This evening Tom had a visit from Dr. Bob Stephenson after receiving dialysis all morning and having a cystogram to check for a leak (s) from the bladder.  The upshot:  they might release him to go home for Christmas tomorrow afternoon.  The surgeon and nephrologists feel that his complications that were causing problems have become less impactful:  heart and lungs have improved markedly, the JP drain will be removed tomorrow very likely, and the other drain will remain for some days, also the catheter. He will be coming in for blood labs and checks for healing. The leak isn't 'communicating' as much fluid now and his peritoneal cavity that is very vascular has been reabsorbing a quantity of fluid from the abdominal region. This has baffled them on the blood electrolytes, which is looking better for now but will have to be monitored. Most all leaks are typically healed by the body.

   He's been a model patient and deserves some time off for Christmas!!  In other words, your kind prayers and positive thoughts have helped him improve and I hope this continues tomorrow and day to day. I'm so grateful for the blessings that he's received---- what healing power is possible from Heavenly Father!