August 8, 2004
Update 5
Hello to all,

First let me say thank you for all the cards, they mean so much to Dad. (I think he may be able to start his own Hallmark store.)

Not a ton of info to report, Dad is still in the same shape he has been in for the last couple of days. He can’t seem to shake this fluid thing and in fact, may have a small case of pneumonia. They are keeping a close eye on him, as is our family (Lisa and I named ourselves the QAM's...Question Askin' Machines). They continue introducing new instruments and methods for him to try in order to rid himself of all these secretions. He participates in Physical and Occupational Therapy everyday; he's making small strides all the time. Although we don't see huge changes, everyday he is a little better. This is a very slow process, not the norm for a Henry...patience, pray for patience!! He has come along way since day one...he started on life support, then moved to the trach and now he is breathing on his own. They keep the trach in place in case of emergency and he's not completely out of the woods that he won’t have to live w/out it. (though it’s looking good) He first must retrain his throat to swallow and make sure everything goes down the correct pipe. They will start testing on that this week.

Mom is hanging in there, taking it one day at a time. Her hand will be fine. Looks like she'll get a new cast next week...hopefully smaller.

Thank you for all the love and kindness, it's helping.

Love to all,
The Henry Clan