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What is next?

You go to bed, you wake up in ICU after 5 days and everyone jumps at you with all joy and excitement the minute you open your eyes. Now keep in mind you have NO idea you were down under. Think about it. You ask them questions and all their answers are that you were flying on the edge of death. You try to move your legs … no way. you need serious therapy … you cannot move your legs … what happened? what now? you can’t stand up, you cannot operate anything on our own …. you are fully dependent on others !

pause. think about it. and tell me what you would do if you were in my shoes?
let me stop here, if I may, and hear from you, please – What would you do if it was you in this situation? I would love to hear from you ( I miss you). What would you do in this case??? – Let’s talk a bit before I tell you what choices I had and what I decided to do 🙂

L0ve you
Miss you
Please keep me in your faithful prayers !

In His Grip

Sami

Categories: Uncategorized
  1. Tammy McIlvoy's avatar
    Tammy McIlvoy
    March 23, 2013 at 1:35 pm

    Sami, I have no idea what I’d do, but wanted to let you know that you and your family are ever in my thoughts and prayers! You are all so very special and I love and miss each of you.

  2. Sana's avatar
    Sana
    March 23, 2013 at 1:53 pm

    I would sing:
    من ذا اللذي يفصلنا عن حب فاديناااااااا اشدة ام ضيقة لا شيء يثنيناااا
    You and Jackline were so in my prayers last week , I wanted to text Jacko…but I forgot….now I remembered that I did not. …but now also I know The holy spirit prompted me to pray for you……you were held up high again by the Angels…..

    We miss you too..:)

  3. Kim's avatar
    Kim
    March 23, 2013 at 2:02 pm

    What would I do ya habib albi! I would try to do exactly what I learned from you the last 18 months …I will try to hold tight in His Grip and trust that He who started a good work in you will continue untill it is finished….I love you Samaoum and I am praying for u ,Jaco, the kids , and family daily trustinng and holding to God’s promises…..I am so thankful for the miracle God showed us last week through you. For sure you r in His Grip

  4. Trudi Mendez's avatar
    Trudi Mendez
    March 23, 2013 at 2:16 pm

    Sami!
    So glad you are back! So, what would I do? Give thanks and know that I am being taken care of by an Awesome God and wait for what He had next for me.

    I cannot begin to imagine what He has in mind for you. Don’t make us wait too long.

    I am so excited you are back ‘up top, ‘ Sami. I’ve had you on my heart for the last week.

    God bless you and please know you are dearly loved.

    Blessings,
    Trudi

  5. txkemp's avatar
    txkemp
    March 23, 2013 at 3:31 pm

    My beloved… glad to hear from ya. Whatever do you mean challenging us with this ques? Only you would come up with this. …so I must be truthful and say I may not have made it. But God gives or allows the trials as to our being able to bare them. He knows full well that u would be his faithful servant and continue ministering to thousands. At times the truth is hard, but i would likely have failed this trial. But GOD… he knows how to do his business and what tools are needed for every task!!! THANK GOD , and thank you for your faithfulness!

  6. fadi haidar's avatar
    fadi haidar
    March 23, 2013 at 3:58 pm

    Habeeb I am very happy to hear from you. Your strength and faith in god have kept u above all hurdles. Others might have given up but not you. You have always been a fighter. I am sure you have a brilliant plan in mind and I am sure that you will eventually succeed. Keep up the good fight…

  7. Marc Boucher's avatar
    Marc Boucher
    March 23, 2013 at 4:24 pm

    Sami,
    I hear your questions…. And they weigh heavy on my heart! Your journey has been filled with many emotions. You have been an incredible witness to me in your faith walk. We continue to pray that God’s healing hand in at work in your life. Reflection is good for the soul ….. Your witness is a blessing that will be eternal !
    Bless you my brother and the decisions you have to make.
    Your brother in Christ,
    Marc Boucher

  8. Maher's avatar
    Maher
    March 23, 2013 at 4:25 pm

    This is a profound question. I don’t know what will I do. Probably start by thanking temlord that I can stillmthinkmand write such a blog. Probably praise The Lord that I can still be in His Grip, probably ask Him.. Hmmm what’s next Lord? Probably ask Him, Why? But it would probably remind me of Jesus talk with Peter where He told him, that you would reach a place where people will move him around. It is a great humbling experience not to have control over your body, reminding you that He is already in Control of your body…. Can’t wait to hear your answer…
    In prayer my brother… In prayer.
    He is able.

