We had a feeling that today would be a banner day and it is! Beverly has been OFF the ventilator since 9:00 am and has had no problems whatsoever! Go, Beverly, Go !!! Or, as we sisters say, "Go, Deedy, Go" ! She has what they call a "flow by" which is really only some oxygen hooked loosely to a "trach collar" just to give her a boost. But, every single breath she takes is her own. The plan is to keep her off the ventilator until about 9:00 pm and then go to pressure support overnight, which is still breathing on her own, but just supported if needed. We are thrilled with this big step! During Leonard's visit today, she had her speaking valve in and she and Leonard had a nice conversation about various things at home in Tahlequah. This was the first time she had spoken without being on the ventilator, and even though if felt different to her, it gave her no real problems. This is another big hurdle she has conquered. Plus, the speech therapist has now given us approval to insert and remove it whenever we want!


Beverly still suffers from insomnia most nights, but the doctors can only suggest that it is the "ICU syndrome." This gives her more incentive to get out of this unit and on to another wing! One of the therapists came by today just to check up on her, even though she was not assigned to Beverly today. She told us that she would be off until after Thanksgiving, and how much she had enjoyed working with Beverly and how much she loved and admired her. When Pauletta said wouldn't we see her after Thanksgiving, she said that she was afraid Beverly would be moved by the time she got back! That brought a huge smile to her face, and she whispered a big thank you to Pauline, our favorite occupational therapist. But we have learned not to get our hopes too prematurely, and even when she is totally off, they will want to watch her carefully for 2 or 3 days. But it is getting closer, thankfully.

As Thanksgiving approaches, we realize that we have so much to be thankful for, and that includes all of you who are so diligent in checking up on her and praying for her recovery. She (and we) couldn't do it without your undying love and encouragement. God Bless.