Boring is good

Bob has continued to make great progress. Yesterday, he took two long walks around the unit hallways going two laps each time. All three of his doctors were in to check on him accompainied by their entourages of eager medical students. They were all in agreement that Bob was becoming a very boring patient with no complications. Boring is good. Also Saturday, Bob walked across the hall to move into a private room. It's given him a bit more space as well as quiet when he wants to rest.

Not that hospitals are really set up for sick people to rest. He's been awakened at 3 am for such things as xrays in the room, blood tests and frequent alarms from a dizzying array of electronic and mechanical devices. These alarms seem to be sounding off with information which reflects more on their function than his. As always, Bob is quite patient (as a patient or otherwise), but he was happy to be in the new room where he'd only be subjected to his own interruptions. It will also give him more space for visitors when he's up to it.

His mother, Shirley, came up to visit from Pacific Grove which cheered him Saturday. Once he gets free of some of the tubes and equipment, he'll feel comfortable about having more visitors. If you'd like to talk with Bob while he's at Stanford, you can call him on his direct line: 650/ 498-3781. Most of the time he's able to have a chat, but don't call him on his cell phone. They aren't allowed on his floor. (Note: I wrote this Sunday morning before I knew that Bob's throat has become a bit sore making it difficult for him to talk for very long. If you call, it will probably be a very short conversation. Once he has the tube removed on Tuesday and is able to start taking liquids, he'll be able to talk more comfortably.)

As before, I'm printing out any emails sent to Jordan or me and comments sent to this blog. Our son-in-law, Matt, has taken some wonderful photos of Baxter and Lyle sending their best wishes, and Baxter has created great drawings for his Papa's room as well. Thanks to all of you who have sent Bob your messages of good cheer.