Jeff Lockhart

This page has information about Jeff Lockhart – his recent illness and remarkable recovery. At the request of the Lockhart family, I have rearranged the page so that it reads in chronological order. The first several posts are entries I made, as reported to me by the Lockharts. The subsequent entries are those written and posted by Kelly Smith, Jeff’s sister, beginning Thursday, February 22, 2007.
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December 15, 2006
Good news (Kelly Smith sends along this good news):
Dear Class,
I wanted to update you on my brother Jeff Lockhart. This morning he had the tumor on the right side of his throat removed along with his right tonsil – at Clarion on N Meridian. He will be in the hospital probably until Sunday. The surgery went well and the good news is that the throat and tonsil and tongue all looked good. In fact they did not even biobsy the tongue and throat as they thought they would since they felt there was no need. The confusing thing is they had thought the cancer might have originated in the right tonsil but it appears to be cancer free. The tumor was actually a lymph node that had become infected (not the right word) with the cancer. It is Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Definition below – really weird because he is not a smoker and only has an occasional beer.) They would like to know where it originated but that would not change the course of action. They plan an aggressive radiation and chemo plan of 7-8 weeks. The survival rate is 75% and Jeff is young and strong and the doctor is optimistic he will be one of the survivors. We appreciate your prayers.
Kelly Smith

< Trauma occurs overnight Friday, February 16 / Saturday, February 17, 2007 >

Sunday, February 18, 2007
The following is from an email I (Neal Moore) received from Anderson University regarding Jeff Lockhart, brother of our classmates Kim Deal and Kelly Smith. Please add Jeff to your prayer list during this critical time.

(From Kim Wolfe, AU Alumni Association):
At their home about 8:30 yesterday morning, Nancy discovered Jeff was in a state of unconsciousness and breathing very shallowly. After Nancy had quickly summoned an ambulance and Jeff had been attended by EMTs and transported to the Community Hospital North Emergency Room, doctors there quickly determined that the oxygen level in his blood and his blood pressure were both precipitously low and they needed to intubate him and implement the use of a ventilator immediately in order to start giving him 100% oxygen.

They also subsequently determined that Jeff has double pneumonia. Nancy said she believes that Jeff, while asleep, must have had an adverse reaction to some pain medication he has been taking, vomited and then aspirated it into both lungs. This is believed to be the cause for the pneumonia infection in both of his lungs.

Jeff’s father Ken told me, “We almost lost him yesterday, and only God in answer to the prayers of so many brought him back to us.”

Nancy said that Jeff’s heart rate and blood pressure have responded to treatment and been stabilized and are now at normal levels. Jeff’s continuing improvement has resulted in the ventilator’s function being now reduced to supplying only 30% oxygen to him. If the ventilator were to be removed, it is likely Jeff would be able to now breathe on his own without assistance. The condition of his lungs has improved, but his doctors are still keeping him heavily sedated while continuing treatment with antibiotics to fight his lung infection.

Although Jeff has not yet opened his eyes, he is showing some signs of response to physical stimulation. All persons visiting him in his room in the ICU are encouraged to identify themselves to him and speak to him, with the assumption that he may be able to hear what is being said to him, though he is not fully awake. Also, high protein liquid nutrition is being given to Jeff through a feeding tube to his stomach, which had already been in place for daily use during the period of his ongoing cancer treatments. It was expected that a neurologist would be conducting and reporting to his family — possibly yet this afternoon — on tests conducted to determine what Jeff’s present brain function is.

At this time, his doctors consider Jeff to be in a stable but critical condition. It is anticipated he will continue to be so for at least several more days. Norm and Lou Beard hastily came up today from South Daytona, Florida where they are wintering, arriving in Indianapolis later than anticipated after their flight had been delayed by mechanical problems and their needing to change to another plane in Atlanta. The Beards were expected to be arriving at the hospital by about 4 PM. Members of the pastoral staff at Church at the Crossing and a large number of the Lockharts’ fellow church family members and other close friends have faithfully made visits and been present at the hospital yesterday and throughout the day today lending much needed and greatly appreciated emotional and spiritual support to members of the Lockhart family.

Let us faithfully continue to lift up Jeff in earnest prayer to the Great Physician, praying for His healing mercies for Jeff; also remembering in our prayers Nancy, their three children, Jeff’s parents Ken and Grada and his sisters and their spouses, Jeff’s in-laws Norm and Lou, and other members of their extended family at this trying time.

Monday, February 19, 2007
(The following is from Kelly Smith, Jeff Lockhart’s sister):
Jeff opened his eyes this morning. They have started dialysis Monday and hope this will only be needed for a short time. The hospital staff is asking that Jeff have 4 hours without people in the room. There have been so many visitors and at this point the family has ask that you come to visit with the family only in the “Lockhart waiting area” at the hospital .The family feels the support of the prayers of so many people and they appreciate the calls and visits of so many to the hospital.

Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Jeff had a good night last night. His blood levels are good and he is totally breathing on his own. They are leaving the tube down his throat for the day – just to make sure all is fine, but plan to remove it tomorrow. The good thing about removing the tube, is that means they won’t have to keep him sedated.

They fully expect that Jeff will want to talk tomorrow when he is tube free and unsedated. The other good news is that Jeff sat up for an hour and a half during the night. I don’t know how aware he was – but he was sitting up!

Finally, the neurologist examined Jeff today and Jeff responded to every command she gave him. She said his brain activity is normal – just slowed from the sedation. We praise God for such amazing progress in such a short time. Nancy and all of us family members feel totally uplifted and strengthened by your prayers and support.

(Editor’s Note: This is an email received by Kelly Smith from a close friend of hers about prayers being offered on behalf of her brother, Jeff Lockhart. It includes suggested Scriptures to pray specifically for Jeff’s recovering. Kelly asked that the email be posted here, and suggests that we use these Scriptures as a guide for prayer):

Kelly, I sent this to the Bible study group and then realized that you are not on my group list. Just wanted you to know once again how much we care. May the favor of the Lord rest upon Jeff today. Dan and I are praying for complete healing for Jeff, and thanking God for what He has already done. Our prayers come from the following Psalms, praying the Lord’s Word back to Him.
(please insert Jeff’s name as you pray)

Psalm 118: 17 “I (Jeff) will not die; instead I (Jeff) will live and proclaim what the Lord has done….”

Psalm 118: 19 “Open to me the gates of the Temple; I will go in and give thanks to the Lord!”

Psalm 118: “Save us, Lord, save us! Give us success, O Lord!”

Psalm 119: 169 “Let my cry for help reach you, Lord!”

Psalm 120: ! “When I was in trouble, I called to the Lord, and He answered me.”

Psalm 123: 1,2 “Lord, I look up to you, up to heaven, where you rule. As a servant depends on his master, as a maid depends on her mistress, so we will keep looking to you, O Lord our God, until you have mercy on us.”

Psalm 127: 2 “…For the Lord provides for those He loves, while they are asleep…”

Psalm 130: 5,6,7 ” I wait eagerly for the Lord’s help and in His Word I trust. I wait for the Lord more eagerly than watchmen wait for the dawn. Israel, trust in the Lord, because His love is constant and He is always willing to save.”

Psalm 136: 1, 4 “Give thanks to the Lord, because He is good; and His love is eternal. He alone performs great miracles. “

Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Jeff was sitting up in a chair when Kim (Deal) arrived at the hospital around 10:30 this morning and he talked to her!!! He asked her where he was and what had happened. He is not overly focused but he was talking! Praise God. By the way – people should not go into his room to witness this event without checking with the family. – we don’t want to overwhelm him.

Thursday, February 22, 2007
(Editor’s note: Kelly Smith is now posting directly to the blog. The following is the first of what certainly will be several updates from her about Jeff):
We are thankful that each day seems to bring improvement to Jeff. I do want to clarify that though he is sitting up – it is not by his own power, it is just a result of the nurses strapping him up in a chair to move his body fluids around. But it is still good that he is to the point of being able to do that. The doctor said he is over the hump and will just need time to heal. There is no concern of brain, heart or lung damage anymore. The prayer is for his kidneys to heal and function on their own. He will be on dialysis until that time. Jeff is talking, though his speech is not crystal clear. He has made a few comments though, that show the “old Jeff” coming through. I will visit him at noon and post the latest observations at that time.

