Tomorrow's the day. Mike is going in for neck surgery at 7:20 (9:20 Eastern) tomorrow (Thursday) morning. The doctor's have reassured us that this surgery is not incredibly invasive, but they are reconstructing the bones in his neck. He should be out of surgery some time around Noon and hopefully we will be able to update people soon after this. This should be great for Mike as it will remove him from traction and allow him to sit up. Even allowing him to sit up will help his ability to eat, drink, and it should really help his morale. The stability in his neck that this surgery will provide should allow Mike to more freely move his arms and neck without fear of re-injury. To clarify: This surgery should not affect his nerves or provide any more feeling to his body, it is being done to stabilize his neck. As well, the doctors have told us that there is nothing they can do, by surgery or other means, to repair the damage done to his spinal cord. That ball is in God's court now.
Please pray that the doctor's will have wisdom and do an amazing job tomorrow with the surgery. Also, pray that Mike has a speedy recovery and that he does not have to be on a respirator for very long after the surgery. This is going to be a big day for Mike and a big step on the road to recovery.
Mike: The Early Years
46 comments:
Mike we don't know you, but we went to high school with your older brother Steve. He was a friendly guy with a strong, positive attitude. We know Steve, as well as the rest of your family and friends will be there for you supporting you through those tough times. Good luck tomorrow, and be strong.
Kelsey and Ian Thompson
Mike,
Stay strong buddy. I hope that this surgery goes well, and that it will help you down the road to recovary.
Josh Marcellin
Michael, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Leigh Ann and Allan Sexton and family. Smoky Lake
Mike, I don't know you personally, but I've taken piano lessons from your Mom and know she cares for you. Hang in there!
May God give you His peace and comfort. Look to Him!
Much prayer, Andrew
Mike rememeber this
you are the man.
Mike and family,
We are praying that you will sense God's presence, that the surgery will be successful, and that your hearts will be free from fear, bitterness and depression. We are praying for rest for you all tonight and energy for tomorrow. We are praying for a complete recovery for Mike and trusting that God has a bright future ahead for all of you. We love you and look forward to celebrating God's faithfulness with you. Rob and Joanne
Good luck on your big day tomorrow mike. It's good to know your in really good hands
-Tim
Wow...we just heard the news and you guys will be in our prayers and thoughts constantly. The postings so far talking about what you have been going through amaze us...your positive attitude and faith shine forth. We will pray for God's healing, comfort and peace for you and your family.
Dan and Lisa Mueller
Hi Mike... this is Auntie Julene. I am sending you a very special hug. I want you to know how much I love you and how precious you are to me and our family. You need this surgery tommorrow and God will be with you, right beside you the whole time holding your hand, so don't be afraid. Our love to you Mike....sweet dreams Auntie Julene
Mike and Barker family:
Our prayers are with you all. Can't imagine what the waters you tread minute by minute are like, but know that our amazing God is holding you in the palm of His hand and carrying you each through this. There is much Light yet to be seen, and much to spread that others need around us. God knows that better than any. You guys stay strong and be courageous as you have, we'll keep praying for that and for an awe-inspiring surgery tomorrow AM. We love you guys and wish we could help more. You're in our thoughts constantly,
God Bless each of you.
David & Laurie,
River,Julianna & Matt McDonald
Hi Mike,
We knew you as a very young boy, and now are so sorry to hear about your accident. We think of your whole family with great fondness. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Cathy and Lorne
Smoky Lake
Hi Mike,
Though we have only met a couple times, your mom is the dearest of friends and I feel that I know you from all the pictures and stories she has shared with me. I pray that our Lord will hide you in the secret place of His presence tonite, tomorrow, and in the days to come. There you will find strength and courage and joy and peace.
Brenda and Neil, know that we love you and that you are constantly and fervently in our prayers.
Alan and Cindy MacLurg
Psalm 91
1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. [a]
2 I will say [b] of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."
3 Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare
and from the deadly pestilence.
4 He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
5 You will not fear the terror of night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
nor the plague that destroys at midday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.
8 You will only observe with your eyes
and see the punishment of the wicked.
