Challenges

One advantage of posting on the blog is that friends following the original posts from years past are now getting notifications that there is new activity, and they have been praying for Hu without the full story of his illness. In order for them to have a better understanding I am writing this overview of the past nine days.

On February 14 Hu awakened with an elevated heart rate. Since he has a history of atrial fibrillation, we went to the ER for evaluation. He was admitted for further observation.  During the next few days his condition worsened and he was transferred to the ICU.  Because he had fluid on his lungs and pneumonia the doctor felt it would be best to intubate him and sedate him enough to allow his body to rest while his lungs healed.  He made good progress and was released to a regular unit within a few days.  We are thankful that when he left ICU his supplemental oxygen was disconnected.

Hu  has again experienced some challenges.  His white blood count is elevated, and the doctor is trying to determine the cause.  Although he is weak he tries to assist in the healing process by exercising.  Hu had just taken a walk around his room with David and the physical therapist came by for a therapy session.  He is a trooper and didn't say "no" and walked down the hall with her as well. We are grateful that his strength is slowly returning.

We appreciate your ongoing prayers for our family and especially Hu. 

Little by little

Yesterday Hu was told that he would have most of his IV's and tubes removed.  Soon after there was a visit from the physical therapist to help him stand up and take a few steps after a week in bed.  Although quite weak he was glad to be able to be free of the tubes which prevented him from moving around. He was later transferred to the Cardiac Floor where he will stay until being moved to rehab.  We are so thankful for your prayers that have encouraged him so much.

Improvement

We have definitely seen a miracle in the last five days.  Hu has had his breathing tube removed and has been doing well since.  He will have a speech evaluation today to see if he is able to have food and take liquids by mouth.  I really appreciate all the encouragement that our family has received this past week and especially the prayers during this difficult time.