Report from the hospital
The situation is calm and stable. Håkan is becoming more and more awake and he responds when spoken to. He can’t talk yet because he’s still on a respirator. They have found the right antibiotic, because his infection is going down.
Gunilla shared today that she had been in the house and could rescue Håkan’s preaching notes. The covers had to be thrown away, but the pages with sooty edges are being saved.
I am so thankful every day when Håkan’s brother calls me, after he has spoken with the hospital, and says that Håkan’s condition is stable. We can’t take anything for granted, but we are learning to trust God in this situation. Thank you, God, for all who are praying and standing with Håkan and the Gniste family. Thank you, God, for the staff at the hospital who are doing such a fantastic job.
“Praise the Lord, who carries our burdens day after day; he is the God who saves us.” Ps 68:19
Janne Sääf
Tuesday 31 March 2009
Greetings from Josefina Gniste
My dad is really a fighter!! I’m filled with thankfulness for every day that goes by. Thank you, Lord!!
I am in India, for the first time in my life. What a wonderful country!! After a few days of holiday in Goa and Delhi, with Daniel Sääf and Emelie Hedqvist, now we are in Agra. Tomorrow we will visit the famous Taj Mahal.
Yesterday we had the honor of visiting the home of an Indian family, who later in the evening invited the area’s youth to a youth meeting. Daniel shared a word about the prodigal son, and I sang about the Holy Spirit and shared a few words.
We concluded the evening with a prayer for my dad.
On the way home in an autorickshaw that evening, Daniel said to me, ”Josefina, I am so glad that you shared something with the youth tonight. Your dad told me that I should make sure that you did that.”
Imagine that I am able to fulfil my father’s wishes. It feels fantastic!! Thank you, Lord!!
Thanks for all your prayers, short and long! I really feel borne by you, my brothers and sisters in Christ; now I understand the meaning of those words.
Thank you…Thank you…Thank you…
Josefina Gniste
I am in India, for the first time in my life. What a wonderful country!! After a few days of holiday in Goa and Delhi, with Daniel Sääf and Emelie Hedqvist, now we are in Agra. Tomorrow we will visit the famous Taj Mahal.
Yesterday we had the honor of visiting the home of an Indian family, who later in the evening invited the area’s youth to a youth meeting. Daniel shared a word about the prodigal son, and I sang about the Holy Spirit and shared a few words.
We concluded the evening with a prayer for my dad.
On the way home in an autorickshaw that evening, Daniel said to me, ”Josefina, I am so glad that you shared something with the youth tonight. Your dad told me that I should make sure that you did that.”
Imagine that I am able to fulfil my father’s wishes. It feels fantastic!! Thank you, Lord!!
Thanks for all your prayers, short and long! I really feel borne by you, my brothers and sisters in Christ; now I understand the meaning of those words.
Thank you…Thank you…Thank you…
Josefina Gniste
Monday 30 March 2009
The fast continues
Today is another day of prayer and fasting. We continue to pray for Håkan. There are now over 60 people who have joined in fasting one day a week until the day after Easter. We know that prayer has already had a great effect, because we have seen such positive reports about Håkan during this time, but it is important that we continue.
- Pray for the awakening and that all bodily functions start working.
- Pray for a will to live in Håkan.
- Pray that no infections arise.
- Pray for what Håkan has dreamed about: that the Body of Christ would come together, that wounds be healed, and that the Body would come into function. (1 Cor. 12)
God bless you, and thank you for your participation and your prayers; they are important.
Janne Sääf
- Pray for the awakening and that all bodily functions start working.
- Pray for a will to live in Håkan.
- Pray that no infections arise.
- Pray for what Håkan has dreamed about: that the Body of Christ would come together, that wounds be healed, and that the Body would come into function. (1 Cor. 12)
God bless you, and thank you for your participation and your prayers; they are important.
Janne Sääf
Sunday 29 March 2009
Sunday's report from Linköping
The situation is calm...
The situation is stable...
I get excited all over when I write this…
What an answer to prayer…Thank you, Lord!!
Håkan is awake sometimes, now and then…
He responds when spoken to…
Do you understand how it feels to write this…
What an answer to prayer…Thank you, Lord!!
Håkan is resting now. He’s not sedated, but has a little trouble waking up, which they say is very common after burn injuries.
Tomorrow, Monday, Håkan will get a bath in the morning. In the afternoon, Ullami and Jan Rosman from Norrköping will visit Håkan. They are old friends of ours, and I’ve asked them to go there.
Thank you, friends, for all your support…love you!!
We’ll meet in prayer for Håkan!
God bless you!!
Gunilla
The situation is stable...
I get excited all over when I write this…
What an answer to prayer…Thank you, Lord!!
Håkan is awake sometimes, now and then…
He responds when spoken to…
Do you understand how it feels to write this…
What an answer to prayer…Thank you, Lord!!
Håkan is resting now. He’s not sedated, but has a little trouble waking up, which they say is very common after burn injuries.
Tomorrow, Monday, Håkan will get a bath in the morning. In the afternoon, Ullami and Jan Rosman from Norrköping will visit Håkan. They are old friends of ours, and I’ve asked them to go there.
Thank you, friends, for all your support…love you!!
We’ll meet in prayer for Håkan!
God bless you!!
Gunilla
Saturday 28 March 2009
One more week...
We are so happy for every step forward…
Now they will wake Håkan more and more. Håkan’s next operation will be on Wednesday next week, according to the plans.
I have never been so happy for Håkan’s beard as I am now! Imagine that the hair follicles remained intact and are helping to heal his face. Thank God!
When we were up in Linköping, we told the staff that Håkan loves praise and worship, Christian music, brass music, and classical music, but he can’t handle pop music, and they were thankful for that information.
The next day, when I opened Håkan’s post, he had been chosen to participate on a radio station’s jury for Swedish pop music’s top 10. I think I laughed for 10 minutes! A little humor in the middle of everything. Håkan will get a good laugh over that one day.
Our Josefina got away to India, anyway. I am so happy for her sake. Thank God!
Tomorrow our Mohammed is coming home and we will work on new plans for the second floor, since they have to tear out everything anyway.
Now we have our last days at the hotel – it’s been like a second home for us these past weeks.
Our friends are working hard on our new home, so we can soon move in. Yesterday they made a trip to IKEA. I have bought a set of purple everyday dishes – got it together with a little from Torp, Överby, Jönköping and Linköping. God is good!!
Yesterday I visited the school and got masses of hugs. It was so good to meet everyone again. We listened to the radio interview from Radio West together…
It is so good to have all the support – you can’t imagine how much it means to us. I want to thank you once again for all the support, all love, all practical help, greetings on the blog, which I read over and over again, all hugs, postcards, flowers, and all gifts.
With God’s help and your love…Thank you!!
God bless you all!!
We’ll meet in prayer for Håkan.
Gunilla
Now they will wake Håkan more and more. Håkan’s next operation will be on Wednesday next week, according to the plans.
I have never been so happy for Håkan’s beard as I am now! Imagine that the hair follicles remained intact and are helping to heal his face. Thank God!
When we were up in Linköping, we told the staff that Håkan loves praise and worship, Christian music, brass music, and classical music, but he can’t handle pop music, and they were thankful for that information.
