January 24, 2011  – Monday – 9:29am (Eastern U.S. Time) Cocoa, FL -Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

Recently I received a call from Clay, Alan’s brother.  Sad news.  Alan went on to be with the Lord that morning.  I cried.  Today is Alan’s funeral.  Now, I’d like to tell you a bit about my dear friend.  Alan loved the outdoors, always had.  One day, while swimming in a lake, here in Florida, he was attacked by an 11 foot alligator.  A fierce life and death battle ensued.  Alan escaped the death grip, but gator swam away with Alan’s arm.  This never slowed Alan down a bit.  Did I also mention that Alan was a genius.  He mastered computers when a computer was for the elite and rich.  He never lost his love for the outdoors and nature.


Years later, while hunting, right here in Canaveral Groves, a diamond back rattle snake hit Alan.  It was another life and death struggle.  Alan, against all odds managed to limp, crawl out of the woods.  He collapsed on a road in a coma.  We all prayed for Alan and miraculously, he came out of the coma days later.  Again, Alan “cheated death”, but always gave God the glory for bringing him back.


Then, several years later, a freak explosion nearly killed Alan.  It did not look like Alan would survive this one.  But he did.  Among his losses, his sight.  Alan’s brilliant mind went into high gear and Alan could see things with his mind.  Though he lost his sight, he never lost his vision!  


Meanwhile, his precious wife, Jenny and Cindy became friends and we all shared many precious “home-school” moments and events together.  Our kids became friends and our love and respect for Alan and his wonderful family only grew.  Alan continued to amaze us all with his attitude to live and overcome obstacles.


The phone call last Wednesday was indeed a shock.  Alan recently was stricken with a rapid, fatal form of cancer.  He followed all that was happening to the Hurston family from the hospital and rejoiced in our blessings.  Then, suddenly, he took a turn for the worse and 2 days later went to be with Jesus.  Alan is now in heaven and is completely restored.  We are sad, because we will miss Alan, but we are rejoicing that Alan is now with the Lord.  Please remember to pray for Jenny and the children during this difficult time.


Just checked on the progress of Ti Burik, our mission aircraft.  The extended range fuel tanks should be arriving for installation tomorrow.  This will be for the left wing.  The other tanks for the right wing should arrive next Monday.  I “patiently” wait.  Believe me, just as soon as that little airplane can fly, we’ll be headed back to Haiti.  


Oh, I’d love to share photos of the inside of our new home, but I can’t.  Not until the air date, February 13th.  Of course, you’ll be able to see the inside then.  The Extreme folks want the inside to be a secret until air date.  So, if you come visit us before then, NO CAMERAS and help us keep the secret.  


We are getting so COMFORTABLE in this new home.  It is just spectacular.  We have never even imagined anything like this. I must tell you, “it is like a bit of heaven on earth”.  Our Lord is so good!!  We are just so thankful to so many that made this possible.  Well, better get on with this day.  Heading out the door to the funeral.  God Bless!!


Air Mobile Joe