How’s the Patient?

  • Joan-Dianne

How’s the Patient??

Making Good Progress!

Today was a big day for James. He made the move from the ICU to what is called the PCU,“ Progressive Care Unit.” I think this is what we think of as a “step down unit.”

The move involved his being relieved of several of his machines, portals, drainage tubes, etc. —you get the idea— and maybe you don’t want ‘too much information.’ It was an exhausting day with several procedures involved in getting him ready and making the transition.

James’s appetite is returning and he’s wearing his glasses. So far, he’s not wanting his phone, but he is thinking that he might be interested tomorrow— Monday.

Gradually, James is starting to move around, and the two pictures below show his first walk on Friday, accompanied by four people with lots of equipment, in contrast to his walk today, with only two assistants and much less equipment. Important steps.

He’s still being monitored closely, and he’s making good progress.

And me?

Thank you for all the support and encouragement to look after myself. Honestly, I’m still very tired, and sometimes torn between being at the hospital or taking time for myself. But tomorrow I’ve decided to skip the early morning ‘rounds’ and catch up some sleep. I’ve also booked a massage and some Pilates sessions. All this, plus, I attended the interdenominational church service at the hospital this morning, and it brought tears to my eyes.

I’ll post again in a few days and by then we’ll likely have a sense of the overall plan.

Love and thanks,

Joan-Dianne

Walking Friday July 18
Walking Friday, July 18
Walking Sunday July 20
Walking Sunday, July 20

15 Responses

  2. Looks like. He came from Mars. He probably feels like he is In wenGreat to see his walking. That is Huge!! Not easy for you JD. Sorry we can’t be there to help out.

    Love Richard & Marilyn

  3. Good to see this progress and glad too that you are able to pause and look after yourself a bit.

    May you both find an even keel soon. C

  4. Thanks JD – great to see the progress!
    Glad to know of your wise decisions to take care of yourself.

  5. Such a journey!!
    Great to see James up and around! Travelling lightly takes on a whole other meaning with his progress.
    Taking care of yourself will make James smile.
    Glad that all of these resources are close by.
    💜
    Ruth & James

  6. So good to hear things are progressing well and that James is able to walk a bit. JD, I can’t fathom the drain of mental energy you must be experiencing, not to mention the sheer exhaustion of it all. We are thinking of James and you often and appreciate your informative updates.

    Take care and rest up!

    Prayers,
    Ed

  7. Great to see James up moving! And I love the smiles on the nurses faces, looks like he has a wonderful team. JD – keep up your self care, happy to hear about the massage. Hugs from Texas.

  8. Happy to see the patient walking! Looks like the surgery went very well 🥰

  9. Such good news!
    It’s good to see you making progress.
    What a difference.
    I’m rooting for you and JD.
    Keep up the courage.
    Sending love, Clare♥️

  10. I am just catching up on ALL your posts Joan-Dianne., because our remote cabin doesn’t do internet well. First a big YAYYYY that the surgery went great James …..and that body of yours has responded to the procedures!!!
    I did a sharp intake of breath when I saw all the equipment surrounding you James and aware that world is so unfamiliar to me and so amazing that we have this technology in medical care to fix you…but I am also aware that your blog, your posts, all the responses and prayers and phone calls…they form a network of unseen and important support in James’ healing too. I so appreciate that you set this up Joan- Dianne.

    My prayers and thoughts continue to flow from Canim Lake to you both for rest, recovery and the best of all…….love,…….purely and simply present with everyone who is in your amazing circle of support.
    I hope this will send!

  11. So happy to see that James is progressing in his recovery, and that you are taking care of yourself too.

    Sending good wishes,
    Lori

  12. Thanks so much for the steady flow of info. JD, glad you are taking care of yourself. It looks like there are many people taking care of James. Happy to hear that James is making good progress.
    – Brenda and Gabi

  13. Oh, my goodness. What solace it brings to our hearts to see James walking, particularly the latter photo with far less equipment. And to know you, too, are mindful of the stress of this journey, taking time for your spirit, to decompress and rest.

    Thank you ever so much for these updates, Joan-Dianne, they are such great gifts.

    Sending so much love and hugs and prayers,
    Wray & Linda

  14. Hoping the toughest part is behind you. Keep going and we’re hoping you’ll be back in Winnipeg soon.

    The RTDS crew are thinking of you! ❤️

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