  9. Margaret's avatar
    Margaret
    March 23, 2013 at 4:36 pm

    Dear Sami… It is impossible for me to put myself in your position, but knowing you for all these years, I have no doubt you celebrated! I know we are celebrating your return to us, once again. Your faith and bravery continues to be an inspiration to us all. Please know we are all thinking about you and praying. You have so many friends on your team! Best wishes always, Margaret

  10. Sameh's avatar
    Sameh
    March 23, 2013 at 5:07 pm

    Habebi Sami,
    So glad to hear from you..missed you so much.
    but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31. I know you know it very well, but I am reminding my self since I am in your shoes. Yes you are a good fighter but also God fights for you “Be still, and know that I am God”. Sami, also I would thank God and accept my family and friends love and help. Lots of love to you and your family.
    Blessings,
    Sameh

  11. March 23, 2013 at 5:51 pm

    Sami. Sami. You are incredible and such a provoker of thought. You know similarly, I spent 4 days in ICU so you gotta stay 5 days. The first thing I wanted was a more comfortable bed. Your lack of mobility is to be expected. You’ll be back chasing Jacqueline soon enough.

    Now let me tell you what the Lord told me this week. We pray for and recognize when He has performed a miracle. What He showed me was that what we see as a miracle He sees as routine. It is a miracle to us because it is beyond our capabilities. There is no limit to what He can and will do for His children, and He does it routinely.

    We are not a congregation of people but a body of Believers. Their are many organizations that get people to congregate for their agenda. As a body, when one part, person, hurts we all hurt and that is why many have been praying and seeking the Lord on your behalf. We all rejoice with you and your family as you recover from another battle.

  12. Larry Gallaway's avatar
    Larry Gallaway
    March 23, 2013 at 6:07 pm

    I would sing a song of rejoice….and I am rejoicing that you are back!!

    You are always in our prayers, Sami……

  13. Dalia Shiber Schlegel's avatar
    Dalia Shiber Schlegel
    March 23, 2013 at 6:40 pm

    Sami !!!!! I am SO HAPPY to hear from you. i cannot describe the joy I felt when I saw your email. To answer your question, I am not sure what I would do? What I should do would be to thank Jesus… I liked what Jeff Morris wrote about all of us being ONE body of believers, and when one of us is hurting, all of us are hurting. And this is so true… Sami, you are our inspiration. Jesus is working through you to get us closer to Him… Your faith never ceases to touch us and guide us. What I want YOU to do is keep up the perseverance. You will soon be back home feeling healthy and I can’t wait to visit you and Jaqueline. I miss you and love you so much Sami.

  14. March 23, 2013 at 7:41 pm

    I would smile! Sami, we are always praying for you! You are incredible and an inspiration to all. God Bless!

  15. Jad's avatar
    Jad
    March 23, 2013 at 10:06 pm

    Humm!! What would I do?? I will ask for cold water, then for some very cold diet coke, and I’ll challenge my sister Rima to go get it as fast as she can, or… Then I’ll make sure my brother Jad keeps filling the cup with ice and coke, even when the nurse said “just a little bit”… And if he does not I look at him and tell him “شو عم تضحك علي؟. Then I start singing and praying with my sister Lamia and brother Issam…
    And lastly I will realize that because I fully depended on my beautiful Lord that I have been serving for all those years… I am here typing this email after few weeks at the ICU. Praise The Lord ya Samsoum!!! Miracles do happen when you are such a good servant of our Lord.

    I LOVE YOU.