9 If you make the Most High your dwelling—
even the LORD, who is my refuge-
10 then no harm will befall you,
no disaster will come near your tent.
11 For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways;
12 they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
13 You will tread upon the lion and the cobra;
you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
14 "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
15 He will call upon me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him
and show him my salvation."
May the Lord bless you and heal you
~KASI
Mike,
I will be on the road a lot today so know that you will have a few hours worth of pray on your behalf from this friend of yours.... xo
Dear Mike
We were so sorry to hear about your accident-- and have been following your progress in the blog set up for you. The spiritual comfort you get from family and friends is awesome isn't it?! We have an on-going prayer going up for you ... and now this morning ..we will be praying for wisdom and guidance on the surgeons part..
You can rest peacefully because you are in God's hands.
Thinking of you and your family
from Yorkton, Sask.
Hi Mike,
Your surgery has just started - it is 6:30 am here, 7:30 your time. We are joining the countless others in this prayer that has settled into our souls for you - and we wait with you, Brenda, Neil, Steve, Matt. Bible talks about prayers rising before the throne of God like smoke rising from incense. There is a large billowing cloud there at the moment!! And it is covering you all. Peace to you in these moments, peace be with the doctors, peace to all who wait with you.
Aunt Mary, Uncle Tim, Thomas, Taylor, Mitchell
Mike
Good to see you yesterday! I am praying that your surgery is going well, hope it helps in every way it should and more.
Jessica Gaberel
Mike, Brenda, Neil, Matt, Steven, @ Lori,
"Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide. STRENGTH FOR TODAY AND BRIGHT HOPE FOR TOMORROW. Blessings all mine and ten thousand beside. GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS."
Praying for you all today.
Brenda, my heart is with you.
Love, Cindy MacLurg
Good luck with the surgery Michael.
Mike,
Good luck with surgery today, i wish you the best of luck and a fast recovery. I will continue to pray for you, and hope for the best. Continue to stay strong, have a positive attitude, and keep laughing and smiling. Our whole school is behind you and we will continue to support you through all of this.
Love jamie
Mike it is Thursday morning which means you are in surgery right now. I pray that God gives the surgeons the knowledge and abiltity to acheive great success in this surgery. I also ask that he surround you with angels protecting you so you do not have to be afraid. The Lord loves you so much michael. Yesterday I went for coffee with Grandma and her eyes welled up with tears as she told me stories of how she used to babysit you 3 crazy little kids. She said matthew would be sitting at the panio practicing his music(well behaved might I add) while you and steve torn around the house like wild monkeys.Then she said,"I love all my grandchildren and have a special place in my heart for all of them but Michael...Michael,I've always had a soft spot for that mischevious boy". You are so loved Michael. I'm your cousin but reading these posts that people write paints me a clear picture what kind of man you are and friend you are to others.On the road ahead there is going to be good days and bad days,on the days that aren't all that great just remember you are prayed for,respected,supported and loved.
your cous nadine
Thanks for the updates Matt. This photo must have been taken about the time you three (4&5 sometimes) little guys played in the 'big' forest at Pineridge. Fond memories of the cutest little buddies ever. Thoughts are with you all today. Mrs. Shirley
Hi Mike,
You are in our thoughts and prayers throughout each day. Elden & I appreciated the few minutes we spent with you the other day. It was special to be there when you enjoyed your first taste of a booster juice after days of only water and ice. It was a good reminder to me to see the many blessings I have in my life every day that I take for granted, like being able to eat and drink whenever I like.
You are a special person to God and He is always there by your side.
Neil, Brenda, Steve, Lori & Matt
Your are also in our thoughts and prayers.
Elden, Cindy & Family
Good Luck this morning Mike. We will be praying for you. Hope everything works out for you man.
Ryan & Derek Yurdiga
Just to let you know that our family is praying for you.
Steve and Laurie
We heard the news and please know that you, Mike and your family are in our prayers.
Mike is probably out of surgery right now, but we're praying for God's hand of healing. He is the God who heals. He sends His Word and heals. He heals all of our diseases. No weapon forged against us will be able to prosper. Stand strong on God's Word and the power of His healing hand.
