SATURDAY - 12/6

Mom called this morning and I could tell by her voice that she's not feeling nearly as distressed as yesterday, and for good reason.

Dr. O'Duffy, Dad's neurologist, came by today and said that the infections (apparently there are 2) are being treated with another round of antibiotics and that the fever and white cells are trending down. She said Dad's continued level of alertness and awareness are both signs that the infection is not currently compromising him neurologically, so that's good. And, she says she hopes they can get Dad over to the rehab center by next week.

Mom also mentioned that Dad had started coughing and then had put his left (that's his LEFT!) hand up to cover his mouth. She was obviously quite impressed. So much so that when Steve called she told him the same story. Dad heard her, though, and said, "What's the big deal?"

On the physical therapy front, they've been getting Dad up and standing, supporting his own weight, at least once each day for the last several days. Yesterday they had Dad stand from the bed, turn 90-degrees, and sit in a chair.

And, Mom said Dad made one of his word related puns today. In response to being asked if he was behaving, he responded that he was trying, but was having a hard time being "have." Pronounce that with a hard "a" and you'll get the joke. Amazing how you can groan and be impressed at the same time, isn't it?