Gary has enjoyed more days outside, free from the tubes! (see attached photo)


The last few days have brought out emotions. Although difficult to experience, the emotion is actually another positive milestone as it demonstrates that area of the brain is functioning appropriately. He is beginning to realize (at times) the impact of what has happened and as you might imagine this has stirred up various emotions including anger, frustration, laughter and tears. I have experienced his challenges as wife and best friend but I can only imagine how frustrating it must be to try and attempt to do something that once was a natural action but now met with extreme difficulty. He asks what happened, however he has yet to realize/grasp how far he has come in the past 2 months. Prior to May 13th (cardiac arrest), Gary amazed me/us with all that he has conquered living with dermatomyocitis. We all know he is a fighter with an amazing will and determination. Although the recent challenges have created new obstacles I am confident he will overcome and prevail. He is surrounded by lots of love, tremendous support and encouragement including the staff, clinicians, family and friends. He is truly an inspiration to all. I have to share one very touching moment yesterday was when he realized/really saw the amount of support, prayers, and well wishes (cards, emails) posted around the room. He was very touched by the volume of support. We truly appreciate the continued prayers, love and well wishes.
With much love and strength,
-Mia

I didn't hear from Mia yesterday, but today when she called she said that they'd had another restless day with Gary wanting to get up out of bed and trying to pull tubes out. However, today is much, much better and he even talked to me a little bit. He said, "Hi, Meemaw" and then when I asked him how he was doing, he said, "I'm having a hard time." Then he said some other things that I couldn't understand when I asked him if he remembered Bill and me being out there for two weeks. Mia said she couldn't understand them either.

Mia said that she thought they were getting ready to give him a swallow test sometime today. We got a picture via the phones a while ago and it showed the nurse giving him the test with a cup of applesauce. He swallowed it perfectly and said, "MMMMMM, that was good!" So, maybe they'll be able to remove the trach now and he'll be one more step ahead. Each day seems to show some improvement for him.

Please keep praying for him and Mia and also for God to point out the right rehabilitation center for him when it's time for him to move on.

Thanks, Bill and Nancy