Update 9 for Mike Pless: Feb 28, 2024 - 11 AM

Hey everyone! This is Mike writing my own update this go around.

Well, if my focus was on getting back to normal which implied getting out of here and going home, or any other mind trap, I would be hopping mad and frustrated right now.

Last week the dismissal date was Sunday. Then it changed to Monday, then to Tuesday. On Tuesday, word filtered down saying two more days which will have me dismissing Thursday.

You’d think since all I keep hearing is how good I’m healing, everything is looking so good, and amazement at my progress, I’d be, “Seriously? What’s up?!” However, I consider this to be only the mildest of disappointments.

Doctor El-Deiry, I’m learning, has an impressive surgical skill set and is focused on his patients living instead of prematurely releasing them only for serious complications to develop quickly and kill them or significantly extend efforts to keep them alive.

Word has it, it’s not uncommon for him to extend a stay for observation and safety for multiple 2 day blocks.

I’m good with that. My situation is already “off the reservation” and in “uncharted territory” so exercising an abundance of caution seems wise.

Because, if things go bad, they’ll go bad fast and time becomes a critical factor. Doctor El-Deiry is exercising abundant strategic caution. There are a couple minor (right now) indications that very careful handling is needed at this point. He’d rather I be right here, not 75 miles south, if something does arise, so the team has the best opportunity to act decisively and gain a success for everyone.

Again, perspective helps here; am I suffering? Ha! I’m housed in a high-rise efficiency apartment in midtown Atlanta with a view of iconic Stone Mountain and it’s cleverly disguised as a hospital room!

Good things today:

> I woke up!

> Neck/chest drain came out!

> Got rid of the Telemetry wire nest!

> All supplies and hardware needed for home are now delivered!

> I’m surrounded by wonderful people who want to help others!

Only the back drain remains and me ol’ trusty Gtube.

So, in an abundance of caution, I will remain gladly. I will continue to push and, by and by, we will all see what my Lord has ordained for me. I’m more than good with that. I pray you find your way there also.