Stitches out!

Unbelievably, after more than a week of increasingly intense lobbying from me via Dave's coordinating doctor, the surgical team finally sent someone to relieve Dave of the stitches on his arm and eye.  The speech therapist who evaluates Dave's ability to swallow was able to get his real, rather than pureed, menu re-ordered and rescinded the aspiration precautions, with the exception of the "No Straws" rule, which remains in effect.  The new goal is to get the physical therapy people, who are drastically short-staffed just now, to come daily.  They need to help Dave improve his balance, coordination and stamina so that he will be strong enough to leave the hospital ward for a sub-acute rehab.  We think this is likely to take two or three days, or even a bit longer.  But we are never sure, as the situation and estimates of likely outcomes seem to change day by day.

For those of you who have been holding off on visiting, Dave has his cell phone with him now (718) 772 1923.  He thought the best way to see about visiting would be to call him just before you think you might stop by and see if he's up for it.  Visiting hours are 11am to 8pm, I think. Please don't call after 10pm, and be aware that right now even answering the phone is a lot of work for him.  On the other hand, he has certainly taken pleasure in hearing, albeit second-hand, of all your greetings and good wishes for his recovery.