  16. Shaddy & Hend Hanna's avatar
    Shaddy & Hend Hanna
    March 23, 2013 at 10:53 pm

    Sami…Sami…you’re back!!!! Back from “almost the dead”!!! Your question posted to everyone is a proof that you’re doing better than I could imagine!! Your question is a “Sami question” 🙂 I cried when I read your blog; cried becuase you’re back, not only living but alive!
    What I would do if I were in your place? This is a trick question becuase I’ve never experienced anything in my life even close to what you’ve been going through….so I would imagine that I would cry and wouldn’t know if I’m crying because of joy or sorrow, I would feel utterly sorry for myself and grieve over the physical abilities I’ve lost and the years I’ve aged in mere days, I would want to crawl under the bed and tell everyone that I’m done and want to officially give up…you get the picture. But I think (and hope) that ultimately my spirit would shut my humanly logic up and would beg me to look into my Father’s Eyes, where I would find love like none other and where I would be reminded of Who He is; the One who has me “in His Grip”. I imagine that He would whisper sweet promises into my heart, making it soar into the heavenlies….making it easier to surrender all control left in me to Him, the one who loves me and who is acking with me and for me.

    I can’t wait to hear about the precious nuggets you’ve been gleaning as you walk with your Father in your deep deep valley…about what God is showing you, telling you and teaching you!! What Glory, albeit mingled with tears, sweat and pain, but what Glory!!

    Sami: Many of your prayer warriers have been experiencing sudden prompting of the Holy Spirit to fervently pray for you at all odd hours of the day and night, Some are being awakened in the middle of some nights with a clear thought, “Pray for Sami!!!” Sami: you are deeply loved, on earth as well as in heaven!!
    Welcome back habibi. We missed you SO much! We love you deeply, sweet Sami!
    Waiting to hear “What’s on your heart”!!!

    Hend

  17. frank bondurant's avatar
    frank bondurant
    March 23, 2013 at 10:57 pm

    Pray for the peace that passes understanding and for miraculous healing. Tell my family that I love them. Frank

  18. Jodi's avatar
    Jodi
    March 24, 2013 at 1:26 am

    You and your wonderful family are just amazing. Your sharing of living through the bombing of the compound was so powerful. I have never forgotten what you and the family did while hidden under the stairs. Then the battle with cancer and what an amazing Christian you are. You have made me a better person. You and the family are in our prayers daily. Jodi

  19. Manhung's avatar
    Manhung
    March 24, 2013 at 1:30 am

    Sami, so happy to hear from you. No matter what happened, your incredible strength and faith will carry you through the whole journey.

    About your question, I will cry (no, that’s not Sami); I will question my God (wrong again); I will ask doctors how to get my legs moving fast (sounds better?); I will ask God to keep me in his grip (getting closer?)…

    No, I can not imagine to be in your shoes. You are so special and unique.. We will always keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

  20. Daniel gad's avatar
    Daniel gad
    March 24, 2013 at 5:58 am

    Dear brother Sami,
    Although i did not know you personally still you show to may to what extent the solder of God is courageous,you seems to me like Paul the apostle, saying “for when I am weak, then am I strong”. Still you are glorifying your master, Keep on the way,Hero!!

  21. Diane Burnett's avatar
    Diane Burnett
    March 24, 2013 at 8:56 am

    Sami, I am speechless. Please know that you are supported by prayers of my Sunday School class and my ChristCare group.
    Diane

  22. Andy Howard's avatar
    Andy Howard
    March 24, 2013 at 10:52 am

    Sami: Being an engineer and a risk analyst, I would assess my present situation. Slowly test each part of my body, to see what responds. I would take my time, got plenty of that. Why, even check each part several times, for good statistical results, dontcha know!

    Now that I know what I think works and how much or little, time to talk to the docs and see what they think. Match that up to what I think and resolve the anomalies. Now that I know where I am, figure out where I want to go [both short and long term]. Next, figure out what I need to do to get there. Finally, set plan in action.

    I have had the opportunity to use this process several times at St. Luke’s, down the street from you. None of it is fun and much of it isn’t easy. But, it can be one solution.

    A good support team is a key component and sounds like you have a good one — both “on the scene” and virtually. Feel free to “fall back” and let them catch you and help you along. Feel free to contact me “off line” for more details.

