July 17th

Today is Saturday, July 17th - and what a difference a week makes!!

It has been two days since our last update - and they have been two very encouraging days.

There was a ICU doctor shift change - and you won't believe it - the new doctor is a polish Ukrainian!! He has a wonderful beside manner - and he has been so good with not only Dad but also with getting to know Mom.

Ok - so the update - there is much discussion around the carcinoid tumor in his abdomen. The doctors were going to wait until a Dr. Graham returned from vacation - however Dad's file has now been referred to a doctor at the Foothills who is world renowned for being a specialist with this type of tumor. Being the weekend - we really don't have any new information to report. We hope that there will be more to report early next week. Surgery still is imminent to determine the type of tumor. Not sure if there were "strings pulled" or not - but Dad was moved to a private room in the ICU. This is like a 5 star hotel for him compared to the room he was sharing with another patient.

In the rounds this morning, there was talk about possibly removing the breathing tube within the next 24-72 hours. The doctor told Margo that his lungs sounded "beautiful". Music to our ears!! The ICU nurse seems to feel that if the tube is removed - Dad would be strong enough to enjoy a few minutes of fresh air outside. Dad is not able to verbally communicate with us - but is putting the clipboard and pen to good use. His "penmanship" looks exactly like it did a year ago.

We would like you all to know that his spirits are lifting, he is enjoying his music and he continues to give us the "thumbs up" sign. As always, his strength is keeping all of us going.

You couldn't wipe the smile off of Mom's face this morning when she came into the room. Dad held his arms up for her to come and give him a hug. Unfortunately, she continues to have some pain with her knee. We had hoped she would be seeing the orthopaedic surgeon on August 15th, however, his office called and rescheduled the appointment until September 15th. We are praying she can last that long. Lots of icing and Advil.

Once again - we believe the love, prayers and support from all our friends and family are contributing to his steady recovery. We can't thank you enough!! Keep them coming!!

Love from the family.