What a blessing it is to hear that people are praying from England to Puerto Rico to Maine and to many other points in the U.S.  A map has been put up in Jessica's room marking all the places that people are praying so she will see that when she is alert.  Thank you to each of you!

Jessica's surgery was postponed until tomorrow.  It will start at 7:30 and last for about twelve hours.  As well as doing reconstructive work on her face, the surgeons will close the wound on her leg from Monday's surgery.  It is possible that they will need to graft some skin to do that.  Jessica was taken off the ventilator today and has done well without it.  It will be needed again tomorrow and for a few days after the surgery.

Heidi will be seeing the orthopedic doctors tomorrow to check on her pelvis.  Charity is taking her first solid foods today and her feet have improved.  Those are definite answers to prayer.

Some of you do not know all of the family.  Josh is the older brother of Jessica, Charity, and Heidi.  His wife is Emily and she is expecting their third child.  They have two sons, Josh, 5, and Jackson, 3.  Another important family member is Lois Cameron, Kathy's mom.  She is a great blessing to her grandchildren.  Pray for strength and health for each of these.

The zip code for the bank accepting donations is 80020.

I'm sorry, but it appears my message was cut off last night.  I was unaware there is a limit on how much I can write in any one announcement.  Here is the rest of the message:

If you have younger children, Jessica would love colorful pictures they have drawn.  The address is Jessica Seidler, c/o St. Anthony's Hospital Central, 4231 W. 16th Avenue, Denver, CO 80204.  She cannot receive flowers as long as she is in ICU.

The hospital does not allow visitors in Charity's room between two and four in the afternoon.  If you are scheduled to visit, go either before or after that time.

Jessica is out of surgery and is doing awesome.  The surgeon said her jaw fit together like a puzzle so it was unnecessary to do a bone transplant from the back of her head.  Her forehead was so severely shattered that if it had been pushed in at all, it would have caused brain damage or death.  They were able to knit it back together.  The doctors felt the surgery could not have gone any better than it did.  One item of prayer for Jessica is that she not develop blood clots.  We're praising God for His great care for her.

Charity was discharged from the hospital today and will be living with Josh and Emily.  She is eating well and feeling much better.

The Seidlers are blessed by all your emails as I deliver them each day.  The map is beautiful with marks all over the States and around the world.  I thank all of you.  Josh would also like to post a list of the churches praying for Jessica so you can pass those names on to me also.

What a mighty, loving God we serve.  His mercies are new every morning and His love surrounds us in times of joy and sorrow.

All I can think of today is the verse in Jeremiah 31:13b that says, "For I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and give them joy for their sorrow."  Truly, today has been a day of rejoicing. First, Jessica is still in surgery for repair of her facial stucture.  All reports from the operating room are that it is going well.  I will update that more this evening as I hear. The president of Colorado Christian University and one of the other members of the faculty visited Charity this afternoon and presented her with a full tuition scholarship to CCU!  CCU has also offered free counseling for the family for life.Josh's boss has assured him that he can take off as much time as he needs with pay. Jessica's principal said her job would be there for her whenever she can return to the classroom.  A long-term substitute will be hired until then. Today while sitting in the waiting room after Heidi had x-rays, a woman who had learned of the accident walked by and put a one hundred dollar bill in Heidi's hand. Josh and Emily found out they will be having a baby boy on November 2. The doctor said Heidi's pelvis fracture was in the best place possible.  She cannot hurt it by any movement and it will not cause her any problems in the future.  Our God is so good!

The nurses told Josh, Heidi, and Charity that they are AMAZED at Jessica's improvement.  She is more alert even though the medication to keep her sedated has not been reduced.  Tonight she reached up to touch Josh's face!  Charity had not seen Jessica since the accident, and she did well on this, her first visit. 

9News will be doing a follow-up tomorrow.  They will interview Josh and Heidi at the hospital.

Services:  The family has decided to have a private family buriel soon and then to have a memorial service when Jessica is able to attend.  The service will be announced on this website.

The medical updates will probably be more sporatic as the long process of healing continues, but we do ask you to continue to check this site as the needs of the family will change.  Jessica may need visitors in the future.  All of that will be relayed to viewers of the website.

Marshall Gilstrap, who was the first on the scene of the accident, has erected crosses at the scene.  Those plus some pictures of the family (taken by Julia Cook of Wyoming) on their trip are available for viewing here.  Marshall was the one who administered first aid to Jessica and the others.  As a former paramedic, his care was a provision from God.

Jessica is doing well today, but we must continue to lift her up before the Father for continued uncomplicated healing.

I'm sorry the update is so late tonight, but I have been away from my computer.

The main request for prayer is for Jessica as she begins to come out from under the sedation.  Although the doctors still have not lowered the level of drugs she is receiving, she is more alert.  The problem is that she is trying to communicate but cannot due to her injuries and the ventilator.  She is restless and feeling pain.  Please pray for peace for her.  Also pray for the family as they deal with her discomfort.  It is difficult to she ones loved one in such a situation.

