Thursday, December 20, 2007

No more "nose hose"!

Yep, Todd was able to have his NG (Nasal Gastric) Tube removed today! This was definitly a highlight for him because it means he'll be able to eat sooner. At this point he's only upgraded to ice chips, but maybe tomorrow he'll be able to start a liquid diet. He's a lot more comfortable without the NG tube and I think having it removed has really encouraged him.

Today was a good day overall. He was able to get more sleep last night and they seem to have found a balance between managing his pain and dealing with the accompanying itchiness. He is taking several walks a day and seems to be getting stronger every time.

The doctor came by today to remove his bandage and take a look at the incision. All I can say is "wow"... The 37 staples down his abdomen definitely look like a zipper. They'll take out the staples in another week or so.

Besides "jump starting" his digestive system again, the next big hurdle will be when he transitions from the epidural to oral narcotics. He can't go home until he's on the oral meds, able to eat and drink, and of course use the bathroom. So, we'll just keep taking baby steps each day. We still don't know when he'll be able to come home. It would be nice if it was Christmas Eve or Christmas, but it might be later.

The boys and I are doing well. I was able to take Noah to see Todd this morning. He did really well, even with all of the tubes, and Todd was very happy to see him. He especially thought it was fun to help me give Daddy a "bath" and managed to get water everywhere. I didn't take Conner to the hospital because he woke up at 3 am throwing up- poor little guy. The "bug" seems to have passed, but we could all use a full night's sleep.

Todd is seeming more open to seeing visitors if he continues to feel well. However, please call before in case something has changed. Thanks again for all of your thoughts and prayers.

-Jessica

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