I visited Jeff after work. He actually ordered French toast for dinner and was able to feed himself and keep it down. He said it didn’t taste very good, but this was the first time he has eaten anything. They have fed him through a tube until now. He seemed much more aware tonight. I asked him if he understood when we were talking to him and he said he did. He seemed very uncomfortable so I asked him if he hurt anywhere and he said “everywhere” then put his hand to his neck and said “mostly here”. This is the first time he has acknowledge pain, so he must be more aware – and I guess not all awareness is pleasant. He told me this whole thing seemed very “weird”. He understood that something bad had happened and he was in the hospital trying to get well. He said he just didn’t know why. We have tried to tell him many times that he had a problem with his medicine ( of course – we aren’t really sure if that is what happened) but he does not remember us telling him. Nancy says he asked her the same questions over and over all day. He seems to understand when you are talking to him but I think it just doesn’t stick. I asked if I could do anything to help him and he said “get him out of the hospital” and tried to smile. I told him about this website and he said he understood. I am hoping more of you will start writing comments. I will print them off and read them to Jeff at the hospital. I am going to try to keep adding my comments to this same post so that the comments can stream more continuously.— visited Jeff at lunch. He had just returned from surgery. During the night he had pulled out his dialysis shunt-it was quite an ordeal. They put in a new shunt and he will receive a treatment today. He talked to Stan this morning at 7:45 (fifteen minutes before visiting hours) and was concerned that no one had been to visit him for awhile. When I visited him he was able to talk and even tried to make some typical Jeff comments! He is groggy and hard to understand but when I asked him if he was able to understand us when we talked to him, he said yes. He also told me he wasn’t in a lot of pain. That was good to know.

Friday, February 23, 2007
It has been a sleepy day for Jeff. He didn’t rest much last night and has spent most of the day making up for that. He has now earned the red sign on his door that reads “Fall Risk”. Can you can imagine a few petite nurses trying to get Jeff to stay in bed when he doesn’t totally realize what he is doing? When he has been awake – he hasn’t felt much like talking, but he does seem very aware of what we are saying to him and tries to respond. The doctor is now saying he will stay in ICU through the weekend and hopefully move to another room on Monday. One nurse told Nancy that for every day a patient spends in ICU there are two days of rehabilitation necessary. This will not be an instant recovery – but we are thrilled with the progress each day brings.

News Flash – Nancy just called at 10:49 pm – Jeff will be moved to room #4 – straight through the double doors – which is progressive care – so he graduated to another area of Intensive Care!! – It is still a sleepy day for Jeff – maybe those of you across the ocean can pray that Jeff will be able to sleep well tonight after dozing most of the day. He did not want to talk when his eyes were opened – of course this was less than a minute most of the time. I asked him if he had anything to say to all of you on the blog tonight and he gave me a thumbs up. Many of you are also wondering about Nancy and the kids. They were still there tonight when we arrived after nine and they seemed really tired – I think this long week is catching up with them, but they remain positive. Don’t forget to click on the “comments” Nancy looks forward to reading those each day – and when Jeff is more awake – we will read them to him.

Saturday, February 24, 2007
Stan and Kim are with Jeff this morning. He is in his new room – in the progressive care portion of the ICU. Stan said he had a very good night and slept well, according to the nurses. Kim said he looks much better and seems much more aware this morning than he did yesterday. He ordered breakfast but so far food doesn’t seem to taste very good to him. (Maybe that’s because it is hospital food.) He is starting dialysis this morning and will not be done until around one – so no visitors will be allowed until he is off the machine. [NOTE: Mark just posted a comment "Do Miracles Really Happen?" - it is a "snapshot" of one week ago]

Jeff has been much more alert today and seems to be in better spirits than yesterday. He had dialysis this morning and is much less “puffy”. He has eaten today and seems to be doing better with that as well. Jeff asked me about the website so I read him all of your comments. He cried many tears, being touched by your concern for him and his family. Thank you for rallying to support Jeff and Nancy and the kids. —

Saturday, February 24, 2007
(Editor’s note: the following was written by Mark Smith, Jeff Lockhart’s brother-in-law, about events surrounding Jeff’s hospitalization and recovery):

Do miracles really happen? Yes, we know they do — some are subtle, and some seem to happen with no one noticing. Over the years, I have been a witness to a few, but skeptical of many . . .

One week ago today, Saturday morning began with sunshine. I was getting ready to work-out at home when the phone rang .. . . it was February 17th about 9:00 am. As I was walking down the stairs, it was apparent by Kelly’s voice that something unusual was happening – Nancy was on the phone. She let Kelly know that Jeff was on his way to the hospital with ECU. When Nancy awoke, she found Jeff unconscious, and he was barely breathing.

Within the half-hour we were at the hospital along with most of our immediate family. Concern was elevated, Jeff was critical, but full understanding of the situation was guarded and mostly not understood – we were unaware.

After nearly two hours, while critical, it seemed that Jeff had at least stabilized and little was happening. Since most of the teens hadn’t eaten breakfast, I volunteered to take them to get some food. Two-minutes into our brunch, Kelly called and said “get back now – Jeff is getting worse!”

Inside ten minutes, we were presented with a situation that we did not expect! We stepped into the ER with the family members surrounding Jeff’s bed – everyone was praying. It was surreal – imaginary – it seemed like a dream within a dream. Jeff was lying still, colorless, inverted slightly with his legs elevated. He was pale, his heart barely catching the next beat – his breathing was shallow. Jacob, Kyle, Lydia, Julia and I were shocked by the scene.

Bluntly stated, Jeff had one foot in heaven and one on earth. Instantly, pragmatically and sadly, I concluded that Jeff was about to die. My first prayer was to ask God to help me with my unbelief.

Then, (within seconds) I again begin to hear the prayers and cries of family members. They were steady . . . faithful . . . emotional and ever dedicated to appealing to the Lord for Jeff’s continued life on earth. I stepped closer and held his left foot and began to pray.

Remembering distinctly, Ken, and then Grada prayed out loud. I saw Ken reach out and weep for his son to live! “Lord, you know what it is like to loose a Son, please, Lord help my Son LIVE!’” . . . I was moved to tears. Grada, also reached-up and pleaded for her Son’s life, quoting scriptures from the Psalms. With their prayers, they raised a hand to the heavens – they appealed to an all-hearing God & Jesus Christ for his will to be done.

All this was being done while Jeff was slipping away. . . The doctors and hospital staff “had already stepped away” – they had done all they could do. We had our hands on Jeff and were praying! Some out loud, some silently. His pulse and blood pressure was diminished and his breath of life was nearly spent.

THEN . . .

It can be unequivocally stated that I witnessed a Godly miracle! The hospital staff, after doing everything they could humanly offer, presented Jeff to his family. Why? He was about to die.

Do miracles really happen?

The BEST miracle I have ever witnessed happened around Noon on February 17, 2007 @ Community Hospital North, Indianapolis, IN. The Breath of Life was supernaturally infused into Jeff’s body.

Are you skeptical? If you are . . . do some homework. Ask any real-life witness – call them and openly discuss what took place! After being there myself and discussing the events with many others who were there, it was simply one thing —- Miraculous!

The second miracle happened during the next 48 hours. I never thought about counting, but it had to be well over a hundred friends (or many, many more) that stopped by the hospital to visit, to pray, to support, to say “Hi!”, to reconnect. They brought faith, friendship, encouragement, tears, smiles, understanding, gifts, food, and a listening ear.

Thanks to God and All! Jeff you have touched so many people because you are Jeff . . . a 6’5” guy full of love, who loves others, takes the time to let them know, and is loved.

We Love You – Love to All!

Mark
(brother-in-law)

P.S. As I mentioned to a few friends at the hospital, “Jeff, is strong as an Ox”, and Jeff, . . . Bow Season is just a few months away! To celebrate – I’ll go with you! Recover well!

(Posted by Neal Moore, Webmaster):
God’s sweeping hand
I know that many people are visiting our class Web site for updates on Jeff Lockhart’s condition. I thought you would be interested in seeing just how many have done so!

Photo

The astonishing stats are a testament to the love and concern so many people have for Jeff. From Kelly’s update posts to the many comments left by friends and relatives, it is abundantly clear that God’s hand has touched many people during this trying time. Godspeed Jeff.

Neal Moore & family

Sunday, February 25, 2007
No real changes today. Jeff is sleepy – off and on – and still continues to be able to eat – but not a lot. He is limiting how much he responds vocally to questions, choosing instead to give a thumbs up or wiggle his fingers – we are guessing his throat hurts or he is just too wiped out to talk. We know though, that Jeff is following conversations even when he seems to be asleep. Nancy did ask those of us at the hospital today to keep in mind that Jeff isn’t fully aware of what has happened and that we need to be careful about what we say to him – so as not to cause him to worry. She also feels he is tired of being asked how he feels and where it hurts. She asks us instead to talk about our common interests with Jeff such as hunting, work, baseball and church. —

Monday, February 26, 2007
Great news – Jeff peed!!! This means the kidneys are starting to work. The nurse did not say that they would be 100% right away – but she said it was a great start and she was thrilled. Jeff is still very slow in his verbal responses – but he is witty and funny at times. The doctor said he should feed himself, so Mark got his dinner ready for him and situated Jeff to eat, but he just sat there looking at his food and said “Is this the kind of meal you’re supposed to eat or look at?” So I fed him and he ate every bite. Then he thanked us by peeing on our watch The other funny thing he said was when Mark offered him some water in addition to the drinks that were on his dinner tray the nurse had brought, Jeff responded that he wasn’t drinking anything he didn’t get credit for. I’m sure the nurses are keeping track of what he eats and drinks. I don’t want to mislead that Jeff is holding quick and normal (lengthy) conversations. He has to think a bit bebore responding and he is sometimes hard to understand but we are definitely getting glimpses of the old Jeff in what he does say.