    Cheers and good luck! Andy Howard

  23. Kellie Merrick's avatar
    Kellie Merrick
    March 24, 2013 at 1:46 pm

    Beloved brother, Yes- God rescued you from the “edge of death.” I believe the prayers of your wife and your family and friends, may have just changed the heart of God to give you more time. So you have more time, but less strength. I know what you chose in this place- you chose to trust your God and King and to continue to seek Him.

    I am reminded of Jonathan Edwards, another godly brilliant man who had so much to give, yet God took him home early. He had contracted a fever from a small-pox inoculation. After weeks of worsening weakness and the recognition that death was near, he spoke his last words to his daughter Lucy.

    He said, “As to my children, you are now to be left fatherless, which I hope will be an inducement to you all to seek a Father who will never fail you.” He was in the prime of his life, just appointed president to Princeton and there were many theological works he had not completed. Yet, he was not concerned with his unfinished works or writings, or his leadership position. In his last breath, he talked about God being the “better Father who would never fail His children.” His last words, even in weakness and physical decay, were about the goodness and faithfulness of God. Amazing!

    Beloved Sami- your life encourages me, a child of God, to seek my Father who will never fail us. Thank you, you have left His fingerprints on my heart.

    Kellie

  24. Wanda's avatar
    Wanda
    March 24, 2013 at 2:38 pm

    After the confusion would subside, I would probably cry for a while. As you know, I am a very emotional woman and as I’ve been told by my family, I can’t hide my emotions. Then after I would pray and not lose hope, because, as you know and like you, I am a fighter! I never lose hope and I know our “daddy” (remember that?) is always with us!
    Love you bro! Always praying for you!

  25. Albert's avatar
    Albert
    March 24, 2013 at 2:57 pm

    Sami,

    So glad to hear back from you, we continue to pray for your recovery. Although being in your shoes may be hard to imagine, I know someone with extraordinary strength as you and a rock solid heart and faith will succeed no matter the challenges. I pray and look forward to your next update.

    We miss you.
    Albert

  26. Amber Simone's avatar
    Amber Simone
    March 24, 2013 at 6:38 pm

    It’s great to hear from you Sami; I’m so happy that God continues to bless you & your family.

    So what would I do? Well, the only think I could think to do is get down on my knees & pray…I’d ask God, “so father, what is next? I need you to show me & tell me what you want me to do.”

    I’d then keep my eyes & ears open for him to answer. You have been so faitful Sami. I know that as you continue to knock at his door that he will answer.

    Your Friend,
    Amber (Pennington) Adams

  27. Shoby John's avatar
    Shoby John
    March 24, 2013 at 7:01 pm

    Dear Sami,
    I’ve read many of your posts and it’s usually encouraged me greatly! Although our family has prayed for you on numerous occasions and we share the prayer request with our ABF class frequently… for some reason, I haven’t responded to any of your older posts previously. Honestly, I don’t know why. But this time I decided that since you really asked for a response, I felt like you were talking to me. I’m really not sure what I would do if I were in your shoes, but I will be looking forward to your next post and the answer. In the meantime, I simply wanted to say that we miss you much and your million dollar smile. The Lord be with you my brother and may His angels encamp around you continually.
    Wishing you every blessing!
    Shoby & Dolly

  28. Marlon Michael Punch's avatar
    Marlon Michael Punch
    March 24, 2013 at 8:41 pm

    Sami – you have taught so many on your “Journey”. And they too have shared your “Faith”, so the “Body of Christ” has grown as a result, and this is “Good”. It has been said that We are all Spiritual Beings having a Human Experience. I Love You My Friend, rest some and let those most closest to you carry you along while you remain “In His Grip”…

  29. March 24, 2013 at 9:19 pm

    It is extremely easy for any one of us to tell you what would we do, we are not going through fire, but, after screaming, pleading, crying and begging God to heal me, I would calm myself down and remind myself of the following:
    I would trust Him knowing that His love for me does not depend on my performance, or how strong or weak my faith is. When I was dead in my sins Christ died for me., Eph 2:4-5.
    I would stand on the scripture that says He “forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases.” Psalm 103:3, not a conditional promise.
    I would trust him because “even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me”. Psalm 23:4
    I would rest, and let other people have the joy of serving me, and praying for me, knowing that there is time for everything under the sun.
    I would not give up, I would rather die knowing that I trusted God all the way instead of giving up.
    Sami, you are been prayed for and lifted up to the father daily.

