July 19 - Day 35

Dean had a little parade of family, friends, and nurses for his transition out of STU to another step down unit on third floor. His former rooms in ICU and STU were like fish bowls; his current room is more like a hotel. I was a little hesitant about the move due to a new environment and less monitors with constant care. They took away the monitors that continuously displayed his heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level and breathing rate. This is his third transition within York Hospital and each move is another step of trust. It's like a parent thrilled to watch their toddler learn to walk but wanting to protect them from any fall. Since Dean has been admitted to the hospital, I've seen his ups and downs over the weeks, the importance of medical support, and the power of prayer! Each step forwards is good, but the challenge for me is not being able to communicate with him in the sense of knowing how he truly feels, what hurts, or how we can help him more. Nevertheless, I know God is with Dean and God has brought him this far. The Lord reminds me, "Trust in the Lord will all thine heart; lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:5,6) Each morning I thank the Lord for sustaining Dean through the night and I praise Him for the days together! 

Dean has been breathing on his own with the assistance of his trach collar for 64 hours! He sat in his recliner for 5 hours today and seemed relaxed! Last week when his speech therapist clicked a loud sound near his ears he didn't respond. Today Dean responded to the click by turning his head towards the right where the sound came from. Dean continues to wiggle his toes along with some involuntary movement in both legs. We saw Dean take three big yawns this evening for the first time!  With Dean's progress, the plans are for him to transition into Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation by Monday morning! The nurses and staff in every unit have been great caretakers and we are thankful for them! The Lord is our Provider and He has displayed this in many ways!



Other Entries