Dad looked so good today. When they first took him into the ICU they had him on a BiPAP machine so he wouldn't have to work so hard to breathe and were concerned about having to put him back on the ventilator. But now he is breathing so well they have taken away the BiPAP and he is just getting a little extra oxygen to help out.
Because he was doing so well, Dad had his first real physical therapy session today. He was able to squeeze the therapist's hand twice with his right hand (after the first squeeze, the therapist said "if you only do it once, how will I know if it's on purpose?" so he did it again!). That is a first. He was also able to move his left hand a little (also a first and really amazing since from all appearances that hand was looking like he wouldn't get use out of it again!). The therapist had him wiggle his toes and then got Dad to sit up on the edge of the bed (propped up, but still this is the first time his feet have been on the floor in three weeks!). He was looking pretty tired and they didn't want to overwork him, so they laid him back down, but after a few minutes' rest the therapist asked if he wanted to try sitting up again and he nodded yes. It was a tiring session but wonderful. I was so glad I was there to see it (and help out by holding some of his tubes :) !).
Dad seems to be making a little improvement every day. This is huge. He was able to track with his eyes (the neurologist was concerned before when he would turn his head to look at someone instead of just moving his eyes) and is able to nod and shake his head again. He also seems to be able to open and close his mouth and swallow a little bit. It seems hopeful that he will be able to go off "nose food" at some point (though it's not bad -- the nurse at Jordan Valley let me taste it before and it tastes like soy milk).
Please pray for continued healing from the pneumonia and for increased strength as they get him up and moving more. The physical therapist said tomorrow they're going to get him on the tilt board so he can be "standing" again!
Sorry for all the !s, but it's been a very ! day. :)
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2 comments:
Dear Leo, Teddie, and family,
For three weeks, my lips have spoken your name so often before the Lord. I am so glad you made it through that crisis yesterday. Now my prayer is that God would heal you from your pneumonia and all other problems you face in ICU, from the crown of your head to the sole of your feet. Jesus is more than able and this is my constant prayer. Many in our IWD District are praying as well for you, Leo. They remember with much thanks your faithful service to us all as our past IWD Chairman. As you keep up the fight, remember to battle in the strength of the Lord, for the battle is the Lord's. I love you so so so so so much!
Pastor Rich Carlson, Supt. IWD
PRAISE the Lord for this wonderful day!!!! I just know he will be at my wedding!!! We love y'all and your are each in our prayers and thoughts!!! God is always good and always faithful!!!
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