What it takes

We got Ira out of the house this past Thursday. I've mentioned that it's quite a task to do so. Here's a run down of what Ira must have when we take a walk around the block:

1. His vent machine
2. A battery the size and weight of a car battery that powers the vent
3. An oxygen tank
4. A nose (a device added to the tubing that works as a filter)
5. Suction machine and sterile suction supplies
6. A diaper bag

There is the usual stuff in the diaper bag but there is also an extra trach, trach ties, sterile gloves, and our list of important telephone numbers.

And this is for a walk around the block. If we go to an appointment with one of Ira's docs, Ira will need to eat. We'll also have to take his feeding pump, food, meds to be given and back-up g-tube stuff.

It's a bit stressful and when you're walking down the street and the vent starts beeping warning you that the "pressure is low" it becomes a bit more stressful. But Ira is worth the stress, no?

While Ira's not too sure about the outside world we know that it's good for him and it's good for us too.

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