July 4, 2009

Gene had a good day today. He wasn't able to sit up in the chair because all the members of the lift team were not working this holiday weekend.

Dr. Bolt, one of the hospital pulmonologists spoke with Emily while she was visiting early this evening. He indicated that it was time for Dad to have his tracheotomy changed. We aren't clear exactly what that means, but it seems that may need to happen before he can be moved to Kindred.

Gene's color is good and he is spending some time each day breathing on his own with only pressure to help with his breathing. We are very hopeful that the expertise at Kindred will be able to help wean him from the ventilator. We all seem to see some movement returning to the fingers on his left hand. He is always so pleased to have visitors.

Prayer requests include continued respiratory strength, continued return of movement in his hands and fingers, and the strength to fight this battle!