Wednesday, Aug. 13th, 10pm

Hi Everyone.  Sam here.  Back in Anchorage energized tag-teaming with Mary Ann - giving her a chance to go home for a bit.

Well, it's been quite a big day for Mom and Rich.  The first big thing is they finally had their wonderful and joyous reunion.  The only tears were mine and Joyce's as we were giving them privacy standing outside Mom's room hugging, crying and giggling.  Even though they've both been kept abreast of what's happening with the other there's no doubt that seeing each other was a balm for both of their hearts.  Mom was absolutely beaming and Rich was chatting a mile a minute.  He stayed there rubbing Mom's arm as they were clearing out her "trach" telling her to keep relaxed - coaching her through it like a pro.  He was obviously relieved to be with her and "see" her condition rather than imagine how she appears.  This reunion was important for both their progress.

Rich returns to the Rehab Unit of Providence to continue his hard work.  During his visit with Mom he said it's even more important that he work hard and heal so he can take care of "Honey Bears".  We even discussed the potential wheelchair ramp in Willow and how Vegas weather may be good rehab weather later down the road.

The other big news...The Golden Eagle has landed.  Yes, Mom took her road trip across town to St. Elias ICU Unit.  This is a beautiful facility whose specific mission is long term acute care.  They specialize in rehab of the very sick or injured.  It is a top-rated facility and exactly where Mom needs to be to heal.  She arrived by about 6pm.  We met her night nurse Larry who was very up to date on her medical history.  We stayed for a bit as she got settled in.  With such a trip, she was very tired so we left for her to rest.

Leaving the ICU at Providence was bittersweet.  This is a part of Mom's progress and St. Elias is where the next steps in her recovery will take place.  Providence ICU, though, has been a place of security for us.  Our trust in their skill and dedication is complete.  These amazing doctors, surgeons and nurses have saved Mom and Rich's lives, several times over in Mom's case.  They never gave up on her and their meticulous attention and just plain doggedness are why we're here today.  I can never fully express my gratitude to these wonderful people - they never once forgot they were treating Rich and Jeannette, not just bodies.  One of Rich's nurses said it was one of his most memorable times as an ICU nurse that he first helped Rich to stand.  He said that just doesn't happen in ICU and he was overjoyed to be there to help Rich.  The ICU doctor I spoke to yesterday said the entire ICU staff said helping Mom get to this point where she can transfer to St. Elias has been the most rewarding experience of their professional careers.  Many of the staff we have come to know so well stopped by Mom's room while Rich was in there and gave their well wishes or just smiled at the sight of them together.  They also been my teachers and have shown infinite patience with my questions.

Sleep well everyone...I know Mom and Rich will sleep a bit better tonight.