  30. Sonia Salfity's avatar
    Sonia Salfity
    March 24, 2013 at 10:26 pm

    Sami I didn’t answer your question before because I had no clue what I would do besides giving it all up to my creator. I cannot fathom what it would feel like to be in your shoes but I know one thing and that is that both of us are exactly where God wants us to be right now… that’s so hard to swallow but for some strange reason that we may never understand God allows such horrific things to happen and all we can do is hang on to Him as he carries us through our darkest hours..I pray that you will soon see the light thru this dark tunnel you are in.. I pray for your full recovery.. I pray that He will not test me .. I pray for so many things Sami.. I also thank Him that he planted you among us so that we can taste and see the goodness of the Lord.. You have and continue to be a remarkable encouraging rock and ever since we met you, it is Jesus that we see in your eyes.. May you have peace in knowing that you are in His presence even in these darkest hours.. I pray that he will ease your suffering .. I feel like calling you job right now… Please keep us posted as Marwan and I are anxious to hear from you always.. God bless you Sami..

  31. Maher's avatar
    Maher
    March 24, 2013 at 11:49 pm

    2 Samuel 22:32-35
    “Who is God except the Lord?
    Who is the Rock except our God?
    God gives me strength for the battle.
    He makes my way perfect.
    He makes my feet like the feet of a deer.
    He helps me stand on the highest places.
    He trains my hands to fight every battle.”

  32. March 24, 2013 at 11:59 pm

    I would walk it off 😛 (joking 🙂 just had to get that out of my system. probably I’d find myself dreading all the pain and work I have coming in the coming days, I’d worry about that! but I also would have a hard time wrapping my mind about the idea that in the last few days I was so close to dying, that would keep me busy for a long time, will have me recalculate lots of my past experiences, would probably be a life changing time, but looking at the love surrounding me, the happiness and joy of people around me who took all that time and effort to fight for me in prayers, that alone should give me a boost to want to go through all that pain again and get better. and last nut not least, I would take a moment, a very awkward one, in prayer, thanking God for looking out for me when I was powerless.

  33. Hani and Rula's avatar
    Hani and Rula
    March 25, 2013 at 12:44 am

    Habibna Sami, “serious therapy’ is the hint that your blog entry mentions. I don’t think I would have the courage nor enough faith to face the situation, but knowing you, your faith, courage, and the love of the family and friends surrounding you, I am sure you will get back on your feet in no time. We will continue to pray for your complete and utter healing. Lots of love and hugs and kisses from Lebanon.

  34. Mariam alhajj's avatar
    Mariam alhajj
    March 25, 2013 at 2:59 am

    Sami, I really, cannot imagine that I was in your shoes, but, the first idea which came to my head, I must thank my Lord, because he gave me the opportunity to let people serve him.
    Sami, your Mom is the best God servant who I ever met. And since you are her son, you teach people to serve God as they must be.
    We love you kteer kteer kteer.
    We will never stop praying my dear brother.
    Mariam.

  35. Joyce Ghazal's avatar
    Joyce Ghazal
    March 25, 2013 at 3:01 am

    Sami, you waking up was and is the miracle I asked God for… If I were you, I would thank God that he answered the prayers of my family and friends…We had a prayer meeting at my parents house for you and we ran out of Kleenex at the end (khalto has pictures). But, knowing you, I think the first thing you did was hug khalto and then ask her for hreeseh 😉

  36. Sumaya's avatar
    Sumaya
    March 25, 2013 at 6:45 am

    First off, I was so excited to see your post, I have a grin a mile wide on my face. As for your question, is it fair to ask a question when you already know the answer? 🙂 that’s my way of not answering cause honestly, I don’t know, but I know I strive for what I want, whatever it is. Love you always.

