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Gwen’s Story

Site created on January 20, 2020

Welcome to the CaringBridge website for Gwen Shannon. Thank you for visiting.

As most of us were preparing for Christmas on December 21, Gwen went to the hospital to investigate a lump above her eye. Doctors determined that she had a sinus infection that had migrated to her brain and she had brain surgery the same day. After years of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, Gwen's immune system is not able to fight off infection well. The IV antibiotics given after the surgery were not working to effectively fight the infection either and Gwen had her sinus drained of infection on Dec 22 and more infection cleaned out behind her eyebrow on January 2. The brain infection got worse again and required a second brain surgery on January 14, in order to drain fluid and remove whatever could be accessed manually. After an angiogram on Jan 12, the doctors found a clot on the left side of Gwen's brain and she may need additional surgery which brings many risks - especially to her vision. Gwen's husband Tyrone has been off work since before Christmas and by her side every day in the hospital. Gwen has an 27 year old son, Justin, and a 14 year old son, Joshua, who is in 8th grade at Providence Classical School. After the hurdles of getting the infection under control and cleared, Gwen faces a long road to recovery and will spend many weeks in the hospital. This site will be the place to see her progress, get updates and to see their specific needs for prayer. Thank you for praying diligently for Gwen and her family as they go through this difficult time.

Psalm 23 – The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Sheri Pickle — Jun 30, 2020

Following Gwen's funeral service yesterday here is a message posted by Tyrone on Facebook to share for those who have not seen it:

Great evening to All Family and Friends!

On Behalf of the Hills and the Shannon family we thank each and everyone of you..

For your love and support We Thank You!

For those who gave through Go Fund Me and for those who wanted to give but just couldn't we know your hearts We Thank you.

For those who sent beautiful cards and flowers We Thank You!

For those who came to visit at the hospital We Thank You!

For those who supported us through constant prayers We Thank You!

Your Christlike love that you all have shown does not go unnoticed by your Phone calls, Text messages, meal trains, (gift cards) and continuous encouraging words of comfort.

THANK YOU!!

Please continue to have this wonderful family in your prayers as they all adjust to a new normal, as Tyrone looks for work, and as they get ready for the new school year. Although the grieving will continue, we take comfort knowing that Gwen is home with Jesus.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Read More of the journal titled "June 30, 2020"

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