HI EVERYONE,

Linda here... Well, I have really great news. After many attempts through the last several weeks, Hal finally passed the swallow test. With Doctor's permission I was present leading the cheering squad with encouragement, praise and hope. The last swallow test, Hal complained of how horrible the stuff tasted that they put in his mouth. Actually it is barium, because they follow the swallow on video. They try to flavor it, but I am sure it still tastes terrible.

My friend Susanne suggested putting a spoonful of honey in Hal's mouth (like the Mary Poppins receipe.."a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down"),well it worked. I actually used my finger and kept coating the inside of his mouth with it, Voila he swallowed everything they put in his mouth. The prize for doing this he now gets to eat "yummy" hospital food..pureed no less. BUT, IT"S A START I TOLD HIM.

After that success, and everyone cheering him when we brought him back upstairs, he said to me, "Now go downstairs and find out what's next". Interpretation: what more do I have to do to get out of here?

Well, progress is happening, and it does seem that he gets a tiny bit stronger everyday. He is enjoying being able to use the speed dial on his new cell phone and call me at least 4 times a day just to chat and mainly find out when I am coming to the hospital. And then he checks in with his daughters, so it is like he has re-joined the human race.

Please don't forget the good thoughts and prayers...see how much they are helping!!!

With love, Linda