I went to visit at lunch and Jeff was sitting in a chair. Nancy said they were going to have him walk this afternoon. This will be a first – He talked more than usual today – though his responses to questions take a minute to process before he speaks them. He is scheduled for dialysis Tues – Thurs and Sat this week.-more later

Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Jeff has moved out of ICU and Progressive Care to a regular room on the same floor – #2234 – it is in the new wing just off the “Lockhart Lounge” – and it is a beautiful place to recover. Jeff didn’t talk much today to family. He is more talkative to visitors. When he did choose to talk – his responses were much quicker than before. His kidneys didn’t kick back in today – we will have to be patient. Thanks for your prayers for Jill’s dad – his surgery went well.

Jeff seems to be doing fine. He was having dialysis while I was there – and seemed to be in good spirits. He may be changing rooms when the treatment is done. Jill Coyne was visiting Jeff- she used to go to CATC and moved to Nashville-her father is currently in surgery at Com North having a brain tumor removed. Please pray for Jerry.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007
The therapist and doctor both did some assessments today on Jeff. He is able to feed himself and talk but most of the time chooses not to. The conclusion seems to be that at this time it takes too much energy to do those things and we shouldn’t to push too much for him to do them. He did read for the doctor and did some memory and association tasks for the therapist but at this time math processes are not back and short term memory is not full strength. He seems pretty steady to me when he walks and he still manages to say some witty things when he feels like talking. Visitors would be encouraged to talk to Jeff about things but don’t ask him questions. Nancy has also asked that people please not say how much better he looks than he did before or other such comments, as they make Jeff stress about how bad he was. The doctor is talking about moving Jeff to rehab where he will work with the various therapists on an accelerated basis to get him ready to go home.

Thursday, March 1, 2007
It was a busy day for Jeff. He had dialysis for four hours with no visitors and several tests. He was pretty exhausted when I got to the hospital tonight. It was also a very lucid and clear day. It seems right after dialysis – Jeff is able to think and speak much more quickly and clearly. Since he was so aware, Nancy, Kim and the doctor were able to tell Jeff the whole story for the first time. He has been told parts, but has forgotten. Today they started with his cancer pain medication complications and the aspiration and pnuemonia and etc. Some things he remembered and some things he did not. When they told him how many people came to visit him and some of the things people did and said, he and everyone else wept. Jeff will be staying in the hospital until Monday, when he will go home. He will have to go to the hospital for dialysis and to some place for rehabilitation. That is all still being figured out. Though today was a good day – Jeff still deals with some fogginess of the brain and he has asked people to pray for “total restoration” and for God to be glorified. Please also pray for his kidneys to keep working and become sufficient so that he will not have to continue with dialysis much longer. The key scripture today in my Beth Moore Bible Study was “Fear not (Zachariah), for God has heard your prayers.” I know God has heard all of our prayers and He is not finished yet.

Friday, March 2, 2007
It was so good to walk into Jeff’s room today and see him siting in a chair in his own comfy pants and t-shrts. He had taken a shower and shaved and looked like my brother. He sat with Nancy beside him and they were holding hands. It looked so wonderfully normal. Later, a group of friends from his work stopped by to see him. Jeff had been laying down, and when he saw them walk in the door, he popped up out of bed to greet them. He got in his chair and proceeded to carry on the most engaged conversation he has had thus far. Stan said he talked and laughed for a half an hour with these coworkers. When they left he told them he would call them next week, when he was home, to check in about work. The doctor said diferent familiar things will jog memories and make connections in his brain. It appears some connections were made during this visit today. We praise God for each and every progress acknowledging that He is at work -using many people and situations to bring about Jeff’s “total restoration”! FYI: Jeff will be in dialysis tomorrow morning until around noon and will not be allowed any visitors during that time.

Saturday, March 3, 2007
Jeff started the day with 4 hrs of dialysis and no breakfast. This seemed to leave him wiped out for most of the rest of the day. He was not very talkative but he did manage a nice long walk to the lobby and back. Nancy said he was more talkative this evening. Jeff seems to be able to answer more quickly and talk more fluidly with each passing day.

Sunday, March 4, 2007
Jeff had a good but fairly quiet day. He took a long walk with Stan and seemed very steady. He ate ok but is very bored of his salt free, potasium free diet. I am sure he will get much better meals at home from his wife who happens to be a great cook. The great news is that his levels that determine whether or not he has to stay on dialysis have cut in half. They were 14 and they are now 7. I believe they are supposed to be 1.5-but don’t quote me on that! He is getting there. He will go home around noon Monday. When we know more details about rehab – I will post them. People are asking how the immediate and extended family are doing – and we have our good and bad days but I think this verse from Lamentations 3:21 sums it up: “Yet this I call to mind and therefore have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed.” Praise God.

Jeff Lockhart contact information
Jeff Lockhart is scheduled to be released from the hospital tomorrow, and people who are interested in sending cards, etc., should use the following mailing address:
8545 Mud Creek Road, Indianapolis, Ind., 46256
The family is asking that Jeff’s work-related email address not be used at this time.

Monday, March 5, 2007 (Jeff comes home from hospital)
Jeff went home today. It was an emotional and somewhat stressful transition for Jeff. He was released from the hospital around 1:00. He rode in the wheelchair down to the door, gave his nurse a grateful hug goodbye and then insisted on walking to the car. He has been a man of few words today. His levels that determine his need for dialysis went back up somewhat today – but that would be expected as it has been several days since dialysis. Jeff needs some time to adjust to the transistion home – so he is not ready for visitors yet. it will be much easier for Nancy to read him any comments you continue to put on this website or any notes you send to the home. Once again – may I suggest your comments and notes mention things you look forward to doing together with Jeff – motivation – as opposed to focusing on his need for recovery. Thanks to all of you who continue to support Jeff and family in prayer, notes and through providing meals. You are loved and appreciated.

Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Jeff had another quiet day today. He just doesn’t seem to want to talk right now. He and Nancy spent most of the day at the Dialysis clinic at 30th and Keystone. They were there from 10:15 until around 4:00. Normally it won’t take quite so long, but they had to fill out all of the paperwork today. The cool thing is Jeff signed his name on the papers. This is another “first” in his recovery. Jeff slept fine his first night at home, even getting up to go to the bathroom in the night without turning on any lights. Unfortunately, Nancy didn’t sleep so well. Please pray that God will give Nancy, as well as Jeff, good rest and sleep. Tomorrow they will spend the entire day at rehabilitation. Jeff will be evaluated by various therapists so they can determine his regimen. We thank you for your continued prayers for Jeff’s total restoration!

Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Jeff spent much of his day in rehabilitation being evaluated by various therapists. He said it was long and boring and a bit frustrating. Jeff told me with a tear in his eye that there were things he couldn’t do that he knew he should be able to do. I assured him that it was the job of the therapists to help him recover those abilities. They are to have a plan in place for Jeff by Friday. Jeff and Nancy enjoyed lunch together at Panera. Nancy said he didn’t talk but he did get up and get his own tea refill. He is waiting on himself at meals, feeding himself – something he didn’t want to do in the hospital, and then carrying his own dishes to the sink after meals. He says wrote type phrases, especially to Maggie, with much ease and natural speed. But, he still struggles with answering questions. It takes him some time to process his answers. Changes are small – but yet each day he seems to get just a bit better in some little way and we continue to praise God that He is still at work in Jeff’s life. Specific prayer requests are for the kidneys to work perfectly, his ability to process answers to questions to be restored and for Nancy to get great peaceful sleep.

Thursday, March 8, 2007
Jeff had dialysis today. Since the paperwork was done – it went much quicker. I talked to him briefly on the phone and he seemed to be in good spirits. He repsonded to all my comments promptly and ended by saying “See you later hon.” This sounded like my brother – it was encouraging to hear.

Friday, March 9, 2007
Jeff finished his evaluation today at rehab. They are awaiting the final decisions to create a rehabilitation plan for Jeff. Jeff ate better than usual and kept everything down – which can be a problem at times. He was in a very pleasant mood and had an overall good day.

Saturday, March 10, 2007
Jeff was very groggy waking up and then had to head straight to dialysis. He was dizzy after that and had to sit and drink some juice. He walked very slowly into the house when he got home and Nancy said he didn’t want to get out of his chair much today. He did manage to make it to the table to eat. He watched a funny movie with Brandon Jeffress tonight and laughed a lot at all the right places but wouldn’t even talk to his friend. So it has been a very quiet day for Jeff.

A sister’s thoughts
Three weeks ago to the hour of this writing, my brother lay inverted on a bed in the emergency room of Community North hospital. We were asked to gather around him to say our goodbyes. I know that I know that I know, that God raised my brother Jeff from the grips of death, and I also know that God is not finished with him, or us, yet.

To this point, many wonderful things have happened rapidly and it has felt like an exhausting, yet at many moments –glorious, sprint. I read last night that the rehabilitation of Jeff’s short term memory and some of his processing, could be a marathon and not a sprint from this point on.

With that in mind, I deviate from my daily “unclinical” observations of Jeff’s recovery, to my more natural reflective thoughts and passionate beliefs, and I do so without apology.

