Who knows where the time goes...

Tuesday
In addition to the swallow test that Dave had yesterday, an echo cardiogram was done - I was able to watch it along with both Dave's heart and lung DRs. It was fascinating seeing his heart beating and the valves opening. It was evident where the heart was functioning well and where it had been damaged. A surprise find was a blood clot, attached to the inner wall of one of his ventricles.This is also reducing the efficiency of his heart. Medication is being given to assist his body in absorbing the clot back into his system.
The pulmonary specialist is actually limiting Dave's exercise - he is quickly gaining strength and fine motor skills, but it is important that his lungs and heart get more rest since his breathing is still labored.
Dave has started eating soft foods, a huge effort is required and he is often exhausted after just a few bites. The feeding tube is still in his nose so that he can still receive nutrition support.

Dave's clarity of thougt is improving rapidly as well. He still is evidently worried about many things and I try to reassure him that all is well. Worry is one thing that he certainly doesn't need. His emotional recovery from this will be tough in addition to the physical.

So much is going well but we still have glitches that set both of our nerves on end. Tonight, Dave's heart rate wants to shoot higher and his breathing is too shallow, so he has to wear the Bi-Pap a lot...not his favorite. He seems to be down and he won't talk about what may be bothering him. I ask that all of you keep praying for him.
Love, Melody