DAY 23: Steady

This morning's rounds were just as happy as yesterday's. Dr. Heit decided that Mom has done well for long enough to start weaning her from the respirator. They took her off the bi-level setting. That experiment lasted only half an hour or so before Mom's measurements had dropped too far and she needed to return to bi-level.

Also, she wasn't as responsive this morning. She opened her eyes, but they looked foggy and unaware of what was going on. She managed a nod, but no thumbs-up and no looking around the room.

Oh well. I think we became a little too excited after yesterday's big success on rounds. The upshot is that she's doing well enough for the doctors to even consider weaning her. The transition from bi-level to lower respirator settings to competely independent breathing usually takes two or three weeks, so patience is still a virtue around here.


The doctors and nurses remain fascinated by Mom's origami cranes. Dr. Heit was pleasantly surprised to see that "they grew overnight" and asked me to tell some of the newcomers about them. He's not sure which group he likes best.

As for me, I like both.