Chase has Continued to Make Progress with Breathing

Over the past few days, Chase has continued to be able to breathe independent of his ventilator for several hours, including six hours today (Halleluiah!). Although the vent provides some pressure support to ensure that his lungs and airways remain open, he is triggering the breathing on his own and it seems to be getting better by the day. We’re very encouraged by his progress and hoping to slowly reduce the amount of pressure support so that he can soon be completely off the vent for periods of time.

Chase has also continued to be responsive lately, trying to communicate with leg movements from time to time. Some days he has more energy than others - today he picked out his movie by pulling his leg at the right time as Carol read the list of options. While we continue to get skepticism from the Neurosurgeon (who seems to think these are just reflex responses), we’re pretty certain this is cognitive, unless the movements just happen to be coincidentally timed repeatedly over several days. I guess Chase will just have to prove it himself someday, when he’s even more responsive and moving on command whenever he wants.

We are planning another prayers service on the first Sunday of the month, November 5th, at 3 pm. It will be held once again at the chapel of Holy Name Parish located at 630 Harmon St. in Birmingham, MI 48009. Please spread the word – we had about two-thirds of the chapel filled last time and we’d really like to keep the momentum going. We have no doubt that Chase’s Prayer Warriors are making a huge difference in his recovery and we are truly grateful for all your prayers and support!!

God Bless!

John & Carol
Chase & Barbara Ann