The gravity of this news, of those words hasn’t truly sunk in for me personally yet. Even though I gave my father-in-law the biggest hug, ate dinner with him and caught myself starring at him all night, it truly hasn’t sunk in that he is back to every day life. The magnitude of where Doug was just ten days ago compared to where he is now is not lost on us. 

We truly cannot give enough praise, thanks, adoration and gratitude to the doctors, nurses and all the staff at Abbott Northwestern Hospital as well as Cuyuna Regional Medical Center; every decision helped to bring him home — which wasn’t looking likely just ten short days ago. Having such a compassionate care team has meant so much to this family — especially during this pandemic. 

To our family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, prayer warriors and everyone I lovingly refer to as “Doug’s Fight Squad:” he is sitting in his new fancy chair at home because of you! Your love, words of encouragement and prayers were sent to Doug, and up above .. and boy were they heard!!! I have always believed in miracles and knew with all my heart that they happen; I’ve read books about near-death experiences but never have been so close to one in the works. Doug was not ready to go yet; he’s got more life to live with all of us and he was given more time! 

Doug’s health is overall very good! 

- his kidney function has been improving every day 

- he is walking around well with only slight help from a walker 

- he will have occupational and physical therapists visit in-home