Love, Chuck, Donna, and Kyle Schultz
Ps 145:19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him, He hears their cry and saves them.
Ps 34:9 Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing.
Mal 4:2 But for those who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in it's wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.
Luke 1:50 His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.
Ps 115:11 You who fear, Him trust in the Lord-He is their help and shield.
Ps 103:13 As a Father has compassion on His children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.
Ps 91:14 "Because he Loves me" says the Lord,"I will rescue him; I will protect Him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him."
Ps 94:9 Does He who implanted the ear not hear? Does He who formed the eye not see?
Heb 11:3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
-He can do anything.
James 5:15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up.
Mark 6:56 And where ever He went- into the villages, towns or countryside- They placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged Him to let them touch even the edge of His cloak, and all who touched Him were healed.
--Now He walks with us everywhere. We may continually reach out to Him.
We are praying for your comfort, peace, faith,strength and healing. We believe Lord, help us with our unbelief.
Lots of Love to you all,
Wanda, Lawrence and Dezi
Mike you are in surgery right now and we just wanted you to know we are thinking about you.
The way your brothers describe your attitude is amazing! You are very brave and your courage is an inspiration for us all.
Jill and Victor
hey buddy
i hope everything went good and that you are getting lots of rest. hang in there buddy see ya soon
sherraz
hey mike
greetings from vancouver.
i pray that the surgery went well....(you must be almost done now)
it is really beautiful reading all these responses to you while you are in recovery.
enjoy sitting up this morning!
hope you are feeling alright after the surgery.
it is much better to watch movies sitting up.
now i have to go back to school soon.
just wanted to say a hello on this morning.
we have been praying for this surgery that the doctors do a good job, that you recover quickly, and that there are no complications. That God continues to heal and show you his unimaginable love for you. And that you would be filled with the hope of Christ and the peace of Christ.
its is wonderful seeing all the support, prayer, and encouragement.
people here in vancouver are still continually praying for you. Many are checking out this blog site. (tell your brothers it was good of them to set it up)
(i hope you get to hear each and everyone of these combinations of words meant for your ears)
Have Hope
your cousin tom in vancouver.
p.s. i really hope that you can use your hands....for many reasons, but i hope that you will be able to so that you can pull out your guitar that is down in your room in edmonton and learn to play it better then you ever wanted to. (you asked me this summer why you can't play it as well as i can and i told you that you can...i know you can!)
(give a big smile to your mom and dad this morning! :)
later
Hey Michael
Just wanted you to know we are having prayer meetings for you and are praying during classes for your surgery. Hope everything goes well today.
Jakki
Hey Mike,
I have been checking your page constantly to see if there is any update on your surgery. I prayed for you last night and I will keep praying. You are the strongest person ever and you have all of Lac La Biche behind you plus more. Hopefully all these people will show you what a great guy you are and how many people care about you. Don't give up because i know you have the strength to go on. God Bless
Lauren Wells
Dear Michael and Family,
"There is strength in numbers". With all the energy and prayers for all of you we know that something amazing CAN and WILL happen.
Hey Mike
I hope that everything goes well with the surgery today. I am praying for you.
Here is a few words for you,
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
Philipians 4:12-13
I hope that you find encouragement in it.
God BLess,
-Julie-Anne
Dear Mike,
I am a member of Grace Community Church in MI. You have been on the prayer chain and wanted you to know that you are in the prayers of many. I cannot imagine your pain. I cannot find words to give you peace even though I wish that I could. But I do know someone who can give you that internal peace and strength. He is a great, loyal and amazing God that loves you very much.
I will continue to pray for healing.
Oh, my mistake..my friend from South Africa says your the hottest guy she has seen in Canada and you are still hot in your pictures from the hospital!! you can see how dedicated she is lol..so yeah you are the hottest guy in the country in her eyes..God Bless
Lauren Wells
Dear Mike, Our Prayers are with you Today. That God will guide the doctors hands and fill you with His Peace. We know how very hard this must be for you all, We only went through this 2 years ago with our nephew Chris . Threw all of this just remember God has some amazing plans for you and Loves you Dearly.. Much Love ,Prayers,and Big Hugs The Ruskowsky's
Hi Mike.