I do however, claim Romans 8:26: that the Holy Spirit will interpret my prayers and intercede for Jeff on my behalf in accordance with God’s will. If I err, I choose to err on the side of belief that my God is able to do much more than I can ask or imagine! (Ephesians 3:20)

I, Kelly Smith do believe and claim for my brother Jeff Lockhart and his friends and family:

That God’s call on Jeff’s life is irrevocable.
Rom. 11:29

That God will transform Jeff’s body and mind.
Phil. 3:20

That the Lord will have compassion on his afflicted one, Jeff.
Is. 49:13

That God’s will, will be accomplished and his purposed achieved in Jeff.
Is. 56:11

That God will meet Jeff, Nancy, Jacob, Kyle and Maggie’s every need.
Phil. 4:19

That God who called Jeff is faithful and will do what He says He will do.
I Thess. 5:24

That the prayers of us who believe will make a difference.
James 5:16

That Jeff’s reality is found in Christ and not on the Internet or in a textbook assessment.
Col. 2:17

That Jeff has the fullness of Christ who is the head over every authority and power.
Col. 2:10

That God began a good work in Jeff and He will be faithful to complete it.
Phil. 1:6

I pray over those of you reading this, Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Sunday, March 11, 2007
Jeff didn’t respond well to his dialysis on Sat and so by late Sat night the doctor suggested Jeff go to the ER for a blood work up. Kim and Stan went with Jeff and Nancy, and they all spent most of the night in the ER. The doctors eventually gave Jeff an IV to increase his fluids. The long night made for a slow start to Sunday. He wasn’t talking much and seemed to have been set back in his ability to walk and communicate. At lunch we managed to get Jeff laughing, eating and talking. He enjoyed watching Greg Oden on TV and later looked through a hunting magazine Nancy gave him. Thanks for your prayers. Set backs are hard to take – but it seems Jeff is moving forward again.

Monday, March 12, 2007
Jeff was not doing well today. He would not talk and seemed to struggle with simple tasks. He was taken to the ER tonight and is having blood work up done. Nothing more is known at this time. Your prayers are appreciated.

Tuesday, March 13, 2007 (Jeff returns to hospital)
Jeff will be staying at Comm N for at least two days, to be evaluated. There is some hope that maybe his kidneys are trying to do their job. The are running tests that will used urine collected over 24 hours. The outpatient facility that Jeff went to last week for his dialysis had no way of monitoring his levels that indicate his need for dialysis – and that was a problem. The huge prayer request right now is for his kidnesy to function completely and have no need for dialysis. This way Jeff can be admitted into the Hook rehabilitation unit at Comm East. They are the experts in what Jeff needs to regain his abilities. As far as the set back he was experiencing this weekend – last night they put a lot of fluids into Jeff and he started acting more like himself. He continues to be more alert today. He still isn’t talking a lot, and shuffles when he walks, but seems much more himself. Unfortunately he does have a bladder infection which is causing him to twitch. They are treating it. Nancy and many others are getting little sleep – so please continue to remember them in your prayers, as I know you do.

Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Jeff had trouble keeping food down yesterday and this morning so they put him on a liquid diet and took a picture of his gaul bladder. They also completed the 24 hour urine gathering to check how well his kidneys are working. We should get both test results tomorrow. Jeff is doing better tonight. He is moving around a bit and talked some to his mom, Grada. We are encouraged that all the fluids they have put into Jeff the last few days seem to really be helping.

Thursday, March 15, 2007
Great news for Jeff today. He is done with dialysis. His kidneys are working. We praise God for this answer to prayer. The next urgent request is for Jeff’s upper endoscopy which will occure Friday morning around 8:00. This is to find out why Jeff keeps throwing up his food. They will have to put him under, but plan to do so at the lowest level possible. That is a scary thing to have to sedate Jeff again. Please pray that he will come out of the sedation quickly and easily. The other positive thing is that he qualifies to go to Hook Rebab now. Hopefully that will happen in the next few days. Jeff is on the second floor in the new wing of Com N Hospital, and visitors would be welcome starting Friday evening and over the weekend. Tomorrow I will post what times would be best.

Friday, March 16, 2007
Jeff had an upper endoscopy this morning to see why he has been throwing up his food. They found he has acid reflux and put him on some medication for that. The medicine enabled him to go off his liquid diet and eat regular food, which he has been able to keep down all day. Jeff seems to be in good spirits but still does not want to talk much. We took him for a few walks around the room and down the hall. He improved the further he walked, but he still shuffles. He laughs a lot at TV or things we say. He played a trick on the nurse tonight. She told him to breathe deeply while she listened to his lungs and he held his breath. She thought he didn’t understand so she kept repeating her instructions. When she said “please” he laughed and took a deep breath. Then she told him to squeeze her hands and he did and wouldn’t stop. She started laughing and he finally let go. It is so good to see glimpses of the old Jeff.

Saturday, March 17, 2007 (One month since trauma event)
Jeff had a good day today. His sister Kerri and her husband Bruce spent the day at the hospital with him. Several visitors and family members stopped by throughout the day as well. Kerri and Bruce took Jeff for four long walks, and each time he walked a little bit better and faster. He doesn’t pick his feet up completely, but he is definitely improving. Jeff is happy to be on a regular diet and is eating well. He even enjoyed some pizza tonight. About 90% of the time, he fed himself -a definite improvement. The kidneys continue to work and even improve with a level of 2.2, with .6-1.5 being the goal. We are thankful for every gain.

Sunday, March 18, 2007
Jeff had a good day. He was in good spirits and seemed more alert today. We took him for a long walk and he did well moving his feet. They are a bit swollen from too many IV fluids, since his kidneys are not 100%. The doctor lowered his IV a bit. On our walk Jeff seemed very interested in all the magazines in the lobby and in every sign we went by. Before his set back last week, he was able to read, but since that time he has not read. As he stopped at a sign I started reading it to him and asked if he remembered what the rest said. He laughed a bit and rolled his eyes and said as clear as day, “floor number 2″. I was amazed. It seems like he is starting to come back from the setback. Nancy was able to attend a garden and flower show yesterday and her Bible study tonight. I think both things helped lift her spirits a bit.

Monday, March 19, 2007 (Jeff moved from hospital to rehab facility)
Great news – Jeff was moved to the Hook Rehabilitation Center at Community East today. His days will be very regimented with therapists. Visiting hours are restricted to the hours of 4:00 to 9:00 on weekdays and 12-9 on the weekend. Here is the link to the rehab hospital: http://www.ecommunity.com/east/index.aspx?pg=6777
Mark and I were very impressed with the nurses and staff on Jeff’s wing. They are very confident in their ability to help him and very quick to give us suggestions as to how to walk with him and etc. Jeff is off all IVs – and wearing street clothes – one of the things they require. Jeff wasn’t as happy and joking as he has been. I think the move was hard for him, but it sure seems that he is in the right place. One of the nurses sat and talked with Jeff and us for almost an hour, asking questions of Jeff and us. Jeff was struggling with questions tonight, but the nurse was very positive that he will make great strides. She asked me to tell her the story that brought Jeff to rehab and I did. Jeff started to cry when I spoke of his miracle, which made me cry and the nurse cried right along with us. It was very precious. The staff definitely see Jeff as a whole person and not just a patient.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Jeff spent his day working with therapists which made him very tired this evening. His kidney doctor checked on him today and said all his levels are good. We are thankful that he is eating a normal diet and not throwing up anymore. The nurses said it was ok to bring him in some favorite food treats but no caffein as it stimulates the brain in a negative way. It is ok to visit during the visiting hours, especially on the weekend, but it is recommended that no more than two people be in his room at one time. Nancy and the kids spent some time with Jeff tonight and watched a favorite TV show together. It was good to do a normal thing as a family but it is very hard on them to see Jeff in the regressed state he has been in since his dialysis troubles. Please pray for their encouragement and of course for Jeff’s short term memory as well as his whole body recovery.

Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Jeff had a good day today. He ate fine although he doesn’t seem to overly fond of the food at the Rehab . He worked with various therapists throughout the day. Kim and Stan spent the evening with Jeff and brought some family vacation pictures which Jeff really enjoyed looking at. It seemed to jog some recognition and definitely captured his attention. They watched a show on TV and Jeff laughed heartily at all the jokes, showing he understands more than he can communicate back to us.

Thursday, March 22, 2007
Mom and Dad spent the evening with Jeff. They got there in time to help him with dinner and said he ate very well. Back in his room they passed the evening looking at pictures and reading to him from a Hunter’s Devotional book that Stan has left in his room. Jeff really enjoyed looking at the pictures. Sometimes he remembered people and events and sometimes he didn’t. The swelling in his feet has gone down a bit making it a bit easier for him to walk. He still has a lot of fluid retention from last week when they kept him on IVs. Before they left, Mom and Dad prayed with Jeff and then sang the Doxology-a family tradition. This made Jeff very emotional. He really responds to spiritual things. As they left, they told Jeff, one day he would be well and go home, and he said he knew he would.

