Out of ICU...again

Laura is back on the floor!  There is always a number of moving parts and the next weeks will be up and down depending on the moment but they did move her onto the floor.  

The first days post surgery are active and today was no exception.  She is free of all tube minus her port which is still accessed.  The feeding tube was removed today as she passed the swallow test!  She did get a bit carried away after and drank a small milk and smoothy.

She did walk from the ICU to her room on the floor with out issue.  She was aided by the pro walker but that was also due to the fact that she still has three tubes connected to her lungs and heart.

As she settled into her room it was great to have so many nurses, RT's and others come by to cheer her on.  The common theme was that we are sooooo excited that you had the re-transplant and can't believe you are already on the floor. You look amazing! I can't believe you had the re-transplant and a washout. OMG! Congratulations!  Walking down the hall people are congratulating us at every door.  As I came back the floor our past nurses would stop me to chat and learn about what happened.

I cannot image being on 10 at UCSF.  As the husband I am obviously invested but today it was evident that I was not the only one.  The floor, after 45+ days and a previous transplant, was pulling just as hard.  Given their jobs they see his often, to be this invested is amazing!

I/we thank the team everyday but today the congratulations and excitement carried us all.  Pretty special.

We have more ups and downs in the weeks ahead but it is great to know we are a tribe working together.  #teamlaura is in full force.  We are excited to carry that forward with the foundation and continue to enable others to have the support that we have.  I over heard a conversation in the elevator about how hard it was to deal with the cost of parking.  Food, hotels, travel add up very very quickly.  To know we can make a difference is exciting.

Thank you all for the support you have given us. Truly incredible and I can never express our appreciation well enough for you to know.

Cheers and love to all,
The Z;s