As I write this, Jessica is in surgery for the arch of her foot.  Pray that it is perfectly reconstructed so she will have no problem walking.  Beginning last night, her awareness has greatly increased.  She asked about her mom and the family told her that Mom and Joel were with Jesus.  She asked again today.  She is not able to speak, but mouths the words.  Please pray for calm and peaceful rest for her as she is agitated, wants to get up, and wants to go home.  Reading scripture to her is very calming, and the passage used several times today is Psalm 27 which says in part, " The Lord is my light and my salvation -- whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life -- of whom shall I be afraid? ...Hear my voice when I call, O Lord; be merciful to me and answer me.  My heart says of you, 'Seek his face!' Your face, Lord, I will seek."

Three additional items:

Phil is in the ICU with Jessica.  The Seidlers have been speaking to his family and told them we would add him to our prayer list.  He was in a bike accident.

Pray for Michael who was in the other car in Wyoming.  He is struggling and needs our prayers.

If you missed the newscast last night, you can see the interview on www.9News.com .  Do a search for Seidler.

Other prayer needs are for the extended family as some will be traveling to Colorado over the weekend.  Pray for safety, financial provision, and for an aunt who is suffering with back pain.

Also pray for wisdom for Josh and the family as they deal with legal issues.  They also ask that we pray about the schedule they need to set up among themselves for being with Jessica.

Once again, only immedicate family is visiting Jessica.  If any of you are scheduled to visit Josh, Charity, or Heidi, please keep your visit to fifteen minutes as they are exhausted and need some time to nap and relax.

Finally, one of the blessings each day for them is reading your emails and learning of the many who are praying for them.  Thank you so much.

Jessica is becoming more alert each day.  Along with that comes many questions which the others are trying to answer for her.  Pray for them as they go through this part of the healing process.

Continue to pray that Jessica will be free from blood clots and infection.  Her surgery yesterday was successful and went smoothly.

Pray for little Josh (Josh and Emily's five year old son) as he is struggling with all the upheaval in his life.  This is a lot for a little guy to process.

Thanks for your prayers for Phil as he is doing much better and has been moved out of the ICU.

A private, family burial was held for Kathy and Joel today.  Much of the extended family was able to attend and surround the children with love.  The family was beautifully unified and responded to the knowledge that their loved ones are in the presence of their beloved Savior, Jesus. 

Josh has become a rock and a leader for his family.  All of the children encourage those who meet them with the depth of their faith in God.

Jessica is doing so much better and wanted this message to be relayed to all those who are reading this update.  "Don't be angry at God or anyone else.  Trust God."  This was said with deep conviction and passion.

One note about the memorial fund: the gifts are tax-deductable.

This scripture was sent to the Seidlers in an email.  Psalm 116: 3-4  "The cords of death encompassed me and the terrors of Sheol came upon me; I found distress and sorrow.  Then I called upon the name of the Lord..."  I know this is exactly what Josh, Emily, Heidi, Jessica, Charity, and Lois have done.  It is in the Lord they have found their comfort.

As you continue to pray for the requests made in previous days,  also pray against any blood infections for Jessica.  She had many transfusions and we want to pray that all the blood that entered her body was clean.  Her progress is amazing.  Each day she is improving and can now talk to her family.  Praise God for answered prayer!

The family wants you all to know that Joel had cemented his relationship with Jesus during this past year.  It was as a result of his dad's death that he made the decision to give his life to Jesus.  This is a great comfort to the family and all who knew and loved Joel.

We want to praise God for his amazing work in Jessica's body.  She has had no infections, no high temperatures, no pneumonia.  We have prayed, and He has answered. 

Is everyone prepared to lift up voices of praise and thanksgiving to our God?  He is doing amazing things for our dear Jessica.  The trachiostomy tube was removed today; she sat in a chair for the first time; she is able to swallow liquids; she will be moved out of ICU as soon as a bed is available; and she is bored!  Praise God!

She needs visitors and entertainment.  Remember how many of you asked how you could help?  Now is the time.  We ask that those who have been close to her schedule a time to visit with her and to be creative in helping her get through the long days.  Email me if you will be available and give me an idea about times that are best for you.   I will schedule you quickly so you can make plans.

In asking for requests today, Jessica, Heidi, and Lois had the same message -- thank everyone for the outpouring of comfort, love, encouragement, and prayers.  Your emails have blessed them immeasureably.  The answered prayer has lifted them up and given them joy. 

Heidi requests prayer for strength.  She has had some trouble with dizziness and balance and has trouble resting when away from Jessica.

Pray for sleep for Jessica.  She has trouble sleeping through the night which makes the time drag.  Also pray for the rest of the family that they will get the rest they need.

Jessica is thankful for the care of her siblings and the blessing of having Nurse Heidi by her side.  Psalm 9:1-2 says, "I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.  I will be glad and exult in You; I will sing praise to Your name. O Most High."

We do ask you to continue praying for Jessica's healing.  She will be having foot surgery next week, and we want to pray for the perfect healing of all her previous surgerys.  Jessica has not been able to see without her contacts and tomorrow they will try to have them for her.  Pray that they are the right prescription as it has been frustrating for her to see everything as a blurr.

Also pray for the family as they begin to deal with estate and money issues.  Pray for unity and wisdom for them.

The family wants everyone to know that as tragic as this is, they can see God's hand every step of the way in their recovery.  If some of you came to the website late, be sure you read an example of God's goodness on Wednesday afternoon, June 22.