The next day, when I opened Håkan’s post, he had been chosen to participate on a radio station’s jury for Swedish pop music’s top 10. I think I laughed for 10 minutes! A little humor in the middle of everything. Håkan will get a good laugh over that one day.
Our Josefina got away to India, anyway. I am so happy for her sake. Thank God!
Tomorrow our Mohammed is coming home and we will work on new plans for the second floor, since they have to tear out everything anyway.
Now we have our last days at the hotel – it’s been like a second home for us these past weeks.
Our friends are working hard on our new home, so we can soon move in. Yesterday they made a trip to IKEA. I have bought a set of purple everyday dishes – got it together with a little from Torp, Överby, Jönköping and Linköping. God is good!!
Yesterday I visited the school and got masses of hugs. It was so good to meet everyone again. We listened to the radio interview from Radio West together…
It is so good to have all the support – you can’t imagine how much it means to us. I want to thank you once again for all the support, all love, all practical help, greetings on the blog, which I read over and over again, all hugs, postcards, flowers, and all gifts.
With God’s help and your love…Thank you!!
God bless you all!!
We’ll meet in prayer for Håkan.
Gunilla
Friday 27 March 2009
The twenty-fifth day
Report from the hospital
Håkan’s condition continues to be serious, but stable, and he is still sedated.
Today his bandages have been changed, and he has also been showered with soap and water for the first time since he came in.
His back seems to be healing well. There is a burn on his neck which will probably need surgery, but it appears that they won’t need to operate on his face.
The “CRP” level, which measures infection, has gone down even more, which is the lowest he’s had so far.
They’ve lowered the medicine which controls his blood pressure, and even reduced the pressure on the respirator, so that Håkan can breathe more on his own.
Håkan’s condition continues to be serious, but stable, and he is still sedated.
Today his bandages have been changed, and he has also been showered with soap and water for the first time since he came in.
His back seems to be healing well. There is a burn on his neck which will probably need surgery, but it appears that they won’t need to operate on his face.
The “CRP” level, which measures infection, has gone down even more, which is the lowest he’s had so far.
They’ve lowered the medicine which controls his blood pressure, and even reduced the pressure on the respirator, so that Håkan can breathe more on his own.
Thursday 26 March 2009
This is a day I'll never forget!
This is a day I’ll never forget!
Johanna and I drive to Jönköping, where we meet up with Jakob and Rebecca; we continue on to Linköping.
The sun is shining and we try to prepare ourselves for the visit with Håkan.
I haven’t been able to visit Håkan earlier because I’ve had to go to the clinic every day to get my wounds dressed. Energy is coming back more and more now.
Now we come to Håkan’s ward. All three of our children have been there before, and try to prepare their mother.
We meet a nurse and a doctor, who explain as well as they can, but I must confess that I can’t take everything in.
Now it is time; I look first through the window. There lies my beloved husband, on a warm bed, sedated, with a respirator.
We start to talk to him and the response Håkan gives is enormous. He reacts so strongly that I get scared at first, but the nurse sees my insecurity and says, “Continue.” He recognizes our voices, and when I talk about the blog – all the people from different countries who are praying – Håkan’s lip starts to quiver.
I read “Imagine” from yesterday, and Håkan follows – he hears, he understands and can take it in.
I tell him about the money which has come in, that his bills are paid, that we’ll keep his car, that he shouldn’t worry about anything – then he breathes more calmly. “Your spirit is strong. You can handle this. Relax. Give all the energy you have to the healing process. I can manage. Many are helping us. You don’t need to worry yourself.”
When we prayed and read some Bible verses, Håkan was present. His character and his spirit are the same.
50% of the burns are 3rd degree and 20% are 2nd degree, they said today.
Thank you for all prayer, thank you for all help, thank you for all gifts. We meet in prayer for Håkan.
God bless you!
A thankful
Gunilla
Johanna and I drive to Jönköping, where we meet up with Jakob and Rebecca; we continue on to Linköping.
The sun is shining and we try to prepare ourselves for the visit with Håkan.
I haven’t been able to visit Håkan earlier because I’ve had to go to the clinic every day to get my wounds dressed. Energy is coming back more and more now.
Now we come to Håkan’s ward. All three of our children have been there before, and try to prepare their mother.
We meet a nurse and a doctor, who explain as well as they can, but I must confess that I can’t take everything in.
Now it is time; I look first through the window. There lies my beloved husband, on a warm bed, sedated, with a respirator.
We start to talk to him and the response Håkan gives is enormous. He reacts so strongly that I get scared at first, but the nurse sees my insecurity and says, “Continue.” He recognizes our voices, and when I talk about the blog – all the people from different countries who are praying – Håkan’s lip starts to quiver.
I read “Imagine” from yesterday, and Håkan follows – he hears, he understands and can take it in.
I tell him about the money which has come in, that his bills are paid, that we’ll keep his car, that he shouldn’t worry about anything – then he breathes more calmly. “Your spirit is strong. You can handle this. Relax. Give all the energy you have to the healing process. I can manage. Many are helping us. You don’t need to worry yourself.”
When we prayed and read some Bible verses, Håkan was present. His character and his spirit are the same.
50% of the burns are 3rd degree and 20% are 2nd degree, they said today.
Thank you for all prayer, thank you for all help, thank you for all gifts. We meet in prayer for Håkan.
God bless you!
A thankful
Gunilla
Wednesday 25 March 2009
Report from the hospital
Håkan’s condition is still serious, but stable. His wounds were redressed today, so he is sedated again. Some parts of his body are healing well, but others will have to be operated on. The infection is being kept in check and the “CRP” has gone down a little today.
We are so thankful for each day that we get reports which imply small steps forward in the healing process. Håkan has a long way to go, but we pray that the healing will continue and that no infections will set in. /js
We are so thankful for each day that we get reports which imply small steps forward in the healing process. Håkan has a long way to go, but we pray that the healing will continue and that no infections will set in. /js
Big article in today's local newspaper
Today Bohusläningen (the local newspaper in Uddevalla) published the interview they did with Gunilla last week. Pages 1, 4 and 5 are well filled with pictures and information.
To see the pictures (and the Swedish article) click on the link “Bohusläningen 25 March - article and pictures” under “Read more” in the right hand column of this blog. If you click on the picture (in the article) under “Bildextra” and the camera symbol, a new window will open with a larger picture. At the bottom of that window is an arrow after the text “Sida 1 av 6”. Click on the arrow to advance through the pictures.
The blog has now had 17,800 visits from 47 countries. That’s about 1000-1200 visits per day. That means that there are people all over the world praying together with us for Håkan right now.
To see the pictures (and the Swedish article) click on the link “Bohusläningen 25 March - article and pictures” under “Read more” in the right hand column of this blog. If you click on the picture (in the article) under “Bildextra” and the camera symbol, a new window will open with a larger picture. At the bottom of that window is an arrow after the text “Sida 1 av 6”. Click on the arrow to advance through the pictures.
The blog has now had 17,800 visits from 47 countries. That’s about 1000-1200 visits per day. That means that there are people all over the world praying together with us for Håkan right now.
