TUESDAY AFTERNOON (July 18)
Trish was visiting in the ICU when Buddy motioned for her to come closer. She asked him what he wanted and he puckered up. Trish gave him a kiss, and he asked for more. Trish said she gave him bunches of kisses.
TUESDAY NIGHT (July 18)
John shared many of your emails with Buddy. He cannot really respond to them, but John felt like they had a calming/comforting effect on Buddy. They are a huge encouragement to the family as well. Keep them coming, please!
Later, Buddy’s blood pressure was getting up, and he was uncomfortable. The staff gave him a bit more pain and anxiety medications. This made him a bit tired. When a nurse was running some tests, it seemed that one of his pupils was responding too slowly to light. The nurse had Buddy moved to the top of the list for the catscan.
As she was preparing Buddy for the scan, she asked Buddy what his name was. He responded somewhat muddled, “Buddy.” She asked him again, “What is your name?” He replied, “Buddy, Buddy, Buddy.” This was what a nurse with a strong Asian accent called Buddy every time she talked to him. (Buddy, Buddy, Buddy.) It was very encouraging to hear him respond so well and to know that he was catching some of what was happening around him.
WEDNESDAY MORNING (July 19)
Buddy understands some of what is happening, but does not totally understand. He is in a wing with other patients that were in very traumatic situations. One of them died. All of the commotion was upsetting to Buddy. Please pray for these other patients and their families. Also, pray that Buddy’s surroundings will not add to the stress of his own situation.
Buddy is showing improvement in motor functions. At times, he has been able to move his mask and suction when he needs it. His communication is very limited, but has now been happening with some personality/inflection.
Buddy’s oxygen mask is off today. The doctors and nurses continue to run frequent tests. Buddy has 4 more procedures happening today.
Trish’s son Tony had been gone since Sunday night because of the birth of his daughter, Zoey Faith. He came back Wednesday morning for the first time. John asked him, “What do you think (about Buddy’s progress)?” Tony’s response was “Unbelievable!”
If it weren’t for our awesome God, Buddy’s progress would be unbelievable indeed. Please do not slow down your prayers. Buddy is not out of the woods yet. Prayers are needed as much as ever.
