at the end of my 
gauge, full laps around the telemetry floor.  Thank you Lord for the 
strength and determination given to Jolie.   What an incredible God we 
have.  I Love You All !   Jimmy Carle   2/15/12

Happy Valentine's Day

May not be our most romantic Valentine's Day, but will certainly be 
the most memorable.  After a full morning of meds, EKGs, samples, 
antibiotics & echocardiogram, the afternoon was very relaxing.   Jolie 
took her first steps around the room with her physical therapist.  And 
was then helped into her first hot shower.   Then said goodbye to the 
hospital gown, and is enjoying her new Valentine PJs.  Our daughter 
Alexa then painted Jolie's toenails to match.  The kids opened 
Valentine gifts.  As did Jolie.... a heart necklace.   Alexa explained 
"it's a heart for your heart Momma".  Which brought happy tears to 
Jolie's eyes (and mine).  Sweet, simple words from a 9 year old.  I 
Love You All !  What an incredible God we have.   Jimmy Carle  

Career Path

After the big move yesterday (out of CCU and into Telemetry) ,  I feel 
it is necessary to thank an important group of people.  I can't begin 
to tell you how wonderful the CCU nursing staff is at Anderson's 
Hospital.   They cared for Jolie's medical needs during her recovery.  
But more importantly, they paid close attention to her emotional needs 
as well.   Always praising Jolie for accomplishments, no matter how 
small.   Always telling her that she looked & sounded better.  Always 
assuring her that she was making tremendous progress each and every 
day.  Making sure to answer every question & address every need.   
During the last 4 days,  we have even been allowed to stay with Jolie 
around the clock (which we did in shifts).   This seemed to be the 
best medicine for Jolie.   This career choice isn't for everyone.   
There is certainly plenty of sadness that comes with the job.   But 
the success stories, such as Jolie's, must certainly make it 
worthwhile.   I can see the genuine love that the nurses have 
developed for Jolie.   And there is certainly plenty of love from our 
entire family for what they do.  And I know there are a few 
relationships that we've developed, which will last forever.   Thank 
You, from the bottom of my heart.   I Love You All !  What an 
incredible God we have.  Jimmy Carle   2/14/12

Change of Address

After 15-1/2 days, we're moving out of the CCU.  We've relocated, and 
Jolie now residies on Telemetry Street.  Yesterday, we broke down our 
base camp in the ICU/CCU waiting area.  And a new family has already 
moved in.  We left a few belongings behind, chips / crackers / 
cookies, for the new family to enjoy.  Also yesterday, Joe turned in 
his key to the penthouse, room 557.   And tomorrow,  I will likely 
turn in the key to my vacation home,  room 552.  We've decided to move 
on to bigger and better things.  We will miss our wonderful neighbors 
(nurses). At this point, Jolie is still pretty sheltered to all that 
has happened in the outside world.  She has no idea how deeply she has 
touched so many lives.   I haven't even expressed my true feelings, as 
they relate to the past 2+ weeks.   I look forward to sharing that 
with her soon.   I've been waiting to make sure we're both ready to 
deal with those emotions.   We're almost there.   I also look forward 
to the time to come,  when others begin to come forward and share 
their feelings.  She has a lot to take in, so we'll take it slow and 
not overwhelm her all at once.  I Love All Of You !  What an 
incredible God we have.   Jimmy Carle   2/13/12

The Game of Life

Typically when I write in the journal each night, I first think about 
what was the  most influencial aspect of that day.  But there is one 
topic that really consumed my first night at the hospital, but I just 
wasn't ready to let it out until now.  In fact, I've thought about it 
every night.  I have to admit, I couldn't stop my mind from thinking 
about life without Jolie during that first night.  I think that even 
with the strongest of Faith, the mind still has to consider the 
circumstances.   And at the time, the circumstances were not good.  
Where do you even begin?  How do you start over?  I was awake the 
entire night.   Despite praying over and over for Jolie to be OK, I 
couldn't keep my mind from drifting.   As the days passed, sleep 
gradually came easier.   That's because each passing day brought more 
good news.   And each passing day, helped to eliminate those bad 
thoughts.   There are no guarantees in the game of life.  And life can 
change in a second..... Something to think about !   I Love All Of 
You !   What an incredible God we have.   Jimmy Carle   2/11/12

