And the progress continues ..... slowly

Sorry for the delay in posting an update on Dougies condition but I've been struggling with the right words and tone. However here goes:
Since my last post, Doug HAS been getting better but things have slowed down a bit.
He still has a very chesty condition that does appear to be clearing (according to nursing staff) although we find it difficult to see improvements. I guess this is because we are a bit too close and get very upset when he is distressed with his breathing. He can get very congested after a while and 'suction' seems to be getting more distressing possibly as he gets better at coughing for himself. I confess to extreme irritation, bordering on anger, at the time it takes to respond to his distress (and I know all the reasons but ..). I do feel that the old adage of 'do unto others what you would have done unto yourself' could be a salutory lesson for many. But then again the exception proves the rule as they do say.
As a result he can get very down in spirits and I can almost see the thoughts - when oh when is this going to get better???

His eye condition varied tremendously over the last week and eventually the opthalmist decided to go for a small stitch closure of the eyelid as being the only sure way of ensuring that the healing condition could be maintained. Needless to say this was yet another thing poor Doug had to cope with. The procedure was done just after lunch to-day and by visiting time the local anesthetic has begun to wear off and his eye was a bit sore. I think he was also getting tingling sensations in his left cheek and eyebrow (lots of rubbing) However, at long last consistent, effective treatment of the eye will be possible and healing should be pretty rapid. All the makee learn closure with sticky tape had served no useful purpose, merely prolonging the healing process by several weeks.
Probably the stitch will stay in until the muscles controlling the eyelids have recovered to the point of ensuring full closure.

Despite all this, Douglas still maintains his sense of humour and can joke with hand signals with his visitors.
Gees ........ I admire that lad I really do.

His writing continues to get better as does the degree of movement of his lips, jaw and tongue.
Because of all the other things going on he has not been up and about in the last couple of days, although just before this, he managed several steps on his own - albeit supported by a couple of physios - on his way from bed to chair !!!!!!!!! I'm sure he doesn't appreciate just how bit a thing this is in recovery terms, even though we tell him.

His planned move to Ward 31 has not yet happened (watch this space) so visiting hours remain at 3 to 5 pm and 6.30 to 8 pm.
If you're planning to pop in, I suggest between 4 and 5 or 6.30 and 7.30 since he may well be tired and sleepy at around 3 and needing meds and suction close to 8pm. Obviously all this may change on the day!!!!!

Many thanks for all your support.
Iain