Chapter
8

July 11, 1998, we were awoken in the ICU by one of Dr. Quarls’ partners. She walked to the bedside and quietly made her presence known. We woke up and realized she was there to analyze Alex. Alex became very wide eyed as she stared right at the doctor and was very alert. I suppose the Phenergan had worn off. Again, the overdose had been a gift from God. Alex had been constantly asleep ever since vomiting in the ER, but now she was completely alert and staring at the doctor. Elna and I said “Good Morning” to the doctor as she leaned in to listen to Alex’s chest with her stethoscope. As she touched Alex’s chest, Alex said, “My brother’s in Heaven.”

 

These were the first words that Alex had spoken since the ER. Tears began to flow down Elna’s and my face.

 

The doctor paused her exam and took the stethoscope out of her ears to listen to Alex. Alex began again, “My brother’s in Heaven. My mom and dad are very sad.”

 

The doctor left the room in tears.

 

Later, the doctor returned. When she did, she found Alex sucking her thumb. Alex informed her that it’s ok to suck your thumb when you’re in the hospital. We all agreed with a smile. Neurologically Alex was excellent. She had extraordinarily little bruising considering the extent of the accident. She wanted a popsicle, so the family left to buy her every imaginable flavor choice she could want. She would remain in the ICU for neuro checks for 24 hours, but her body was doing awesome.

 

That morning, Martha and Waylon approached Elna and I about when we would like to do the funeral for Jackson. We thought it would be best to do it sooner rather than later. They said it could be done as soon as tomorrow which was Sunday, July 12, 1998. They contacted the funeral home for us, and they came out later that day. Waylon asked Elna and me a series of questions so that he could put together a message for the funeral. He asked if there was any particular Bible story that Jackson liked. We both said, “The story of David and Goliath.” Waylon then asked if our family had any special Bible verse that we liked. In unison, Elna and I both said, “Joshua 1:9”. This was the first time that this scripture really became our family’s verse.

 

Joshua 1:9

 

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

​

​