Friday, March 23, 2007
Maggie and Nancy spent much of the day with Jeff and Nancy had the opportunity to talk to some of the doctors and nurses a little more in depth. The main pointers for those of us who visit is to not ask Jeff questions- it will just frustrate him. Talk to him – read to him, show him pictures and talk about them but don’t ask him questions about any of it. Second was the reminder to not bring him any caffeine or chocolate. Jeff’s cousin Kevin spent the evening with Jeff and they watched the Butler game. Kevin wasn’t sure how much Jeff was following the game since Jeff wasn’t talking much. Kevin took him for a walk and found his stride to be much better. Unfortunately he had trouble keeping his dinner down tonight and his blood pressure was a tad high. The good news is that he did recognize some people when he and Kevin looked at pictures. I am reminded of the scripture that loosely translated says – don’t grow weary of doing good, because in due time you will reap the benefits if you don’t give up. Thanks to all of you who keep praying, visiting and helping-don’t give up-God isn’t finished with Jeff yet.

Saturday, March 24, 2007
Mark and I visited Jeff shortly after lunch and he was not feeling well. He had not kept his lunch down. We gave him a popsicle and talked to him a bit and soon he was feeling much better. We went for a walk and he was very interested in anything that had writing on it. I don’t know if he was testing himself to see if he could read it, but I didn’t ask because we have been advised not to question him. We saw a funny joke on the wall that I read to him and he laughed a lot. When we got back to his room we looked at pictures and did a lot of lauging as well. Being a beautiful day, we got permission for Jeff to be taken outside to the courtyard by his parents. He seemed so much better, but then I was told he could not keep down his supper and he got a bad headache. They took his blood pressure and it was very high so they did a CAT scan to make sure he was not having a stroke. The scan came back fine. They gave him some medication to lower his blood pressure and we were told he was resting comfortably for the night.

Sunday, March 25, 2007
Jeff did not feel the best today. He has been nauseated, having headaches and having trouble keeping food down the last few days. His blood pressure was down considerably, though, form yesterday. Jeff did go for a walk with his parents – Ken and Grada- in the late morning but was resting and seemed worn out when Kim and I arrived in the afternoon. We looked at pictures, which he enjoyed and then I was going to read a story to him about a soldier in Iraq, but we found that to be too emotional for him, so I switched to the jokes in the Reader’s Digest. Kim read him a devotion from the Hunter’s Devotional. We also found that to be very emotional thing for him. Jeff seems to be very sensitive to spiritual topics as well as family and country. These are the things that matter most to Jeff.

Monday, March 26, 2007
Jeff had a much better day today. He kept his food down and looked much healthier. We were told tonight, several other patients on his floor had been vomiting – so perhaps he just had a virus. The nurse was very attentive tonight because Jeff kept trying to get up. The nurse said as he feels better he will try to get up to do things. So I guess it is a good sign. One time he stood up we decidded to go for a walk. We walked to the family room where there are shelves of movies. Jeff started picking them up and looking at them. He laughed when he saw his old favorite “Dumb and Dumber” so we decided to watch it with him. He laughed and laughed. I gave him some homemade soup while he watched the movie and he ate it all and kept it down. I had him talk to mom and dad on the phone and he very clearly told them “Mark and Kelly are here” as well as some other phrases. As we watched the movie, his legs were shaking a lot. I asked him if he had to go to the bathroom or if he was just shaking his legs and he told me very clearly he was just shaking his legs and then he stopped. Then a few minutes later he got up and headed to the bathroom. So I guess it was both Anyway – he was so much better tonight – it was good to see him improving again.

Tuesday, March 27, 2007
We just finished with the family meeting with Jeff’s main doctor at Hook Rehab. It was good to get some concise evaluations and etc. Dr. Juliani (sp?) is very hopeful for Jeff – but of course only time will tell. Jeff is so much better physically. He is not nauseated, so he is looking better and much more active. He is walking unassisted and almost popping out of his chair whenever he decides to. By the end of next week the doctors will have a better idea of how long Jeff will stay at Hook and when he will go home and do out patient rehab. This will hopefully be over at Ft Ben – which would be wonderful to have him so close. He would go there everyday – for the whole work day and it sounds like they pretty much cover everything – even to the point of doing a driving test. Dr. J did emphasize how important these first six months are – so we will continue to pray for optimal recovery during this time. We asked for more specific guidelines on how we should interact with Jeff when we visit but she is deferring to the speech therapist for that. I will post those instructions as we get them. One definite comment was that Jeff works hard with doctors and therapist all day and when family and friends come – it should be a time for him to relax – so don’t try to “work with him” or make him do things. Just relax and talk (even though this is tricky without asking questions.)

Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Jeff had quite a few visitors tonight. He listened to the conversations with apparant awareness but did not talk much. Kim brought him some home cooking which he really enjoyed. He has lost some weight, so we are trying to bring him healthy, tastey food. I called and talked to Jeff on the phone. He is much more talkative on the phone than in person. He doesn’t initiate conversation but will make some comment or give a brief answer to short questions. Kyle was with me in the car – so he got to talk to his dad too. Kerri drove down from Wisconsin with her daugther and saw Jeff tonight after not seeing him for a week or so and she was encouraged that he seemed better.

Thursday, March 29, 2007
The most exciting thing that happened today was a direct answer to my prayers last night,for Jeff to start initiating some things. He said “Hi Mom-hi Dad” as they walked into the room. Most times Jeff responds when you say hi or or bye first or he nods his head in agreement when you talk. It is very awesome to hear he initiated conversation with his nurse today as well.– Jeff enjoyed a delicious pecan pie Lisa Harden sent him while he watched a movie with his sister Kerri and his son Jacob and his friends Leah and Caleb. Jeff is very blessed to have so many people that love him.

I will be on “Spring Break” next week and Mark will keep you updated on anything notable. When I return we may look at weekly updates as well as any notable improvements. God Bless.

Friday, March 30, 2007
Jeff spent the evening with his cousin Kevin. Kevin had not seen Jeff in a week and was thrilled with the improvements he saw in many areas-walking-eating-self care, etc. They went for a walk down the hall and Jeff voluntarily read several signs. They watched TV and Jeff laughed at all the right places. He recognized people in pictures. Kevin was very encouraged by the difference between Jeff last Friday and this Friday.

Saturday, March 31, 2007
Jeff had a nice day with many visitors. HIs family got to accompany him to physical therapy where the therapist put us all to work playing a basketball game with Jeff and going for walks with weights on Jeff’s legs. His reflexes were really good for catching the ball when we threw it back to him and he even twirled the ball around a bit. One exciting thing for us was when Jeff greeted Mark with the nickname he always used. Jeff didn’t eat well but we didn’t blame him – it didn’t look too good so Nancy ordered him up some better food before we left.

Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Think Resurrection!
Every time I look into Jeff’s eyes . . . I see a miracle and I looked into those eyes several times Monday night. We had a nice time together!

When I walked into Jeff’s room, he immediately sat-up in bed. We went for a walk down the halls, watched a video of the 2007 “Dessert Theatre” that Jacob and Kyle were performers (our church’s Youth Group variety show) and talked with the staff.

Later, I made Jeff some nachos with sautéed mushrooms, onions & veggies with cheese, guacamole and lettuce. He “chowed”! – Sure has to beat hospital food! Afterwards, we both determined that a “big stove takes a lot of wood”! Jeff agreed heartedly and laughed!

Darryl, one of Jeff’s nurses, said they had a great afternoon together! Jeff and I really like Darryl – he is a great care-giver, like so many of the other people at Hook Rehabilitation. Here is a link if you want to learn more about where Jeff is receiving care. http://www.ecommunity.com/hookrehab/index.aspx?pg=433

Prayer Request for this week: Jeff’s Mom, Grada Lockhart, had surgery on her foot this week (by the way, she is doing great) – She has a prayer request . . .

Grada, because this is the Celebration Week of the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has requested that everyone pray for the “Resurrection of Jeff’s Brain”. When you pray, be specific – Pray for “100% Restoration of Jeff’s Mind and Body”!

Think Resurrection . . . Believe a Miracle!

Also, continue to pray for Nancy, Jacob (17), Kyle (14) and Maggie (8) (“Mags” to me!). As you might imagine, each one of them is dealing with many unknowns and unplanned circumstances.

P.S. In Kelly’s absence (Kelly, Kim and their Aunt Beth are vacationing in Florida), I will post another update this weekend. — Mark

Monday, April 09, 2007
Easter at Community East
The afternoon of Easter, the Lockhart clan visited Jeff. Conversation was lively. There was singing of many old hymns and newer choruses. Ken even sang a little solo which made everyone laugh (he sounded pretty good)! At one point, we got into a conversation about different technology formats – iPods and other audio devices, CD’s, ACC, MP3 and m4a formats, etc., as some of the older folks were confused about the differences. Jeff found this conversation to be incredibly humorous.

For supper, we brought Jeff some food from our Easter dinner. While at the table, Michelle, (Jeff’s niece) held Jeff’s hand and asked him if he wanted to Pray. Jeff said “yes” and proceeded . . . “Dear Lord, thank you for this food“. Wow!