Tuesday 24 March 2009
Imagine...
Imagine...
That Håkan preached on prayer and fasting the Sunday before the fire…now he’s getting it back…through the prayers and fasting that are for him, but which are so much greater, through the unity that comes through prayer. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That we, the Saturday before, sat and talked…and Håkan said, “Imagine if people could understand the meaning of the Body of Christ.”…now Håkan is getting it back…through the many Christians from all over the world who are united together in prayer and are thinking about how Håkan has preached about the Body of Christ. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That all the churches, priests, pastors, leadership and church members, who know what Håkan has prayed for, for many years…now Håkan is getting it back…as we together pray and unite even more in prayer for Håkan and the Body of Christ in Uddevalla. It’s unbelievable, but true. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That Håkan’s vision and prayer have been that there would be prayer in the church, every day…now Håkan is getting it back…through Fristaden being open for prayer every evening for him, and that God would turn everything into something good. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That Håkan and I stood on ”Tureborg’s mountain”, as new Salvation Army Officers in Uddevalla, 1975, and prayed for the city, when we both heard the voice of God, “Are you willing to give your lives for this city?” We cried and gave our lives to the Lord and the city. The faithfulness that Håkan has had…now Håkan and I are getting it back…God, great is your faithfulness! Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That we can be one of God’s children…imagine, to be able to rest in God’s embrace…imagine, to be able to know that He takes care of me…Thank you Jesus!
God bless you all!
Gunilla
That Håkan preached on prayer and fasting the Sunday before the fire…now he’s getting it back…through the prayers and fasting that are for him, but which are so much greater, through the unity that comes through prayer. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That we, the Saturday before, sat and talked…and Håkan said, “Imagine if people could understand the meaning of the Body of Christ.”…now Håkan is getting it back…through the many Christians from all over the world who are united together in prayer and are thinking about how Håkan has preached about the Body of Christ. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That all the churches, priests, pastors, leadership and church members, who know what Håkan has prayed for, for many years…now Håkan is getting it back…as we together pray and unite even more in prayer for Håkan and the Body of Christ in Uddevalla. It’s unbelievable, but true. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That Håkan’s vision and prayer have been that there would be prayer in the church, every day…now Håkan is getting it back…through Fristaden being open for prayer every evening for him, and that God would turn everything into something good. Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That Håkan and I stood on ”Tureborg’s mountain”, as new Salvation Army Officers in Uddevalla, 1975, and prayed for the city, when we both heard the voice of God, “Are you willing to give your lives for this city?” We cried and gave our lives to the Lord and the city. The faithfulness that Håkan has had…now Håkan and I are getting it back…God, great is your faithfulness! Thank you Jesus!
Imagine...
That we can be one of God’s children…imagine, to be able to rest in God’s embrace…imagine, to be able to know that He takes care of me…Thank you Jesus!
God bless you all!
Gunilla
Sunday 22 March 2009
40 days of fasting
Now we are 60 people who are praying and fasting, from all of Uddevalla’s churches and from other parts of Scandinavia – wonderful!
- Pray for Håkan’s complete healing and thank God that He is so mightily present with Håkan.
- Pray for Gunilla and the family’s emotional healing.
- Pray for everything practical that needs to be done.
- Pray and thank God for the unity in Uddevalla.
Don’t hesitate to let us know if God gives you something you believe should be shared.
- Pray for Håkan’s complete healing and thank God that He is so mightily present with Håkan.
- Pray for Gunilla and the family’s emotional healing.
- Pray for everything practical that needs to be done.
- Pray and thank God for the unity in Uddevalla.
Don’t hesitate to let us know if God gives you something you believe should be shared.
What thankfulness
What rejoicing there was…
Today, in church, when Janne told about Håkan answering “yes” when they asked if they should put on a CD for him to listen to at the hospital.
What joy it was…
When Jakob said that he was moving home to help us now. If you know of a job in our area, let us know.
What a presence of God there was...
This weekend, on Friday evening with the youth and on Saturday during “In God’s presence”. Thank you, Jesus!!
What relaxation it was…
Tonight when Josefine and Mikaela cut and streaked Bella’s, Amelie’s and my hair.
What a find it was...
Today when Jakob and I were in our house and I found a broach that my grandfather gave my grandmother as an engagement present, at the end of the 1800’s…he who seeks, finds…
What an exciting week it will be…
When others will furnish our new home, so that we can move in. We can’t, of course, take anything from our house. Everything that is left is at the cleaning company until our house is renovated, which will take 8-12 months. Thank you Johanna Blessed for all your work!
What thankfulness we feel…
To all who are standing with us in prayer and for every step of improvement; we can only thank God together. ”You surround us on all sides, and you hold us in your hand…”
God bless you!
Gunilla
Today, in church, when Janne told about Håkan answering “yes” when they asked if they should put on a CD for him to listen to at the hospital.
What joy it was…
When Jakob said that he was moving home to help us now. If you know of a job in our area, let us know.
What a presence of God there was...
This weekend, on Friday evening with the youth and on Saturday during “In God’s presence”. Thank you, Jesus!!
What relaxation it was…
Tonight when Josefine and Mikaela cut and streaked Bella’s, Amelie’s and my hair.
What a find it was...
Today when Jakob and I were in our house and I found a broach that my grandfather gave my grandmother as an engagement present, at the end of the 1800’s…he who seeks, finds…
What an exciting week it will be…
When others will furnish our new home, so that we can move in. We can’t, of course, take anything from our house. Everything that is left is at the cleaning company until our house is renovated, which will take 8-12 months. Thank you Johanna Blessed for all your work!
What thankfulness we feel…
To all who are standing with us in prayer and for every step of improvement; we can only thank God together. ”You surround us on all sides, and you hold us in your hand…”
God bless you!
Gunilla
Saturday 21 March 2009
Nineteenth day
Report from the hospital
Last night was calm. Håkan’s condition is stable. Håkan opens his eyes sometimes and he responds when spoken to.
- We thank God that Håkan’s condition is stable, and for all of the positive signs that point in the right direction.
- We pray for continued healing and that the process of waking Håkan up will go well.
The past 24 hours we in Fristaden have had a day in God’s presence. The youth started last evening and after lunch the adults gathered as well – a day in prayer and worship. God is doing so much in our lives and we are changing our priorities.
Read also the entry on the call to prayer and fasting from the Prayer Network in Uddevalla. Do you want to join us? / js
Last night was calm. Håkan’s condition is stable. Håkan opens his eyes sometimes and he responds when spoken to.
- We thank God that Håkan’s condition is stable, and for all of the positive signs that point in the right direction.
- We pray for continued healing and that the process of waking Håkan up will go well.
The past 24 hours we in Fristaden have had a day in God’s presence. The youth started last evening and after lunch the adults gathered as well – a day in prayer and worship. God is doing so much in our lives and we are changing our priorities.
Read also the entry on the call to prayer and fasting from the Prayer Network in Uddevalla. Do you want to join us? / js
Exhortation to participate in prayer and fasting
I believe that most of you who are reading this understand what prayer and fasting are, so I won’t dwell on that. I don’t believe that everything which has happened to Håkan and his family is an isolated event, and I don’t believe it only concerns their family. It is something bigger that affects Uddevalla, above all, but it can reach even further than that. I also believe that it demands prayer and fasting for a breakthrough.
