Gene continues to be at Erlanger in the Intermediate Care Unit for the time being. He has battled pneumonia, diarrhea, weight loss, and muscle mass loss. He is an inspiration for all of those who encounter him. He is patient, and sweet, and is working hard on the tasks that he is given.
Thank you for your continued prayers. His respiration continues to improve, with a set-back here and there. He spends a part of every day sitting in a special chair with the ventilator turned off. The objective is to wean him from his dependence on the ventilator. Some days he is able to go for long periods of time - four and a half hours or so, other days he doesn't go as long. He also works with the physical therapist.
Gene will be transferred to Kindred Hospital in Chattanooga as soon as the doctors at Erlanger deem it safe for him to go. There was a possibility for that happening early last week, but he had an incident with low blood pressure that made the doctors want to keep him for a bit longer. We are eagerly anticipating his move to Kindred, where there will be a focus on physical therapy and ventilator weaning.
Continue to pray for Gene's respiration to improve, his movement to continue to recover - particularly in his hands and fingers, and for him to have the courage and strength to face the challenges that lie ahead of him.
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Hope he continues to do well. You are right he is an inspiration. He never complains and always has a smile!
ReplyDeleteLynn, we are so glad to hear of Gene's progress. Please give him our regards and tell him that everyone at Kiwanis is praying for him.
ReplyDeleteLawrence and Barbara Tuck
Middlesboro Kiwanis and friend
Lynn, we are so happy to hear of Gene's progress. Please tell him that he has the prayers of his friends at Kiwanis. We are always talking about him and his cheerful smile.
ReplyDeleteBarbara and Lawrence Tuck