Update 6 for Mike Pless: Feb 18, 2024 - 8:30 AM

Good overall last few days for dad.

Yesterday started out rough, but ended well. Blood pressure and O2 levels were erratic and took a little fighting to get under control. IVs weren’t cooperating either. Nurses had to redo three of three in his hand, arm, and foot.

Dr. El Deiry’s team came in and very throughly cleaned out the laryngectomy tube (or Larry tube for short). This was painful and required a boost of pain meds.

Dad also had to have another blood transfusion due to blood levels being off still.

Despite the bumps in the road mentioned above, dad was able to do a total of nine laps around the ICU circuit yesterday.

Last night had a lot of abbreviated sleep (as is expected in the ICU). Blood sugar was high and likely caused a wicked headache. Insulin shot slowly took care of the headache.

Blood pressure maintained on its own all last night! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! O2 levels dropped briefly a few times as rest ensued. Nothing particularly alarming there.

The nurse last night, Cheyenne, was dad’s best nurse yet. She was a great blend of knowledge of her craft and truly caring for dad. Wish she could stay longer!

Will likely stay in ICU over the weekend per Dr. El Deiry. Mainly to stay on the safe side.

Both skin graft sites and other stitched up areas are all healing well. Still good blood flow and warmth.

Dad has already done four laps today and it’s looking to be a good day.

Thank you all for your continuous prayers. God has continued to heal dad, even after this massive surgery and recovery process.

Still some hurdles ahead, but with God’s grace dad will continue pushing as he has already shown repeatedly to do. They for sure don’t make ‘em like they used to.

“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!” Ps 107:1

Soli Deo gloria!