So, I want to exhort you to stand with us in an act of prayer and fasting for Håkan’s healing, but also for the breakthrough which I believe God desires to happen in Uddevalla. The water/juice fast will continue every Monday from midnight to midnight until Håkan is out of danger. We’ll start with four weeks, beginning the 23rd of March. Pray and believe God for a complete healing of Håkan’s skin, for a complete healing of the family physically and emotionally, and for a changed city, a vision which Håkan has also borne for a long time.
The goal is that there would be at least 40 days of fasting every week; in other words, 40 people participating is the goal. Even if you can’t be with us from the start, your participation is still important. If you fast, please send an email to Fristaden (jang@fristaden.nu) – if you want to remain anonymous – or via the blog. Priests, pastors, and elders from Uddevalla’s churches are participating, which I believe is very important and an enormous joy.
Peter Ljunggren (Uddevalla)
So, I want to exhort you to stand with us in an act of prayer and fasting for Håkan’s healing, but also for the breakthrough which I believe God desires to happen in Uddevalla. The water/juice fast will continue every Monday from midnight to midnight until Håkan is out of danger. We’ll start with four weeks, beginning the 23rd of March. Pray and believe God for a complete healing of Håkan’s skin, for a complete healing of the family physically and emotionally, and for a changed city, a vision which Håkan has also borne for a long time.
The goal is that there would be at least 40 days of fasting every week; in other words, 40 people participating is the goal. Even if you can’t be with us from the start, your participation is still important. If you fast, please send an email to Fristaden (jang@fristaden.nu) – if you want to remain anonymous – or via the blog. Priests, pastors, and elders from Uddevalla’s churches are participating, which I believe is very important and an enormous joy.
Peter Ljunggren (Uddevalla)
Day after day He bears us
One day is added to another, and they become weeks, which are added to more weeks…it gives strength to Håkan’s body.
Today Håkan’s sister and her husband and son went to Linköping to visit Håkan. The swelling in his face has gone down more these last days.
I have, of course, visited the clinic every day, and on Tuesday I have a follow-up visit at the hospital, to meet the doctor and physical therapist. After that, I’m hoping I can travel up to Håkan, now that they are slowly trying to wake him up.
We still live at the hotel, but have received the key to the new apartment. The news is that the insurance company agreed to rent an extra little lair in the same house, so we’ll all have room…we have, of course, four teenagers who need a place to live.
Today when I showed Jakob the apartment, which is very nice, it hurt to see that only “Gunilla Gniste” was written on the door. At the same time, I have to accept that it will take a loooong time before Håkan can come home again.
Still, every day is filled with THANKSGIVING…that we are alive…that Håkan is alive…that no one was left in the house… That is so great, so we thank God for it many times a day.
Lord…great is your faithfulness…great is your faithfulness…
Thank you also all of you dear friends who have sent greetings…it means so much to us. Thank you also for all the flowers and gifts that have come…
We’ll meet each other in prayer for Håkan!
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
Today Håkan’s sister and her husband and son went to Linköping to visit Håkan. The swelling in his face has gone down more these last days.
I have, of course, visited the clinic every day, and on Tuesday I have a follow-up visit at the hospital, to meet the doctor and physical therapist. After that, I’m hoping I can travel up to Håkan, now that they are slowly trying to wake him up.
We still live at the hotel, but have received the key to the new apartment. The news is that the insurance company agreed to rent an extra little lair in the same house, so we’ll all have room…we have, of course, four teenagers who need a place to live.
Today when I showed Jakob the apartment, which is very nice, it hurt to see that only “Gunilla Gniste” was written on the door. At the same time, I have to accept that it will take a loooong time before Håkan can come home again.
Still, every day is filled with THANKSGIVING…that we are alive…that Håkan is alive…that no one was left in the house… That is so great, so we thank God for it many times a day.
Lord…great is your faithfulness…great is your faithfulness…
Thank you also all of you dear friends who have sent greetings…it means so much to us. Thank you also for all the flowers and gifts that have come…
We’ll meet each other in prayer for Håkan!
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
Friday 20 March 2009
It is remarkable!
My husband, Håkan, is very good at writing. I’ve encouraged him to start a blog, through Fristaden’s website, to encourage others. Now he’s lying there in the hospital and the blog is up and running, so when Håkan gets better, he can just continue to write on the blog…remarkable!!
From 37 countries, around 12,000 have visited the blog, of those about 3,500 for the first time…remarkable!!
Think about the day when he can read what all of you have written…it’s just lying there waiting…remarkable!!
My upper arms have healed so well, so they don’t need to be redressed anymore – new red skin, you can say. Now it’s just four fingers and the right lower arm left…remarkable!!
Answer to pray, you can say…
Today ”Bohusläningen” (local newspaper) has been here to do an interview. We went to our house also, and took some pictures, so an article will be coming soon.
This weekend we have “In God’s presence” at Fristaden. It will be nice to just be there…
We meet in prayer…all over the world, for Håkan…remarkable!!
THANK YOU!!
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
From 37 countries, around 12,000 have visited the blog, of those about 3,500 for the first time…remarkable!!
Think about the day when he can read what all of you have written…it’s just lying there waiting…remarkable!!
My upper arms have healed so well, so they don’t need to be redressed anymore – new red skin, you can say. Now it’s just four fingers and the right lower arm left…remarkable!!
Answer to pray, you can say…
Today ”Bohusläningen” (local newspaper) has been here to do an interview. We went to our house also, and took some pictures, so an article will be coming soon.
This weekend we have “In God’s presence” at Fristaden. It will be nice to just be there…
We meet in prayer…all over the world, for Håkan…remarkable!!
THANK YOU!!
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
Thursday 19 March 2009
The seventeenth day
Report from the hospital:
Håkan’s condition is still serious, but stable.
They are working to raise his blood pressure.
He is more awake now, and one of the nurses says that he has had eye contact with Håkan.
Job 19:26-27 ”And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” /js
Håkan’s condition is still serious, but stable.
They are working to raise his blood pressure.
He is more awake now, and one of the nurses says that he has had eye contact with Håkan.
Job 19:26-27 ”And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” /js
Every day - a gift!
"Every day is a special gift, a gleaming possibility…”
Sonja Blomberg quoted this old song on a spiritual day at the Salvation Army’s Officers’ School, in the beginning of the 70’s, when her husband, Gösta Blomberg, had come back after a long period of illness. Now, 35 years later, I understand…
The gift of taking one day at a time, and of being thankful for every small step forward, makes it possible for us to be filled with joy and thanksgiving in preparation for the next report on Håkan’s healing…
Thank you, all you faithful friends, who are standing with us in prayer…
Thank you, for all caring and love…
Thank you, for all the comments on the blog, which I read over and over…
Thank you, for all the hugs…in church, in town…it warms my heart…
Thank you, for all of the gifts…I don’t know how I can thank you enough…THANK YOU…
Thank you, for all the Bible verses…they comfort us…
Thank you, for all who come to the prayer meetings, day after dag…
Thank you, for everything for our new apartment…such love we feel…
Thank you, all of you old friends who have contacted us…
It’s like the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, together with the present 2000’s, form a complete picture and unity in intercession for Håkan and our whole large family…Thank you…
It was so good to meet all the priests and pastors today. You radiate so much love and security…thank you for all your prayers and that you want to go into a period of fasting for the whole situation…Thank you… I am so happy for the unity that exists in Uddevalla.
