Just breathe

Today I got to speak to my best friend for the first time in 18 days! Since we we first met each other (5676 days ago) that is the longest period of time that we have gone without speaking to one another. 

He was successfully extubated this afternoon at 1430 (or 2:30 pm) and taken off all his sedation meds.  He had to use an oxygen mask for about an hour and a half and since then he has been breathing on his own with just a nasal cannula (small oxygen tube that rests at the tip of your nose).  The majority of this evening was spent holding hands and breathing together.  Pete has been on a ventilator for a little over two weeks now and it is taking a bit of work to remind his lungs exactly how they are supposed to function. The easiest thing for Pete was to sit with me, watch and mimic my breathing pattern until he was able to breathe again without concentrating on each breath.  By the time I left this evening his breathing was more natural and he was able to maintain O2 saturation levels at 93-97%.

Tonight, Pete is trying to get some much needed rest, so that he is able to start  physical therapy tomorrow.  Thank you again for your continued support and well wishes!  I can't tell you how much it is appreciated!