I'm a Believer

Today Jolie completed one of the final major hurdles in her recovery.  
Early this morning, she was taken off of the ventilator.   She did so 
well, that the breathing machine was completely removed from her room 
later that afternoon.  This puts her one step closer to getting out of 
the CCU.  Efforts will now concentrate on strengthening her heart, 
lungs & body. Jolie has done some physical therapy during the past few 
days, but we won't know the strength of her legs until she tries to 
stand on them.   It has now been 12-1/2 days since those legs last 
supported her.  Since she has proven everone wrong so far, I predict 
she will be standing and walking in no time at all.    "...not sure if 
she will survive."    "...she might not wake up from this."    
"...there's a high risk of brain damage."    "...will probably need 
rehabilitation."    "...we don't normally see this type of 
recovery."    Who do you believe?   I can confidently answer that 
question.   What an incredible God we have.   I Love All Of 
You !        Jimmy Carle   2/10/12

Date Night

Since Jolie has become so alert over the past few days,  she spends a 
lot of time worrying.   Worrying about the kids getting their homework 
done.  Worrying about what the nurses are doing.  Worrying about what 
the doctors are saying.   This afternoon, she really worked herself up 
worrying about the breathing trials.  It wasn't easy convincing her 
that she could complete the 2 hour sessions.  She completed the 
afternoon session, but had a lot if anxiety the entire time 
(especially during the final 15 min).  So for the evening session, we 
rolled in the DVD player, purchased a movie (Moneyball, Brad Pitt), 
and had a date night in the CCU room.  Just the 2 of us.   The 
breathing trial & the movie started at the same time.  Her breathing 
trial actually finished first,  and she didn't even realize it.  
Cherish every moment with loved ones, even if it's as simple as 
watching a movie together.  I Love All Of You!   What an incredible 
God we have.   Jimmy Carle   2/9/12

Just a Friend

Last night I was sitting in the waiting area with Dr. Lawrence Mason & 
Jolie's father, Joe.   Everyone else was off doing something else.  A 
man approached and introduced himself.  Said he was the minister of a 
small local church, and a church member had shared Jolie's story and 
put her on their prayer list.  To which I responded "I'm Jolie's 
husband, Jimmy Carle".  Then Joe introduced himself "I'm Jolie's 
father, Joe Jackson".  Lastly, Lawrence introduced himself, " Lawrence 
Mason, just a friend".   With tears in his eyes and a lump in his 
throat,  Jolie's father quickly replied " He's NOT just a friend, he's 
a life-saver".   As you know, Lawrence was the first doctor to reach 
Jolie, and administered CPR until the EMT arrived.  After this week, 
will any of us be "just a friend"?   or just a sister?  or just a 
church staff member?  Probably not.   Our relationships will be 
different for the rest of lives.  Isn't that beautiful!   May we all 
continue to build those relationships with all that we encounter.  I 
Love All Of You !  What an incredible God we have.   Jimmy Carle   
2/7/12

Morning Devotional

                   Tomorrow morning I will 
attend Austin's school to listen to the 2nd graders give the morning 
devotional. Until just awhile ago, I didn't know what Austin's lines 
were.             
 "Yes, I know Jesus loves me by the miracles He 
shares. He heals my sad feelings... He answers my prayers."