God bless you!!
Hugs
Gunilla
Sonja Blomberg quoted this old song on a spiritual day at the Salvation Army’s Officers’ School, in the beginning of the 70’s, when her husband, Gösta Blomberg, had come back after a long period of illness. Now, 35 years later, I understand…
The gift of taking one day at a time, and of being thankful for every small step forward, makes it possible for us to be filled with joy and thanksgiving in preparation for the next report on Håkan’s healing…
Thank you, all you faithful friends, who are standing with us in prayer…
Thank you, for all caring and love…
Thank you, for all the comments on the blog, which I read over and over…
Thank you, for all the hugs…in church, in town…it warms my heart…
Thank you, for all of the gifts…I don’t know how I can thank you enough…THANK YOU…
Thank you, for all the Bible verses…they comfort us…
Thank you, for all who come to the prayer meetings, day after dag…
Thank you, for everything for our new apartment…such love we feel…
Thank you, all of you old friends who have contacted us…
It’s like the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, together with the present 2000’s, form a complete picture and unity in intercession for Håkan and our whole large family…Thank you…
It was so good to meet all the priests and pastors today. You radiate so much love and security…thank you for all your prayers and that you want to go into a period of fasting for the whole situation…Thank you… I am so happy for the unity that exists in Uddevalla.
God bless you!!
Hugs
Gunilla
Wednesday 18 March 2009
Newly operated
Håkan is newly operated. They’ve operated on the left side of his torso and redressed his bandages. The infection he has is nothing more than what is normal for this type of healing, and the CRP level has gone down some more.
They no longer give Håkan any sedatives, but he was given anesthesia for the operation. They want him to wake up so they can have contact with him. The night nurse said that he’d had contact with Håkan. He wants to breathe on his own and gets out of time with the respirator. Given a few verbal instructions, Håkan has then changed the timing of his breathing.
There are several good signs:
-the blood levels have changed for the better
-the skin is continuing to heal
-no complications
-Håkan is trying to breathe on his own.
Thank God for the good reports and for the fantastic staff who work with Håkan.
”Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks…” 1 Thess. 5:16-18 /js
They no longer give Håkan any sedatives, but he was given anesthesia for the operation. They want him to wake up so they can have contact with him. The night nurse said that he’d had contact with Håkan. He wants to breathe on his own and gets out of time with the respirator. Given a few verbal instructions, Håkan has then changed the timing of his breathing.
There are several good signs:
-the blood levels have changed for the better
-the skin is continuing to heal
-no complications
-Håkan is trying to breathe on his own.
Thank God for the good reports and for the fantastic staff who work with Håkan.
”Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks…” 1 Thess. 5:16-18 /js
Tuesday 17 March 2009
Next phase in the healing
Report from the hospital
Håkan’s condition is still serious, but stable.
Today the dressings on Håkan’s legs have been changed, and the legs are healing well.
His body is going into the next phase. Håkan has a little fever and chills, and they have found some bacteria in his blood. At this point, that is considered normal.
They will turn off the sedatives today so they can get contact with Håkan, to see if everything is working.
He’ll be put to sleep again tomorrow for a new operation.
Janne Sääf
Håkan’s condition is still serious, but stable.
Today the dressings on Håkan’s legs have been changed, and the legs are healing well.
His body is going into the next phase. Håkan has a little fever and chills, and they have found some bacteria in his blood. At this point, that is considered normal.
They will turn off the sedatives today so they can get contact with Håkan, to see if everything is working.
He’ll be put to sleep again tomorrow for a new operation.
Janne Sääf
Not a usual Monday!
What a day!!
The nurse said, “Such ’healing-flesh’ you have, Gunilla.”
I thought, ”My wounds will be quickly healed…”
Per-Göran (Håkan’s brother) called and said, ”Such an improvement with Håkan.”
Thank you, God, that you’re healing Håkan’s wounds quickly…
Johanna and Arne rang. They are in the new apartment.
Such a nice, clean apartment we are getting…
Thanks to all who are helping us with the new home…
Lotta, Arne and I were in our burnt house for 3 hours, to search for passports, rings, pictures…for tomorrow the dumpster comes, and everything will be thrown out – about 1500 books (We’ve tried to save some Bibles.), all the clothes and furniture on the 2nd floor and in the attic… What a painful experience…it hurts inside of me to know that everything will be gone when Håkan comes home…but…
Such gratitude. All our photo albums were in the middle of the hall on the 2nd floor, where the fire was the worst, but today I’ve taken out every picture from our childhood up to 1995. In our bedroom, way in by the chimney, stood a toy box, full of pictures from 1995 until now, which I had sorted to put in albums for all out children. We only had to throw away 20 photos. Thank you, Lord, for your love toward us…
What mail. In the mailbox today lay a book, “Spiritual Roots” by Ulf Ekman, which Håkan had ordered… Now we own five books…
Thanks for all love toward us, and for beloved friends from all over the world… Thank you that you are continuing to pray for Håkan and us.
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
The nurse said, “Such ’healing-flesh’ you have, Gunilla.”
I thought, ”My wounds will be quickly healed…”
Per-Göran (Håkan’s brother) called and said, ”Such an improvement with Håkan.”
Thank you, God, that you’re healing Håkan’s wounds quickly…
Johanna and Arne rang. They are in the new apartment.
Such a nice, clean apartment we are getting…
Thanks to all who are helping us with the new home…
Lotta, Arne and I were in our burnt house for 3 hours, to search for passports, rings, pictures…for tomorrow the dumpster comes, and everything will be thrown out – about 1500 books (We’ve tried to save some Bibles.), all the clothes and furniture on the 2nd floor and in the attic… What a painful experience…it hurts inside of me to know that everything will be gone when Håkan comes home…but…
Such gratitude. All our photo albums were in the middle of the hall on the 2nd floor, where the fire was the worst, but today I’ve taken out every picture from our childhood up to 1995. In our bedroom, way in by the chimney, stood a toy box, full of pictures from 1995 until now, which I had sorted to put in albums for all out children. We only had to throw away 20 photos. Thank you, Lord, for your love toward us…
What mail. In the mailbox today lay a book, “Spiritual Roots” by Ulf Ekman, which Håkan had ordered… Now we own five books…
Thanks for all love toward us, and for beloved friends from all over the world… Thank you that you are continuing to pray for Håkan and us.
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
Monday 16 March 2009
A fantastic prayer chain
Report from the hospital
Last night was a calm one. They are lowering the sedatives and getting closer to the stage where Håkan is awake. Håkan reacts to voices. The reason they can already start to wake him up is that it looks like certain parts of the burn injuries aren’t as deep as they first believed!! The healing is positive and new skin has begun to grow. Håkan should have been operated on today, but they’ve moved it forward to Wednesday.
