Seems Doug’s really turned a corner! That portal vein stent has made an immediate change in his progress allowing for increased blood flow to his organs & boy does the brain like that! BP has been better since the procedure as well… he has the energy to willingly work with PT & OT. He also had fluid drained off the abdominal cavity thru pericentisis- really lightening the load his body was carrying. Finally, due to an appetite stimulant, he’s starting to eat more.

We are working on getting into the chair 3 times a day especially for meals- celebrating that he’s able to sit in the chair for 3 hours at a time. Also he’s staying awake for a greater portion of the day now…

He’s able to turn himself in the bed now & next goal is sitting up on side of bed then transferring to chair as well as walking on his own- I’m expecting that will be the big wins this coming week. Once he’s able to get around & take care of his personal needs- he’ll be on his way!!

Dialysis still on the schedule 3 times a week until the kidneys decide to work again… this is the major “medical” aspect of this journey now.

My brother was able to make an impromptu visit this weekend- it was great to see him!

We also got to break out onto the balcony for some fresh air - loved the smell of the rain! It was just too cool to stay too long.

Other things of note- attending church online brings a taste of home into the hospital room- & a FaceTime visit with our 4 kids really perked this proud papa up.

Joy in the Journey,

Ginger