C - Day + 4 (Monday)

6:30 pm

I decided to take most of the day off from my therapy, writing this. Instead, I focused a little on work so I'm not coming back to a pile. The world's constantly turning.

It's been a long, but successful day.

The doctor came in early this morning. He mentioned downgrading the trach as we work toward getting it out altogether. They brought in the packaging for the new trach.....it's still sitting on the counter. Need to follow up on that.

The doctor representing the plastic surgery team checked everything around 7:00 am and said all looks well. Even broached the subject of removing the drains soon, maybe in next day or two.

Jennifer walked three laps around the nurses station. That's a HUGE accomplishment. We then spoke to the dietician about continuing the tube feelings at home. It's a structured regimen. Home health care is already contacting us to make arrangements for food shipments.

Then came the occupational therapist. She was happy with the progress over the weekend. But wants more. We walked a figure eight course around the two sets of nurses stations, then sat up for an hour. An even BIGGER accomplishment. Since then, Jennifer has twice done double figure eights and a single eight around the stations. I'm afraid she's going to turn down the hall next time and just walk out of the hospital. All of these walks are of her choosing. I love her determination. That's how she landed me. ;-)

During all of this, they replaced her IV, because the back of her hand was done...not gonna take anymore. I don't blame it...that's a lot of junk going through. Now they have it in her forearm...she's much happier. Her strength is up. Her feeding has increased. She's watching tv right now, but I'm sure she'll get me up for another walk. I'd better go grab something to eat.

6:35 pm.... Doc just walked in to change the trach...bonus. Holy moly, I just saw,and helped with the trach change. Very exciting from a scientific standpoint, but very traumatic to watch Jennifer go through it. I'm sorry Jennifer...it'll get better each day.

9:45 pm.: Good news, I think. I bent down to give Jennifer a kiss and she waved her hand in front of her face indicating I have bad breath. (haven't brushed all day, and just ate barbecue and a Philly cheesesteak). I think those words are the best words I heard since "yes," "I do," and "I'm pregnant" (all came from her). I hope that's a good sign.

Glenn. Thanks for coming by. Enjoyed the visit. Thanks to all those helping out with the kids, the house, at work...neighbors, friends, family. Y'all make this so much easier.

O Saint Peregrine, you who have been called "The Wonder-Worker" because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you, who for so many years bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fiber of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more: you who were favored with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction, ask of God and Our Lady the cure of these sick persons whom we entrust to you Jennifer. Aided in this way by your powerful intercession, we shall sing praise to God for His great goodness and mercy. Amen.