Jeff had many visitors. Several friends from church stopped by to say hi! Marty & Jill Coyne (Franklin, TN) were in town with their 3 teenage girls and 2 boys. It was good to see them and Jeff’s face “lit-up” when Marty gave him a big bear hug. Later, Nancy, the boys and Maggie visited Jeff after spending the day in Anderson where they celebrated Easter and relaxed with their family.

In talking with Nancy, she commented that Jeff had a really good day. This was echoed by three other care-givers that we talked to during our visit! To end the day, in his room, Jeff straightened-up some items on the table where he saw a Magna Doodle eraser board. Grada said that he erased the board and wrote . . . “Happy Easter”!

Please continue to pray for “100% Restoration of Jeff’s Mind and Body”!

Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Well, I’m back from a very relaxing week in Florida. Sometimes you don’t know how tired you are until you stop. Our family has been under such extreme stress, I do covet your continued prayers for our family, especially Nancy and the kids, and for close friends and of Jeff. Please also remember the co-workers at Fifth Third who are keeping things running smoothly in Jeff’s absence. We are so very grateful to all of you at the bank.

Mark and I visited Jeff last night. It was good to see him looking well and happy after a week of being gone. He wasn’t very spry when I left on Palm Sunday. I guess the most notable things to mention from last night are that he seems to be walking so much faster and picking his feet up better. Shuffling of the feet is one of the things that occur with the area of the brain that was impacted on Jeff. Second, mark and I were writing words and questions on the magna doodle for Jeff to read. He read them all aloud and for the question, he erased and then wrote the answer while laughing, because it was an ongoing joke between Mark and Jeff. I wrote some numbers because I wasn’t sure how he was doing with number recognition. He rolled his eyes at me and I told him he could laugh, but if he didn’t talk to me I had no way of knowing what he knew. he rolled the numbers off his tongue with ease, then told Mark when he probed further, that it just took too much effort to talk sometimes. Then as we were leaving, he rose from his bed and walked us to the elevator and hugged us goodbye. I am so thankful for his kind disposition.

As Jeff is so much more alert than he was initially when most of the comments came in- it would be nice to have some comments again to share with him. He is so tenderhearted, that I would encourage you to keep them light and even humorous.

Jeff Lockhart Amazing News!
Even though I wrote this afternoon, I have to share the news from Brandon Jeffress. He and Mark Wood visited tonight and said they had real conversation with Jeff!! To this point talking with Jeff has been a great exercise in monologing. He mostly listened and with effort would give short answers. He would occaissionally start to say something and then stop midphrase. Tonight Jeff answered quickly, asked questions and interjected.

He was reading the paper when they arrived. Brandon asked him some questions about it and he knew the answers. He totally comprehended what he had read and told Brandon the article was about one of his clients at work. Brandon and Mark later asked Jeff if he wanted to go downstairs and get ice cream. He said he needed to ask the nurses, so he went by himself to the nurse’s station and asked if he could go. They didn’t feel comfortable giving him permission to leave the floor, but Jeff told them not to worry about it, he understood that they were just doing their job.

There are many layers to the brain processes and there are still some very basic things that Jeff can not do. His short term memory is extremely short. But no matter how you look at it, Jeff has made huge strides of improvement since Easter. We have all prayed for the resurrection of Jeff’s brain and I choose to believe it has begun. Praise God from whom all blessing flow. Great is His faithfulness! His mercies are new every morning. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow will hold.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Jeff had another good visit tonight – this time with Kim, Stan, Lydia and a man from work. Jeff greeted them as they entered into his room and seemed very alert. He wasn’t as talkative tonight but he was engaged in the conversation, interjecting comments, and giving some answers to questions that took more than an automatic or easy response.

The kidney doctor stopped in and told Jeff his levels were good – Creatine – 1.5 and his blood pressure was stable-so she was signing off on him. This is good news.

They all took turns writing on the magna doodle – Jeff would read what they wrote and then he took it and wrote “Lydia”. Stan whispered in his ear to write “I love Lydia” and he was able to do that as well. Stan mentioned to Jeff he heard Brandon had visited him last night. Jeff nodded his agreement and said “and Mark”. Lydia said “my dad?” and Jeff responded “No, Mark Wood.” Then Kim noticed a picture book and said Nancy must have put that together but Jeff told her “No, Mom did”. I mention all these examples so that you can know just how Jeff is improving and how bits and pieces of his memory and abilities are returning.

We praise God for each and every improvement and see it as a part of the “total restoration” Jeff asked for and the “resurrection of Jeff’s brain,” Mom believes God called her to pray for. Please join us in praying specifically for math abilities and information application.

Saturday, April 14, 2007
I visited Jeff today with my sister and several other friends. We kept conversation going, covering a wide variety of topics-old and new. Jeff was alert and listened with interest but didn’t talk much. When he did talk, he interjected comments that showed he was involved in the conversation. For instance, we were trying to remember the name of the place where the FBI standoff took place in Waco, Texas years ago and Jeff blurted out “Branch Davidian” before any of the rest of us could think of it.

When Ted and Don left, Jeff stood and walked them to the elevator, as he usually does. He held the door open for them as well as two nurses who were leaving. The nurses said how much they loved Jeff. They seemed a bit surprised that he was sort of playing the host.

Nancy and the kids could not visit today because the boys were very sick. It’s a good thing Jeff didn’t get sent home Friday, as was a possibility. It looks like he should go home Tuesday and start in day time rehab on Weds. I think there are still some things to work out.

A neat thing Jeff started doing this week, is picking up the phone and calling Nancy’s cell. He says he is just calling to say hi and asks how everyone is doing. After that Nancy and the kids have to do most of the talking, but it is very cool that he has started initiating the call.

Jeff Lockhart – 4/16

Jeff has made great strides in the last week and we are so thankful for those steps in the right direction. We believe that God is at work and covet your continued prayers. We know there are so many of you praying and that God will hear and answer our joint prayers. Where two or three are gathered…we know there are hundreds of us gathered via internet. How awesome that we can utilize technology for God’s glory!

Jeff-April 16

As Jeff’s Tuesday homecoming rapidly approaches, Nancy has asked us to pray for three specific things for Jeff and one for herself.

1. Please pray Jeff’s short term memory will come back completely.

2. Please pray Jeff’s brain will create new pathways to information in the traumatized areas.

3. Please pray that Jeff will be able to acuratey and efficienctly apply this information.

For Nancy – please pray for her as she figures out all of the logistics of managing her family and in dealing with all the unknowns that go along with a person recovering from a brain trauma.

Jeff at Home

Jeff made a smooth transition home Tuesday. Kyle had a baseball game Tues evening and Jeff wanted to go – so Nancy took him and Maggie and met up with myself and the Craigs who’s son, Brock was playing against Kyle. It seemed right to see Jeff sitting in a lawn chair in jeans and a baseball cap instead of in a hospital in loungewear.

Nancy took Jeff to the outpatient rehab in Ft. Ben,Weds morning for evaluations. It’s a new set of therapists, so they need to know what he can and can not do. He will complete his evaluations Thurs and then there will be a meeting on Friday to discuss the course of treatment. Jeff’s only comment to me on the day ,was that it was a little boring and he is ready for something more.

Jeff’s cell phone was reactivated this afternoon and it rang right away. Someone from work called knowing he was home. Word got out at the office and several people called. Jeff enjoyed catching up with friends. He then spent a lot of time on the computer, reading and responding to email with Nancy. With that said – I encourage you to leave your comments at the end of th posts, as Jeff will be able to read them for himself now.

Jeff – Thurs April 19

Jeff went back to the outpatient rehab to finish his evaluations today. He said it was pretty boring. / Kyle had another baseball game the family went to tonight. Mom pointed out a neighborhood along the way and asked if that was where a Ray had built a house. Jeff and Dad said no. Then on the way home Jeff remembered and said “Mom, that’s the neihborhood where Ray built the house.” That definitely sounds like some short term memory at work,to me – so thank you for those prayers and keep them coming. I asked Jeff how he was feeling and he said “good, I just don’t have the energy I used to have.” Dad asked him if he remembered anything from the hospital and he said no, only what Kim had told him about it afterwards. Kim said that conversation took place right after he came off the ventilator, so that is interesting that he remembers that. Lastly, I asked Jeff what he would like people to pray for specifically and he said “my wife…and me”. He understands how hard this is on Nancy and covets your prayers for her.

Jeff – April 23

Jeff starts his outpatient rehab today – at the Ft Ben location. He will be doing 2 1/2 hours of rehab – three days a week. We had expected daily rehab from 9-3. Unfortunately he is not able to participate in the group sessions yet – which make up a large part of that daily routine. Please pray that he will become more talkative so that he can participate in those group sessions.

Jeff spent the day at our house on Sunday and we had a great day – celebrating some birthdays and etc. In my amateur opinion, Jeff showed more signs of short term memory and initiation. He remembered details of walking his property with his friend the day before. He watched his watch to make sure he left our house on time with Nancy to watch his son Kyle play ball. He helped Mark and myself plant flowers and hide Easter eggs ( I know we’re a little late) without being asked. I’m no expert but that seems like initiation to me.

