July 17, 2009

Gene had another difficult day with his respiration today.
He had made some amazing progress, so it's disappointing that he has suffered this setback, but the family holds on to the caution of one of his doctors who said to expect to have some setbacks along the way.

Emily was at the hospital earlier today and thought that he seemed very tired and weak, and he is still on a higher setting for his C-Pap. She thought it would be best if she spent the night with him tonight, something she hasn't done for the last several nights.

Mollie Blue, Emily and Gene's wonderful little companion dog of 16 years died today. She was buried in a grave that Patrick, their grandson, had prepared for her. Emily has chosen not to tell Gene today, but will let him know as soon as he grows a bit stronger. I know they will miss her, as will all of the family who remember her.

Prayer requests:
Please pray for Gene's respiration to stabilize so that he can begin working on weaning progress again and for the pressure sore on his lower back to begin to heal. Pray for Emily to have the strength she needs over these next days and weeks.