{c & h hanson}

Some of you might have heard that Collin needs another surgery on his back. He had his first one the beginning of April but has since then not as healed as quickly as we have hoped. He went in for another MRI when the pain was not subsiding and the doctor's found another disk extrustion. We are not sure if its because he re-injured himself or if there was some stuff left behind in his first surgery. Although it can be quite frustering, we are trying our best to stay positive! I think Collin is doing a much better job than I am and hes the one who had the surgery! Its very difficult to see him in pain and has to sleep on the floors most nights because our bed isnt giving him the extra support his back needs since they took out all the cushioning between his vertabre. But on the positive side, he can walk around, and has been able to get out some nights to hang out with friends and go on date. The problem is he can't sit long and walk too much. Maybe a couple hours at most before he needs to lay down again. But we are so thankful for the small steps he has been able to take.

Last Sunday, when teaching our primary class, I had a reality check. Collin was at home resting and has been for the past month. Our primary class we teach, the 5-7 year olds know that Bro. Hanson has had some problems with his back and needs to stay home and rest. Every week they ask about Bro. Hanson and if he is feeling better. They always ask when he will be able to come and teach again, and it just breaks my heart knowing that he will be out at least a few more weeks due to his upcoming surgery. Anywho, two weeks ago our lesson was on the power of the priesthood and the administering of the sick. The lesson told me to explain that sometimes, we get owies and all we have to do is put a bandaid on it and it will go away, other times we have to go see a doctor or go to the hospital. As I continued the lesson instructed me to explain that sometimes people who get blessings in order to help them feel better dont always work. This isnt because Heavenly Father doesnt love those people but because there is some kind of lesson that needs to be learned. Sometimes it helps people become stronger when they have to live with their disabilities or sickness's. Some people use wheelchairs, some people have diseases that cannot be cured.

Now, Collin does not need a wheelchair nor is he suffering from any kind of serious disease, but it has taken a bit longer for him to recover than anticipated. After reading this primary lessson I realized how blessed we really are and I felt ashamed that I ever complained about Collins recovery process. I know that perhaps this is to help both of us become stronger and exercise more patience in our lives. Collin has recieved two blessings since this all started and even though he is still going through a painful recovery, I know that Heavenly Father is aware of him and knows what he is going through. I am so grateful for the power of the priesthood and what it can do for people. I am so thankful that I can have that in my home and feel that power. I am so thankful for my sweet primary class and how they have helped me. Every Sunday they always pray that Bro. Hanson will feel better and be able to come back to church.

Aside from all of that and having to deal with a bad back, Collins spirits are up! He enjoys lounging on the couch playing video games, watching movies, eating, sleeping, playing video games, etc. Oh and when he gets his surgery again, the doctor said no repeated movements and then went on to list no washing dishes, no vaccuming. Thanks Doc! Collins next surgery (and hopefully last!) will be next Wednesday on the 19th so we will keep you updated! We really appreciate all your prayers, we truly can feel them and know that they are helping!

On a side note, Collin has eaten probably close to around 10 BOXES of ding dongs and twinkies and still has managed to loose 9lbs during his recovery. Yup.