Apologies for the delay in an update! A lot has happened in a short period of time so I'm going to do my best to update you. After arriving at the acute long-term care facility in Saint Paul, Dad was still having his sedation adjusted and suffering from some of the cognitive side effects of extended sedation. Over the past couple of weeks, we've seen a lot of progress. When I went to visit him last Friday, for example, he was able to recall the Thursday night football game, and we commiserated about how lucky the stupid Packers got on the stupid last play of the stupid game. Even his deadpan facetious humor made an appearance when the topic of finding a vein came up with the nurse and he said, "Oh, yeah, that's where I inject my heroin!" (Apparently, he's become pretty popular with the staff.) Since that visit, he's returned to himself more and more with each passing day. I was surprised this evening to see he was calling me! We chatted for a while and he even got to talk to Caden and Gunnar who had not spoken to him since August. 

Physically, his breathing continues to improve and they've been able to remove the tracheostomy. The incision should heal over the next few days. One of our initial concerns was that he'd be dependent on the trach for an extended period, so we're thrilled to hear this! While I visited him last week, I got to see him work with his occupational therapist. He's bringing his sisu spirit to his rehab, but it will take time to rebuild his strength after having been inactive for so long. My mom went to visit earlier in the week and he's now able to get around his room with the assistance of a walker. His progress has really been incredible. 

If things continue to go well, he could transition to a long-term care facility as soon as next week. We're hoping we can get him to a place closer to home, making it easier for family and (eventually) friends to visit. We're so grateful for all of your support and feel incredibly lucky to still have him with us. 

Finally, you may have noticed that the GoFundMe was deactivated. Thanks to those who provided so generously. My mom has asked me to share the following message:

Yours,

Erik