Man on the street (The Clinic)

This week Earl and I decided to mix things up a little and by mix things up I mean really shake the dynamics of our weekly encounters. This week we hung out on Wednesday rather than on Tuesday! It was a little unnerving at first but going to, "The Window," for breakfast brought a nice sense of comfort that helped me get through the day.

After breakfast Earl and I headed to an office that provides services for the homeless of Chicago. In addition to help obtaining legal documents people can also get some clothes, a shower and at times get medical attention. After his shower, Earl met with a nurse practitioner. As I had mentioned in the past Earl's legs have been swelling and causing him quite a bit of discomfort. Upon inspection the nurse told him that he had likely damaged the vessels in his legs due to his many years of smoking. Earl doesn't smoke any more but the damage is potentially done. In addition the the possible vessel damage, his lack of rest and constant walking have exasperated the situation.

Earl was told that in order to better assess the situation he would need to get some blood work done as well as be very agressive about losing weight. The weight issues gravely affect all of the concerns. If they do determine that there is extensive vessel damage Earl will have to undergo surgery to graft vessels into his legs. When Earl came out of the office he was visible shaken by the news and the need to take immediate action.

After the clinic we took a trip down to the church where we met with Pastor Aaron. Earl shared his news with Aaron and I shared my concern. Earl is normally a very self sufficient man. He is always looking out for others but rarely seeks help for himself so I asked Earl if he was willing to allow us to help him. I think his initial reaction is NO but I believe he understands the gravity of his situation and he accepted our offer to find ways to help him. We shared with Earl that we feel it is our responsibility as his church family to participate in proactive ways to help him.

That night Earl stayed at the church where he said he didn't sleep but was at least able to stay off of his feet for an extended period of time. I hope to be able to continue to seek options through the church so that we can help Earl be reconciled to his health.

I share this with you because I asked Earl if I could and I know that you will pray for him. He welcomes and desires your prayers for his health.

I saw Earl at the warming center on Friday and he looked refreshed though it was obvious that the burden still weighed heavy. He had spent the night at the penthouse which is better than the EL but still not a good solution.

Please pray that we his church family will be able to care for Earl during this time. He is in need of a place where he can recover as well as a diet that doesn't consist of carb heavy nutritionally empty meals. Those are not options that exist on the street.

Please continue to pray for Woody and his friends. I did not see him at the warming center on Friday but his buddy Carrey was there and he said he had not seen him in a few days.

Finally, thank you for your continued prayers for my own process as I continue to seek support. Your prayers are always an incredible source of encouragement. I am now up to 70% of my needed 2 year budget. Thank you so much for your faithfulness in prayer and support. You are a constant source of blessing to me.

(Image of Earl working on Eyes on the Street)