Ice Cream Dreams & Caviar Wishes

Well, ok, he might not be interested in caviar at the moment but Grandpa is sure pursuing his desire for ice cream. He even tried bartering with the nurse - she was trying to check his blood sugar and he said he'd trade for ice cream. He just shook his head at her each time she neared him empty-handed. Since she wasn't going to produce any ice cream for him he resorted to calling her a vampire before he let her draw some blood.

I got to spend a lot of time with Grandpa today - which was wonderful for me. He was excited to hear the news about the family, what the weather was like, and see pictures.

As far as news goes it seems like so much changes in a day, and yet not a lot changes. He stayed the entire day off of the ventilator, relying on only his own breathing for oxygen. The nurse commented that not only was that positive but that his oxygen rate has improved.

He still is having trouble swallowing - hence the hiatus on ice cream - but the speech therapist had him try some new exercises today that might help. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets his wish by the end of the week.

A few of you have asked what his days are like. Here is a quick idea, though nothing is ever set in stone:

Morning:
Visit from Dr. Alward, his pulmonary Doc. Usually around 9:00am or 10:00am.
Visit from the physical and speech therapists. Usually shortly after the Dr.
Visit with Grandma who heads over early in the morning.
Lots of rest.
Morning hygiene rituals like brushing his teeth & a sponge bath

Afternoon:
Visit from the physical and speech therapists.
Visit from Dr. Ron Stoddard (his nephew) who is a physical at UVRMC.
Usually time sitting in the chair vs. laying in bed.
Lots of rest.

Evening:
He's had great afternoon/evening nurses who keep him good company besides doing fantastic medical work.
Visit from family (whoever happens to be in town).
Lots of rest.

The time I spent with him today was the best I've had thus far. I was with him for almost two hours and he did not get tired. Usually I try to chat for 1/2 hour and then leave to let him rest, but today he was ready for some company...even if we didn't talk.

The nurse brought him in an electronic letter pad for him to use to spell out words. It is not as complex as the picture below but it serves a similar function. As he types it shows up on the back of the board so that the visitor can read what is being typed.






He tries to mouth everything he wants to say but it isn't always easy to read it. He still hasn't used the electronic letter pad - but maybe tonight we can work on getting comfortable with it. It might make it easier for him to communicate.


One of the best moments today was when he mentioned that 'out of all of this has come some good'. He then went on to say how much love he feels, especially from his family. He was so proud that all of his kids came to see him, to express their love, and to have time with him. It was neat to have a moment like that with him.

If anyone reading this wants to send a note to him, he'd love it. We read them to him multiple times a day :)


Well I need to run. My boys are about to drive Goosey crazy by asking for the millionth time if they can watch the Annie movie (it's a home movie she made showing Grandma how she made caramel popcorn). I think they are going to think we have a movie star in our presence when she comes home from NY this week!


Best to each of you!
Shelly