Eye of the Tiger

I called very early, my time, and my mom was already at the hospital. Bob had had a shave and a bath. She said: "Bob, it's Malu" and put the phone to his ear. I could talk to him for the first time since the stroke happened. I just said a few words, what you would imagine I'd say. I heard his sounds for the first time and it was difficult not hearing his voice on the other end. The reality hit. I imagine it's going to keep finding ways to hit. Being so removed from the situation it will take longer for the facts to sink in for me. But my mom said he smiled. And that makes it better.

Bob's IV lines were removed from his left arm and now he is not "hooked up" to anything, just the oxygen monitor. That's good news.

I called again around noon and learned he had a good physical therapy session today and had just sat down. He has less mucus accumulated, perhaps due to his ability to stay seated for long periods of time. He had a very low temperature, which was gone by the time I called again at night.

I received news from Jason in the early afternoon that Bob had been moved to a room, number 211. It is a semi-ICU. Bob is still constantly monitored. That's more good news.

When I called again in the evening, Bob was lying on his side, and he didn't like that very much. My mom also said he had fought to have the tv's remote control, something she said was "very Bob". It will be good for him to hear English, although he might get bored since there is only one channel in English.

This morning on the way to my parents' house to find some paperwork for my mom, the song "Eye of the Tiger" came on the radio. I couldn't help but think of Bob. After the heart attack Bob was amazing about modifying his lifestyle, eating right, exercising and physical therapy. Everyone that knows him knows he takes his responsibilities very seriously. I think he will take his rehabilitation just as seriously and will surprise us all with "will to survive".

I hope to write again tomorrow. I might not always have good news, I'm hoping that when I don't, I have just no news. Thanks for reading and keep the positive thoughts and prayers coming.