Oli’s progressing steadily now. Physically it seems like everyday another tube/drain/wire is removed (I strangely now have an image of ker-plunk! – forgive me, I am very tired). Even his catheter has been removed today, which although meant a big ouch, also means that the team are happy with his fluid outout and also means that he will have to physically exert himself a little everytime he needs to pee (sorry, too much information).
Mentally, he is taking things hard. A lot of it due to the remaining tubes still pumping in various drug cocktails. Anxiety is a big issue right now but the nurses are fantastic with him and have clearly seen all of this behaviour many times before. Alongside the anxiety are confusion and disorientation, both of these add to the anxiety.
It is still very important to remember that it is early days, as I am writing this, Oli was just about to head into theatre this time last week. Oli is progressing very well and hitting all targets that the team look for and is certainly not taking any steps back. Physically, Oli is nigh on exactly where he ‘should be’ (a term used very loosely as recovery is a very individual thing and can’t really be generalised). However, he is still very scared that something might go wrong.
The support you have all given Oli so far has been phenomenal. Please don’t stop your prayers and good wishes for Oli as he needs them just as much now as he did a week ago.
Please also remember the donor’s family as I can imagine they are still very much mourning the loss of a loved one in the time when a lot of people are in high spirits for the approaching Christmas. I’m sure they’re not feeling too Christmassy right now and could do with lots of love heading their way.
Lots of love from me x