Hi. I was not personally present at the latest doc briefings, but the following is what I have pieced together and Dave McComb has verified.

1. The docs are happy that his organs are coping well since the accident, and since he’s over the first 48 hours and kidneys etc. are strong, this is a good sign that the life-threatening dangers, whilst not excluded completely, are diminishing.
2. The spinal fusion op is scheduled for tomorrow – most likely at some stage in the afternoon. Dr Zorio is pleased with the traction’s progress in moving the spinal vertebrae more into line. The procedure is apparently relatively quick, and will operate in the front of his neck. If this is not successful, they still have the option of going in from the back in a week or so. Remember this is for the fusion – i.e the physical realignment of the vertebrae so as to un-hinder his spinal chord.

Tomorrow’s op is an important step. Tom’s next step will be his breathing – how well he copes with breathing if they try to wean him off the ventilator.

At the risk of sounding negative, it needs to be said again that doctors believe Tom is unlikely to regain movement after the op. That’s not to say that we shouldn’t keep hope close beside us.