day 41 update

Greetings to all on this night that feels the lack of summer.
Darkness comes earlier and earlier and there is just that tinge of cool, bringing with it the autumn air.
One of the things that happens in the world of the ICU is that time takes on a whole different meaning, context and sense. Days pass and get absorbed by others; so even though the last post was from this Monday and read Day 37 (from the day the blog was started as such), it appears that July 29th, the day Sage arrived at DHMC, is indeed 41 days ago.
And these last few days have been remarkable! as Sage is making huge strides. It is a wonderful challenge to find the time to 'blog', as she is rounding so many corners and we wish to witness all of them - eating and walking, among others.
Today (Wednesday) Sage slept until 7 a.m. (how great to sleep so late!). While getting into the green chair this morning, the NG tube inadvertently and serendipitously got caught on something, and out it went...and out it still is, which means that Sage has been having food by mouth all day.
Pancakes. Orange juice. Macaroni and cheese. Tomato soup. Chocolate pudding. A banana. An ice cream sundae.
This is because yesterday (Tuesday) the speech and occupational therapists checked in with Sage about her swallowing capability and mechanism and cleared her to start with certain types of foods of soft consistency, and the one true thing she has been asking for since last week: water. Pure simple water has never tasted so good and been so appreciated.
And in regards to moving around, Sage is on her way. Without the use of a walker, Sage went today from her room, out the unit and down the hall. W-a-l-k-i-n-g, without holding onto anything. Granted, her nurse and the physical ad respiratory therapists were part of the posse, but she was holding onto no one. Incredible!
Sage continues to be remarkable: patient, unflinching, strong beyond words, thoughtful. She watched 'Benjamin Button' and 'The Bourne Ultimatum' today, got on Facebook, talked with Nathan (well he did most of the talking), got her hair washed and cut, communicated her needs by mouthing words and writing them out.
It is a miracle and a wonder to witness. Thanks and gratitude for being part of such a journey. Blessings to all.

warming up...

look ma, no hands...!

stretch those feet!

pancakes. food. wow.

walking in style....

just like that...

all in a day's work

go Sagey Bug!!