Hello, this is Tiasia, Douglas’ daughter. He is not feeling up to sharing today and wanted me to let everyone know what was going on with him so he could get some prayer. Last Friday night he started not feeling well and has been having some issues throughout the past couple days. I know that many who read his blogs genuinely care for him and pray for him on a regular basis because of the things that he shares about his life and my family. Last night he was resting and the kids were concerned and asked “is Pa going to be okay?” To which I responded, “he’s just resting.” This brought the kids great relief, praying for Pa definitely brought them more as they did it one by one. I have asked him multiple times if he wants me to take him to the hospital to which he responds that he will be ok and this too shall pass. For those that know us understand that we trust in God and believe with all that we are what is written in *Romans 8:28 And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.* In the midst of all that was going on last night my son began to toss and turn in his sleep, then he woke up, or at least I think he was awake, and just started praying. Prayer is not something that comes easily for him, normally it’s ‘Dear God, Amen’ or he will mimic what someone else is praying. I’m not sure what all he prayed as I only caught the ‘Dear God, Pa, Jesus, Amen’ part as he was talking very fast. Once he was done praying he closed his eyes, rolled over, and went back to sleep. Shortly after his prayer the house started to calm, and my dad was able to rest a little more comfortably. I believed we were through the worst of it. After a long night of ups and downs and very little sleep for my dad or myself, the morning brought calmness. However, within the calmness there has not been healing. If he does not start feeling better some by tomorrow morning an IV Medic will need to be called. He is generally healthy, he has not been sick very much that I can remember. The last time he was affected in a more severe way was August of 2024. As many of you know my dad prays about every decision he makes and will do what he feels God wants him to do. I am not sure if he wants me to share this but there are a few other health issues that he is dealing with and I would appreciate prayers for those as well. My dad and I have talked over how his last days will be spent for years and what that looks like. In the end, when the time comes for my dad to go home to be with Jesus (whether that be today or fifty years from now) he will do so from the comfort of my home surrounded by those who love him most, not from a hospital bed surrounded by strangers. I am not saying that he is anywhere near the point of death, but he often says that he is getting older and closer to heaven everyday, lol. Again, we thank all of you for your prayers and support in the struggles that our family goes through on a regular basis. In closing I would like to share a verse with you that my dad often shares with me. It is written in *Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].* To all those who genuinely care for my family and show it by your actions, always remember that Jesus loves you, and we love you too. In Christ, Tiasia.