We continue to pray for healing and that no complications arise.
Yesterday morning (Sun.), Gunilla visited an overfilled Fristaden. She shared a little about the situation and she was received with a standing ovation. There were both joy and tears. Buck Hudson, who preached, encouraged the church from Thessalonians.
We continue to pray for Gunilla and the kids - healing for the body and soul.
We have prayer every day at 6 pm at Fristaden.
A fantastic prayer chain
It is fantastic that so many have been able to gather around Håkan and the Gniste family in prayer. We are of course seeing fantastic answers to prayer already. We’ve now had 8,000 visits to the blog, from 2,847 people. We know that prayer is going on 24-7, because people are praying all over the world.
Please write a comment when you are in and read the blog. It is an encouragement for the family today, and for Håkan when he can read it later.
Janne Sääf
Last night was a calm one. They are lowering the sedatives and getting closer to the stage where Håkan is awake. Håkan reacts to voices. The reason they can already start to wake him up is that it looks like certain parts of the burn injuries aren’t as deep as they first believed!! The healing is positive and new skin has begun to grow. Håkan should have been operated on today, but they’ve moved it forward to Wednesday.
We continue to pray for healing and that no complications arise.
Yesterday morning (Sun.), Gunilla visited an overfilled Fristaden. She shared a little about the situation and she was received with a standing ovation. There were both joy and tears. Buck Hudson, who preached, encouraged the church from Thessalonians.
We continue to pray for Gunilla and the kids - healing for the body and soul.
We have prayer every day at 6 pm at Fristaden.
A fantastic prayer chain
It is fantastic that so many have been able to gather around Håkan and the Gniste family in prayer. We are of course seeing fantastic answers to prayer already. We’ve now had 8,000 visits to the blog, from 2,847 people. We know that prayer is going on 24-7, because people are praying all over the world.
Please write a comment when you are in and read the blog. It is an encouragement for the family today, and for Håkan when he can read it later.
Janne Sääf
Saturday 14 March 2009
Positive signs
This morning the hospital informed us that they are reducing the medicine that raises Håkan’s blood pressure. That means that his condition has stabilized somewhat. Off and on he has even been a little closer to being awake.
- Pray that Håkan’s condition stabilizes even more. The goal, of course, is that his body will function on its own power.
- Pray that no complications arise.
- Pray for the upcoming operations, among others, on the face.
- Pray that Håkan’s condition stabilizes even more. The goal, of course, is that his body will function on its own power.
- Pray that no complications arise.
- Pray for the upcoming operations, among others, on the face.
Gunilla at the hotel
Hi!!!
What a feeling to be “home” again, to be together with the kids. They are taking such good care of us at the hotel. We’ve got the suite, so we have a living room together; you understand that we have a lot to work through together.
Please pray for emotional healing for us, all the kids, grandchildren and all the foster kids who have lived with us for many years. Pray extra for the 5 teenagers who were in the fire.
Our kids have recorded a CD which is playing in Håkan’s hospital room, and tomorrow some of our kids will travel up to Linköping with Håkan’s sister. I have to wait until my wounds have healed.
I’ve been to the hospital and been “wrapped” and re-bandaged. Today the nurse was one of our church members – nice. I’ll go there every day. It’s good to see how nicely the wounds are healing day by day. Our “…wounds will be quickly healed…” (Is. 58:8)
Once again, THANK YOU, THANK YOU AND AGAIN, THANK YOU…
I have never in my life experienced so much love and caring from so many people at the same time. LOVE SQUARED. Thanks for all gifts…
The first night, I lay and thought, ”What can I sell?” Then I realized we didn’t have so much left…yes, the car…I can’t just sell Håkan’s car… Thank God, we still have it. We’ll just store it.
Now we’re starting from scratch. I own 2 pair of sweatpants, 1 pair of shoes, 2 sweaters, some t-shirts – all are gifts…from you. Thank you.
In the middle of all this, our foster son turned 19 today, so we celebrated his birthday. It has never been so easy to buy presents for someone, because he needs everything! Tomorrow Fristaden is arranging a little party for Daniel…what love, to our whole family.
Today Håkan’s brother and his wife been here, and we ate together at Johanna and Daniel’s – food which one of you has made…Thanks.
My sister Anneli and her family came today. We were in the house and we went through the whole series of events together and cried together… We rejoiced once again over the fact that everyone had got out of the house. We finished with dinner at my brother Dan and his wife’s house.
The whole second floor and the attic are completely burned, but the insurance company will rebuild it, while the first floor and the cellar need to be cleaned from all the soot.
Love you!!
God bless you!!
Gunilla
What a feeling to be “home” again, to be together with the kids. They are taking such good care of us at the hotel. We’ve got the suite, so we have a living room together; you understand that we have a lot to work through together.
Please pray for emotional healing for us, all the kids, grandchildren and all the foster kids who have lived with us for many years. Pray extra for the 5 teenagers who were in the fire.
Our kids have recorded a CD which is playing in Håkan’s hospital room, and tomorrow some of our kids will travel up to Linköping with Håkan’s sister. I have to wait until my wounds have healed.
I’ve been to the hospital and been “wrapped” and re-bandaged. Today the nurse was one of our church members – nice. I’ll go there every day. It’s good to see how nicely the wounds are healing day by day. Our “…wounds will be quickly healed…” (Is. 58:8)
Once again, THANK YOU, THANK YOU AND AGAIN, THANK YOU…
I have never in my life experienced so much love and caring from so many people at the same time. LOVE SQUARED. Thanks for all gifts…
The first night, I lay and thought, ”What can I sell?” Then I realized we didn’t have so much left…yes, the car…I can’t just sell Håkan’s car… Thank God, we still have it. We’ll just store it.
Now we’re starting from scratch. I own 2 pair of sweatpants, 1 pair of shoes, 2 sweaters, some t-shirts – all are gifts…from you. Thank you.
In the middle of all this, our foster son turned 19 today, so we celebrated his birthday. It has never been so easy to buy presents for someone, because he needs everything! Tomorrow Fristaden is arranging a little party for Daniel…what love, to our whole family.
Today Håkan’s brother and his wife been here, and we ate together at Johanna and Daniel’s – food which one of you has made…Thanks.
My sister Anneli and her family came today. We were in the house and we went through the whole series of events together and cried together… We rejoiced once again over the fact that everyone had got out of the house. We finished with dinner at my brother Dan and his wife’s house.
The whole second floor and the attic are completely burned, but the insurance company will rebuild it, while the first floor and the cellar need to be cleaned from all the soot.
Love you!!
God bless you!!
Gunilla
Friday 13 March 2009
Friday's report
The morning report from the hospital:
They have changed the bandages on Håkan’s leg and torso today. It looks good. They can see that his legs are beginning to heal, which is good because then they can take skin and use it to cultivate and transplant.
The crp-level (indicates infection or inflammation in the body) went up slightly yesterday, but went down again today.
Gunilla is out of the hospital and she and the kids are living in a hotel until they can move into the new apartment.
They have changed the bandages on Håkan’s leg and torso today. It looks good. They can see that his legs are beginning to heal, which is good because then they can take skin and use it to cultivate and transplant.