Today Jessica was able to be in a wheelchair and go outside for a little while.  She loved it.  If you are scheduled to visit, please be flexible as she may not always be in her room now.  The speech pathologist gave her a test today and declared her as sharp as a tack!

The family has requested NO VISITORS on Tuesday, July 5.  They need some family time to be alone together.  I will reschedule those I had on my calendar.

The children have loved receiving emails from their parents' childhood and young adult friends and relatives.  They would love to read your memories and stories if you would email them to me.

Please continue to pray for healing for Jessica and for her surgery this week.  Pray that she will have a peaceful sleep tonight.

A friend of the family sent this encouraging scripture from Isaiah 40:28-31: "Do you not know? Have you not heard?  The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired.  His understanding is inscrutable.  He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power.  Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not get tired; they will walk and not become weary."  Thank you, Lord, for Your promises.

Today the family asks that you pray for the healing of Jessica's mouth.  It is difficult and uncomfortable for her to eat because of the surgery she had on her mouth.  She has rubber bands in her mouth to help line up her jaw, and they hinder eating and talking.

Continue to pray for the surgery on her ankle and foot this week.  Pray that the repair can be completed in this one operation.

Generally, Jessica is experiencing more soreness and aching.  Pray that the Lord will relieve her of this discomfort.

We continue to thank all of your for your faithfulness to pray for Jessica and the rest of the family. 

Dear Friends, (Remember, NO VISITORS TUES.)

Your prayers mean so much to this dear family.  Tomorrow is the scheduled day for Jessica to have surgery on her crushed ankle.  She may also have some other procedures such as her hand and maybe even her pelvis.  One condition has been detected which is the calcification of the muscles around her pelvis.  Rather than going to the bone, the calcium is evidently going to the muscle.  That seems to be causing some fever and so radiation will be done to try to fix the situation.  Pray the fever will go away.  She is also experiencing numbness in her face and lips which could be permanent, but we will pray it is not.  I hope my medical explanations are accurate, but I know for sure that we must continue to faithfully lift Jessica up to the Lord. 

Pray for patience as she would like to be much closer to being up and about than she is.  She recognizes this is a character quality God will be building in her in the days ahead.

Thanks for your prayers for Jessica's surgery today.  The external fixator was removed and the bones set.  The doctor thinks this will be the last surgery on her ankle.  Praise God for answered prayer!  The fixator in her hip will remain in place for eight weeks. She is nauseous and in pain this evening so let's all pray for a good night's sleep for her without sickness or pain.

Pray that Jessica will not have trouble with pressure sores from being in bed for so long.  Last night she was able to get in a wheelchair and go to a spot to see some of the fireworks.  It was refreshing for her to be outside.

The Seidler's dog, Dillon, ran away last night.  Pray that he will be found and soon.

Today was a good time for the family to be alone together and to discuss some things they need to decide. 

Jessica is tired and in more pain today after yesterday's surgery.  Pray for quick relief for her.  Today while looking at Jessica's x-rays, Josh and Heidi noticed that her pelvis did not seem to be lined up as it should be.  They asked the doctor about it, and he ordered a CAT scan.  They do not have the results, but let's pray that it will be perfectly aligned by the time the healing is complete whether it means further surgery now or not.

For those of you who are signed up to visit, be aware that Jessica may be out of her room for some medical procedures.  She looks forward to seeing you and hates to miss anyone.

Dillon is still missing so continue to pray that they will be able to locate him.

A scripture sent by a friend today: "The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms." Deut. 33:27 Pray that the everlasting arms will uphold each member of the family: Josh, Emily, Little Josh, Jackson, Heidi, Charity, Jessica, and Lois.  Pray for strong relationships and wisdom in balancing time.  Josh will need to be phasing back into work soon.  He is exhausted already so we need to faithfully uphold him.  Also, Josh and Heidi are needing to locate some papers at their parents' home.  Pray that they can quickly put their hands on them.

Jessica's blood work indicates a possible problem with her spleen which could result in its removal.  Pray that the problem is not related to the spleen and that it heals itself. The blood clot filter removal today went smoothly.  Finally, pray for the healing of Jessica's mouth so she can eat more easily.  Right now it is painful, and it is hard for her to work through the discomort.

Jessica has a new room with a view of Sloan's Lake!  After three weeks with little sunlight, it is a blessing to be in a place where she can look outside and take in the view.  Her new room number is 448. 

As her body is healing, she is experiencing some tingling, numbness, and other sensations.  Pray that they will not worry her and that she will be able to rest in spite of them.  She shared today that God is showing Himself to her as the Father to the fatherless as He promises in His Word.  She is also learning to take each day as it comes and not to worry about what is ahead.

Heidi and Charity are at the hospital all day most days and would love visitors.  Please feel free to visit them at any time.  Heidi would like prayer for sleeping as she is waking up in the night with a feeling of heaviness over all that has happened.  Charity is doing well emotionally and will be celebrating her eighteenth birthday this week.

I'm sorry this is a late update, but I wanted all of you to know what God is doing.  Our prayers for Jessica's gall bladder were answered and it will not have to be removed.  Last night I mistakenly said it was her spleen.  She will also not need surgery on her hand. 

