Spirit Needed

The good news is that Rick was released from ICU last night and taken back to his floor. He continues to need oxygen, however that is lessening as his O2 levels are balancing out quite well. While we were all relieved to have him back on 11 Long and the pulmonary issue seemingly under control (Emily was eavesdropping on the consultation outside the door she overheard the doctor say ‘we dodged that bullet’), Becky and Emily were discouraged to find Rick overall not feeling well today. Simply put his body is worn out. We find him again fighting nausea, GI issues, and the catheter site is again being monitored as it is showing signs of infection. Generally, he is weak and lethargic. He hasn’t eaten anything in about 9 days, and hasn’t been out of been bed for about a week. He is tired of not feeling well.

We are all tired of this road we are on. It seems like we get over one bump in the road and another one comes up. We are not entirely convinced that we are not on the same bump with dips in the road

His blood counts have continued to increase steadily, the doctors are all very pleased with how the new cells are growing. We heard today "you may have seen the last of your transfusions" (while he is in the hospital, post-hospital is a whole different ball game).


This has been an emotionally draining week for all of us. While Mom and I took great Care not to photograph Dad in his present condition, he felt different about the situation and wanted to take the opportunity to show you how he feels:

Please keep us in your continued thoughts and prayers.

Much Love,
Rick, Beck, Emily & Tori

p.s. The shirts were all the rage on the floor today! Pom Poms provided by Cheer Team Capts. Maria & Kermit