Gas Chamber

Well, Patrick was able to call again this past weekend (Sunday). He sounded good on the phone, and is still rating his experience as a 3 on the 1-5 scale. He said he was talking to someone who has already been through basic training, and was told the next three or so weeks will be extremely difficult weeks. Patrick is still averaging approximately 5 to 5 ½ hours of sleep a night, which will be his standard. This alone is an adjustment for Pat who is used to getting over 8 hours of sleep (and sleeping late on the weekends).

This past week his group went through a gas chamber exercise. Pretty much they get put in the gas chamber until either they get sick, decide they can’t take it any more, or complete the time frame. I do not know how long they were to stay in the chamber for the exercise. Patrick said many in his group got sick and did not make it. Patrick was able to complete the exercise and suffered from burning skin and eyes. - - I guess it could have been worse - - but who wants to think about their family being put in a gas chamber – not me! I asked my husband Bill about this, and whether or not he had to experience this in his basic training. He did not, but he said that once you are exposed to a gas chamber, your body will be able to tolerate it more the second time, god forbid anything like this ever happens to Patrick. I guess it is like getting a flu, your body creates antibodies to fight it, so it will not infect you the next time, or you will not get as sick.

We told Patrick about all of the outpour of support and messages he and our family have received during this time, and Patrick really appreciates it. You can hear the tone of his voice change when we tell him that people are supporting him, are thinking about him, and wish him the best. He is so thrilled that people are viewing the website, signing the guestbook, and visiting his Facebook group. This week I sent him a copy of all of the posts so far. On the phone we let him know they were coming and he was very excited. Please continue to support Patrick through your prayers, messages, and support. It means the world to him, and to our family. If you have the opportunity please take the time to mail him a letter or a card. He is extremely anxious to get mail, and hear from all his friends and family. Thank you!