Nathan and Monica updates

Nathan has been in good spirits given the fact that he can't wait to get his trach out! That is supposed to happen today because he has been able to show progress in lung capacity as well as ability to cough on his own without assistance and without the need for suction for over a week now. He did have a scare about a week and a half ago when a mucus plug blocked his airway which is why the doctors decided to keep the trach in for a bit longer. But now he is looking good and that means that we will be able to take him outside for the first time in over 2 months!!!! He is ecstatic to say the least.

Nathan is also open for visitors in the evening hours and since he is technically on the peds floor, visitors are allowed to stay longer than 8 pm. So feel free to visit him! He mostly has PT and OT from the 8a-4pm timeframes. Yes---they do work him hard!!! But he is getting stronger and his appetite is improving as well. A special "thanks" to Nathan's teacher Bruce Feldman who has been a rock for Nathan and such an awesome support. He loved seeing you and keeps on saying how "Mr. Feldman is so awesome. He's really cool." Thank you for being so great to him.

Mom is still at Holy Family Rehabilitation Center in Park Ridge. She has been breathing on her own and will remain trached from now on. But the good news is - she has remained stable for the past few weeks and has only had a couple of spouts of laborious breathing. Otherwise, she seems content for the most part. I did see her today again and was happy to see her more awake than she has been. It has been rare to see her eyes open and for so long. It was especially wonderful that Colette was able to see her as well as obviously my mom loved her as a second daughter growing up and would be kissing Colette's face all over if she was able. What a gift that they were able to see each other in such a good light.

Mom can have visitors as well from 10-8 daily. Although they haven't really kicked us out! :) She is in room 239 and is again at Holy Family Rehab Center on Dempster Rd. in Park Ridge right down the street from Luthern General Hospital. If anyone has any questions, please feel free to email me.

Thanks for the continued prayers and support!