We visited dad last night, and he is looking much better. The nurses who are caring for him had washed and combed his hair, and given him a shave. His color was very good, and the swelling in his hands and arms is almost completely gone. His fever was down low enough (about 100.5) that they were able to turn off the cooling blanket. In addition, the CT Scan results showed no fluid, but an x-ray still showed signs of pneumonia.
During the day yesterday, they lowered dad's sedation, and he woke up and responded well to the nurses. However, he is still quite uncomfortable from the ventilator tube in his throat. For this reason they are keeping him well sedated so that he can rest, but the sedation level was down from the day prior. All signs show that he has a very healthy body (physically fit and in great shape), and they hope to ween him from the ventilator and sedation over the next few days.
As we talked to dad and read the recent comments we have received on the blog, he responded to us for the first time since Wednesday. When Melenie asked if he could hear us he nodded his head, and when she asked him to squeeze her hand he did. He was also able to lift his arms up slightly. When we read the comments from friends and loved ones, he showed a lot of emotion and shed a few tears. We know that even though he is unable to express his gratitude right now, that he greatly appreciates all of the love and support that so many are giving. We know without a doubt that your thoughts and comments are aiding him in his recovery.
6 comments:
It's great to hear of the positive progress that is taking place! It's good that he has always kept himself in such good physical condition, I'm sure that has a positive effect on his progress.
You have all been in my thoughts on this Sabbath day. My prayers have been constant in regards to your trials. It is good to hear that prayers are being heard and considered.
I once told a friend to wrap themselves in the love that surrounded them to feel the warmth that they brought, must like the comfort and warmth of an old quilt. It is eveident that there is a great outpouring of love for all of you. Wrap yourselves in it and feel of the warmth and comfort that it can bring. The love surrounds you all and if not only from family and friends, but also from our Father in Heaven. Feel the peace that it can bring. Know that you are well loved and well cared for. Know that.
I love you all, be well, thanks for the update.
grandpa, we miss you. please get well soon and hurry home. we can't wait for you to take us to the doggy park.
dj & pasta
Dear Peter,
Matt and Melenie have done a magnificent job on the internet for friends and family to keep current on your progress and allow us to travel through these mysterious wires to say "hello" and send hope that you will keep on gaining strength each day. Amy's expertise in medical terminology has simplified our understanding of your situation - we are delighted for this positive experience.
We just read today's report from Matt and wife and happy to hear that you are looking better and especially pleased to know that your big wonderful heart is working as it should.
Friday, Bill and I were in Scottsdale, looked up and there was Camelback Mountain staring back - it did appear to be a bit unhappy as it is missing your daily treks putting those hiking boots down on it's surface. If mountains could talk, this one would say, "Hurry Back Peter, I miss you!"
Bill and I will " pop-in" in another day or so and we will keep on reading the daily reports that
are so lovingly logged on your special blog.
Our love and prayers continue with so many more for your continued improvement.
Bill and Rosemarie
Pete,
My Family's prayers are with you right now. I can only hope that you have a speedy recovery. There are a lot of Minutemen praying for you. Stay Strong!
Lance Altherr
Peter; Your friends in the MCDC are thinking of you, and, as Lance wrote, praying for you.
We are getting ready for the May Muster---including some SART training (tracking). We'll fill you in when we next see you.
Take care..........Gene Cafarelli
Pete
Although we've worked on the same shift and line together, I've never had the pleaseure of standing post with you, so you may not remember me.
Any way my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
lookinf fiorward to working with you again
Hank Fields
Minuteman
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