My only brother Randy has been in the ICU for 15 days now.He has COPD which is a chronic progressive lung condition although he never smoked.He was rushed to the emergency room one evening while Joey and I were in Japan. Although I was happy to be traveling, my heart was very torn finding out my only big brother was miles and mountains away. By all accounts he ALMOST died that night as the doctors rushed to revive him. I would have flown if I had wings as the only way I knew how to get out was by cable car which closed at 5 pm and it was already 10 pm.By some miracle, my phone would have a signal now and then on that mountaintop in Japan while Joey's phone (exactly like mine, same server too) never worked. That's how I found out and so began to pray as the rest. I was so touched that David & Joshua drove to the ER and stayed with my sister in law and my sisters on that crucial night.By some miracle, as Randy's life hung on a balance, the doctor was prompted in his emergency procedure to probe deeper in his lungs than ever before with his instruments. That brought immediate relief and revived him. Randy's condition is still critical (he actually needs a miracle to be healed) but has improved now.We cut our trip shorter than planned and its been daily ICU visits for me since I've returned. My ICU heroes awards go to my niece and nephew (Randy's kids) as well as to Nina, my only sister-in-law who didn't just have to face her husband's illness but also has to handle 6 sisters-in-law who come and go with all our different personalities, medical opinions and sage quack advice. (Remember my "Sukiyaki Sisters" blog? Well, think "Sukiyaki Sisters Go to ICU"). Sometimes we were just too many and too noisy together that we've been kicked out of the ICU several times for overstaying. Hopefully he'll get moved to a regular room soon since he's more alert. I am thinking of getting us "fake doctors coats" so we look official. (Kidding of course. Meron kaya sa Recto?) We're also the only ones who got away with having a family pic taken at his ICU bed. Somehow there is laughter, faith mixed with tears. God's grace is always there and we thank Him for it. I also thank Him that my brother is His child too. My brother's earthly future lies God's hands (as do all of ours) but his heavenly future is secure. Thanks for all your prayers. Deeply appreciated.
Here's a song that's one of my favorites especially during times like this.
Hope it blesses your day too ; >
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHdcyue0bSw
Addendum: Good news! As of Saturday Oct 20 my brother was tranferred to a regular room. Thanks to all the prayers and good wishes. ;>
Although there are several hurdles to go through, I pray that God's amazing grace will always surround his family.
Somehow there is laughter, faith mixed with tears. God's grace is always there and we thank Him for it. 
