John Hancock, Unplugged

A message from Juan Ramos:

The dreaded Foley catheter has finally been removed and John is urinating like a normal person. A Big Whew as it also means no more dialysis, as far as I know. I had a session with his physical therapist and now have a series of four exercises to help loosen and slowly strengthen his legs at this phase. He can brush his teeth, wash his face, write and even assisted the nurses by pulling his upper body with his arms to reposition his body in bed, albeit gingerly. He is pretty much on a non-restricted diet and was in heaven when off-duty UCD nurse Karen Merrick brought a chicken vegetable soup, pasta salad and ice cold lemonade from Whole Foods for dinner. He now also has his apple laptop to watch DVD's with when visiting hours are over. So small portions of good food (he can still only eat small amounts) and comedy/action adventure/good drama DVDs are a good thing to bring if you choose to do so. What he appreciates most of all is your visits, so don't feel obligated. I do not recommend flowers as there is not a lot of room to place them or care for them. There is a possibility of moving him to a custodial care facility for rehabilitation and preferably one that is close to home, within the next few weeks if not sooner. I will keep you posted on that. He can receive calls during visiting hours (9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.). Call (916) 973-5000 and ask to be connected to John Hancock in Room #4012.