Dear all,
The good news is that last night Noel was able to demonstrate that her bowel is fully functional. The bad news is that it launched into a level of hyperdrive that only a Trekkie could appreciate. The subsequent good news is that, while they feared an infection (something called c.diff), the test results were negative for infection.
When I arrived early this morning Ann was worn out and sleeping. Later in the morning she got in a good two hour sleep and we did our first rounds of the ward after “lunch” at about 1:30. “Lunch” consists of broth, coffee (she prefers tea, but it’s a hospital and they didn’t ask), jello (she’s taken one bite in two days) and some apple juice. Tonight and tomorrow they’ll try introducing semi-solids (another Star Trek term I presume).
Remember I reported on how Noel’s doctors could not believe she was actually 39? (Stop it, Rochester.) So today, as I was leaving her room I encountered another patient making her own rounds of the floor. My first impression is that she was around Ann’s age. We exchanged greetings and I walked on down the hall. As I did, I heard the woman say to her escort, “He looks so much like my father.” Well, see if she gets a greeting from me in the future.
Exit from the hospital has been delayed a day or two, but will happen soon. In the meantime, Sarah (Ann’s sister in Denver) arrives to stay with us and get Ann to start eating and walking around the block. I can’t wait.
Ann and I can’t thank you enough for your posts, cards, emails, etc. They mean the world to her. I also apologize for not being able to respond to each of you directly. i hope this can satisfy some of your interest in how things are going.
Clark
noelstanton 
Keeping some sense of humor is always good and I see you have it Clark. You made me laugh twice and that’s pretty good being an attorney. I know this is for Noel but you need to take care of yourself too!!! Tell her I said hi and she is always on my mind.
Made me laugh, as well. Ann is so remarkable. I am sure she will be thrilled to have Sarah there with her – and you will get a bit of rest, as well. I know this is no job for you taking care of Ann – more of an honor. I am so happy that you keep us all informed. We are all with you. Rozann
Clark –I love this Blog and how it keeps John and I up-to-date on Ann’s condition.
We think and talk of her daily.
Carmelita and John Stone
Thanks Clark for all your posts. I have been praying for Noel daily and this helps to know how she is doing. I had hoped she would be able to go home yesterday. You too are in my thoughts and prayers.
Noreen
It’s great to read the good news spiced with a dash of humor.
We think of you all constantly.
Jim and Jolanne