This week we have moved even father into this current phase of Marcus’ rehab. He met with the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor, a very quick five-minute appointment. The doctor said there were no obstructions in Marcus’ airway, and the next set of tests could lead to his trach removal. The last thing they need to do is pulmonary testing, which is testing the muscles around his lungs and ribs. When medical events like Marcus’ happen, those muscles can atrophy after 72 hours of no use, and because he was on a ventilator for so long, they atrophied rather quickly. The doctors and therapists will do breathing exercises as well as massages in the affected areas to help prepare him for his trach removal. The main concern would be if he could not handle taking deep breaths once the trach is removed. Based on the fact that he has been breathing on his own for four days straight, they are very confident he will be able to handle the trach removal, but understandably they are being very diligent and cautious. 

Shirley Ryan does a fantastic job at involving and encouraging family members to be involved in and part of Marcus’ care. This week some family members got trach training, which allows them to take Marcus out of his room and around the facility in his wheelchair. This is just an example of the encouragement and empowerment that Shirley Ryan helps provide the entire “Team Marcus.”

We have started to see an increase in Marcus’ awareness and wakeful states. He is no longer sleeping through most of his therapies and rehab. The therapists are very excited about the progress they see in him. He is starting to make more sounds with his mouth as if he’s trying to communicate with us, and they feel very optimistic that they could have a breakthrough of some form in regards to his communication soon.

As we approach the one month mark here, we rely less on medicine and technology and more on Marcus’ body to provide everyday functions. It is more important than ever that we remain patient with his progress while celebrating his victories during rehab.