The Fire Swamp

In the novel/film The Princess Bride the hero and heroine must face dangers in the Fire Swamp. It's a place full of enormous rodents, flames that spurt from the ground and patches of "snow sand" (kind of like quicksand) that no one is known to have made it through alive. After being bitten, set on fire, and nearly drowned within the first few minutes, the hero observes that the rest of their journey will be easier because, though they will still have to travel through the swamp, the experiences they've had have given them knowledge about the way things work in the swamp that will help them get through.

On December 3rd, Dad entered the Fire Swamp. And though he hasn't made it out yet, each day offers more information on how to get through. One example: the doctor wants Dad to have some time off the BiPAP because breathing on his own will help Dad's lungs clear and get stronger. But it's been a delicate balance finding the right amount of time that exercises his lungs without tiring him out too much.

Dad was pretty tired today. He was awake for almost the entire day yesterday, dealing with the on/off BiPAP issue and then having physical therapy for the first time in several days this morning. But his blood pressure continues to respond to medication, his lungs are clearing, and he's moving more each day.

And it is an unbelievable joy to know now that when he's awake he's "awake." Even days like today when he's so tired he doesn't seem to be able to respond, he always manages to give a nod or a squeeze of the hand to let you know he's with you. It amazes me every time. Every nod is like a little gift.

Speaking of gifts, your comments and e-mails continue to bless us all. Thank you all so much.

Note: Sorry for the delay in getting this posted (as you can see from the time stamp, I've been trying since last night!). Computer issues prevented me from getting connected online.