Update Monday Morning (10/1/07)

I spoke with the new day nurse, Greg. I spoke with him on the phone today without pen and paper, so I hope this is accurate. His update included the following:

The MRI to look more closely at my father's neck is scheduled currently for noon.

They will be moving him to a new bed which will allow a rolling motion, beneficial for quicker recovery of his lungs (and the fluid within the chest cavity), among other things.

His respiration is low currently and they are continuing to address that.

They are boosting necessary mineral supplements for those he is low in (potassium, calcium, and more).

They are going to put him back on sedatives even though his has shown response to pain stimulus.

The dysrhythmia has stabilized due to the medication they gave yesterday.

Today will be a busy day for him.

Several people have asked how I am doing, so I wanted to respond en masse. I am doing very well thanks in large part to all the support I've been receiving. I am clear that my life is in good shape and that the trials I have to deal with are so trivial compared to what my father is going through. This has, in fact, inspired me in many ways for my own good. I also find tremendous courage due to the understanding I've gained from the staff at Thomason Hospital. I'm clear with all the issues on hand as well as their plans to address them. I've watched their steady prioritizing of issues. Their professionalism and compassion have given me the utmost confidence in their ability to care for my father. That gives me tremendous peace.

Thanks again to all concerned.

p.s. I was given some guidance regarding the photos I posted online yesterday and have, since then, made them viewable by family and close friends only. If you are unable to view them, please contact me.