Wednesday, November 13, 2013 9:45pm

CHANGES AHEAD

Tuesday turned out to be a good day for John.  He was more alert and engaged.  Fred Davis, a good friend, stayed with him in the morning while Amy went with me to a doctor's appointment.  Upon our return he was moving his mouth some and making a bit of audible sound.  He managed to sit on the side of the bed supported entirely by the physical therapists for a longer period of time - and bounced his right foot as it rested on the ground!  Still little response or strength from his arms and neck/head.
The central IV line was removed - only one IV left to administer antibiotics. 

We have been told repeatedly that there will be constant ups and downs for a long time.  Today John seemed to have little energy after yesterday's work.  He slept through the morning.  However, in the afternoon the therapist really got him working and we saw glimmers of progress.  He really seemed aware that this is work that he has to do - and the blood pressure did not go as high.  In late afternoon his feeding tube was removed from his nose and a feeding port was inserted in his stomach.  This will be safer and more effective for the weeks ahead.

But change is ahead - tomorrow John will be moved to Select Specialty Hospital, a step down in acute care.  This is a separate hospital within St. Joseph's which will specialize in weaning people off the ventilator and still provide the less acute care that John needs.  He will also receive daily PT and OT care.  Please pray that this will be a smooth transition for him.