Marcus had a great week. His trach was successfully removed, and the wound care team and his doctors were surprised at how quickly the area has healed. Now that the trach has been removed, the pulse oximeter has been disconnected. The “pulse ox” measured the oxygen saturation in Marcus’ blood cells and monitored his heart rate, which has been very good, even during rehab sessions.  

Marcus’ feeding tube was also replaced this week; and we are praying that this will be the last time we have to replace it.  

Marcus’ rehab sessions are going very well. His dysphagia (swallowing) sessions are getting better. Shirley Ryan has used electronic stimulation to assist Marcus with his swallowing. His physical and occupational therapy sessions show that he is increasing strength and is responding to commands.  The therapist constantly confirms how strong Marcus is.  

Marcus has also shown some of his personality; he will rebel if something annoys him, and while he has not said words yet, we all see his annoyance. He smiles a lot more when people talk to him as well, so we are seeing more of him.  

The focus now turns to his swallowing and finding ways for Marcus to communicate with us.