  37. Jack & Nazira's avatar
    Jack & Nazira
    March 25, 2013 at 8:40 am

    Sami, Lift up!!.. your Prayers,

    Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

  38. Robin Riley's avatar
    Robin Riley
    March 25, 2013 at 9:15 am

    Hello Sami,
    You have an amazing story. God is speaking well through you. We appreciate all you do by sharing your remarkable story with us. As for an answer to your question…I can only think of praying and following the doctors orders. And also being thankful there are those around you that can and are willing to help you. As always, our prayers are for you and your family.

  39. Micha's avatar
    Micha
    March 25, 2013 at 9:32 am

    يا سامع الصلاة إليك يأتي كل بشر مزمور 2:65
    نحنا تضرعنا للرب والرب سمع صلاتنا واستجاب كما وعد، الشكر للرب من أجل مراحمه
    افرحوا في الرب كل حين وأقول ايضًا افرحوا فيليبي 4:4
    افرحوا في كل الظروف وفي كل الاحوال
    والذي ابتدأ فيكم عملا صالحا سوف يكمل الى التمام
    في وقته اسرع به، في وقته اسرع به، ولا يتأني الرب عن وعده
    We love you soooo000oooooooo much

  40. Richard Russell's avatar
    Richard Russell
    March 25, 2013 at 11:19 am

    Hi Sami, Sara and I are still praying for you (and miss you too). And, that is what we would probably do if we were in your shoes – keep praying for God’s love, guidance, and mercy. Whatever the situation (and decisions we make), It’s always about our willingness to do our best to honor and embrace His plan for us – and if we make a “wrong” choice under these circumstances we can find comfort in knowing we will receive His forgiveness. As such, while the secular choices we face during our journey are important to our temporal existence, they are inconsequential to our Salvation. And, with that in mind I’m sure you made the “right” choice to honor His plan for you.

    With Love and Affection,

    Richard and Sara Russell

  41. Loretta's avatar
    Loretta
    March 25, 2013 at 12:19 pm

    The first thing I would have done is say “Thank you Jesus!!!…shabadadaka(tongues)”, then I would have looked at my family and said did you expect anything less:). Love you Sami. Keep reminding the devil he can’t take you out while awake OR asleep.

  42. Fuad F Fuleihan's avatar
    Fuad F Fuleihan
    March 25, 2013 at 12:46 pm

    Dear Sami. I wish I had your strength and faith. Please kee well

  43. hiba's avatar
    hiba
    March 25, 2013 at 1:31 pm

    Sami my humble opinion would be that the best thing in such a case is to be still and let God do…
    You are sooooooooo special to him and he promised that he would carry us in those difficult times!
    We want u to know that you are always in our prayers and you are our hero….
    HE LOVES YOU and will not forsake u!

  44. Sumaya and Mahmoud's avatar
    Sumaya and Mahmoud
    March 25, 2013 at 2:51 pm

    Dearest Sami, we love you and pray for you all the time, always. We too believe in miracles: “Divine Life shines in you; Divine Light permeates and heals every atom of your being, cleansing, healing, restoring, renewing”. Sumaya and Mahmoud

  45. Mueller, Jonathan D's avatar
    Mueller, Jonathan D
    March 25, 2013 at 3:55 pm

    Praying for you brother. Lamia has been keeping me updated. Keep fighting….I want the chance to take you to a really nice steakhouse for our next lunch!

    Jonathan Mueller, CFA, CPA
    Portfolio Manager

    Invesco Value Equities
    713-214-5497
    Jonathan.mueller@invesco.com

    http://www.invesco.com

  46. Rody's avatar
    Rody
    March 25, 2013 at 5:06 pm

    Habibi Sami
    To us as long as you can type and tell us how you feel that’s enough! We pray for complete healing and for the Lord’s glory to be revealed through you!
    Keep strong my partner
    Ya jabbar el ba2s

  47. Randy Hroch's avatar
    Randy Hroch
    March 25, 2013 at 5:25 pm

    Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16 KJV)

    Sami, You have really been faithful through this all. You will be always in our prayers regardless of what decision you make.