This was assigned to him several weeks ago, well before Jolie 
collapsed. Coincidence?   Or intentional?   I'd like to think that it 
was purposely assigned to Austin, but not by his teacher.  Miracles,  
yes we've definitely experienced that.  Heals sad feelings,  yes 
everyday.  Answers prayers,  yes He has/does/is ! ! ! ! !
I Love All Of You !   What an incredible God we have.    Jimmy Carle   
2/7/12

Life Changing

It's been quite the day.  Jolie began her day with a scope & clean out 
of the lungs.  To which Dr.Reed reported that she did great and 
everything was progressing just fine.  After a little recoup, we spent 
some time with Dr.Bennett.   First came the difficult task of 
explaining to Jolie exactly what happened to her.  Followed by his 
plan for the day & his plan to ensure this never happens again.   I'm 
so glad that he led this discussion.   I probably would have been too 
emotional, which would have really upset Jolie.  Next, she went 
directly to the heart cath.  After it's success, she finished with the 
defibrillator installation.  All of this, just 8 days after her heart 
failed and she collapsed.   And during this day, like the other days,  
I had the privelege of listening to stories as to how Jolie has 
changed their lives.  There were 2 in particular that really touched 
me.   The stories were very different.  And the individuals were very 
different.  One did not know Jolie.  The other has gotten to know her 
very closely over the past 8 days.  Is this part if God's plan?  I 
look forward to the day when Jolie can fully see the lives that she 
has changed outside of those sliding glass doors in the CCU.  I Love 
All Of You!  What an incredible God we have.
Jimmy Carle   2/6/12

The Fourth Commandment

Remember the Sabbath Day, and keep it holy.  I could not wait for Church this morning.  My emotions were on overload.  How fitting that today's sermon just happen to be on perseverance.  PERSEVERANCE - defined as :  steady persistance in a course of action or purpose, in spite of difficulties, obstacles or discouragement.  I'd say that fits Jolie's  recovery this week.  There have been obstacles to say the least,  but she has steadily gotten better each and every day.  (Please continue to pray for her, as Monday looks like a busy day... heart cath, defibrillator, possible vent removal).  And then there's the closing song performed by our praise band.  Not only is it my favorite song that they sing,  it sums up the entire week:  "How Great Is Our God".  I can still hear it my mind:
"How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God"

I Love All Of You !  What an incredible God we have.   

And on the seventh day.....

Jolie has been fighting for 6 straight days. And now on the 7th day, Jolie can rest (and so can we). I found that comparison so fascinating this morning, as I struggled to even know what day it was. But today, Jolie was the girl we all know & love. The only difference was she spoke with pen & paper and was still hooked to a ventilator. We've been waiting & praying for that assurance from Jolie that everything is going to be OK. I finally felt that today. She has been fighting so hard. 6 long days of not knowing where this journey was heading. But today, we can see the path. There's still more work to be done. Tomorrow will bring 3 breathing trials of 2 hours each, without the ventilator. Monday should bring heart catheterization & install of defibrillator. And the day after that?......we shall see. I Love All Of You ! What an incredible God we have. Jimmy Carle 2/4/12

Ups & Downs

What a ride this has been. Up one minute & down the next. The first 36 hours were obviously the toughest. Shock, followed by panic. After Jolie was finally stabilized, then we finally began getting the doctor evaluations. One report would give you hope. Only to be knocked down again by the next report hours later. This went on for a day and a half. At which point, we finally began receiving good news. Then more good news. Followed by more good news. Some felt today was a minor setback, but I disagree. Jolie was placed back on ventilator today, 3 hours after it was removed. Not a setback, just wasn't ready. I think she's accomplished plenty in 5-1/2 days. By all counts, Jolie isn't suppose to be here. The length of time without her heart pumping blood was too long. The length of time her brain went without oxygen was too long. Well, not only is she still here, Jolie is getting stronger everyday. Somebody was watching over her. And Somebody
has been listening to the constant stream of prayers. We have many "ups" to come. And the future "downs" probably won't feel so bad as they once did. Please continue to pray for more UP times for Jolie. I Love All Of You! What an incredible God we have. Jimmy Carle 2/3/12