New requests are for tingling in her right leg.  The doctors do not think it is a problem, but we want to pray that it will disappear.  Also, pray that Jessica will not worry about blood clots.  Pray for her nutrition as she is not eating what she needs.

Tonight the town of Powell, Wyoming, held a fundraiser for the Seidlers.  Pray that the gospel will take root in the hearts of those who heard it.

Tomorrow is Charity's 18th birthday.  Pray for her as she celebrates this special day without either of her parents.  She will be getting her driver's license soon and beginning college so many changes are taking place in her life.  Pray that she will draw closer and closer to her heavenly Father and know His comfort.

The view in Jessica's new room is wonderful, but the transition has not been easy.  Pray that she receives the care she needs as the nurses carry a heavier load of patients on this floor. Her left ankle was put in a cast today, and her feeding tube has been closed.  Pray that she will be able to get enough nutrition without it.  Also, one ear is blocked and is being treated with drops.  Pray for it to clear.  The family is asking for a second opinion on Jessica's pelvis and request that we pray for clear answers for them.

Thank you to Lauren Runyon and the MOPS of Foothills Community Church in Arvada for providing meals for a month.  South Side Fellowship will take over that responsibility on July 21.  Please call Michelle Grebe to schedule meals.  Her number is 303-814-3432.

Thank you for your faithful prayers, for meals, for encouraging emails, and for other loving acts.  Today was rough for Jessica as she got little sleep last night.  Pray that her digestive track would get back to normal.  The requests of yesterday continue today, especially for healing of her mouth and for nutrition.  Her foot was not put in a cast so we want to pray that would happen soon. There continues to be concern about the care she is receiving in her new room. 

Please be sure you sign up to bring meals so the family is not overwhelmed with the amount of food.  You all have been generous and want to help which is greatly appreciated.  You are a gift from the Lord to this dear family.

Jessica began physical therapy today by lifting weights with both arms.  There is some indication that rehab is not far off.  Each step of recovery has its own unique difficulties so I would ask you to pray for strength and a minimum of pain for Jessica.  She also has a beautiful purple cast on her left foot.  That's an answer to our prayers of last night.

I will be out of town for the next four days but will continue to update the web each night.  Continue to send emails as I will deliver them as soon as I return.  Please forgive me if I am not prompt in answering you, but I will do my best.

The Lord has been a tower of strength to this family, and I would ask you all to pray for them as they go through the grieving process.  With such a great loss, they need time to deal with all the emotions that go along with it.  Our prayers are a blessing to them.

Jessica is making good progress with her rehabilitation.  Today she was able to take her first shower which must have been a great accomplishment although hard work.

We have two requests for help.  One is for volunteers to drive Heidi and Charity to the hospital week-day mornings.  They are living close to 80th and Federal and the hospital is close to Sheridan and Colfax.  Please email me if you can help.

They would also like a list of people who would be willing to stay all night with Jessica.  There is a recliner in the room and you would be able to get some rest, but you would be available if Jessica has a need.  Again, email me if you would like to be on this list.

Praise God for answered prayers:

Heidi is feeling better although we can continue to pray for her.

Jessica's digestive system is getting back to normal, but she is still finding it painful to eat.  Continue to pray that a solution is found.

Jessica is off all IV's.

Dillon is settling down at Josh and Emily's house, but they still need to make a decision about their cat which is still at the family home.

Other prayer needs:

Continue to pray that Jessica will be free from any diseases as a result of the many transfusions she received.

Lois (grandmother) is returning to Texas by bus tonight and tomorrow.  Pray for safety and rest as she travels.  Her presence has been a blessing to the children.

Please remember to schedule meals and visits for Southside members through Michelle Grebe at 303-814-3432.  All other visits are scheduled with me through email.   

This is an early update as I will not be able to login tonight.  I hope you all read the two updates yesterday.  Jessica had four sessions of therapy today and is doing well.  It is nice that they give her breaks between each session so she can rest. 

Heidi is experiencing some muscular aching.  Please pray for her.  I know that spending long days at the hospital is exhausting so pray for strength for her.

Dillon was excited to see his family, but not excited to stay in Josh's yard.  It is unfamiliar to him and he is using all his energy to make another escape.  Heidi asked that we would pray that he will behave himself.

Jessica has been given a projected date for being released from the hospital -- August 18.  When she was first injured, the estimate was three months so this is well short of that.  We are all going to pray that she is able to beat the August date as she is so weary of being in the hospital. 

Heidi needs to move her things from where she had been living and is having a garage sale this Friday and Saturday from 8-4.  The address is 7242 Grant Street which is near Arapahoe and Broadway.  Perhaps you could drop by and pick up a bargain!

Please continue to contact me for visits.  Although they will all be after four now, Jessica looks forward to them.  Also, I would love to be inundated with emails I can take to her and to the rest of the family.  They have slowed down to a trickle, yet Jessica still has a long way to go and loves receiving them.  Thank you all for your love, prayers, and active service to the Seidlers.

Jessica has had a good day of work with her therapists.  Her diligence has always been an outstanding characteristic which benefits her greatly as she faces this challenge.

