Mark had a very good day today. He was taken off of the ventilator and has been breathing on his own very well. The IV that was in his neck was removed and a "pic" was put in his right arm through which to administer fluids and medications. He was sedated somewhat for this procedure and then needed some pain medication, so he was a little groggier this evening.
At noon, Laura and I saw him; he was quite alert and waved to us when we came in. I could see the happiness in his face as Laura came to his bedside!
Mark is being given heparin (an anti-coagulant), due to the discovery of some blood clots in his legs (in his veins - not arteries). The doctors have scheduled a
Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) for tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. to be sure that there are not any problems surrounding his heart. He will be sedated for this procedure.
Right now, visitors are limited to immediate family members, and the nurse suggested that visits be "short and sweet". That is, speak in short sentences, don't expect long conversations, tell Mark he's looking great, he's progressing well, that you love him; remind him to relax and be patient, have faith and be brave.
Positive thoughts, positive actions, prayers, love, kindness, and courage will help to keep Mark on the mend, slow but sure.
Dr. England suggested that when we visit with Mark we should stand on the left side of his bed, as this is the paralyzed side. This will cause Mark to focus more with his left eye, which will exercise his eyes, and also cause hime to use his muscles and so forth on the left side, thereby helping to strengthen is weaker side.
We will let everyone know when it is okay to visit.
Bless you all.
We love you, Mark.
Chris Ryan
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