Hump Day!

Which has taken on a whole new meaning...

However, it's always been a good thing, and today was no exception!

Dad was a lot more alert today than he has been in weeks. He had his eyes open for quite a while and was trying to focus and respond to questions and seemed like he had a few of his own. Unfortunately, he can't speak because of the trach. We'll get there.

I got a half a kiss - mom would have never married him on its merits but it was good none the less! He also raised his eyebrows to show expression - this is beautiful to see because it is so familiar (Raised eyebrows? Hmmm, he is skeptical but willing to consider you might be saying something intelligent...He'll crush you later after he's lulled you into believing you might be right. Ha!)

He was breathing on his own for at least an hour today and was at it again when I left this afternoon. Yesterday, they were able to drain 1300 cc's of fluid from "somewhere" in that belly. I stay away from any hard facts. I'm in charge of music and trying to get him to kiss us. When he is better I will add food and perhaps ambiance. I don't know anything about his BUN or his "peep". I swear.

In an effort to keep it real for you, here is the analogy they are handing out. The doctors compare him to a burn victim. They are working to keep him stable and they are succeeding, however, he is still "on fire". Lots of inflammation. Still burning...we get it. I think he must be down to ember stage by now?!

He will have a lot of work to do in recovery but the physical therapist was around today and chomping at the bit to get back to him. He'll be ready.

The fact that he is still with us is truly a miracle of faith and determination. I have no doubt the doctors and nurses will be talking about the miracle that is "Al Porreca", many years from now. And they will also speak about my mom(they love her), who has been there every day. Every day for 72 days. As many days as he is years young. Smiling and hopeful and waiting patiently for him to get the hell up!!!!!!!

Today we heard (AGAIN!) the word progress. Slow, but progress. He's like watching grass grow. On that note, a quote...

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Peace...michelle