Last Saturday and Sunday were slow for her so we are going to open up those two days for visitors to drop in.  We ask that you be sensitive to her need for rest and that you be aware that she may still have some rehabilitation.

Remember Heidi's garage sale as mentioned in yesterday's update and continue to send emails.  I have had some wonderfully entertaining ones which are great for cheering up the patient.  Thanks so much and God bless all of you for your prayers.

For the next few days, I would like us to concentrate our prayers on comfort for the family.  As we have followed the healing process and the physical needs of the family, we might not remember to cover these young people with prayer for the loss they have suffered.  When we are sick, we desire to have our mom's by our bedside.  Jessica misses the loving care she always received from her mom.  Charity was a bit hesitant about going to college but knew Joel would show her around campus and help her adjust.  Instead, she will walk campus remembering that just last spring her brother was there.  Today was very hard as they discovered Joel's key chain which said, "Life is short; pray hard."

Sometimes the pain of loss can be unbearable even though they know their parents and Joel are in the presence of Jesus.

"Whom have I in heaven but You?  And there is nothing on earth I desire besides You.  My flesh and my heart fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."  Ps. 73:25-26

How you bless Jessica and the family with your notes of encouragement!  This verse was sent to her today, the day she struggled in rehab.  She is having trouble using her right leg which she will need to pivot herself out of bed and the wheelchair.  The muscle in her thigh is very tight so we need to pray that it will loosen up and not hold her back.  Truly Jessica can say today that her flesh fails, but God is her strength.

Today was the first day of Heidi's garage sale, and it continues tomorrow.  She would like to get rid of things so feel free to drop by between four and five tomorrow and take anything that is left.

We have two requests for Jessica tonight.  She seems to have lost her sense of smell.  When her nose was broken, it probably damaged the nerve that goes to the brain and provides the sense of smell.  The doctor does not seem to think it will return, but we want to pray for a miracle of healing.  Also, there is some frustration over the doctors dealing with her pelvis.  Jessica would like a second opinion, but no one has showed up even though she was told he would.  Pray that she will quickly get the consultation and answers she needs.

Both Josh and Heidi are struggling with focus.  Whether it is at work, dealing with decisions, at home, or at the hospital, they need prayer that they will be able to focus on what needs to be attended to at that moment. 

Specific needs are for Heidi as she makes decisions about where to store her possessions and how to organize them as she must move them by this weekend.  She has had many offers of help which is a blessing.   She is also experiencing some chest pain, not related to her heart, and some back pain.  Both she and Josh are having trouble sleeping some nights so pray for peaceful, uninterrupted sleep.

Finally, pray for the man in the other vehicle, Michael.  He also was injured so pray for his healing, his comfort, and that he will be aware of God's loving care of him.

Continue to pray for the requests of Saturday night.  Several of you have sent wonderfully encouraging emails of God's victory in times of pain.  We thank you for those.

A major item of prayer continues to be concerning Jessica's pelvis.  She has still not received a second opinion even though many efforts have been made.  Let's pray that the doctor who will give them answers will be in her room TOMORROW! 

Pray for Charity as she faces college with some hesitation.  Pray that someone will come along side of her and help her in the time of adjustment to campus life and classes.

Continue to pray for the spiritual and emotional needs of each member of this family: Josh, Emily, the little ones guys-- Josh, Jr., and Jackson-- Heidi, Jessica, and Charity.

The Lord has put it on my heart to pray for unity among the family members.  Josh, Heidi, Jessica, and Charity are siblings.  We can all remember growing up with our brothers and sisters and know we did not always agree with one another.  It has been the same for this family, yet now they have been placed in a position where it is essential that they are in one accord as they make decisions.  Pray that God will help them to be unified in all they must do.  They have been amazing in their care and consideration for each other since the accident, truly an example of Godly love.

Keep the emails coming this last week for Jessica.  Thanks to all of you who have written.

Praise God!  He is good.  He answers our prayers and meets our needs.  An example is the good news that Jessica will be going home on August 5.  Just last week we were told it would be the 18th and we prayed it would be earlier.  What an amazing answer to prayer!  Jessica is beginning to use a walker although not going places yet, but her leg is being strengthened.

The other answer to prayer is that Jessica talked to the pelvis doctor today.  She was able to get the answers she needed and feels much better about the results of the surgery and treatment for the pelvis.

Only one week to go, but the emails have practically dried up.  Do you think we can shower her with emails to help her get through this last week?  She is finding it difficult to be patient as she'd like to go home now.  I also need visitors for 4 and 7 on Tuesday (4 is taken), Wednesday, and Thursday.  I'm sure we will be arranging visitors when she goes home also, but we'll wait on that.

Continue to pray for Heidi as she moves her things.

What a joy it was to see Jessica propelling herself down the hall in a wheel chair!  She wasn't breaking any speed limits, but she was moving by her own power.  She was also able to stand briefly on her right leg so all her hard work is paying off. 

One major decision that needs to be made is about the Seidler cat.  It is still at the parents' house and the children must decide where it will go.  Pray that they can find a solution which will be acceptable to each of them.

