Update today! November 18th

Hey everyone! Well, it’s Tuesday night in Korea, and the doctors have been harvesting Smiley’s stem cells for over a day now! They will continue to do so through Wednesday and then begin the treatment on Thursday! With my limited scientific knowledge, I understand that on Thursday, the doctors will begin putting the harvested stem cells back into Smiley’s body. They have pulled the “good stuff” from his blood and harvested it so that they can put more “good stuff” back into his body! The doctors there would probably love to hear my explanation!! Anyway, Smiley is a little weak since they had to take blood. When they are able to start the treatment on Thursday, he should get a little stronger each day. They will have enough stem cells for 8 treatments. Then the doctors will take more blood and repeat the process. But when they take the next round of blood, Smiley’s body should be stronger and it should not leave him so weak! Thursday can’t get here fast enough!!

Patti was able to talk to him again last night! They are keeping him comfortable and controlling the pain, so he’s always groggy when he talks with her. She continues to tell him how much everyone loves him and that there are so many people praying for him!

I think there is going to be a story in the Greenville Journal this week. It is published on Friday, and the reporter told me that it is delivered to some homes, but it is available at grocery stores for free! The story will talk about Smiley and his miracle trip, but it will also focus on how people are having to go out of the country to receive needed medical treatment. Pick up a copy and read about our wonderful friend! Just one more way that Smiley and his tremendous fight are working for the good of others!

Patti wanted me to be sure to express her gratitude to everyone for the support and prayers during this difficult time. She has been overwhelmed and touched so deeply by the outpouring of love for Smiley and his family! She is still running around town getting things taken care of related to the trip – even though Smiley and Steve have made the trip, there is so much still to do! Of course, it was very hard for her to send him across the world in the condition that he was in when he left. But it was Smiley’s wish – how could she or anyone else deny him this chance! She anxiously awaits the call from Steve each night, praying for a good report. Patti has been able to stay strong throughout this time because of the love and support that she and her boys have received from you all! Thanks!

I thank God every day for the work He is doing in all of our lives. I think we are all better people for going through this trying time with Smiley – I know I am. It makes my heart so happy that so many people have been touched by the story of one man and his courage! I have always believed that there is a reason for every single thing that happens. How we react is what’s important. God has given us the ability to make decisions, and I am so proud of how everyone has reacted to this cause! Although we all hate to see our friend go through such pain, I believe that Smiley will come home to us a healed man! God has given Smiley the opportunity to be with these doctors in Korea. Thanks to all of you for following Smiley’s journey!

Keep praying, my friends! God hears our prayers, and I can’t help but believe that God is smiling upon Greer, SC and the way everyone has come together to do good in His name! He is also smiling upon Seoul, Korea and watching over our dear Smiley!

Love and thanks to you all :)

I’ll be in touch…

Leigh

PS – More t-shirts and prayer bracelets are on the way! Hope to see everyone at the Bluegrass Concert & hot dog supper on Thursday at Blue Ridge Middle! It will be my first Bluegrass Concert – I can’t wait!