Today dad passed a number of great milestones:
- His catheter was removed
- One of the monitoring catheters which monitored his pulmonary artery was removed
- He had a bath
- He had a number of family members and friends visit
Other good news is on the pacemaker front: Because Dad’s sinoatrial node is working correctly, a pacemaker could trigger the ventricles based on what the sinoatrial node is doing. Plainly: his heart rate would be governed in exactly the same way it always has been, the pacemaker would just make sure the heart muscle keeps pumping blood correctly. This means that working hard on a mountain bike is still feasible. We still have unanswered questions about whether the pacemaker would be compatible with both mountain biking and diving, but the docs are doing research and will get back to us.
Dad’s pain meds were pretty strong this morning as a result of last night’s pain, and he was a little bit looped. As the day wore on, he became more alert and conversational. By the end of the day, he was able to carry on a conversation with us, and rated his pain all the way down at 2 on a scale of 10.
It was great to see lots of folks visit today. It’d be great to have more people visit, but we don’t want to overwhelm him at this point. If you’re interested in coming by for a visit, please let us know, and we’ll try to organize things. Mom and I think that having lots of friendly faces is helpful as long as he’s getting enough rest.
Good morning Uncie Mike. So nice to read the progress report today. Wow, what an improvement on the pain scale. All the Cherfs are thinking of you every waking moment, and are sending strong healing and love vibes. Can’t wait to see you again. Piles of love, Terese, Ken, Nick and Kaity Tess
Great news! Tell him to keep up the good work!
Milestones,YES —so much better than kidney or gall stones! We are glad to hear each detail. The news about the heart muscle is an education in itself. I know that the technology mixed with wisdom from professionals and God’s intent to make good out of not-so good is all working together for Mike and the family. Much love, Kim and all
Hey Mike, So great to hear the good news about your outstanding progress. I tried to send you a lengthy note yesterday but it did not seem to go thru as I am not reading it in your other responses. I guess that goes to the issue that I am still in the cave man era trying to assimilate all this new found hi-tech.
Anyhow so happy about to read today about your remarkable improvement.
I talked with your Dad yesterday, while the Seahawks were playing in the snow and even though we shouted out for their gallant effort to beat “da Bears” apparently they couldn’t hear us for the snow and cold. ha
Keep on keeping on and just know we are thinking and praying for your full recovery.
lol,
long lost uncle Dallas & Donna