Wed. 7/22/09

Stats first---as of last visit BP was 84/45 (nurse said not to worry over that but I do), SPO2 at 94, which as stated, this is still great considering we are only on day 2 of breathing without the ventilator. They did put him back on the ventilator last night and again this evening. We have found out it is standard procedure to do 12 hours off then 12 hours on. He has come too far to risk a set-back, this is precautionary and routine only. HR went up to around 80 tonight but he was a bit agitated with day nurse and had more visitors than earlier, PLUS he had to put up with me trying to shave him (ha).

He actually asked at 1:30 to be shaved, said not a skin shave--"can leave some stubble". AND of course, he's hungry. 1:30 was quiet, just me and him. 4:30 he asked about shaving again and advised he has figured out what he wants to eat first, Tagalong Blizzard, Peanut Butter milkshake, ANYTHING chocolate, chocolate and chocolate. All the commercials today must have been food commercials and a lot of them about ice cream, chocolate and peanut butter. He actually wanted to know how soon after getting to Shepherd can he eat. I told him that was one question I didn't think to ask but I would put it on my list for next time I have to talk with them.

He was a bit perturbed to find out it will be Tuesday getting him transferred. He was so hoping for Friday, Saturday at the latest and had a few choice words. Got a bit down and went to saying it would be another 2 weeks at SE but I told him that Ms. Hope said first bed is available Tuesday (may be Wednesday only if they cannot get an early enough start on the transfer).

GREAT NEWS is when night nurse (Emmanuella--I hope I'm spelling that right) came in for meds and routine checks, he FELT HER TOUCHING HIS LEFT FOOT!!! It didn't last long but was thrilling enough even the nurse said "hell yeah". HE is the one that told her he could feel it and asked her to do it again. When she took his 'boot' off and tried again he said no but we all saw it the first time. Earlier Robyn had touched his left knee and it made his leg jump. The nurse said it was all a very positive sign. While Shepherd has said no one has a crystal ball and they tend to ere on caution rather than say a patient will walk again, everyone is pleased with his progress to date and no one can deny the possibility of recovery (even if it takes time). We continue to pray and we know that all of you are as well.

Shepherd is working on final pre-certification and admissions plans. They expect it to be possibly a 6 week stay. It is anticipated we will be there the first week, second week, come home for two weeks then go back for the final two weeks, that is when we ALL get that final intensive training on progress and what his needs will be upon release. They have a website that gives a 'virtual tour' should anyone wish to check it out. Very, very reputable and truly hands on with their therapy (in physical, emotional and community respects). This is the next positive step for Justin. He will have a team of specialists that only deal with 5-10 maximum patients at any given time.

He can whisper some but mainly still mouthing words (and plenty of them)--and can still get frustrated if you can't understand him BUT I certainly understood when he told me--"you suck at this", of course there was much affection when he said that (lol). Spirits seemed good, gets down slightly because he wants out of SE and on to the next level, ready to get things going and says some of the nurses there are rougher than others, hurt him when doing some of the routine things (I can't begin to imagine what it must be like for him). I just know that right now, today was a good day, real good day.

He is still in the same room in CCU and is expected to remain there until his transfer next week. I will continue to update even after the transfer and appreciate the continued prayers, concerns and support.

LT/Barton---Thanks for the letter Tuesday, he saw it on the wall and asked me to read it and immediately knew who it was from, made him laugh, especially "that's an order" part.

We continue to thank you all so very much from the bottom of our hearts and through our prayers for so much support. We love you all!!!