Both Heidi and Josh are weary.  They are carrying the load of making decisions as well as spending much time at the hospital.  Pray that they will find ways to get the rest they need and that they will be able to take advantage of all the kind offers of help from so many of you. Continue to pray for Heidi's chest and back pain, for focus for Heidi and Josh, for peace for Charity about college, and for Michael, the other driver.  Thank you for your faithfulness to check the website and to pray and minister to this family.

Five days until Jessica is released from the hospital!  She is excited and anxious as there are many details that must be considered.  Jessica, always wanting to know the plan :-), is concerned about continuing therapy, drugs she must take, and blood tests once she is home.  Pray that these details will not be a worry to her and that the logistics of getting around Josh's house will be settled.

Heidi was having pain in her hips last night so pray that it will not continue to bother her.  Also continue to pray for a solution for the cat.

Jessica's pastor and some people from the church did a worship service and Bible teaching at the hospital tonight.  It was a great blessing to the family.

Preparations for Jessica's move to Josh and Emily's house are moving along.  A ramp is being built into the house and a bedroom is being prepared.  Pray for each detail, even those they cannot anticipate today, to be settled.  Jessica's fixator holding her pelvis in place and her feeding tube must be removed.  There is some concern over bleeding because she is on a blood thinner so pray both will be removed at the same time with no complications.

Pray for a good night's sleep for Josh and Heidi as they wake up with many things on their minds and cannot go back to sleep.  Both Jessica and Charity have had some upset stomach problems, and they also need prayer.

Tomorrow Heidi will be seeing her doctor about her pelvis and will probably be given permission to drive.  The thought is not easy for her so pray for peace when she does decide to drive again.

Jessica is enjoying the "luxuries" of being home.  On Saturday morning Little Josh and Jackson served all three girls breakfast in bed, prepared with their own hands.  What a delight! 

This morning Jessica had to have her blood tested and such an outing takes most of the morning because it takes so much time to get in and out of the car.  She is doing a great job of pivoting on her one good foot so she can move into a car, into bed, or to a chair.

The dogs are not bothering her which is a wonderful answer to our prayers.  Pray that as winter comes and the house is closed up more she will not develop any problems.

Once again God has shown His goodness to this family, this time through the bank which is administering the memorial fund.  A couple of the employees held a bake sale and made $450!  What a blessing!

Being home from the hospital is a blessing.  The family is all together and does not have to make the daily treks to St. Anthonys.  But they are also encountering some difficulties.  The logistics of moving Jessica and providing a comfortable sleeping situation continue to be a challenge although the creativity of the family has solved some of the problems.  Jessica is suffering more pain since she has come home so pray for a means of dealing with it.

Pray that Jessica will get the best of care in spite of the fact that she does not have insurance.  She continues to need physical therapy as well as blood tests and care for her injuries.

The family is also in the process of making decisions so your prayers would be appreciated in that area also.

Alert!  9News is doing a follow-up story on the Seidlers tonight at 5 and 10.  I hope you read this in time to tune in.

Jessica is home.  She is not reacting to the dogs, but continue to pray that she does not have a problem with that.  The wheelchair is a tight squeeze down the hall, but it can make it.  Continue to pray for the logistics of all of Jessica's care as it is now on the shoulders of Heidi and the rest of the family.

Josh and Emily live in a two-bedroom ranch house with a basement.  Seven people are living in the house with the grandmother to return soon and the baby to be born in November making it nine.  That's what one would call close fellowship!

Overwhelming.  Heidi used this word to express how the family is feeling in preparing for Jessica's move.  Pray that God will pave the way and supply every need even before they anticipate it.  Sometimes things seems out of control.  After working into the wee hours of the morning to prepare the house, everything seemed in order.  Then Josh received a call from home saying that three birds were freely flying around one of the bedrooms, into mirrors...  How did they get there?  No one seems to know, but it is just one more thing.

Heidi's report from the doctor is good.  Her pelvis is healing and her activities do not need to be restricted.  Although she is not anxious to drive, she knows she must so continue to pray that she will have peace when she starts to drive again.

One major request for Jessica is that she has had allergic reactions to dogs.   Pray that she will not have a problem with the dogs at Josh's house.

Josh, Jr., is struggling with the loss of his grandparents and Joel.  He is five years old and is dealing with fear concerning his own family.  Pray that Josh and Emily will have special wisdom from God to help him through this time.

A promise God gave Heidi is found in Isaiah 42:16: "I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth.  These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them."  Certainly we can see this promise coming to pass in the lives of the Seidlers.

Today's update is another example of God's care.  Yesterday Jessica met with Dr. Stone who did all of her facial surgery.  He was amazed at how it is healing and thrilled that her bite is perfect.  He had been concerned about that so we rejoice in another answer to our prayers.  She also is getting back the sensation in her face which had been a prayer concern.

Today Jessica went to the ortho clinic and had the splint on her hand and the cast on her foot removed.  She is relieved to have them gone as they were so uncomfortable.  She will need physical therapy on her hand and will not be able to bear weight on her foot for a couple of weeks.  Pray for her as she comes off the pain medication as she is experiencing nausea.

