The last 48 hours have been a whirlwind of progress and we couldn’t be more thankful or relieved. Jake is officially stepping into a whole new level of recovery.
Perhaps the most emotional victory was today when Jacob was officially transitioned OUT of the ICU to the TCU (Transitional Cardiac Unit). While he is still on the same floor and cared for by the same incredible team, this status change is a recognition of how far he has come. He is no longer considered a “critical” patient, but a “recovering” patient. Same floor, same doctors, much better status!
The physical wins are starting to stack up too. Jake is officially free from ALL chest tubes! Both tubes were removed yesterday, which has already made a massive difference. We also hit a major milestone in his daily care as his NG tube was replaced…… by his dad! While it wasn’t the most pleasant experience for Jake or Dan, it was a vital step. We are now fully trained and able to care for the NG tube ourselves, which is one more big requirement checked off the list for our eventual move home. Jake’s lungs are continuing to prove themselves as well. He is now completely free from oxygen during the day!
With the tubes gone and his breathing supported by his own powerhouse heart, Jake has literally taken off. He is now able to stand on his own and walk unassisted multiple times throughout the day! There is something profound in seeing him find his own balance and move using his own power. You never realize how truly blessed you are, even for things as simple as standing, walking and talking, until you aren’t able to.
I often take for granted the thousands of steps I take in a day but watching Jake struggle to do those things was heartbreaking. Now seeing him achieve them again, one by one, is a powerful reminder of what a miracle he is. He is working so hard and the perseverance he’s showing is incredible.
As the tubes come out and the monitors get quieter, the fog of the hospital is clearing and we can see Jake again. He is no longer just waiting, he is rebuilding.
The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Praise God! Jake, you look grate! Prayers for continued healing. Can’t wait to see that smile at home❣️
I am so excited to hear about this. I don’t know if I already told you this but I work with young men and women at a juvenile detention center. We teach them about Jesus. It is such a neat opportunity and they have a choice to come to church and it is so neat to see how many of them start thinking about life. Anyway, I have been telling them how brave you are. I have been telling them about you and they have all asked every week how you are doing so they are praying. It is great for them to have someone to pray for. These young men are thinking more about God every week. We have had lots of opportunities to teach them about Jesus. You could pray for them too!! I continue to be amazed at how much you are fighting to get back to the Peoria area. Keep up the good work. You are a miracle.