Several neighbors stopped by and talked with Jeff. Mark and I have never seen Jeff talk as much as he did to a neighbor who went through the same cancer three years ago. It was very encouraging to see that neighbor standing there looking vibrant and healthy. Jeff answered all their questions – though some took some effort and time to answer.

I guess today’s main prayer requests are that the ability to access information would speed up – new pathways would form, and to that Jeff would start talking more. Know that your prayers are effective. The doctors say Jeff is a mystery to them – he doesn’t fit into any of their catagories. I believe that is because God is at work in answer to your prayers and in fulfilling his plan for Jeff’s life.

Jeff Weds April 25

Jeff has been home over a week now and he has made good strides despite only being in rehab a few times. I asked you to pray for his short term memory and he is remembering so much more. He remembers things people told him a week ago and he remembers mom and dad taking him to church yesterday as well as everyone he did and didn’t see. I asked him a question during a commercial and then the show came back on, so ten minutes later during the next commercial he said, “About what you asked me…..” I couldn’t believe it.

I asked you to pray for initiation. He has started to ask questions. This is a new thing for Jeff. Instead of just responding, he is now asking and inviting and picking up the phone to call people and he even looked in the Yellow Pages for someone to plant their grass.

I asked you to pray that Jeff would talk more and he is starting, at times, to speak in multiple sentences. He is also starting to talk more in general. That doesn’t take much since he wasn’t talking much before.

The last thing I asked you to pray specifically for is, new pathways to information. This, I really don’t know how to judge, but I trust God is at work.

So as you can see, your prayers are making a difference, so please continue to pray for Jeff and Nancy and the kids – they all need a touch from God to get through this time. It is very, very difficult. I tell you the good things, but there are many, many hard times they have to work through. They need God’s strength and encouragement from the Body of Christ.

Finally, last week God gave me the scripture “Numbers 10:2″ over and over in my head. I read the verse and could not make sense of it. After a week of re-reading it and wondering, I finally decided to read on (I can be a little slow at times). As I read verse nine it says to sound the trumpet and bring the community together, when we go into battle against the enemy and God will hear us and rescue us and give us times of rejoicing. Then he commands us to sound the trumpet again and to remember what God has done and make a memorial. I finally figured out tonight, that God is talking to me about this blog. I am sounding the trumpet and gathering you believers together to battle this cancer and brain trauma for Jeff. I believe that God wants the glory and wants us to know he is going to bring us to a time of rejoicing when we must remember to praise HIm. May it be so!

Jeff – April 30

Jeff went to church Sunday for the first time since he was hospitalized. We are so thankful he was able to see friends and enjoy worship. He continues to become more aware. Our main prayer request remains that Jeff would talk more and communicate better so that he can participate in group therapies that will speed his recovery and return to work. Please also pray for the family – for the many complexities of daily life that we all have, which are made that much more complex when the head of the household is recovering from brain injury. Jeff enjoys talking on the cell phone, answering email and having visitors. Please coordinate your visits with Nancy. Thank you for your continued prayer and personal support.

Jeff May 6

I haven’t written for awhile because it seems that life for Jeff is sort of slipping into a routine without the sense of crisis that always hovered in the past. There are however some notable things to mention, as family and friends spend time with Jeff. Jeff called upstairs to Kyle to remind him to put ice on his shoulder. He explained to me that Kyle had pitched and his shoulder was sore. I thought that was cool that Jeff had thought outside himself to his son and was being proactive in helping him. He also asked me to help look for something he had misplaced. To me this showed signs of responsibility.

Kim took Jeff up to Anderson for the end of the Anderson Alumni meeting yesterday. She asked him ahead of time to think about what he might want to say to those friends. When she picked him up he was sitting at the computer typing up some notes by himself. When he talked to the group, Kim thought he did a very nice job of summarizing his situation and thanking people for their prayers and help.

Nancy told me after discussing what to do about their yard ( or lack of a yard) Jeff took the initiative to call their builder to ask about getting a quote on having their yard grated and grass planted. He also told her, on Friday evening, of plans he had made for them to go to a friend’s house Friday evening. This is wonderful that Jeff is making plans with friends. I would, however, encourage any of you that make plans with Jeff to also check in with Nancy, as Jeff doesn’t always remember to inform her or check with her on their schedule.

The good news on rehab is that the insurance has now approved Jeff to go to rehab from 9-4 three days Monday, Wednesday and Friday. We are thrilled that Jeff will be getting more input and help and have less unstructured free time. We still covet your prayers for Jeff’s language abilities to improve. He can not take part in group therapy or back to work training until that connection is made to be able to put things in words more quickly and to participate more in conversation.

We also ask for continued prayer for the kids and Nancy as they go through so many changes in their family dynamics. Please pray that they would learn to new ways to communicate with Jeff and that Jeff would become more and more aware of and interactive with his family.

Jeff – Sat May 12

All is fairly routine these days, but Jeff continues to improve each day in some small way. This morning Jeff got up and made breakfast for the family – something he traditionally liked to do for his family on Saturday mornings when they didn’t have a ballgame to rush off to. After breakfast he raked six bags of leaves in his yard – his own idea and by himself (like a teenager would volunteer to help rake leaves Most likely he was trying to get ready to have the lawn seeded. It is very cool to see Jeff thinking beyond his immediate surroundings. Nancy says he is always thinking about what is going on at work. It is great that Jeff wants to get back to work but also worrisome because he can’t and doesn’t quite understand that fact. The desire to do things usually come before the ability to do them, and this can put Nancy in a difficult position so please pray for her to have wisdom in all these matters. God’s mercies are new every morning so every morning I pray for something new for Jeff. I especially ask God to bring awesome blessings and mercies tomorrow on Mother’s Day. May it be so.

Jeff – May 17

Things are going pretty well these days. Jeff was with us Monday and he seemed to be in good spirits. The thing I noticed the most was that he did not look like a sick person anymore. He appeared sharper and stood up straighter. It was good to see. He could talk more quickly once he got going on a subject but he still takes at least 20 seconds when you ask him a multiple choice type of question. He said he knew he needed to get faster and he told me he knew his main issue was that of distraction. If the TV is on when you are asking him a question – he finds it very difficult to focus. He said they are working in rehab on that very thing – asking him to do things or answer questions with a lot of distractions going on. Please pray that Jeff will improve in his ablility to focus despite distractions and that he will be able to answer and think more quickly.

I will be attending the family education day Friday afternoon and will blog that evening to let you know what I learned. Also as a reminder – Jeff is in rehab over at Ft Ben Mon Weds and Fri and he has lunch from 12-1 – where friends are welcome to join him or pick him up and take him out somewhere. Just let Nancy know ahead of time. I encourage whoever can meet him to do so, as it breaks up the monotony of the day.

Jeff – May 18 -Family Ed Day at Rehab

Today , Hook Outpatient Rehab had a family education day. The patients and their families enjoyed a cookout and some informative sessions together in the afternoon. I was able to attend with Jeff, Nancy and my dad.

During the first session, the patients joined the families while Dr. Haskins led a presentation entitled “The Effects of Brain Injoury on Family Functioning”. The main points I gathered from this talk were as follows: First of all each patient and family are unique and heal and respond differently. Second, there is an overwhelming sense of helplessness, encompassing fear and a sense of a loss of control, for everyone. Everyone wants their old life back. Everyone deserves respect and everyone’s life is drastically changed. One key point was that brain injury often traumatizes the part of the brain that can reason to understand one’s own injury – so the injured person doesn’t usually realize the extent of their impairment.

Recovery is a long journey that continues after release from rehab. The family must realize that they have the primary responsibility for helping the patient and so they must take good care of themselves in order to be of help to the patient.

The patient will usually suffer the following physical problems – significant fatigue, loss of balance, moving slower, weakness, headach, being spastic. The first months are called the “restoration” time period where memory and abilities come back. When that is not 100% you enter the next stage called “Compensation”. Dr Haskins says there are always ways to compensate for impairments.

He then went into an explanation about parts of the brain and etc.

The emotional reaction that is considered normal and healthy is that of grief – showing an awareness of the loss of abilities and a sadness over it. What is not normal is if it turns into depression. “Acceptance” is the most important key to recovery. Concentrating on what you can do and finding a way to compensate for what you can no longer do.

Improvement should never be measured against a patient’s old self but rather against a patient’s last week or last month. Then the patient must set reasonable goals. Usually patients push themselves too hard – trying to live up to family and friend’s expectation. Family need to encourage but not push too hard.

As far as learning goes – it is easier to relearn things that were learned with a healthy brain than to learn nw things with an impaired brain. New things must be repeated often and written down – to stick. There is usually a 1 – 3 week lag between the time when the patient things they are ready for something new – such as cooking or paying bills or driving or etc, and the time when they are really capable. This is the tricky thing to handle.

Personally for Jeff, and most of the talk was in general – not specific to any one patient, Dr. Haskins said that the progress Jeff has made in just a few weeks is more typical of what you would expect to see in several months - we praise God for that, knowing that He is the reason.

