Progress!

Doctors ordered the beginning of the process for weaning Jeffrey from the ventilator.  He will have to be able to breathe on his own exclusively before extubation, and today Jeff made progress towards just that.  For two solid hours, Jeff did all of his own breathing without any assistance.  After those two hours, the respiratory team noticed that he was beginning to tire and provided assistance and some sedation to help him rest.  Two hours is progress considering that a few days ago the ventilator on full throttle couldn't even get him the oxygen needed!

Tomorrow comes the next try.  The team will try every day until he is fully weaned and can be extubated.  I know Jeffrey is ready because he is still holding his bag and bear and signing goodbye.  To further prove his point, he's now signing "Coke" "eat" (poor guy hasn't eaten in a week!) "shoes" and "work."  Shoes, work, and store (which surely will be his next sign to say) are Jeff's signs for "Let's get outta here!"  :)

Best of all (in my opinion( is that Dr. Q said that Jeffrey will be okay.  It is so nice to hear that.  You can guarantee that he'll be able to eat and enjoy a stockpile of Coke as soon as he can.  We just can't wait to have him back!

My family and I can't begin to express how much everyone means to us.  All of the prayers - they are being heard!  Your love and support and strength are carrying my brother and all who love him.  Keep sending those petitions to Heaven, and let us know when we can do the same for you.  We are doing it now for some of you and want to continue.