Monday

Today was another good day for Marty; he is doing well with both the trach and the PEG tube.  The team of physiotherapists came by this afternoon and had him sitting up on the edge of his bed.  They went through a variety of exercises with Marty, including lifting his legs one at a time, leaning on his elbows towards his left and right side and then going back into a sitting position using his arms and his stomach muscles.
   
The neurologist stopped by again today and was very encouraged by Marty's progress.  He was taken off the ventilator, although he is still receiving a minimal amount of oxygen.  Early this morning they restarted Marty's feeds, using the newly inserted PEG.

Verbal communication with Marty is still somewhat limited.  Marty does mouth words to us, but because there is no air passing through his vocal cords, no sound comes out!  Marty is very patient with us as we work on improving our "lip reading" skills ...!  On several occasions today, he scribbled down a question and an answer for us on his clipboard.  Though he does not complain, he does upon questioning, indicate to us that the trach tube is somewhat irritating ... though not nearly as bothersome as the intubation tube was. 

He looked peaceful and content when we left him this evening and we rest assured of our heavenly Father's protection over him.    

Psalm 33: 20-22

      "We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. 

In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, 

O LORD, even as we put our hope in you."

Amanda and Mom