Welcome to Tom's CaringBridge website. We wanted to provide an update to you on Tom Paterson; the man we love and so admire. A number of you know Tom has been in the ICU for the last couple of weeks. He initially came to the hospital with an infection, and given his age (he's 94, of course) this led to challenges breathing and his body wasn't recovering.
A week or so ago they intubated Tom and he has been on a ventilator since then. For a number of days, he was heavily sedated and unable to really communicate. But he came off the sedation and has been much more alert. His family and loved ones have been with him at all times, which has really lifted his spirits.
Tom has slowly been getting better, becoming much more alert and able to communicate through the squeezing of a hand or the mouthing of a word. Even in his intubated state, he uses all his energy to tell the person visiting that he loves them. Tom's desire and ability to keep fighting for life has left many of the doctors and nurses speechless. They told us at one point they've never seen anything like it. Even in these moments, Tom continues to inspire us all.
Tom is due to get a tracheotomy soon, which will ultimately be much more comfortable for Tom and allow him to communicate.
We will be sure to keep you updated on his progress on this site. Your prayers are very much appreciated and felt by Tom and the family.
