Out of ICU

Around 3:00 this afternoon, Ray was moved out of ICU. He was so glad to get to move, however I hope he wasn't moved too soon. He has to have help doing everything, since he is so sore. I do mean everthing. Sometimes, requiring 3 people to move/help him. He has to have help moving his legs, sitting up, standing up... everything. The Dr. knows what he's doing. (I hope)

The chest tube is still in; I know I was told he would be in ICU as long as he had that in. However, I was told today, patients go home with those things still in. They are talking about taking Ray's out tomorrow, which they assure him will make moving much, much easier. As you can imagine, the pain at times, is unbearable. He's also been assured that will be much better after the chest tube is removed. He still has the epidural and the pump to go with it. "Pain Management" people visit often to check on him and offer help and advice. He has breathing and coughing exercises that must be done in order to avoid pneumonia or infection.

Believe it or not, the surgeon says he's doing great and could possibly be going home Monday or Tuesday. I'm sure many of you have heard me say before, that there's alot of security being in the hospital--where some one else is calling the shots, and someone else is responsible for making decisions, and someone else is responsible for doing all the work. I look at him now and nearly panic, thinking I could possibly be taking him home in a couple days.

Thank you for all your prayers. Ray & I have talked often, how we truly do feel the power of your prayers. I ask the Lord many times each day to bless all the people praying for our family.

By the way, Ray has his cell phone handy, now that he's back on the 6th floor.

Love you all,
Kim