upward and forward

Marty continues on an upward path. Not without good days and bad, but forward is the word form all the doctors,therapists, nurses,caregivers and those who watch his progress. he continues to astound us all.

Currently he is off the vent 13 hours a day and is inching towards the day he will be off the vent! Hopefully by mid-April.

He gains strength in his arms, legs and balance bit by bit each day.

He has had two outings to light house field to observe steamers lane:

On my birthday he surprised me with a beautiful cake and a few friends surrounded us in the evening. I asked if he would sing a song for me...and Mitch Sakolsky pulled a guitar off the wall and everybody sang...including Marty. He was happy to know he could still sing, it lifted the celebration...and his spirits.

We have a very solid support system with our caregivers.They have learned the intricate duties, and I am confident with them  enough that I can leave to do necessary things without too much worry.

Marty had an infection two weeks ago now behind him, treated by fluids and antibiotics.So the food he was taking was on hold. He is now taking food again, avacado, mashed potatoes and more. 2 teaspoons an hour.

His lungs are clearer and his mentation is clearer.He is up for 30 minute visits, but we are keeping it to close friends and family for the time being. Mostly because of his need for certain privacy issues and because while he wishes to talk and communicate...it tires him and uses his energy reserves which deplete his calorie intake.

There will be a viewing of a project which he has helped to shepherd and it will also be a benefit for his medical costs. The doctor has aid he can attend with precautions. Here is the invite:

 

This will be the first event Marty 

will have attended in 8 months

It's very important to him , because Eike and Sheila are great artists, they have been supportive friends and he is excited to see this beautiful animation piece he helped initiate before he began this journey...and now it has come to fruition.

We hope you will join us!

Blessings to you all.

Ginny and Marty Collins

March 22, 2013

 on a side note: My doctor has determined that I have high blood pressure and an ulcer, plus depression which she is treating with meds. I feel much better and more hopeful every day. This allows me to be more present and a much better partner and caregiver for him. I am grateful. It lessens his worry about me, which was a concern and stress to him.