Great news!  Jessica had her fixator (holding her pelvis in place) and her feeding tube removed yesterday.  It is a relief as the fixator was constantly getting bumped which was painful.  Jessica also made three rounds down the hall, through the dining room, and through the livingroom with her walker today.  Pray for her tomorrow as she will be having the hooks and wires in her mouth removed.  She is also having trouble sleeping because she is now off all pain medication. 

Continue to pray for wisdom as decisions are made, the memorial service is planned, and Charity begins school.  Visitors are still welcome so contact me through my email address, and I can help arrange a visit.

Pray for Charity as she will begin school next week and is anxious about it.  She will be having freshman orientation this weekend.  Pray that she will make friends quickly and feel at ease.  She passed her test for her learner's permit last week.

The Seidler family continues to experience grief as they plan for the memorial service and deal with family business.  Yesterday they visited their parents' home, Jessica for the first time, and it was painful.  Pray that the Lord will surround them with His comfort and peace.

Pray for the Seidlers as they make plans for the memorial service for Kathy and Joel.  This will be a difficult time as they continue grieving for their loved ones and seek to honor the Lord in all that is done.  They are in the process of finalizing a location and date so that will be posted soon.

Even though the website is not updated as frequently now that Jessica is home, please continue to check it as it is our best way to communicate needs and prayer requests.  Early next week the family hopes to announce the memorial service so continue to watch for that.

First an answer to prayer.  Jessica has not been experiencing nausea the past two days.  That is a wonderful blessing as she is able to eat more.  Also, Heidi drove for the first time yesterday.  It went fine, but she requests we continue to pray that she will be able to relax when she drives.  She was tense yesterday.

Jessica's home therapist came for the first time today.  She will work with Jessica twice a week and then Heidi will help her with her excercises the other days.  Pray that she will regain her strength quickly.

Jessica has been in touch with several of her doctors in the last couple of days.  There is some frustration as she is not getting the answers she needs so let's pray that they will be responsive to her questions and to her needs.  Pray that the pain in her right leg will lessen so she can sleep at night.  Heidi is also extremely tired.

Charity likes college better than high school but is dealing with the sadness of Joel not being on campus with her.  Tuesday in chapel the campus pastor showed the video from 9News (with permission from the Seidlers) so that was a difficult time for her.  She will begin working in the registrar's office on Monday which will help her feel more a part of the campus.

Continue to pray that the details of the memorial service can be decided soon.

"This has been such a difficult thing to go through, but God is so amazing!"  Jessica said this today after learning of another one of God's great works.  Today while meeting in a small group in my Sunday school class, I learned "accidentally" that one of the women in my class is Jessica's long-term substitute at Lasley.  Deanna Brady has thirty years of experience and sees this as Jessica's class and will work to keep the students in touch with her.  Deanna has invited Jessica to come into the classroom whenever she wishes and to communicate with the students through letters and video.  Tonight Deanna visited Jessica so they could make a plan (you remember how Jessica loves to have a plan!) and know how best to explain Jessica's situation to her students.  Praise God for providing this wonderful, Godly woman to fill in for Jessica!

The major item of prayer tonight is that Jessica will be able to sleep.  She is still waking up about every hour and finds it difficult to find a comfortable position.  Also pray for healing of the muscle in her right leg as it is tight and painful.

Jessica and Heidi were blessed to go to church for the first time today. Charity and little Josh start school tomorrow.

Jessica had the wires and hooks removed from her mouth yesterday as well as her two upper wisdom teeth.  Because of the earlier surgery on her mouth, the doctor felt the removal of the wisdom teeth would be safer now than if it became necessary later.  Jessica has not had a lot of pain, but pray that the next couple of days will also be pain-free for her.  She did sleep better last night, but we want to continue to pray for that.

A date for the memorial is in process and it will be posted here as soon as it is confirmed.

Jessica is delighted tonight.  She received letters from all of her students so is now looking forward to answering them.  She is also sleeping better which is a blessing to her and to Heidi.  Praise God for answering our prayers.

Several people have volunteered to house out-of-town guests who are coming for the memorial.  If you would like a place to stay, please let us know.

If you have missed the last couple of updates, check Friday's for the information on the memorial service.

Pray that Jessica's rehabilitation will move along at a good pace and that she will be able to push through for a full recovery.   Continue to pray for sleep for her.

Please continue to pray that Jessica will be able to sleep at night.  Pray for healing for her right thigh as the muscle is tight and painful.

Pray also for the family that they will know God's will concerning housing opportunities that have been made known to them.

If you missed Friday's entry, check it for details concerning the memorial service.

Charity started her work-study job at CCU yesterday.  She is working in the office where Jessica worked while she attended school.

Jessica had a mold made for her dentures yesterday.  The doctor said her bite is not as straight as it was before the wires and hooks were removed so it may be necessary for her to have braces before she gets her implants.  Let's pray that she won't have to go through that. (Besides, I cannot figure out how one can have braces when one has no teeth!) 

Thank you for your prayers for sleep for Jessica and for the encouraging promises from scripture.  She has been sleeping better the last couple of nights.

Check last Friday's update for information on the memorial service.

I'm limited in the number of characters in an update so must make two entries tonight.

On Thursday, oh joy, Jessica will get her dentures!  Her first bite, she has decided, will be Beau Jo's Pizza.  Continue to pray she will not need braces.

