"Rising out of the abyss"

Those were the words of one of Ray's Drs. (hematologist) today. It was a good day!! The baby steps are getting bigger; blood counts improving, breathing improving, even the attitude is improving.

The hematologist was so encouraging when he came in today and I could see Ray getting stronger just by hearing the Dr. tell him, "things are better today and will be even better tomorrow. Keep up the good work and we'll have you out of ICU in a few days." I wish you all could have seen the transformation.

I was hoping to know more from the results of the lung fluid culture, but that Dr., (pulmonologist) said the results that came in so far really don't tell us anything we didn't already know. We'll know more tomorrow.

Yesterday, Ray said he was ready for a haircut, did I have my scissors. So today I brought scissors and did some cutting on his (much thinner) hair. He really wants it all shaved off. So as soon as he gets back into a regular room, I'll be bringing the clippers to the hospital. I did ask one of the Drs. today if I could give him a haircut while in ICU and his answer was, "I learned a long time ago, ICU is not the place for good sense. So, go for it!"

Ray continues to detest the Bi Pap breathing machine. So he continues to receive a sedative so he can manage it. He says he feels as though he is suffocating with the oxygen being forced into his lungs and the breathing apparatus is a plastic mask that is being pressed against his face. But this IS much better than a ventilator.

More tomorrow...

Love you all,
Kim