More Ups and Downs

Hello again,

I'd have to say that Timmy had a pretty good day today. He was put back on the ventilator because he wasn't pushing out the CO2 properly, but later in the day seemed to be breathing fine. The doctor said that Tim wasn't competent to make any complex decisions - I can see how he would say that - but Tim sure seemed competent. He was answering questions yes and no and seemed to understand what was going on. Whether or not he does understand remains to be seen.

I was being pretty optimistic and the doctor cautioned me, stating he was 'cautiously optimistic.' I'm really trying not to get my hopes up too high, but it's hard when I see him respond as he has.

I got a call from a friend of mine today who said that another friend called and asked, 'how's Lazarus doing?' (Did you get that?)

Rosemary Douglas has been a tremendous help, as have all the wonderful staff at Foothill Independent Bank. They are a compassionate, hardworking bunch and I thank God that my brother has such friends.

What's next? The doctor (a really nice guy named Dr. Sivjee) said that Timmy will be staying in the CCU until he is able to breath without a ventilator. Then, he will move to another floor or another facility. It appears, however, that this may be a ways off. He would then go to some kind of rehab center. And then...who knows.

The one person that can help things now is Timmy. He has to have the will to live and his body must work to repair the damage that has been done. With this in mind, please continue to check this site and leave comments for his encouragement. I did print the comments from yesterday and read them to him. He reacted to most of them by smiling or nodding. I'm sure it would be easy for one to become very lonely and despondent in that room. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

I am going back to Texas tomorrow, but will be keeping this blog up-to-date with writings about Tim and whatever else.

mark