The downs and the ups

We just got back from the hospital, where the mood has risen again. Sheldon has opened his eyes and his eyes were flicking around a bit. There was a wise, very experienced ICU nurse helping out there who gave us her impressions of what this means.

She told us that usually they look for a more direct response, such as opening his eyes when told, or squeezing a hand in response to a question. She also said that it is important to keep hoping, and that only time would tell. She had seen many things in her 12 years on the Pediatric ICU, but she told us the most difficult thing is the ups and the downs the families go through while waiting. Very kind lady.

Might I point out that the PICU staff at the HSC in Winnipeg are fantastic. The nurses are very gentle, patient, eager to explain things, and highly competent. We are very lucky to live in Manitoba where this incredibly high level of medical care is available with no extra cost to us.

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One more thing... at 7:30 every evening there is a shift change at the hospital, and no visitors are allowed in the room with Sheldon. This has become something of a family gathering and prayer time, and Viola (Sheldon's mother) specifically requested (strongly seconded by the rest of the family) that I ask you, Sheldon's adoring public, to pray for him at this time as well. Sheldon thanks you.

Okay, one quick anecdote... Crystal and I were walking down the hall on our way to the ICU to have a quick visit this evening, when Ben and Viola passed us in the hall on their way to get some things from their room before the doors were closed. Crystal had in her hand her sheaf of emails (only 5 new typed pages because I messed up and didn't print the other 5) from all of you guys. Viola literally reached out and grabbed them from Crystal so she could read a few on the way up to her room and back. She couldn't wait until she joined us in the waiting room. They're so much appreciated! I'm trying to decide if this is the same as internet addiction for Viola, but I figure I'll wait until things calm down before approaching her about it...