June 2 - afternoon visit

Dad's baby sister, Mary, and her daughter, Lynda, along with Emily, Russ, and Lynn visited this afternoon.

Mary thinks that Dad will be OK but that he may have a long time of recovery. He was so delighted to see her and smiled when she said "Now Honey."

Russ spent a good bit of time talking to Dad about what the doctors have said about his breathing, and his physical therapy. Mary was able to help read Dad's lips, and really helped with communication.

His ventilator is being used primarily to support his breathing - it is not breathing for him. It has a higher level of oxygen than room air and supports his breathing with some pressure like the C-Pap machine for people who have sleep apnea. But we are very pleased that he is mostly breathing on his own.

Today the doctor said that the physical therapists will work with Dad on sitting up and increasing his range of motion. Last night while Alan was holding onto his left foot, he moved his toes! He says that he can feel us holding his feet and hands. We are very optimistic that he will continue to make good progress.

Please keep Gene in your prayers for courage for the rehabilitation journey ahead and for healing.