Sorry I didn't update the blog last night. There is good news from Atlanta.
Yesterday late afternoon, Dana was moved out of the ICU to the second floor Room 217, which he will share (4 people in the room). Think of it as a dorm room at college. He actually has more space in room 217 than he did in ICU. ICU was pretty tight quarters. The real significance of the move to 217 is tomorrow (Monday 9/17) will begin Dana's first week in rehab.
We understand that tomorrow will be all about setting up the plan for the first week. Dana will meet with the crew here to find out what his schedule will be and will start slowly (an hour each with the physical therapist and the occupational therapist). The second week will kick in to a full day schedule from about 9:00 to 4:00 each day.
Last night Court and I took Dana for a ride around the second floor (as far as we could go until we have more clearance) . He had a chance to see one of the physical therapy rooms (there are many). First thing that Dana asked was whether there were any bicycles to ride in rehab. Of course the answer is yes. Shepard's also has a fabulous pool which no doubt Dana will use during his stay here.
Dana is looking forward to this first rehab week and is in very good spirits. Other than a case of hiccups for the last few days (intermitent - which are really annoying to him), he is doing very well. He is eating well (and able to feed himself for the most part)! He his trying to load up on fluids (so he can get rid of the IV). Yesterday he sat up in the chair for 12 hours. Hurray! His trach tube was stepped down in size and capped, so we are able to talk with him. His voice gets stronger each day.
Now that we don't have to read lips anymore, we have had great conversations with Dana. He asked me to send his love to everyone and said he is so lucky and thankful to have all of you cheering him on every step of the way. So toward that end, now, more than ever, please keep the positive thoughts, cards, etc. flowing.
I'm headed back to 217 (he is up in the chair). Court is planning on shopping for a few things for Dana. He can wear cloths now (but we didn't bring any - hence the shopping trip) . Kind of like the first day of school and guess we were a little unprepared! Actually a big thanks to Mike P. from Dana for the Cowboy t-shirts. He is wearing one right now! Good thing we brought them.
That is it for now. Over and out from ATL!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
9 comments:
This is great news!! Glad to here things are moving ahead! Dana is still very much in our thoughts and prayers! Can you leave a mailing address for the new hospital?
More good news!!! We are looking forward to Danas first week in rehab too....and with his determination, we know he will do well. Lots of positive thoughts and energy from us. Court and Dana, you are forever in our thoughts and prayers. Dana, stay as strong and determined as can. We know you can do it!!!!
The valley people
TO room 217 and DANA...Way to go Dane! OF COURSE you would ask about bikes at the Center! (We're trying to be surprised here.) COURTNEY, your MOM, Rick, your best friend Dave, sister Jessy, your mother-in-law Susan, and 'sis Brit have set the pace well for you as you know...now you can set the pace and 'kick it up a notch', smile! Which again, we will try to act surprised when you've reached your goals, and look for new ones. Uh huh.
Love and Hugs for now...
Aunt Judy and Uncle Terry
Dana and Family,
We follow everyday and are really glad you are doing so well. Keep up the good work and you will be better in no time. We were looking at old pictures and found one of the old Drake days in Little League. Anyways keep working hard and all will be fine. With many wishes and prayers. From HHS to ATL good luck and god bless you.
Manwaring's
I am so glad that Dana is doing better. He has so much support back home. The staff at Bethan Village are rooting for him and so are we. Dan work your tail off so you can come home. We are praying for you
God Bless
becky
This is becky again. My last post didn't turn out right. I meant the staff at Bethany Village not Bethan and I meant Dana not Dan.
prayers to all
becky
The news is great!!! I hope things continue to improve. You are always in my thoughts my friend.
Saket d.
All your friends here at Surgical ICU at Albany Med are thrilled to hear everything is going well. We think of all you often. Keep up the good work!
Just incredible news day after day - way to go Dana! We read the word "spirit" several times in the blog - it means EVERYTHING - keep it up! Our thoughts and prayers are with all!
Doug, Lisa, Jeff, Kev, Ethan, and Johnny!
Post a Comment