I Love You

A pretty simple phrase. Yet, we don't say it enough, do we? Very easy to say to your spouse, children & parents. But not something we would normally say to our friends, to our Church staff & members. Under normal circumstances, why is it so difficult to say? I'm not sure, but it sure has been easy to say this week. It rolls off the tongue with ease. To my dear friends, I love you for all that you have done. Meals, companionship, carpooling for school, my children's busy schedules, afterschool play dates, having my children overnight, and so much more. To my loving family, I love you for being here for Jolie every step of the way. Not walking yet, so maybe should say every heartbeat of the way. To everyone that I haven't even met, I love you for your prayers over Jolie. Keep them coming..... As we can see, they are all working. To my amazing Church, I love you for holding us all together. I look forward to my visits throughout the day with our staff. And I'm still blown away by the prayer service held on Monday night. I hope the words "I Love You" become a permanent part of my life even after we leave this hospital behind. I Love You All! What an incredible God we have. Jimmy Carle 2/2/12

In 2 Places at the Same Time

Sure wish this was possible.   I remember standing in the waiting room on Monday to see Jolie at the 5:00 visitation.   My plan was to spend 5 to 10 minutes with Jolie, then make a quick dash over to the Church for Jolie's Prayer Service also starting at 5:00.  I really wanted to be a part of the service.  I kept watching the clock, because something was delaying our visit.   5:00 became 5:05, then 5:10, then 5:15.   The doors finally opened and others were able to visit their loved ones.   But "The Carle" bunch were all asked to wait another minute.   Then finally we learned what the delay had been... "Jolie's opened her eyes".    Best words I've heard in all my life.   And at nearly the same time,  Bob Rambo was delivering the same message to a packed prayer service.... "Jolie's opened her eyes".   Wish I could have experienced the moving prayer service first hand.   But later heard all the details.   I know that the Church was filled with people, filled with prayers and filled with love for Jolie.  Many lives were moved in our Church on that night.   And so was my life moved in the CCU that night.  But there is someone that was able to experience them both,  our God.   In fact, He's with us all, no matter where we are.   Always remember that.  I Love You All!   What an incredible God we have.    Jimmy Carle  2/1/12

Why?

Why did this happen?  Why Jolie?
This is probably most people's initial reaction,  as it certainly was mine also.  But once you stop to consider all the pieces, a much different picture can be seen.  Jolie's heart could have stopped any time & any place?   Can you imagine how those outcomes would have turned out?  I have, and they don't end well.  January 29th, just moments from the beginning of children's Sunday School.   That's the actual date & time, which now reveals many different WHY questions?   Why were there were no children around?  Why were incredible doctors like Lawrence Mason, Fred Grant & Lindsey Prewitt, nurses like Missy Cook(and so many others) within shouting distance?  Why was the emergency room only 1/2 mile away?   Why was Anderson's Hospital already prepared with the latest treatment methods of cooling blankets?   This list can go on forever.   But the answer to them all,  Because God has a plan for Jolie.   She's already started working on that plan.  Just look at all of the people that she has reached in 3 days.   She's changing lives already.   Drawing others closer to God, closer to Friends, closer to Family, closer to their Church.  I can't wait to see what's next.  I Love All Of You!  What an incredible God we have.   Jimmy Carle. 1/31/12

Prayer

I remember arriving at the ER, feeling helpless, lost & confused.   Then one by one, the nurses & doctors repeatedly kept telling me similar phrases... we need a miracle, prayer is a powerful thing, it's in God's hands, all things are possible with God.   This staff knew the outlook didn't look promising.  Probably seen this countless times before, most ending sadly.  But they didn't know how strong Jolie is,  and they didn't know how powerful a support system she is surrounded by.   I have heard some beatiful prayers spoken over the past couple of days.   And I have felt some of the most compassionate prayers delivered over the past couple of days.  But I think the true factor for Jolie's incredible advances belong to the volume of prayers.  Families, Friends and Churches (from across this country) pulling together, all for the same common goal.   And I love each and every one of you.  What a beautiful MIRACLE we have all shared together.   Please continue to pray for Jolie.  She needs our support more than ever now.   I Love You All!  What an incredible God we have.   Jimmy Carle  1/30/12