Lastly, a patient of two years ago spoke of his recovery and current life. He was well spoken, though he had to refer to his wife a few times to make sure he didn’t repeat himself. They were a great team. He was formerly a social worker and therapist and told humorously of his experience as a brain injury patient – thinking he was the therapist rather than a patient. In fact he thought his wife was the patient and kept trying to counsel her. He was able to laugh at himself and look at the positive. He claims he is actually a much more happy and calm person than he ever was before. His job was one of high demand and constant problem solving so he could not return to that, but instead he volunteers as a therapist for elderly patients with Alzheimers. He lives a very fulfilled and happy life. It was encouraging.

What Jeff has going for him more than anyone in that room was his relationship with Jesus Christ and his huge group of frieinds and family that support him and his immediate family and pray for him daily. Thank you for that and please keep the prayers going, they are making a difference.

Jeff – Friday May 25

Jeff seems to be doing so well. I stopped by yesterday to say hi and saw that they finally have grass seed down. I know Jeff has been very concerned about getting the lawn in and they have a huge lawn. Nancy says God will have to water the grass seed because with just one hose in the front and one hose in the yard it would be impossible for them to adequately water. As I talked to Nancy – Jeff was calling upstairs to Kyle and asking him about homework and etc. He spoke in paragraphs without pausing. I said to Jeff – “You’re talking faster. Do know it?” and he seemed to be aware that he was getting better, and he is. — Nancy said he actually got mad the other day because the satalite dish did something frustrating and she was so happy to see him show emotion. That has been one of the strangest things about this adventure. Jeff, like the rest of us Lockharts, has always been highly opinionated, passionate and emotional – and not always positive. Now he is very happy go lucky ,smiling all the time as if he has no worries. The loss of stress and anxiety for Jeff has truly been a blessing, but we do hope to see his passion and opinions return.

One neat thing Jeff did the other day was, with the help of some tech people from his work, he uninstalled and reinstalled a new browser correctly and was able then to access his work email. (He had 400 emails sitting in his box.) That is no easy thing for someone without a brain injury.

Nancy said they were listening to a radio program where you had to name the band and song they were playing, Jeff knew the answers much faster than she did. We believe he has all his memories and knowledge, including short term memory, which usually suffers in these situations. The issue is just the amount of the time it takes to process information or make decisions, but those things do seem to be getting better with each day. So, thank you for your prayers and please do keep them going up, for they are effective. Continue to pray for the family as well. God Bless.

Jeff-June 2 2007

I talked to Jeff tonight on the phone and asked him what he would like people to know. He says that he feels he is doing really well. When I talk to Jeff whether on the phone or in person – there isn’t near the hesitations and pauses that there used to be. The main diference is just that Jeff is still a man of few words. The old Jeff used to not know a stranger -he would be the first one to say hi and then carry the conversation. Now Jeff is more of a listener and less outgoing. Who knows if this is temporary or if this is a new personality.

I asked Jeff what he was working on at rehab and he said the cognitive part of driving. They have not given him a road test yet but they are going over the rules of the road and etc. His goal is to be driving by the end of the month. Nancy feels this is totally possible. She says he is very aware of where they are driving, at all times, and that he would be able to get himself anywhere he needed to go. They only thing that may delay his goal is if his reaction times are not quick enough.

I asked Jeff what he had been doing around the house lately. He said he has been watering the grass seed that was recently planted. They got the blessing of a lot of rain the first few days, but it has been dry ever since. Nancy said Jeff spends his days at home moving the sprinkler around to keep the grass growing. He says it does make him tired but not like it would have a few weeks ago. He says he feels much stronger. In fact he is lifting weights in the basement – not a lot of weight-just the bar, but a lot of repitition. Pretty good for a guy who has been sedentary in hospitals for months. As far as chores go, he said he helps with thedishes and vacuums some – but probably not as much as Nancy would like. And he also cleans the bathroom. He is back to paying the bills and balancing the checkbook as well. This is sure better than sitting around watching TV – which is all he could really do when he first came home.

At occuptional therapy they are working on his memory. Jeff says it is pretty good and Nancy says it is awesome. The therapists told him the other day that when he first came in they did psychological tests on him, and they didn’t think he would ever go back to his job. Now they do, and are amazed at his progress. In fact, he set a goal to be back at work in a month, this is his personal goal – not the therapists. When Nancy was driving them to a ball game Friday, Jeff called in to work on cell his cell at 4:45. Nancy was surprised anyone was around, but someone named Scott was anthere and talked to Jeff about some of the deals they were working on. Nancy said Jeff asked really good questions and Scott was amazed at the difference in Jeff. All in all, Jeff is surprising all the therapists with his progress. Please keep praying, it is obvioulsy effective. Pray for Jeff’s ability to react quickly, to make decisions and to gain strength. Pray for their family as they make constant adjustments to Jeff”s recovery and keep changing rolls and etc. God is good and so are his people. We love and appreciate you all. God Bless!

Jeff Back at Work July 16, 2007!

Almost five months to the day after Jeff’s crisis began, he went back to work – not just any work – but back to his old job. A feat his therapists doubted would ever come about upon his entry into outpatient rehab. Praise God for his amazing work in Jeff’s life – healing, repairing and restoring. – We know God is not finished yet – He is still at work in Jeff’s body and life and family.

Jeff feels the day went well. Another gentlelman has been doing Jeff’s job while he has been out, and he will be working wih Jeff to bring him up to date on all the deals and such. I have no idea of how separation of deals and clients will go from here – but I trust that all will be worked out fairly for both parties. Our family is so grateful to the man who kept Jeff’s job alive and his clients well cared for.

Jeff arrived at work at around 7:30 this morning and then spent the day going through about three hundered emails. There was a little partry for Jeff this morning in the conference room for his group. About twenty people celebrated his return with a wonderful spread of fruit, cheese and coffee cake. Everyone was in a festive mood. People stopped by Jeff’s desk quite a bit throughout the day or stopped him when he was walking around to ask how he was doing. Jeff felt very blessed by their welcome. He also enjoyed having lunch with with some buddies from work. He staayed at the office until about two and then left for his outpatient rehab to work with his speech therapist until four. It was a long day, but a good day which will conclude with a trip to the Indian’s game with Nancy Kyle and his friend Brock.

As you can imagine, Jeff had a few butterflies in his stomach yesterday as he thought about heading back to a job he had left quite suddenly, five months ago. But after getting one day under his belt, Jeff feels much better, He believes he can handle the work load now that he is through the emails. He has training in the morning fwhich is for everyone in the office . Jeff is still a man of few words, which we all know is not the old Jeff, so I asked him how he did with all the talking that is necessary in the workplace. He said he did great at conversing with everyone and he didn’t get tired of talking. He does get dry mouth due to the loss of some of his saliva glands from the radiation, but he has some spray he uses – and he says it’s not too bad.

So that concludes Jeff’s first day back at work. What an amazing thing to know that Jeff is working and driving a car on his own. He has been driving since July third – even taking his kids places. attends Sunday school and Church every Sunday and spends most of his free time at Kyle’s baseball games or watering his emerging lawn.

This weekend the family will head to Florida to watch Kyle play in a baseball tournament. They are making a vacation of it, stopping in Atlanta for a wedding and also to pick up Jacob from Workcamp.

I understand that many of you are still checking this site weekly for updates. I apologize that I stopped writing. I guess I assumed people would stop reading once the initial crisis was over. My life has been a bit hectic as well with my daughter’s emergency apendectomy one week after her high school graduation. Somewhere during that time I sent my son to Greece and then off to Arkansas for a summer internship. I thought life was going to slow down when Jeff recovered but life never really does, does it? So I will continue to update this site at least once a week as long as people continue to read. /God Bless – Jeff’s sister- Kelly Lockhart Smith

Jeff – 2nd Week Back at Work

Well – the Lockharts are back from an enjoyable vacation and Jeff is back to work part time. He is still to be working half days – though he admits he stays longer some days. The plan is to have him back full time by the end of September – Jeff thinks it will be sooner. I asked him if he is feeling overwhelmed going back to a job after five months of being gone (anyone would be) but he responded that his boss is making sure that doesn’t happen. So on behalf of all the family I say thank you to Jeff’s boss and all the wonderful people at Fifth Third Bank who have really gone to bat for Jeff and believed in his recovery and return.

Point of interest – Jeff read all my blog posts yesterday for the first time. He drove over to our house as soon as he was done , to talk about it all. He doesn’t remember most of it. If was good to talk to him about how a few months ago he didn’t know how to play Bingo or Checkers and today he is working and interacting. He still doesn’t talk near as much as he used to but he definitely talked a lot with us last night. I believe God is still at work bringing Jeff to wholeness and complete restoration. Thank you all for your continued prayers and interest. Feel free to leave Jeff a message as I always forward them to him and he enjoys responding.

God Bless – Kelly

Genesis Class

Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."

Category Archives: Jeff Lockhart

Jeff Lockhart

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Jeff Lockhart, second week back at work

Jeff Lockhart-April 14

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