33 hours post surgery

Just came out of the intensive area and Lee looks really good.  He is , of course, pale but he is able to communicate with his hands and eyes.  He is able to nod yes or no and it is good to be able to communicate even in the most primal ways.  He says that he is pain free and the biggest problems to him at the moment are the pessure stockings on his legs.  Everytime he trys to sleep they expand and cause him to awaken.  Right now he is still on the ventilator for assistance with his breathing.  The challenge for the medical team today is to remove fluid from his body and at the same time allow enough fluid for his heart.  His monitors look good as best as I could tell.  The nurse said everything was stable at this time.

Lee has been able to maintain his sense of humor and we have at times been able to laugh some with him.  For example, yesterday evening Todd and I were with him and he kept trying to do a hand signal with his forefinger and thumb to look like a G or C and at the same time he would quickly close both eyes and drop his face toward his chest.  After many questions as to pain, discomfort, or calling the nurse we finally figured out that he wanted us to GO so he could take a nap!  Todd and I had to laugh that he was actually ordering us out of the room!

We still do not know when he will come off the vent or the time for getting him moving about.  We do know that we trust their judgment in all these matters and that we put our trust and faith in the Lord.  Thank you for you calls and concerns and most of all for your continuing support through your prayers.  More later......Brenda