Doug Keough

Day 12 - What encouragement we received today from all who are caring for Doug. Everyone says that he is improving. He also looked so much better. He looked more like the Doug Keough that I know and love. Doctors adjusted some of his medications during the night. They replaced drugs that are known to cause stress on kidneys and liver with those that are less harsh. He is on steriods as well. All combined have led to an overall improvement.

Late this afternoon the decision was made to begin weaning him off the ventilator. The first step was to set the ventilator to 50% to allow Doug to do the rest of the work. It was set so that he initiated each breath. If he was unable to keep a regular rhythm or he couldn't keep the oxygen level up then an alarm would sound and the nurse would know he needed help. Well, when I left at 6:00 pm, he was doing fine!! So tomorrow, they will try to get him off the ventilator!! They will go slowly and if he can breathe on his own, the tube will be taken out. Please pray Wednesday morning that he will be able to breathe and that all will go well. Also, my fear is that he will suffer distress and anxiety during the process. Pray for a calm spirit (for both of us) and that God will keep him comfortable.

I still don't know the cause of his initial breathing problem or what is in his lung. But the doctors are still investigating and hope to have an answer and a game plan soon.

Good news: His bone marrow has begun to produce a few white blood cells!! This means things are beginning to work as planned. Mouth sores should begin to heal now too.

The nurses that he had been in contact with since we first began this journey on Jan. 6 have been checking in on him. They ask, 'How's our Doug?' They genuinely like him and want the best for him. He has had an impact on them with his warmth and easy laughter. They tell me that they are praying for him and leave with hugs and well wishes. It is a reminder that we are always reflecting God's love, no matter the circumstances. 

Thank you all for your prayers. I have definitely felt them. I have felt strengthened, calm, and confident. Continue on, because I for one, cannot do this on my own. I don't want to. 

Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him all creatures here below
Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost
Amen