Jennie,

I'll be thinking about you and your husband. Take it one step at a time. You'll make it through. You will need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your husband.

As far as the trach. I had to have one. If your husband has to have one, tell him that it isn't as bad as it looks. After a few days my ENT gave me a valve for the trach that enabled me to talk with my family. Sounded strange but it did the job.

As for the amount of pain, it probably depends on each individual. I never really did feel much pain. I had a morphine pump when I was in ICU, and for a few days after I was moved to a regular room. Then I was weened off of it. All pain meds will more than likely be given intravenously.

Start planning now for your husbands home care. My wife worked with the hospital's social worker to set up a visiting nurse and speech therapist to visit our house. You'll probably see a speech therapist while your husband is still in the hospital.

It warrants repeating. Take care of yourself. And those two kids. I'm married and have two kids also. My wife and my kids are a big reason why I fought so hard and continue fighting. Your husband will need you throughout this ordeal.

We'll be thinking about you and your husband. Good luck tomorrow.

John