The crp-level (indicates infection or inflammation in the body) went up slightly yesterday, but went down again today.
Gunilla is out of the hospital and she and the kids are living in a hotel until they can move into the new apartment.
Wednesday 11 March 2009
Håkan's first visit
Håkan is still sedated och breathing on a respirator. He will most likely be sedated for a long time, because of the operations and to relieve the pain. The burns, both 2nd and 3rd degree, cover 70-80% of his body. All his organs are okay, but shock and inflammation are affecting the whole body.
Today some of the family was allowed to visit Håkan: the oldest children and his brother and sister, together with Pastor Janne Sääf and Dave Richards. They sang and prayed for him.
The doctor, nurse and social worker were very capable and accommodating. He is in the hands of the absolute best staff in the country. Thank God for the fine and gifted staff.
- The doctor said that he didn’t believe they could save Håkan when he came in, but he was pleasantly surprised how well the first week has gone.
- They believe the eyes are undamaged.
- His beard is growing, which is good because the hair follicles produce new skin.
- There are areas with undamaged skin which can be used for cultivation and transplantation.
This week there won’t be any operations so that Håkan’s body can rest.
- Pray that the swelling goes down.
- Pray that no shock or inflammation come back.
- Pray that the "crp" level continues to go down.
- Pray that the lungs continue to be healthy.
- Pray for the cultivation of skin from Håkan which will be used for transplanting.
The visitors left a CD-player with music the kids had recorded, along with a CD with Bible verses on it, which the staff will play for him.
AT THIS POINT, ONLY THE FAMILY HAS PERMISSION TO VISIT HÅKAN.
Let us gather together in prayer around Håkan and the family!
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall rest under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Jehovah, my refuge and my fortress; my God; in Him I will trust. Ps 91:1-2
Today some of the family was allowed to visit Håkan: the oldest children and his brother and sister, together with Pastor Janne Sääf and Dave Richards. They sang and prayed for him.
The doctor, nurse and social worker were very capable and accommodating. He is in the hands of the absolute best staff in the country. Thank God for the fine and gifted staff.
- The doctor said that he didn’t believe they could save Håkan when he came in, but he was pleasantly surprised how well the first week has gone.
- They believe the eyes are undamaged.
- His beard is growing, which is good because the hair follicles produce new skin.
- There are areas with undamaged skin which can be used for cultivation and transplantation.
This week there won’t be any operations so that Håkan’s body can rest.
- Pray that the swelling goes down.
- Pray that no shock or inflammation come back.
- Pray that the "crp" level continues to go down.
- Pray that the lungs continue to be healthy.
- Pray for the cultivation of skin from Håkan which will be used for transplanting.
The visitors left a CD-player with music the kids had recorded, along with a CD with Bible verses on it, which the staff will play for him.
AT THIS POINT, ONLY THE FAMILY HAS PERMISSION TO VISIT HÅKAN.
Let us gather together in prayer around Håkan and the family!
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall rest under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Jehovah, my refuge and my fortress; my God; in Him I will trust. Ps 91:1-2
Gunilla's second letter
(See 7 March for first letter!)
Thank you, thank you and again, thank you!!
for prayer...
for all love...
for all consideration...
for all cards...
for all flowers...
for all food for the kids...
for all the beautiful words...
for gifts...
for help for a new home...
for all children’s drawings...
I’m sitting here at the hospital and the tears are just running; we are so borne by all the prayers and love.
Today the fever has gone down and my face is almost normal again. I’ve got new, red skin on my hand and arm… I feel that I’m alive, and in this case, that’s a nice feeling.
I have played the guitar today and it worked. The thumb on the right hand is okay, so you understand that I cried, sang and played, in joy and thanksgiving.
We get to live in a hotel until we can move into the apartment.
Today a man from the insurance company has been in the house. The cellar and the first floor need to be cleaned – they start tomorrow. Some things can be saved. The second floor and the attic are completely gutted, so they’ll work on them later.
Please…continue to pray for Håkan!!!
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
Thank you, thank you and again, thank you!!
for prayer...
for all love...
for all consideration...
for all cards...
for all flowers...
for all food for the kids...
for all the beautiful words...
for gifts...
for help for a new home...
for all children’s drawings...
I’m sitting here at the hospital and the tears are just running; we are so borne by all the prayers and love.
Today the fever has gone down and my face is almost normal again. I’ve got new, red skin on my hand and arm… I feel that I’m alive, and in this case, that’s a nice feeling.
I have played the guitar today and it worked. The thumb on the right hand is okay, so you understand that I cried, sang and played, in joy and thanksgiving.
We get to live in a hotel until we can move into the apartment.
Today a man from the insurance company has been in the house. The cellar and the first floor need to be cleaned – they start tomorrow. Some things can be saved. The second floor and the attic are completely gutted, so they’ll work on them later.
Please…continue to pray for Håkan!!!
God bless you all!!
Gunilla
Tuesday 10 March 2009
Now it’s gone a week
We are so thankful for all support, prayers and help. They are a big comfort for the church. Håkan’s condition is still stable; they’ll operate again today.
- Pray that Håkan’s skin heals and that new skin will be formed. Pray that no complications arise.
Yesterday we prayed from Psalm 139, and that God
– who formed Håkan in his mother’s womb
– would create anew that which he needs now.
We continue to pray at Fristaden every evening at 6 pm (tomorrow, Wednesday, with communion).
- Pray that Håkan’s skin heals and that new skin will be formed. Pray that no complications arise.
Yesterday we prayed from Psalm 139, and that God
– who formed Håkan in his mother’s womb
– would create anew that which he needs now.
We continue to pray at Fristaden every evening at 6 pm (tomorrow, Wednesday, with communion).
Monday 9 March 2009
A positive report
The night has been stable. They have taken skin (the nurse called it ”corpse skin”) and laid it on places where it was needed, but they also found places which weren’t injured.
Everything seems to be intact on the face, but no one knows how it will look, because Håkan is so swollen.
Håkan’s condition is still critical, but stable. There won’t be any operation today, but they will change all the dressings.
(Comment: “corpse skin” is a synthetic material which is put on so that the body’s own skin can grow underneath. It is later rejected by the body.)
Everything seems to be intact on the face, but no one knows how it will look, because Håkan is so swollen.
Håkan’s condition is still critical, but stable. There won’t be any operation today, but they will change all the dressings.
(Comment: “corpse skin” is a synthetic material which is put on so that the body’s own skin can grow underneath. It is later rejected by the body.)
Sunday 8 March 2009
We continue to pray for the Gnistes
Today, many have prayed for the Gniste family in church services around the world.
Håkan’s condition is unchanged. We are thankful that these first few days are over and that his condition is still stable. Today is another day of rest and no operation will be done.
Gunilla is still in the hospital and will probably come home this week.
In Fristaden (The City of Refuge Church) we will continue to pray together every evening at 6 pm.
We believe that the Gniste family, and especially Håkan, are borne by our prayers. Continue to pray! Thank you to all who pray and who help in practical ways.
Håkan’s condition is unchanged. We are thankful that these first few days are over and that his condition is still stable. Today is another day of rest and no operation will be done.
