It will be a long road, but she's on the right path...

It's been a few days since I've updated the blog.  Today is day 4 in ICU for Stacy.  She's doing remarkably well.  It seems like everyday gets even better.  This is going to be a long battle, with many bumps, but Stacy is strong.  She's a fighter and too stubborn to be deterred. 

Yesterday was a big day for Stacy.  She was able to get out of her bed for the first time.  She was passing notes back and forth with Mom most of the day.  She had several surprises, some planned and some spontaneous.  To start the day, she received a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus.  Next, she received pictures of Kami and a video message from Christian.  Just what she needed, since she can't actually see them.  For the grand finale of the day, Our Aunt Mick from PA surprised her by flying down for the weekend.  She teared up when Aunt Mick walked in the door.  This visit is great for so many reasons, to all of us.  Aunt Mick also surprised Stacy by bringing her an iPod loaded with all sorts of good music.  Stacy enjoys it so much she's fallen asleep to it a few times already.  All of the excitement got her pretty tired, and they said that she did pretty well overnight.

They told her yesterday that she might go to a room today.  It was decided, however, that it would be best to stay where she's at.  Though she was a little upset by the news, we were able to make her see that it's for the best.  Afterall, she has one on one care where she's at, there is less chance of being exposed to bacteria, and it's just more comfortable.  She gets a little irritated when there is a lot going on, such as nurses, visitors, etc.  She enjoys sitting on the edge of the bed and just stretching her legs and letting her feet touch the floor.  She'll tell you when she's ready to sit up and then again when she's ready to lay back down.  The movement will get everything moving in her lungs, so it's a process, between suctioning the trach, juggling tubes and making sure her leg and arm aren't in harm's way.  But we somehow seem to make it work.  Her nurses, for the most part, have been phenomenal and are very willing to "bend" the visitation rules for us.  Stacy's like their little pet.  :) 

We're not sure when she'll go to a room, much less come home.  With any luck, they'll put in her feeding tube on Monday and send her home by Wednesday.  But whatever they decide, we know it's in her best interest.

That's about all I can think of right now, so I'll write more in a couple days.  Thank you again for all of the prayers and words of encouragement.  We try to relay all of your messages and encouraging words to Stacy.  With a nod and a smile, she tells us that she thanks you as well.  Our family is forever grateful for the generosity and support that has been shown by so many.  Thank you again....

Sincerely,
Amanda