Yes, Sir

One of Dad's wonderful respiratory therapists is a former Army medic who served in Vietnam. The first day Dad was in ICU, my sweet husband started bragging (as he always does when given a chance) to Jim about all Dad's accomplishments and his service to his country. Well, now Jim is in love with Dad. He likes to tell people how when he walks into Dad's room and calls him "sir" my Dad's eyes open right up. I've overheard him tell other staff and visitors, "this is a great man."

Well, I'm sure all of you will agree with Jim on that.

As we were getting updated on Dad today by the other wonderful respiratory therapist Amy (wonderful because she always brings me Diet Cokes!), I was reminded again how tough Dad is. His current lung x-rays show clearing in the upper third, his blood pressure is responding a little to the medication, and even though it tires him out, he's been able to work with the physical therapists. The doctor is pleased with how Dad is doing. It sounds like he's confident in Dad's recovery (though it's impossible to tell the extent of what we can expect at this point) given plenty of time.

All of our friends and family are such an integral part of Dad's recovery. Dad's brother Gene gave him a shave yesterday (I know he loved that!). And today my Aunt Jimmie (Mom's sister) and Uncle Jerry called while I was visiting him and I held up the phone so Jerry could talk to him. As soon as Dad heard his voice, his eyes opened wide and his eyebrows shot up! My friend Emmy (a doctor of physical therapy herself) visited with me today and she gave Dad a good massage on both arms to ease some of the puffiness he's been experiencing. And of course I read him the latest e-mails and comments from this blog. I know your thoughts and prayers are such an encouragement to him (as they are to our family!).