Gunilla is still in the hospital and will probably come home this week.
In Fristaden (The City of Refuge Church) we will continue to pray together every evening at 6 pm.
We believe that the Gniste family, and especially Håkan, are borne by our prayers. Continue to pray! Thank you to all who pray and who help in practical ways.
Saturday 7 March 2009
Day of rest
Håkan’s condition is still stable. Today is a day of rest and there won’t be any operation.
All blood counts are good. The blood pressure has sunk, but they are trying to compensate.
We continue to pray that no complications arise.
All blood counts are good. The blood pressure has sunk, but they are trying to compensate.
We continue to pray that no complications arise.
Greetings from Gunilla Gniste
Thanks friends for all support and prayer…
I’m sitting in the hospital, with my laptop in bed, and I’m so touched by all the love that is streaming in toward us.
All of our children have been home, at different times, and supported me and each other. Today Håkan’s brother, sister and her husband were here for a visit.
The swelling has gone down in my face today and I see new skin, with rosy cheeks, in the mirror. My right arm and fingers are burned, but I am sooo happy that I could help Håkan get out of the house.
Thank you for all love and prayer…please, continue to pray.
God bless you!!
Gunilla Gniste
GOD’S LOVE IS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES,
HIS GRACE IS UNENDING
NO MAN HAS INVESTIGATED HIS POWER YET,
BECAUSE OF HIS MIGHTY, ETERNAL RICHES,
HE GIVES AND GIVES, AND GIVES AGAIN...
I’m sitting in the hospital, with my laptop in bed, and I’m so touched by all the love that is streaming in toward us.
All of our children have been home, at different times, and supported me and each other. Today Håkan’s brother, sister and her husband were here for a visit.
The swelling has gone down in my face today and I see new skin, with rosy cheeks, in the mirror. My right arm and fingers are burned, but I am sooo happy that I could help Håkan get out of the house.
Thank you for all love and prayer…please, continue to pray.
God bless you!!
Gunilla Gniste
GOD’S LOVE IS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES,
HIS GRACE IS UNENDING
NO MAN HAS INVESTIGATED HIS POWER YET,
BECAUSE OF HIS MIGHTY, ETERNAL RICHES,
HE GIVES AND GIVES, AND GIVES AGAIN...
Friday 6 March 2009
Håkan’s condition continues to be stable
Håkan was operated on again today and his condition is unchanged.
Gunilla is still in the hospital and will come home after the weekend.
- Pray for the operations and that no complications arise.
- Pray for Håkan and Gunilla’s family and foster children.
- Pray for Håkan’s siblings and their families: the Gniste family in Varberg and the Frisk family in Husqvarna.
In Acts 14 we read how Paul was stoned and they thought he was dead, but when the disciples gathered around him he raised himself up and went into the city. (Acts 14:20)
We continue to ”gather” around Håkan, Gunilla and the kids, and we want to see how God raises them up.
Pastor Janne Sääf
Gunilla is still in the hospital and will come home after the weekend.
- Pray for the operations and that no complications arise.
- Pray for Håkan and Gunilla’s family and foster children.
- Pray for Håkan’s siblings and their families: the Gniste family in Varberg and the Frisk family in Husqvarna.
In Acts 14 we read how Paul was stoned and they thought he was dead, but when the disciples gathered around him he raised himself up and went into the city. (Acts 14:20)
We continue to ”gather” around Håkan, Gunilla and the kids, and we want to see how God raises them up.
Pastor Janne Sääf
Thursday 5 March 2009
The family has received an apartment
Håkan was operated on again today and they will continue to operate every day to hinder infection. His condition is still serious, but stable. He is still sedated and will continue to be for a time.It is not possible to visit Håkan because of the risk of infection. His treatment demands a lot of personnel, so we ask everyone to refrain from calling the hospital or visiting the hospital so that we don’t disturb the personnel.
Good news is that the family has received an apartment in central Uddevalla for the time that the house is being renovated. The apartment is big enough to house the family and foster kids.One need is furniture for the apartment – clean, nice furniture.
We continue to pray for Håkan. Pray that there won’t be any complications.
Good news is that the family has received an apartment in central Uddevalla for the time that the house is being renovated. The apartment is big enough to house the family and foster kids.One need is furniture for the apartment – clean, nice furniture.
We continue to pray for Håkan. Pray that there won’t be any complications.
Serious but stable
The situation for Håkan is serious, but stable. His face has come through better than they thought at first. Håkan is sedated in Linköping. He is being operated on every day.
Pray for:
-The operations and that there won’t be any infections or other complications.
-Emotional healing for those who experienced the fire.
-All of the practical work which is beginning: living arrangements, insurance, etc.
Thanks again for your support!
Pray for:
-The operations and that there won’t be any infections or other complications.
-Emotional healing for those who experienced the fire.
-All of the practical work which is beginning: living arrangements, insurance, etc.
Thanks again for your support!
Tuesday 3 March 2009
We’re praying for the Gniste family
A fire broke out in the Gniste home at 4am this morning. (It was not arson.) Gunilla and the kids got out but Håkan had to fight through flames and was badly burned. It seemed as he was getting dressed that his clothes caught fire. Gunilla went back in and found him as he could not see; in the process of leading him out her arms have suffered burns.
Håkan has lost his hair and has burns on 80% of his body. His face was initially thought to be badly burned but Janne says it is not as bad as they first thought, Praise God! At the moment he is in a sedated medicated coma but, though severely burned, his doctors are positive and say that his injuries are not life threatening. Please don't give up praying! Tomorrow they will start to operate on him. For what no one is sure.
You can imagine that it has been quite chaotic, as he was airlifted by helicopter to Linköping, a good distance away, and Gunilla and Bella (their youngest girl), have been in another hospital in Trollhättan. Then there are the foster children to take care of as well!
Dave Richards will fly over on the early flight tomorrow to help for several days.
Thank you so much everyone for your great support for this precious family. Please pray for Janne and Elisabet as they seek to lead the Fristaden Church through this testing time! Our God is great and He is able to save and we thank Him for His help so far!
The church has just had a great meeting in Uddevalla, where many of the city pastors and priests joined them to pray and break bread for the deliverance of Håkan and Gunilla and family.
Håkan has lost his hair and has burns on 80% of his body. His face was initially thought to be badly burned but Janne says it is not as bad as they first thought, Praise God! At the moment he is in a sedated medicated coma but, though severely burned, his doctors are positive and say that his injuries are not life threatening. Please don't give up praying! Tomorrow they will start to operate on him. For what no one is sure.
You can imagine that it has been quite chaotic, as he was airlifted by helicopter to Linköping, a good distance away, and Gunilla and Bella (their youngest girl), have been in another hospital in Trollhättan. Then there are the foster children to take care of as well!
Dave Richards will fly over on the early flight tomorrow to help for several days.
Thank you so much everyone for your great support for this precious family. Please pray for Janne and Elisabet as they seek to lead the Fristaden Church through this testing time! Our God is great and He is able to save and we thank Him for His help so far!
The church has just had a great meeting in Uddevalla, where many of the city pastors and priests joined them to pray and break bread for the deliverance of Håkan and Gunilla and family.
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