Tyler unfolded the chair next to the passengers door. His father shook his head and pointed, his fingers shaking. I...aint sitting...in...that.
John took a deep sigh, but his voice was firm. Dub, I dont have much time. I told the girls I would pick them up from 4-H. If you fall, think how embarrassed that will make you feel. He glanced up to Tyler. The doctor said falling might be the biggest danger to his recovery. He cut his gaze back to Dub. Remember, we had a deal. If I brought you home early, youd let Karly help you. Thats why shes here. If you dont let her help, she wont have a job.
She came up behind them. Is there anything else I need to do? All the equipment that was ordered has been placed in his room. I made the bed. Pastor John said youd be ready to rest and build up your strength.
John held Dubs arm and eased him into the black seat. Tyler just stood there, useless. Once Dub was settled, his son-in-law went back into the vehicle. Here are some premade dinners Maggie packed for yall. With moving and getting everyone settled, she was worried you wouldnt have time for cooking. Here, Dub. He placed the bags on Dubs lap. You can drop this off as you go through the kitchen.
Tell her thanks. Karly smiled at John before leaning forward. Ready, Mr. Childress?
Karly, Tyler, the occupational therapist is scheduled to be out here for the first home visit Thursday. That was the earliest they could get out here on short notice. I have a folder with all the instructions and tips. Things to look for.
Karly nodded, then smiled at his dad. Bending low, she whispered close to his ear. He mumbled something and she laughed. Ill take him in to check out his room.
Tyler couldnt form a word. He knew he had words, lots of them, but they had all left.
John spoke again. Thanks, Karly. Behave, Dub.
Tyler, the doctor said John started, but he couldnt let him finish. How had his dad convinced them to bring him home without a medical professional?
He cant stay here. Hes too weak. We have to get him in assisted living.
Really? Johns eyebrow shot up. I wish you well with that move. I couldnt even get him to live with me in the house he grew up in, right here on his ranch. John reached inside the SUV and pulled out a red folder. Heres all the information the hospital gave us. The contact numbers for the speech therapist, physical therapist and the occupational therapist. Youll need to set up times for the PT and speech. The speech therapist can also help with any eating problems he has.
We need a professional nurse. Karly cant handle all this medical stuff, and I gotta leave in a few weeks.
Karly will be fine. Besides, we tried to talk your dad into a home health nurse, but he didnt want a stranger in his house. He agreed to Karly, and I trust her. She also needs this opportunity to get her life on track. Its a win-win for everyone, Tyler. John reached over and gripped Tylers shoulder. I know its hard seeing your dad like this, but you need to rely on your faith. Gods in control, Tyler. Theres a plan.
Head against the wall, Tyler stared at the ceiling. He couldnt look at John, the pastor his sister had married. His sisters husband, who would soon be married to someone else, to their old neighbor, Lorrie Ann Ortega. What if I dont like the plan? Too many of his plans had been ripped apart. You cant just blindly fumble through life waiting for God to answer prayers. Dad needs more medical care than Karly can provide. When I talked to Maggie, she said it wasnt that bad.
For a stroke, hes fortunate, but its still a stroke. The doctors said there is no reason he wont have a full recovery, but they wont be sure for some time as to permanent damage. If he does fully recover, it could take up to two years. And theres also the broken bones. They just need rest and time to heal.
Two years? I dont have that kind of time. He pressed his back against the garage wall, sliding down to the floor. He buried his fingers in his damp hair. His grip tightened, wanting to pull all the strands out of his scalp. Sorry, that was completely selfish. I just want my dad back. What about the horses? The ranch? What am I going to do?
John sat next to him. For now we have to take it one day at a time. With work and focus, the doctors believe you can have your dad fully back. The fear of losing him, any part of him, was hard to deal with today. Seeing him was a shock. John put his hand back on Tylers shoulder. That stubbornness of his can help him get better. Its also that pride that can get in the way of his recovery. Hes not going to change his mind about where he lives or who lives with him. In Isaiah, were reminded, For I hold you by your right handI, the Lord your God. And I say to you, Dont be afraid. I am here to help you. Youre never alone, Tyler. God is here. Im close by if you need anything. He patted his should a couple of times and stood. The girls want their uncle over for dinner soon. They miss you. With that, he left.
Tylers throat was dry. He needed something to drink. How did John manage to stay so positive? His sisters husband had more reasons to doubt the promise of a happy ending than anyone else.