From LA

My sister has been staying this week. She said the other day, "I don't
want to tell people that Ben is even slightly improved because then
they'll stop praying." Please don't. But he is improving. His oxygen
level on the ventilator is down, his neutrophils (which fight
infection) are up, his temperature is down and his blood pressure is
stable. We are very thankful. The ICU staff will keep monitoring him
over the next couple of days and all being well, they will be able to
remove his breathing tube and wake him up.

In the meantime Ben is trying to inflict grievous bodily harm on his
carers. His night nurse is sure he has a hand injury from Ben crushing
his hand in one slightly more wakeful episode. Pushing and shoving
while he was quite confused he nearly managed to escape from his bed
with his 5,000 tubes trailing behind him. While it's not pleasant
watching these episodes we can't help seeing it as a sign of Ben's
famous fighting spirit.

On the home front, we ate Chicken Townhouse last night. I know, I
know, it's like the end of an era. We hope there won't be a collective
global 'groan' at this news. We took a photo to post later today. And
don't be sad for Ben. There is more Chicken Townhouse where that came
from.

We still want to say thankyou to so many people for their acts and
thoughts of kindness. So many messages, so many meals, and such great
hospital staff. Thank you.