What a day.
Ben started the day on the ventilator and ended the day with a walk out into the hallway and back. In between a great number of, and number of great, things took place.
Tubes removed: breathing tube; two of three chest tubes; ng tube; catheter
Medications stopped: well, quite a few, I've lost track, but he gave up some of the heavy-duty ones that were keeping him so sleepy.
Path toward food: he has been able to take clear liquids. He wants a Whopper with cheese and french fries.
Movement: He has gotten up twice, the first time to sit in the chair, the second time to take his walk. Other than that he is moving himself around in bed and returning to his feisty, insistent self.
Sleep: He was exhausted at evening's end. They are having him sleep with the BiPAP machine tonight, mostly as a continued support for his healing lungs/breathing. He's not fighting it as much this time around.
Gma & gpa L visited today, and so did Pastor Audrey bringing a lovely card signed by much of the Highland Avenue congregation. Kim returned home tonight and will get back to work tomorrow. I will continue to stay at the hospital and Ronald McDonald House for the rest of this week. (Did I mention that the boiler went out at RMH, and that we only had frigid water this morning? Note says it will be fixed - tomorrow!)
No word yet on going home (everybody's just so thrilled about his progress!), but it would seem like maybe at or around the weekend might be possible if he continues his "meteoric rise" from today.
Thanks for the prayers that gave Ben new breath and rejuvenated life today and have sustained us with the Holy Spirit through these trying two weeks.
So pleased to hear of Ben's fabulous return to health and wholeness. Be sure to tell him that there's a burger and fries waiting for him at Burger King or Red Robin - his choice, when he is up to it. Scott D.
ReplyDeleteAm thrilled to hear of Ben's progress today!! Have thought so much about you and your family the past few days. Take care of yourself as much as you are able. Your family will still need you when Ben comes home from the hospital. Be well.
ReplyDeleteWhat joyous news! Thank you for continuing to share Ben's journey of healing with all of us who are so far away. It's so good to hear the stories of how God is at work in the midst of our many prayers for him and for all of your family. I hope you continue to feel the embrace of the Holy One in each expression of love.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and peace to you all.