During this next week, pray for the family as they plan the service.  It is an emotional time for them, and they desire to honor Kathy and Joel and God in all that is done.

One of the major projects facing them is their parents' house.  Pray for wisdom and unity for them as they tackle the job of going through the things in the house and making decisions as to what to keep and what not to keep.  It will be a time of grieving, but pray that it will also be a time of healing.

Be sure to check in next Tuesday.  Bless you all.

Dear Friends,

Thank you for following this website so faithfully for the last few months.  Because Jessica is doing so well and the family is not faced with changing daily needs, we have decided to update the site every Tuesday.  Please continue to check for prayer and other needs each week as the Seidlers still have much ahead of them.

Remember the memorial service on September 16 at 6:30 at Faith Bible Chapel in Arvada.  There will be a reception after the service so you will be able to speak with the family.  Their main request is that you would write down memories of Kathy and Joel and even Tom so they can compile a book about them.  If you have followed this site but do not personally know the family, please know that you are invited to the service also.

Today's prayer requests begin with safety for Lois, the grandmother, as she travels to Colorado Wednesday.  Another is for Jessica's doctor appointment tomorrow as she will find out if she can bear weight on her left foot.  Also she is having considerable pain in her right femur so pray the doctors can find the source and a solution.  (To be continued...)

First, I would like to give directions to Faith Bible Chapel where the service will be held at 6:30 this coming Friday, September 16.  Take I-70 west to Ward Road.  Go north on Ward to 6210 where you will see a pedestrian bridge across the road.  Turn left to get to the west side of the campus where the memorial will be held.  If you have any questions, please contact me.  A dessert reception will be held in the atrium following the service.

Jessica has had good reports on her healing bones.  She is now able to put weight on her left foot so is working at giving up the walker for crutches.  She seems to be depositing calcium in the muscle of her right leg so please pray that it can be broken up without surgery.  Also pray that her pelvis will be straight as she begins to walk.

Several of the family members are fighting colds so pray that they will get well.  Planning the memorial has been emotionally draining for them so they need our prayers for God's continued comfort and peace throughout this week.

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints."  Psalm 116:15

The momorial service for Joel and Kathy was a wonderful time of remembering and rejoicing that they are in the presence of their Lord.  The family has been busy preparing for the service for several weeks, but now that it is over, the loss has hit even harder.  Please pray for the family as they are hurting and feeling lost without their parents and Joel.  They still appreciate receiving email notes of ecouragement.

Jessica has been told that she is ready for the bone graft for her jaw which will allow her to have teeth implants.  This seems to be several months ahead of schedule.  Her right leg has loosened up and is less painful, and she is continuing to work on walking with crutches or the walker.  Please continue to pray for her healing and rehabilitation.

The next entry on the web site will be a week from tonight.

While driving around her neighborhood, Emily's mom found Josh's truck.  It had been stripped of its battery, roll bar, stereo, and much more.  This is one more thing added to a family that is already under emotional stress.  Please pray for them and that those who did this crime will be found and will untimately find Jesus.

Our hearts are overflowing with joy and thankfulness tonight as we praise God for Jessica's successful surgery.  The doctors are confident they were able to save her foot.  Several pastors were with Josh and Heidi at the hospital in intense prayer when they were given the news.  A loud shout of joy went up from the group.  Praise God!

Other news on Jessica is the lengthy surgery on her face.  Josh hopes it will be tomorrow but has not yet heard so we will continue to pray anyway.  The swelling in her leg was too great so the doctors did not stitch it so we need to PRAY that there is no infection.  She will probably be given a feeding tube within the next couple of days.  The good news about that is that she has the ability to digest the food.  We are praising God that she has not had any infections from the many tubes in her body.  PRAY that she continues to have no infections or pneumonia.

Charity is having trouble with her digestive system.  She is on a liquid diet but even that did not set well today.  She also needs healing for the bottoms of her feet which were badly cut in the accident and prevent her from walking around as much as she should.

Heidi is doing very well but is exhausted as are Josh and Emily.  PRAY for strength for all of them and that they will know when to take breaks and rest.

They are blessed by the messages many of you have sent.  Please continue to send those and I will pass them on.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:  Of course, continue to lift this family up before the Father.  In addition, it would be a blessing if you would send cards, drawings, and pictures to Jessica.  Josh would like to have her room filled with these when she wakes up. 

Prayer requests:

*Jessica's surgery tomorrow

*Charity has had an infection.  Pray for quick healing.

*For Emily's health during her pregnancy and that she'll take care of herself.

*Wisdom and strength for Josh.

*Healing for Heidi and strength for the whole family.

A good report for Jessica was that even though her jaw is shattered, her TMJ joint is not damaged.  It is very difficult to heal from the joint injury so we're thankful she will not have to go through that.

Lauren Runyon is scheduling meals for the next month.  She is part of the MOPS group at Foothills and if you would like to participate, you can contact her at ladiver777@yahoo.com.  South Side Bible Church will provide the meals next month.

The address for giving donations is as follows:

Seidler Memorial Fund

Heritage Bank

5720 W. 120th Avenue

Broomfield, CO

303-460-0333  Bank contact: Nicole Pekas