Finally, some good news

By John

I really wanted to post some great news yesterday that Dad was off the machines, but it didn't come to be. However, all those tests that were put off until today (Monday) were actually ran yesterday. Sat. overnight, the hospital staff was able to start backing off the heart pump. Consequently, Dad stabilized enough to run the tests yesterday. The doctors learned that the damage to Dad's heart was not as extensive as feared. In fact, his heart is in really good shape considering its ordeal. They tribute Dad's presence of mind to call 911 himself from the side of the highway, and the quick treatment at the first hospital.

The plan yesterday afternoon was to take him off the heart pump and then remove the ventilator later that evening. Well, he's off the heart pump!!! However, the doctors later chose to wait until this morning to take him off the ventilator. Having a tube crammed down your throat isn't the most pleasant experience. It is common to have a lot of coughing and phlegm when the tube is removed. All of this is exacerbated by laying down. Dad wouldn't have rested very well if he was coughing all night. So, they decided to wait until this morning when Dad would be sitting up. The plan is to have him out of the hospital by then end of the week.

Dana, and her family, is finally cheerful again; you can hear it in their voices. There is still a lot of reason to be concerned over then next several months, but it looks very good for Dad! And that is good for all of us!