And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.
Romans 5:4
Cokie has had one to two surgeries a year since we got her, almost 10 years ago. Over the years the surgeries have ran together, and I can't always tell exactly which one was for what. Her first surgery in this country was with Shriners, but after that we switched to Riley Children's Hospital. She has had the exact same plastic surgeon and orthopedic surgeon ever since.
Cokie checking into the hospital. At this point she could not wear a pair of shoes. The fire had caused bones to move deforming and crippling one foot. The fortunate foot only had the little toe burnt off. After we got her though we had to have them all straightened out, and at one point she came home from the hospital with pins sticking out of all the toes.
The brace was to make sure the bones stayed in place. She is wearing shoes!! Thank you Jesus!!
Cokie wore the brace for years. She really needed it, but just about a year ago "she" decided she was done with it! Her surgeon seemed to go along with her decision.
Some things you shouldn't take for granted.
Over the years Cokie has had a lot of new braces.
Cokie's left pinky was burned off in the fire.
Cokie was chosen as a model for this ad that is on display above two different water fountains at Banker's Life Field House where the Indiana Pacers play.
Cokie has been a cheerleader, and has been on a basketball team. I doubt professionally it is in her future though. : - ) She has too many more important things to do!!
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16
Cokie is kind, caring, quiet, strong, unafraid and intelligent. Just this year her teacher told me, when Cokie speaks the other kids listen to her. The teacher said Cokie always has a smile on her face, has her hand up to answer questions, and sets a great example for the other kids.