  48. Rana Awar Boudiab's avatar
    Rana Awar Boudiab
    March 26, 2013 at 3:11 am

    Hi Sami! I really don’t know what I would do in that situation…very relieved and scared all at once! You have been on my mind a lot lately and my prayers go out to you and Jacqueline and family. You continue to be an inspiration to me through your faith and strength. All the best to you during this fight! You are winning….
    Love,
    Rana

  49. marwan and suzy's avatar
    marwan and suzy
    March 26, 2013 at 6:06 am

    dear sami: u are constantly in our thoughts and we pray that soon we will be able to chat with you for a very long time and hear ur sweet voice and words of wisdom! yallah hurry up and get back home. we love you:marwan and suzy from belgium

  50. walid's avatar
    walid
    March 26, 2013 at 6:07 am

    Dear sami..you did ask to hear from us (w talabak ghali saddi2ni..) we’ve been following your journey and praying for you all along.In early oct. 2012 a brother of mine just out of the blue and after leaving beirut to saudi arabia with his family (and shortly after he’d been given a clean bill of health by the AUH ..) was diagnosed with AML and the same genetic mutation.He was admitted to a hospital in jeddah for pnuemonia and within few days his condition had deteriorated so much he had to be transfered to two other hospitals.literally his leukemia (wbc count ~ 96000) and his worsening pneumonia were choking him to death and doing less than 5% of breathing on his own.We had a private jet ready for him to be airlifted to AUH but he was in no condition to be taken anywhere let alone leave the country.It was only at the last hospital with all thanks to the Almighty and the tending saudi physician with his swift actions and the aggressive medical measures that he’d implemented that his wbc count was brought down and his condition under control.It’s been well over a month since he had his bone marrow transplant at AUH and he’s now with his family at home recovering after his release 3 weeks ago.7abeebna sami all of my brothers and sisters here are praying for you and for your quick recovery and may God the All Merciful guide you in every decision and every step that you may take.
    (b ferkerna w 2loobna w dayman 3amensaleelak..)
    walid

  51. Ramy Hanna's avatar
    Ramy Hanna
    March 26, 2013 at 10:16 am

    Sami…think of you everyday, and sending prayers on your behalf…his love endures forever!

  52. Nabil Hissen's avatar
    Nabil Hissen
    March 26, 2013 at 10:19 am

    Dear Sami:

    Your courage has moved me beyond what words can possibly express. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I know your faith will get you through this ordeal.

    Nabil (A friend from long ago)

  53. Iman Darwiche's avatar
    Iman Darwiche
    March 26, 2013 at 12:01 pm

    Dearest Sami,
    You are a fighter and will always be !!!
    We never stopped praying for you.
    We know that you will never give up.

    Iman Darwiche

  54. Camille Fuleihan's avatar
    Camille Fuleihan
    March 26, 2013 at 2:57 pm

    Dear Sami,

    I have never written personally on a blog, but I am making an exception here because I feel the need to tell you how much I admire you, and to also tell you what an inspiration you have been to all of us. I remember your keen sense of humor and your loving heart when, years ago, you did your best to cheer my late brother Amin in his time of need. I also remember the effect you had on me after Ted’s wedding last summer when you spoke in church of your experience and how you felt comfort in God’s Grip. Although I am not with you often, I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers all the time…

    You are truly an admirable human being; a rock and a guiding light to all of us that are privileged to know you. There is no doubt in my mind that God loves you in a special way, and that through you is reaching many of us that have drifted away from our faith over the years. We are coming back, and so will you…

    As to your question, I think you are better equipped at answering it that any of us, but you should know that we are all sharing with you this journey and praying for you…

    God bless you and keep you well in His Grip,
    Camille Fuleihan

  55. March 26, 2013 at 3:03 pm

    Sami, I did not know that you were this ill again. Please know that I am praying for your and your family. I am glad that you are blogging. I find it quite therapeutic. Also, I am sorry that I lost touch with you following our work together supporting EMIT. I consider you one of the truly good guys!

