The hospice nurse was just here. Brian wanted to make sure there was nothing else we could be doing to care for Nikki. Nikki can't swallow liquid any longer so she is getting Morphine on a regular basis on top of pain medication from a 3-day patch. With the active dying signs that she has, most older people would already be gone. She is young and strong and has stayed with us longer than most. Today or tonight will probably be her time to let go.
Medical personnel associated with her case, including doctors and nurses, have noticed and commented on the excellent level of care and compassion Brian provides to Nikki. The hospice nurse just said again how much better Nikki is here with Brian's ability to care for her than she would be in a hospital. I wish you could all see the amazing love that has been shared by them even in these final days.
Nikki can still hear even though see doesn't speak or open her eyes. Comments are still being read to her.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Sunday Morning 11:00 am
at 11:21 AM
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
20 comments:
Thank you Barbra for keeping us all informed. Nikki has not left my mind since I got the news a few days ago.
James Fanshier
Nikki,
I think about you daily. I remember all the fun times we had playing soccer. Kelley Cup was always a blast. You would borrow your parents van and drive us all to Sacramento. I always smile when I think of the girls soccer weekend trips. All the sunburns, blisters,pulled and sore muscles were worth every minute. It has been a blessing to have you as a friend. You are a part of my favorite soccer memories.
To second James' appreciation, thank you for keeping us updated, and thank you for being there for her. I never got to meet Brian, but throughout all of this, it's made me feel better knowing he has been there for her.
The entire family's strength is an inspiration, and every member of the extended Pool 4 family is here, ready to repay - in any way - the love, respect and sheer joy of life that Nikki has shown and given us for so long.
Jason Goldman-Hall
I apologize for the double post, technical difficulties on this end.
I will take my rest on my bed in peace, because you only, Lord, keep me safe. - Psalm 4:8
We love you Nik!
The Caldera Family
Nik,
As you continue to weigh heavily on my mind and heart, I needed to share with you that you have been a true gift, not only to your friends and family, but to the whole community. It's very evident that your life here on earth has impacted so many. You are surrounded with friends and family members' love and prayers right now. As much as we all want you here, know its okay to let go and experience your new heavenly body God has for you. Bask in His glory and receive your crown and jewels He has promised to his faithful children. Dearest Nikki, you will be missed and will always remain in our hearts. Much love to you and Brian.
Sony Dave
Bless you for the updates. I know how hard this time is for all of you. God's grace is with all of you.
Joann and Doug,
Sid and Linda wanted me to let you know Nikki and Brian are in their prayers and thoughs. They know first hand what you are going through at this time and they send their love.
Susie Clark
Nikki and Brian, In times of grief and sorrow,here is what God tells us;2 Corinthians 5: 1-10,1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18, John 14: 1-3, Philippians 1: 21-23. Seek him and he will be there.We all take comfort from this. May God wrap his loving arms around you. Our loving prayers, Uncle Bob and Aunt Pennie
Nikki,
When Leanne was in fourth grade she had to write a little book about herself. She titled it, "Leanne Olwin...not just another pretty face!". Of course, we all got the biggest kick out of that.
It reminds me of the time you sat at the Christmas table (darling, sweet, little blonde teen) and announced that you were into heavy metal bands. Talk about more that meets the eye! Dave and I got a kick out of that, too.
Nik, if we were in fourth grade and wrote a little book about you, the title would be, "Nikki Phipps...more than a smile that lights a million stars." Anyone who knows you can see: What a beautiful story you are.
Dear Nikki,
We have been praying for you for years as we have been updated by your sister-in-law, Lisa. You have had exraordinary suffering, and at the same time you have extraordinary faith.
I think of you when I read this passage by Paul from his writings to Timothy,
-For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—
You have fought the fight and you are about to recieve your reward. You get to be with Jesus. You get a crown of righteousness and to live in a place where there is no more suffering, where God wipes every tear from your eye.
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away" (revelation)
Your battle has not been in vain. The Lord has seen your pain and kept every tear. You have inspired so many people, you have loved and been loved, and you have known Jesus and his sufferings in a way that most of us haven't.
I pray that your journey to paradise is peaceful, where you will be cancer-free, totally healed and with the savior.
I will see you there someday.
