Refueling

Daddy FINALLY got to "eat" today! (Though he would probably take issue with the term.) Dr. P (GI doc) gave the thumbs up at around 7:15 a.m. and a long five hours later, his first meal arrived. He started off at 20 ml of "smoothie" per hour, at 4:00 his dose was doubled and by 8:30 he was at his “goal dose” of 65 ml per hour.  His family and physical therapists are very excited to get some nutrients in him so that he can build is strength and get to work!

This morning OT had Daddy sitting up unassisted, standing for about 5 minutes (assisted), and moved him into a chair where he remained for the next 3 hours. He also got some homework exercises (though my attempted personal training session was unsuccessful because my dad is stubborn). Daddy is on the weekend therapy list so will hopefully not get any days off over the weekend. 

We saw improvement in his BP today as well. The 7am reading was 212/103 but after the nurses were finally able to administer a pill through his tube it was down to 143/89. It climbed into the 160s in the afternoon but the nurses seemed satisfied so long as it was near the 160 goal. We are optimistic that the BP will continue to stabilize now that meds can be administered through the PEG.

Dr. U (neurologist) told us the progress is good and he is referring him to an inpatient rehabilitation center, we're shooting for an early week discharge.

A few more bits of good news: Daddy should finish his last dose of mannitol  (brain swelling regulator) tonight which means he'll soon be rid of his IV, he got to chew on four tiny bits of ice, brushed his teeth unassisted and when we asked if we could borrow his car, in lieu of the typical "yeah" we got a very clear "I don't care"!! Best stated indifference ever!

Lastly, it is clear that daddy's girls are driving him nuts (truth be told he's driving us a little nuts too) so we welcome all weekend visitors (or drop him a line in the guest book so we have something to talk about!). 

#3