  56. March 27, 2013 at 7:15 am

    Habibi, so thankful to Him that you are better. Now that you know most of us have no clue what we would have done, especially that we do not know the options you were given, and we don’t have half your fortitude (at least i speak for myself), enough suspense please. Do let us know what the choices were and what you have decided. Hopefully you are much stronger physically now.
    Al my love, Mona.

  57. Farid & Ilham Abou-Rahme's avatar
    Farid & Ilham Abou-Rahme
    March 27, 2013 at 7:50 am

    Dear Sami
    There isn’t much we can do but to pray and trust in The Lord,the One who created us for a purpose and loves us with an everlasting love and is able to achieve in us what He has planned for us for His Glory. “Be still and know that I am God”
    With you and the family in prayer
    Farid & Ilham Abou-Rahme

  58. Micha's avatar
    Micha
    March 27, 2013 at 10:02 am

    يجدد كالنسر شبابك

  59. Blair Williamson's avatar
    Blair Williamson
    March 27, 2013 at 11:18 am

    Khalo Sami, so blessed to see you back. You – the man who gave me my Arabic name – have been heavy on my heart! My response would be much like the one described by Shaddy & Hend. I would ask ‘is this permanent? and why/what happened?’ If it’s permanent, I would grieve. If it was permanent and I wouldn’t be able to ride my horse anymore, a priority for me would be to find a good home for her so my family wouldn’t have that burden. And then, I would say everything I’ve needed or wanted to say to people in my life. And I would write. You’ve been blessed with more time. Live and love. You are already a blessing to many people.

  60. March 27, 2013 at 2:49 pm

    Dearest Amo Sami,
    I have been thinking about it for a long time now. As much as I would like to say I would smile and thank God for the blessing of living, I can’t, for I know if in that situation, I would panic. I am eager to learn what decisions you made, for so far, there has been so much grace and beauty in them.
    You are always in my thoughts and prayers. Much love and although we rarely remind you, we are all missing you very much here.
    Love, Nadia Asfour (baby bird)

  61. Gerard Najem's avatar
    Gerard Najem
    March 28, 2013 at 11:13 am

    What would I do ?
    I can never give an answer while I can still walk…

    Love you ! Love Khalto and my awesome cousins.

    Looking forward to see you again in Beirut.

    God is good

  62. amazing's avatar
    amazing
    March 28, 2013 at 2:33 pm

    Dear Sami:

    I have thought and prayed about your questions for a couple of days now. My answer has remained the same, so I am no responding. I wanted to wait to see if I was given different or better words to answer such a deep question. Here is my answer:

    At first, of course, I would be confused and shocked. Then I would praise God that I was still alive and that my friends and family had continued to lift me up in prayer. Then I would adjust my mindset so as to be able to do whatever was needed to become independent once again, always trusting in God the Father to walk with me through this new adventure and the words of Jesus the son to comfort me and the power of the Holy Spirit to heal my body.

    Praying hard, hard, hard without ceasing for your complete healing. Just one of God’s kids – joyous and free : ) Ginger

    >________________________________ > From: Sami Lahoud >To: whatssoamazing12@yahoo.com >Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 1:14 PM >Subject: [New post] What is next? > > > WordPress.com >Sami Lahoud posted: “You go to bed, you wake up in ICU after 5 days and everyone jumps at you with all joy and excitement the minute you open your eyes. Now keep in mind you have NO idea you were down under. Think about it. You ask them questions and all their answers are tha” >

  63. Kurt Guenther's avatar
    Kurt Guenther
    March 29, 2013 at 5:35 am

    Sami —
    Happy Easter my friend! Your friends in Iraq think about you often.

  64. Irene's avatar
    Irene
    March 30, 2013 at 9:42 am

    Sami. I’ve been following your blog and you have been constantly in our prayers. Every time I read your blog I am being blessed. You’ve trusted HIM up to now….if I were in your shoes…..I would relax and keep on trusting HIM. He knows what He is doing. And I know you are definitely in HIS Grip!!!!! Love you Sami!!

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