Jen had a PT breakthrough Sunday. With minimal help, she stood from the hospital recliner, transitioned to the walker, completely supported her weight (on her new hip) and took 7 steps forward. Then yesterday after transferring (standing and pivoting) several times throughout the day, she walked another 10.

This is huge! It means we are well on our way to safely transferring to her chair, bed, wheelchair, and our SUV, and closer to getting a sign-off for completing rehab at home.

We were hoping Jen would be discharged this week, but there are a few things her doctors want to get under control before she goes home. In addition to her loss of appetite, Jen has significant fluid build up in her abdomen, hips, legs and feet. Her white blood cell count is slightly elevated. She needs wound care for minor skin breakdown. Her hemoglobin has dropped to around 7.2, and a chest X-ray shows possible signs of atelectasis.

When Jen does discharge, she will be well cared for by neighbors, friends and family who go above and beyond to make our burdens lighter and in so many great and small ways brighten our days.