Last updated on 1 April 2026
Hello Mirko,
I am Stefania, a nurse.
I am taking the liberty of addressing you informally because that is what you asked me to do.
I haven’t written since January 24, and so many things have changed!
First and foremost is the fact that you can now speak; although you still have a tracheostomy, you are now breathing and speaking as you always have.
The only respiratory support you have left now is a little (very little) oxygen.
You are coughing well and are able to clear secretions almost independently.
We spoke this morning… you told me that you don’t see any improvement, that you are sad; you told me that yesterday you were informed of the death of your parents.
I am so sorry for your loss.
I tried in every way to make you understand that you are making giant strides toward rehabilitation, but I realized that you want to return to the Mirko you used to be as quickly as possible; I can understand that, but I realized that you do not remember what you have been through.
I read you the first pages of this diary and I had the impression that, as you told me, you were pleased to reconstruct your story; I hope this can help you have a different perspective on your recovery.
You also told me: “I didn’t think drinking a glass of water could be so pleasant!” and I would add that you are doing it on your own.
All of this moves me (as I told you) in a positive way: I observe improvements with each passing day and I hope that you too can be aware of the great progress you are making.
Later I will take you for a walk outside the ward; not outdoors, because it is still too cold today!
Come on Mirko, you are on the right track!
Stefania