Brett Cole update as of 6:30 Tuesday 2-13

Brett Cole status report - Feb 13th
Since the last update, God has answered our prayers regarding improved breathing for Brett and the communication of the news of his amputation.
Unfortunately, Brett was told by a nurse instead of us. This happened Monday morning and began a long day. Brett asked me "why did the nurse take my arm"?
I guess this was the best way. I told him what happened and he was concerned about his motorcycle, his race day, the leather riding suit he had promised to someone, his English class and the racing school.
Brett continued to improve throughout the day and we spent much of the afternoon trying to get him comfortable in bed. By Monday afternoon - he had gone 30 hours without pain medicine and sedation and it was time to give him something for pain. He began taking Percocet around 6:00 pm and has been taking 10 mg every 4 hours. He rates his pain as a 3 on a 10 point scale. (he is tough)
We were excited to be moved to a step down ICU room around 10:00 pm Monday night. I was able to stay the night with him for the first time since the accident. We had a long night of discomfort and grieving. It was good for us to cry together. He also needed me to lift him up in the bed. Coleen knew this would be a problem for her.
Tuesday began another day of small victories. Brett met with a physical therapist and an occupational therapist. The PT made him get out of bed, walk a few steps and sit in a chair upright for one hour. Although he was exhausted - this was a major gain from where he had been.
We had several visits from doctors and all were encouraging while cautious regarding his continued improvement. It is possible that he will be in ICU until the weekend and then a regular room into next week. Rehab may be as an outpatient.
Brett may start receiving visitors for a few minutes over the next few days. No flowers please since he is allergic.
Current prayer request:
1. Brett needs to eat. He does not have an appetite.
2. He needs to sit up and walk some.
3. Pray that his shoulder wounds heal properly.
4. The chest drainage tube to be removed.
5. Strength for another night and another day.
Thanks to everyone for the thoughts, prayers and practical expressions of kindness and care. I will try to keep you updated as time and energy allows.