March 27 & 28, 2010 - Improvement and a Move Up

Saturday, March 27th, was a better day. In addition to the Mountaineer win over Kentucky - good on 'em - Dad came back off the ventilator early Saturday morning.

• After about 48 hours on the ventilator, this was a good sign
• Dad's vital signs were all in good shape, including the abatement of the fever that was reported the previous day.
• We were told that he's on the list to move to Select Specialty Hospital at Montefiore, which could happen Monday.
• This is good news in that he has been deemed well enough to leave the TICU.
• We enjoyed watching the second half WVU-UK game with Dad. He wasn't too plugged in to the game, but it was still a real treat - very cool win.
• The speaking valve was on most of the day, but Dad did not have much to say.
  

Sunday was a better day, still. Dad was up in a chair when we arrived and stayed up until his move out of TICU late in the afternoon.

• Dad's been off the vent for 36+ hours and is breathing well on his own (with oxygen assist via the trach mask).
• Vital signs are strong and steady, with no sign of fever.
• The results of the bronchoscope showed signs of bacteria in his lungs, but there is no sign any related infection - white counts normal, no fever, etc. The doctors did clean up a congested area in Dad's upper respiratory system.
• His speaking valve - PMV - was on all day. Very little to say and not in good humor.
  
• Late in the afternoon, Dad was moved out of TICU to the 12th floor of Presby, Room 1229, which is one of three trauma/surgical step down units in the hospital.
• We were told that he's in line to move to Select, but that we wouldn't know anything definitive until Monday morning. As soon as he makes the next move, I will post an update.

Thank you, all of you, for your prayers, expressions of support and encouragement, and warm thoughts. They are a source of comfort for all. Please continue to pray for Dad's complete recovery, along with his peace of mind with his situation. Pray for Mom and Dad to have strength and peace throughout their current trials.