Just wanted to let you know that I have been praying for you throughout the morning. I hope everything has gone well and I will continue to pray for your comfort as you recover from surgery. I have been checking your blog frequently and can not wait for an update on the good things the Lord has done for you today.
Blessings,
Andrea Evans
Mike I dont know if you remember me, but I'm Josh/Zack/Nadine's cousin, Ami Polson. I'm in Sweden right now going to bible school. My mom called me the night after your accident to tell me what happened. There are 300 swedish and international people praying for you here every morning at 8am (midnight your time)! That's pretty cool, hey?! Anyway, I just want to share something with you. it's pretty simple, but really powerful. 'Love the Lord your God will all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' If we decide everyday to give God the glory for our lives, our lives WILL bring glory to God and we can have peace and assurance that the end result will be wonderful even if it's not what we had imagined. this has really changed my life and i believe it can in any situation we're in. And there's no better way to live than selflessly with love for God and others! He is a great God. Trust in him and draw close to him. He will bring you through. Jesus is the bread of life. the word of God is your strength and power! Thanks for your smiles and great attitude. it is really encouraging, and you've been a great example. Bless you, and i praise Jesus for what he'll do in your life! Thank you God! Anyway, i think i won for longest comment. haha.
later, Ami
Mike:
I heard about your accident last Friday as I was on my way out of town. It hit me like a fist in the gut. I then dreamed about you and your family that night. You don't know me but I know your mom and dad from years ago before you were ever born. From my experience and friendship with your parents, I know they are people who are filled with the Spirit of God who have, for many years, prayed fervently and faithfully for their son . . . you. May that bowl full of prayers be sprinkled on you from God's faithful hand, in direct proportion to the needs you have each day. I continue to pray for you and your family and you have all have been on my mind intensely. I will continue to allow you and your parents the physical space needed in the hospital to journey through this crisis time, so please tell your parents that I love them dearly and pray continually but will give them "space". (I definitely look forward to seeing you, Brenda and Neil when things settle down a little bit for you, as I'm sure you are on "overload" right now). My heart aches for you all but my trust is in our Mighty Healer as I know yours is too.
Love in Christ, Barb Fair (Dennis too)
Hey Mike;
David Booth and I are going to visit you Saturday! We hope we make it in time for visiting hours, and are at least able to see you for a while. I hope your surgery goes awesomely great! You shall Live long and prosper! Brad White and Leigha Robinson give you their best wishes as well.
-Tabatha Gallant
To the Barkers:
I know that mike is in surgery right about now (it's 2:45 in MI) and i'm praying for strength, peace, courage, guidance, and dependence on God..it's all in HIS hands, as it has always been.
Praying,
Britney in MI
hoping and praying recovery is going well
Britney in MI
Neil and Brenda<
I keep checking for news of Mike's surgery and you are on my heart and mind.
This song keeps going through my mind so I'll share the words.
"Here in this place
With emotion I will praise You
Here in this place
You embrace me as I am
Here, without fear, I can climb into Your lap and cry
And here, bathed in tears
The unknown is put to rest.
My life is overwhelming me
Its hard to see the things You see
Your Spirit comes to comfort me
I will praise You
I will praise You
Here
Praying that you have moments to rest in His presence and cry.
Loving you,
Cindy MacLurg
Love the mullet
-JD
Hey Mike, You don't know me but my friend Susan is a relative of yours and she asked if I would pray for your healing. Your pictures were such an encouragement to me, I have a son your age. Mike when I saw you laying there I could picture my own son. God bless you as I believe He has set you aside for a time, challenging your inner strength. Yes I will pray that God will heal you, the smile on your face shows the light of Christ, keep it burning kiddo you may be surprised how many lives you are touching. Sounds like you have a great support system in your family. Talk to God lots and enjoy the love of the family He has given you. You are in my prayers, and to your Mom, may God give you the grace and courage you need each day.
because of Him Joanne V.G
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