A day of Victory!!!

Today, Sunday, November 11, 2007, doctors removed the ventilator from Rick and he has done exceptionally well. He is breathing steadily with no struggle, using an oxygen mask. Caren says is resting comfortably....certainly glad to have his hands free, he is tired and weak, not really speaking much yet, but doctors say that is to be expected after having a breathing tube in your esophogus for l8 days!!! They will do some swalling studies tomorrow before introducing a "liquid diet"....again for the first time in 20 days!!. We know it will be a slow process, he has been so very sick, but we are praising GOD for this victory so far and thanking Him for his provision and protection over Rick, Caren, Matt, Chris and Brad during these difficult days. Please continue to pray for Rick's progress as they begin to look at weaning him from dialysis and watching to see how all of his functions are recovering. Thank you again for every prayer...