March 14, 9:00p update

OK...OK...I'm sorry for taking so long to update you today! So let's get right to it. First of all, Linda's day off yesterday from her hyperbaric chamber treatments (and any other procedure that would have taken her out of her room) was a good thing. Other than her dialysis treatment, she was able to rest most of the day. Last night I mentioned that she was beginning to track a little more with her eyes and responding to voices.

Well, that was nothing compared to today. :-)

Since last night:

1) Her nurses and physical therapists have been able to sit her up on the side of her bed twice, and she's working on her third time as I write. They keep a very close eye on her vital signs while she's up and they confirm that she's been able to handle this huge step with flying colors.

2) She's beginning to blink her eyes more frequently and she continues to improve her tracking ability each day.

3) She's definitely responding to voices and small voice commands.

4) She's started to move her head slightly from side to side and reposition her arms a little. And, within the last hour or so, wiggle and flex her feet!

5) She's beginning to squeeze your hand on command and seems to be able to distinguish left from right.

6) The number of IV's in her arm have been reduced significantly.

7) Probably the most amazing thing for us to see is that she's been able to breath completely on her own for most of the last 24 hours! Her ventilator is still in place and has been used during her time in the hyperbaric chamber today, but other than that, she's been doing it all on her own.

Lynn is certain that she's beginning to return to her old self. As proof of this, he asked her to blink if she still loved him..........no blink. :-)

Overall, Linda seems to be responding well to the amazing care she's been receiving from the kind and dedicated professionals here at LDS Hospital. It's extremely evident that she's also responding to the many prayers that have been offered on her behalf by each of you. Thank you.