The experts seem to be right. Cutting Mike back to a low stimulus existence is improving his sleep patterns and though he is tiring easily, we are really thrilled by his progress. Mike was started on the process towards trachy removal yesterday. The first step is blocking off the trachy for a few hours and closely monitoring his oxygen levels and how he manages his swallowing. He did so well that today they have left the blocked off trachy on all day. It means that he can whisper a bit and by today the whisper was getting reasonably audible. The speech language therapist tested him and found he could make all the necessary sounds for English, including ones very similar such as 'k' and 'b'. It's so wonderful to be whispering away with him. It feels like we're talking to the old Mike, though we're still having to be really careful that he rests a lot. One aspect that makes this easier is that Mike seems to realise for himself how tired he gets and so far doesn't seem to be getting bored. That will come apparently and will be a sign that he is getting better.
At present he is hanging out for a cup of coffee! Of course he has had 'nil by mouth' since 20 Feb, and even when this changes it is a long process and liquid is the last food added because it is so hard to keep out of the windpipe.
Those of you who know Mike will not be surprised to know that his mind is working away on missing the Ironman. He's already had Bryce text Ben Schurr (who was training with Mike when he had the accident) asking if he is planning to do next years' one. He's asking after so many of his friends and his memory for past events connected with you all seems on the whole to be fine.
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12 comments:
hey mikey, sounds like you are doing awesome, great about getting rid of the trachy. keep up the good progress and you'll be back on the bike before you know it.
Lucy Martin
Hey Mikey!
Wow im totally impressed with this trachy business and im sure you'll be tasting that coffee soon enough.I got some fantastic news today (for me anyway), a placement popped up for me in Wellington!!!So I'm coming home to brush up on my physio skills. Im very excited!! So rest up, Im back in a few weeks and I want to come and visit! And of course make sure those physios are looking after you!
Pace yourself, luv rach b
Hi Mike
Whispering must be a lot more satisfying than having to spell out words. Great to know that your vocal chords are in good shape and all ready to go. It will be time to celebrate once you can manage without that trachy.
Lindsay and Cathy
Dear Mike ,
Margaret Northcroft here just reading a very boring book on Spike Milligan .However my first laugh has been this little ditty hope you like it
"I must go down to the sea again
To the lonely sea and the sky,
I left my vest and socks there,
wonder if they're are dry "
It really jollys up an old school cert poem I had to learn!
looking forward to seeing you by the sea love Margaret xxxx
Hey bro,
Great stuff on the vocals mate, very impressive stuff - boo ya!!!! Looking forward to having a great catch up yarn (and beer) round our old Epuni stomping grounds when I return. Take it easy and will write soon.
Steve Gellatly
Greetings Mike,
Wonderful progress ..hey how about some wind surfing? ...very nice steady onshore wind here at Plimmerton.
Regards,
Dave and Irena
Kia ora Mike,
A huge hi from us all. Finally worked out how to post a message to you on this website.
Awesome to hear about your excellent progress. Best wishes to the whanau (Lee & Bryce and co.) for keeping a watchful eye on you. We cannot wait to see you again soon.
Thinking of you always.
Arohanui from, Karen, Brian, Waimatua, Tamati, Tomai, Ani and Taurima
Hi Mike and family. Great to hear about the positive progress with "trachy" and the other achievments. Mike: reading about your rest/activity balance seems to parallel ironman training, so it is no surprise that you are valuing your rest/recovery as much as the more active sessions. Take care.
Andrew Kerr
Hey Mike
Great to hear about your progress. It must be tough having not eaten for 7 weeks - you're probably even keen to eat some of Lynch's mince on rice!
Keep up the good work
Dave
Mike,
It's been a huge week for you, you have made amazing progress. It was great to hear from you and see the photo. Enjoy the R&R you definitely deserve it. Looking forward to catching up with you on my next trip to Wellington.
Kim McArthur :)
Mike
It is great to read about the fantastic progress you are making. I wish you and your family continued strength.
Regards, Arie Dekker
Dear Mike, Great to read about your steady progress all round. T.J. and Andrew here yesterday. Were your ears burning? And who should burst in but Gerald, who was supposed to be chairing a seminar at Massey! About cats and cat-food! So Kay and us scored a surprise visit and he got the latest news about you. All yours, Gran.
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