Update on Michael

In my sister's words, here is the latest update on Michael, who was diagnosed with ARDS yesterday:

I'm gonna try to explain what is going on in Michaels lungs in some simple terms.

Our little bit of research shows that ARDS is caused by a number of things which include sepsis and blunt trauma to the head. (see note below) Apparently because of the things Michael has gone through, there is damage in his lungs. Within the lungs there are a bunch of alveoli that inflate when air is inhaled. Michael is having a hard time taking deep breaths, so the alveoli are not inflating properly. When the alveoli do not blow up properly, they become scarred and will eventually harden, creating unhealthy lungs. The respirator is now doing the breathing for Michael, allowing his lungs to rest and heal. The respirator also keeps some pressure on the lungs constantly which helps the alveoli to inflate and deflate properly. With some time, his lungs should heal and he will be able to breathe on his own.

Tomorrow the Dr. plans to install a trachea and a feeding tube. This will allow Michael to come off sedation and to interact with us quite freely. Altho he will not be able to talk, he will receive physical therapy, will be able to use his phone, a computer etc. This all seems so surreal to us right now, because we had pretty high hopes of being discharged from the hospital in a few days. The Dr is saying in about 5-10 days they should get a good feel for how quickly the healing is occurring. Beyond that we are looking at time at a hospital rehab center.
  We experienced a wide range of emotions today. Through it all we feel very "held" , we are still believing in our great big God, we KNOW He is who he says He is and that He can do what He says He can. " When I am afraid, I will trust in Him".

(Michael had sepsis from an injury on his leg which hadn't healed properly and also received an injury to his head while on a canoe trip.  That whole story on how he got to the hospital while on a canoe trip out in the sticks with little cell phone reception is a miracle in itself!)

So thanks for your continued prayers. It means so very much to know that a host of friends, known and unknown, are joining us in praying for Michael.  Most of all, we are rejoicing in serving a God who hears our prayers and can still do miracles.

Update on Michael
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