The Speech Therapist put in a different trachea cover and I heard Paul's voice for the first time in three weeks! It was just above a whisper, but he talked! I cried with joy at hearing him say "I love you more than you can ever know" Tonight they had to switch him back to the regular trachea cover so he can cough up the yucky stuff, but it doesn't matter.... I got to hear his voice!
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| The little purple trachea plug that allows Paul to talk! |
The day continued to be an exciting and busy day. Physical Therapy had Paul walk around the room, he was up in a chair three times and the wonderful Nurses and Respiratory Technician made sure that Paul got outside for his weekly fresh air and sunshine therapy! Paul doesn't want to bother them with the chore of getting him outside, but they all assured him that they enjoy the break in their daily routine and the fresh air does them good too!
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| Leaving ICU and making an escape for the great outdoors. |
We continue to give thanks for the nurses, therapist, patient technicians, doctors and so many others who contribute in the daily care that Paul requires. They have all been amazing on so many different levels. I don't think they will ever know how much we appreciate their hard work and dedication to their chosen field.
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| Enjoying a breath of fresh air with a couple of great nurses! |
It has been a great day with so many more accomplishments then I could have imagined. Today I had moments of "Happy tears" His morning bronchoscope went well, his chest x-ray didn't get worse, his blood work continues to improve, they removed another antibiotic and his vital organs are functioning the way they are suppose to be functioning. His heart continues to flip flop in crazy rhythm's, but that is treatable with medication and can still be a side effect of the trauma his body went through with having four surgeries in as many weeks.
On Saturday, we reach Day 40 in ICU. But you know what? It doesn't matter.... I got to hear his voice. All is okay in my world. I got to hear him say "I love you" one more time. Lesson learned.... never, ever, ever take it for granted when someone says "I love you" You never know if it will be the last time you get to hear it!
To all our wonderful friends, family and loved ones, thank you for all the expressions of love and encouragements.
Jo
Life is only traveled once.
Today's moment becomes tomorrow's memory.
Enjoy every moment, good or bad, because the gift of life is LIFE itself!
That is so wonderful Jo! I hope Paul keeps improving now! Sounds like he is now making tremendous progress! Will keep you both in our thoughts and prayers!
ReplyDeleteThis is great news and I agree--we never know when THIS time, this moment, could be the last. I try to find the positive in hand life sometimes deals to us and I think the lesson I will take away from all of this is how quickly things can change and not to miss opportunities when they are before us. Also--I am in awe of the sheer determination the two of you continue to show each day, and the gratitude and appreciation you reflect back onto those who love you. You not only take strength--you GIVE IT TOO--when Paul is able to write directly on this blog...it is truly joyful to read.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you both and continued healing thoughts and prayers!
Much love,
Pennie and Robin
Thank you God!! Love you Both!
ReplyDeleteToni, Gerald, Shell and Beth
The sound of Paul's voice must have been music to your ears..
ReplyDeleteLord ,thank You for the dawn of another day. We often take the gift of time for granted. We know the saying no one is promised tomorrow.Since no is is promised today either, help us to live with gratitude for all that we have been given. Give us a loving heart so that we may always be grateful for Your good gifts,The gifts of our family, their love and the courage and strength to face each new challenge. Thank you Lord, for the greatest gift of all the gift of Life.Amen
Our prayers continue for you and Paul,, We Love you, May God Shower you and Paul with His wonderful and loving Blessings.. Toni and Bill
What a great moment that must've been! Like hearing " I love you" for the first time! Soooo happy to hear of the progress Paul is making! Yay!!
ReplyDeleteTer
Baby steps are wonderful. Remember when you first heard your children
ReplyDeletesay their first word. Well, this may surpass that moment. We love you both. Paul, we all enjoy when you "blog" too. Sending you both a big hug.
All our love, prayers and hugs
Bob and Karen
This post brought tears of joy and prayers of thanks as well as prayers for continuing progress, even if they're only baby steps! MUCH love to both of you. Jeannie XOXO
ReplyDeleteWhat a joy to hear of these recent wonderful improvements. Jo, you are a masterful writer who makes the difficult journey you guys are on so personal and helps as feel like we're right there with you. Be assured of our nightly prayers. We're following your progress. Our love and prayers, Kathy & George
ReplyDelete