Yesterday dad seemed more awake and alert. We knew because every time he opened his eyes, his blood pressure and heart rate would increase, and of course he reached for the ventilation tube. He wants that tube out, and who can blame him?! The nurse said that they would be checking his oxygen levels in his blood, and if they were within normal range, they would perform a test to see if he can control his own breathing, enough so that they could remove the ventilation tube. There is the possibility of a tracheotomy depending on how labored his breathing still is, but that would not be permanent either. Today they are turning off the morphine and sedation to perform the ventilation trial. Keep your fingers crossed that they can take it out. We know he would be so much more comfortable and calm once that is removed.

Carrie and I are going home tonight to get back to work, although it is extremely difficult to leave dad. We are also concerned about our mom, so those of you that are close by, please be sure to check in on her and offer your support. She needs all the help she can get right now, and we all know that asking for help is not her strength. Carrie is leaving Hiro with mom so that Dexter has a buddy to keep him company. The dogs also help us because they are such a source of happiness, and a much needed distraction at times. Carrie and I will come back on the weekends to be with dad and track his progress. One of us will update the blog on a daily basis so that everyone will remain in the loop of how Hal is doing. Again, thanks to all of you for showing such love and support to all of us!