It is very important to keep a positive attitude.

Every morning when I return to the hospital, I greet Michael with a good morning. All though the day I remind him that he is getting better and that he has to get better. I tell him that he is in the best place for recovery. The ICU that he is in is part of the National Jewish System. National Jewish is considered the top Respiratory Hospital in the Country. The only problem is that we are at the altitude of 5,280 feet, which isn't great for patients with acute respiratory illnesses. Most importantly, I tell him constantly that I love him.

Visiting hours for the ICU end at 7PM, but I am in contact with the hospital during the night and early morning, and am given frequent updates on his condition.
The hospital policy of making the family leave at 1-2:30PM and then again at 7PM, is very difficult for me. I want to be with him all the time. I understand it is necessary so that I will eat and get some rest. When I return in the morning the staff always asks how I am doing and asks if I have gotten any rest. They are very kind.