Update 3 for Mike Pless: Feb 15, 2024 - 11:30 AM

“Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”

Whew. Long night for dad.

Numerous doctors — including pulmonologist, ENT, head and neck, respiratory specialists, etc. — have stopped in in the past twelve hours. All are saying similarly dad is doing well.

Currently still in ICU. All vitals are stabilized except for blood pressure. Once they can get BP up, they plan to encourage the next goal: walking.

Dad is incredibly tough. Even last night, he was moving more than he should (to the chagrin of his nurse). He’s ready to get up and move. Have to get BP up though.

Dad has been communicating through either writing or using an iPad so far. There is much to be learned on his part and ours in the way of communication.

We were able to get the Apple feature called “Personal Voice” working a few minutes ago. It does a decent job using a combination of dad’s previously recorded voice and AI to play out a text-to-voice according to his prompts.

Another area of learning involves how to clean and use the stoma (airway which is now just above the collar bone).

Stitches are holding fine. Dad’s own goal is to be up and moving today. Though it will be no hike in Death Valley, I’m confident he’ll be moving. He has perked up a good bit since last night.

He awoke from surgery with no vision, causing much philosophical pondering on his part (which we haven’t been able to gain a full explanation yet). There were a few other complications during surgery we aren’t privy to, but dad is doing well now.

Dad is resting now. We are oh so thankful.

The infinite personal God has seen fit to allow more time with dad. We are overjoyed and thankful.

Please continue praying. Specifically for dad’s blood pressure to rise and stabilize. Also, pray for strength; one of dad’s greatest endeavors takes off in full force today.

All for the glory of God alone.

He has chosen to be glorified by hearing and answering our many prayers.

Soli Deo gloria.