March 3, 2009

Good morning everyone. It is 10:40 am, and I am writing today from a laptop that belongs to the hospital, which I reserved with my credit card. With my history of laptops down here, I am kind of scared to even be writing this! I just wanted to update you all again on Mary's condition after her surgery yesterday. She is doing pretty good today so far. She still is having her headaches, but that is pretty normal. I just wish it wouldn't hurt so bad for her. She is being a trooper so far though, and just dealing with the pain. She still has a drainage tube in her scalp, but that is supposed to come out sometime today. She also is still in ICU, but that was really just a precautionary measure to monitor her condition after the surgery. She will be moving out of ICU today also. I am not sure where she is going to be moved to, but I am assuming some sort of a step down room, or a semi-private one. Mary is alot more alert today than yesterday, and I'm sure it is because most of the anesthesia has worn off. She is still pretty medicated for the pain though. This mainly just makes her very tired, but she is still way more alert. When talking to Mary now, it is like talking to Mary. That may sound weird, but I think you know what I mean. She looks more like herself, and is acting more like herself. I think this step in her journey is going to be a huge one. Especially for her self esteem and positive thoughts. I am excited for her and so very happy that she has made the progress to get this far. Now we just concentrate on working hard on therapy, and getting her strength back. The nurses in the ICU actually remember Mary from 4 months ago! For all the people that they put through this hospital, I found it amazing that remembered Mary and our family. However, when I think about it, being the kind of person Mary is, healthy or not, she does leave a lasting impression on people with her personality. She is eating solid food already, and is getting stronger. I know her strength will continue to improve over time. I think that pertains to all of us. Thanks