July 6, 2009

Gene moved from the Erlanger Intermediate Care Unit to Kindred Hospital.

This morning Emily and Frances visited him. Jim West from Gideons, and Dr. Carver, their minister, visited him as well. He sat up in his chair from 10 this morning until noon. His visitors spoke with him and reminisced with him. Gene clearly enjoyed their company and their prayers.

Dr. Claxton reviewed his chart and confirmed that his team of physicians were in accord that he was strong enough to move. Russ, Steve, and Emily have all spoken with Gene about Kindred and he was eager to go. By noon, it was clear that the move was going to happen in a short time. Emily was able to ride in the ambulance with him for the move. After they arrived at Kindred, and Gene was in his room, Emily was asked to go to a waiting area while they did the intake procedures. It was about an hour before she was able to go back to the room with him. The move wore him out! He was very tired, but expressed that he was glad to be moved.

His room is large and well lit. They have already set up a cot for Emily, and she plans to spend several nights there at the beginning of his stay. The respiratory therapist spoke with Emily and indicated that the work toward weaning him from the ventilator would be the first order of business. This of course will include therapy to help him regain overall body strength.

Prayer requests:
Please pray for Gene to have an easy transition to the new facility, for his respiratory strength to continue to improve, and for him to continue to have increased strength and movement in his hands and fingers as well as his whole body.