(To live is Christ; To die is gain. Phil. 1:21)
With Love,
Erin (seattle)
Nikki & Brian,
My sister ,Beverly, has kept us up to date on your journey. We are praying for you and your family. Keep yourself wrapped in the arms of our loving Father. Is 40:31.
Thanks for keeping us updated.
Beth Frazier (Bos)
Nikki,
What you have brought to this (Phipps Bruder Patterson) family only God could have planned. To know you has been an honor as Your Smile can light up the Universe. You have opened your heart wide unto the body of life, onto yourself and onto others .
“For life and death are one, even as the
river and the sea are one.
In the depth of your hopes and desires
lies your silent knowledge (through Jesus) of the beyond.”
Thank you Nikki for sharing your life with us.
Gary
THEN Almitra spoke, saying, We would ask now of Death.
Nikki,
What you have brought to this (Phipps Bruder Patterson) family only God could have planned. To know you has been an honor as Your Smile can light up the Universe.
You have opened your heart wide unto the body of life, onto yourself and onto others .
“For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.
In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge (through Jesus) of the beyond.”
Thank you Nikki for sharing your life with us.
Gary (your dad in law)
THEN Almitra spoke, saying, We would ask now of Death.
And he said:
You would know the secret of death.
But how shall you find it unless you seek it in the heart of life?
The owl whose night-bound eyes are
blind unto the day cannot unveil the mystery of light.
If you would indeed behold the spirit of death, open your heart wide unto the body of life.
For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.
In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond;
And like seeds dreaming beneath the snow your heart dreams of spring.
Trust the dreams, for in them is hidden the gate to eternity.
Your fear of death is but the trembling of the shepherd when he stands before the king whose hand is to be laid upon him in honour.
Is the shepherd not joyful beneath his trembling, that he shall wear the mark of the king?
Yet is he not more mindful of his trembling?
For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun?
And what is to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?
The Prophet, by Kahlil Gibran
Nikki and Brian,
You're love and strength are an inspiration to Lea and I. May God Bless you and hold you in His arms
Joe and Lea Hering
"We were born to die and we die to live. As seedlings of God, we barely blossom on earth; we fully flower in heaven."
Barbara, Brian, as you have watched over Nikki and stood next to her with your hearts so full of love, know that she will do the same and will always be right there with you, watching over you and standing beside you forever.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you always.
With Love,
Geoffrey Bruce
I know for me that soemtimes it's comforting to share memories in times like these. I have posted a blog with pictures of Nikki if you would like to share in the memories. The blog is memoriesofnikkiphipps.blogspot.com
If anyone would like to have pictures added just let me know and I would be happy to add them for you. You can email me at kaylajoon14@yahoo.com
We are all very lucky to of shared Nikki life with her. She touched many people in many way. The memoreies we share will keep her alive in our hearts forever.
Love to all,
Kimberley
I love you Nikki
Love Always,
Lexie
Dearest Nikki - I love the music on your blog - it is so you! As I read all the shared memories and dedications to you it is clear to me you are an Angel. God had a special purpose for you and now it is time for you to return to Him. As I go through my sweet memories of you I take a deep breath as I have never met anyone like you. You are a gift. With all your work at Pool 4 you have left a legacy of children who are now adults. Their memories of you are strong in their hearts and minds. Sean and Brit have so many sweet memories of you. I still have the cup and heart shaped candy dish you helped them make for my Christmas present. We always think of you when we see these beautiful gifts. It was at that time you took care of me and most importantly you took care of my precious children while I was going through my own personal struggle. You are a Blessing Nik - thank you for sharing your life with me. I celebrate you Nik! I love you very much. Sandi Visser
Nikki,
We love you & pray for the pain to go away . . It's ok to let go now . . We're going to hurt for quite awhile, but then we realize you're in the greatest hands of all: God's . . This we ask in His Name, Amen
The Heinrich Family
(Glenn, Kim, Kelly & Baby Julia)
Nikki,
As I continue to read the comments left by those who love you, I am amazed at the impact you have made on so many people's lives including the Gorjanc family. You have touched so many children's lives and made such a positive impact. You are what has made Pool 4 such a wonderful part of our lives. We pray for you to be at peace and are grateful you are surrounded by Brian and your wonderful family. We love you Nikki.
Christie
Post a Comment