(From Mary)

We serve a Mighty God!

Steve, the Superman!
Steve was admitted to the hospital (in Winona) on May 9th for bacterial pneumonia.  Later that weekend, he was admitted to ICU for more aggressive treatment. He continued to struggle, so they had us call in the family before flying him to Mpls VA.  

 In the morning, the Pulmonologist gave us a choice. “Treat aggressively or keep him comfortable.”  He took an hour consulting with us to lay out what was ahead for Steve. We said Steve is a fighter and has a lot to live for.

In a couple days, they tried a procedure to push saline down into his lungs and then suck it back out. They did this 2 days in a row. Suddenly, things began improving. When Steve was  extubated, Steve started to ask all the doctors and nurses who cared for him: “where did you go to college, where was your residency (Chicago of course!), how many kids do you have”... on and on! The Pulmonologist told me: “You didn’t tell me what a character your husband is!”

Several days later, he was transferred to a medical floor. He was there for over a week. On the day after Memorial Day, he decided to get up and walk all the way around the nurses station (about a block) without oxygen! Everyone was amazed. The Medical hospitality came in and said: “This is unusual! You don’t need rehab! You can go home!!!” When Steve left the floor, many nurses came to his door and gave him an applause and cheered him on! Everyone was celebrating, knowing we were witnessing something extraordinary!

So, yesterday, Steve got home at 5:30 pm and by 8am this morning, Steve and I were in the Aquatic Exercise class at the YMCA!  Cheers were heard as he entered the pool. Then we went to Perkins for our monthly aquatic breakfast, and Steve was presented with a Superman t-shirt and a welcome back card!  What a great celebration!

Thank you everyone for being on this miraculous journey with us. Continued prayers for no reinfection. We also send love and prayers for you all as well! Hugs to all. Eternally grateful dear ones.

Much love,
Mary & Steve