Last updated on 1 April 2026
Goodnight Mr. Mirko,
I have changed pens, but it is still Stefania, your nurse.
It is the middle of the night and I am looking after you.
I have just turned you onto your left side, toward the window.
I have the impression that this position is comfortable for you because your heart rate has slowed down… who knows, perhaps you sleep in this very position at home.
The nurse who cared for you yesterday afternoon told me that, after suspending the medication to help you sleep, you responded to the command to stick out your tongue.
This is important to us: it demonstrates that you hear and understand what we are saying.
I am very happy!
The tracheostomy (the hole in your neck) is still necessary to allow you to breathe with the ventilator (you are breathing independently for very short periods).
We are feeding you through a tube that goes from your nose to your stomach.
You have lost weight, Mr. Mirko, and you have lost a lot of muscle mass.
When I turn you to change your position or lift a leg or an arm, you are unable to maintain the position: the limb “falls.”
You will need a lot of physical therapy, patience, and willpower.
I wish you sweet dreams, Mr. Mirko.
Stefania
PS: I hope you do not grow tired of seeing only my handwriting