6:45pm 4/12/16

Test Passed and the tube is out.  He has said a few words and answered some questions(name, first and last, hospital, month-he thought May, nickname -Mac and step dude). He asked if he got a new heart and seemed pleased when we told him he did.  He is pretty exhausted now, so is sleeping.  We've been swabbing his mouth with cool water which he likes and is swallowing well.  He'll get his ice when he is more alert.  He has good strength in his legs and feet.  His right hand is pretty strong, much more than his left hand.  They are keeping an eye on that.  His hands are no longer restrained, so he is able to itch his nose with his right hand.  He is on a bit of oxygen.  The surgeon, Dr Smith just visited for a few minutes.  He is also very happy with the results.

They weaned him off of the propophal just before they did the breathing test.  Twice in the afternoon they slightly rolled him so he won't get sore spots.  The one they did about 6pm was painful, so they got him a some IV pain which should take the edge off

We don't have to gown up anymore.  Just masks and gloves.  Tiny steps but in the right direction.

I'm going home after Maria, his night nurse comes on.  It's time to water Johns flower pots and baskets, get some laundry done and get a good night sleep.  More tomorrow.

Colleen