Comfort Level

Kevin slept most of last night without being hooked up to the ventilator. We are very pleased that he seems to be doing well breathing on his own. His breathing has gotten much more regular and steady within the last week.

Kevin is still in a significant amount of pain. The good news is that he no longer complains solely about his headache. Instead, he has started complaining about pain in his left arm, where there is an arterial IV. While it may sound weird that we’re happy he’s complaining about this, it means that sensation in his left arm is returning, which is a good sign for recovery. The left side of his body is the side that has been the most affected, so it’s the side we’re most worried about for long-term prospects.

There’s even a second piece of good news related to Kevin’s pain. Contrary to the doctors’ previous thoughts (in the “Pain” post), they no longer think his headaches are caused by increased fluid pressure. They have decided that Kevin’s brain is draining fluid relatively well. Supposedly, they will remove the draining tube sometime soon. This will eliminate the risk of infection from that tube.

The negative issue today seems to be Kevin’s discomfort. He has periods when he tenses up while his heart rate and blood pressure soar. During some—but not all—of these episodes, he will nod when we ask him if he’s in pain. Therefore, we’re not exactly sure what is causing these uncomfortable periods. It’s very hard for us to see him when he’s that uncomfortable, for it brings up so many emotions and makes us realize the magnitude of pain and suffering he must be going through.

We really like Lynn’s idea (see her comment on the “Slow Progress” post below) of a planned time when all of Kevin’s friends, family and loved ones can simultaneously send Kevin positive thoughts. This coming Saturday, February 27, at 12 noon Pacific (you do the math for your own time zone), we would love you to think of Kevin, light a candle, ride a wave, say a prayer or whatever you’d like to do to send him positive healing vibes. Kevin might be turning around for the better, and he needs every bit of love and hope we all can send him.