ALS 02
After much talking, advice and prayer the family collectively decides to have a tracheotomy procedure July 9, 2010 at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Ga. Weeks prior, Bob has been struggling to breathe on his own without the use of a breathing machine and mask. Here, he shows discomfort as he coughs using his assisted breathing machine for the first time after awakening from surgery. Iodine covers his neck area. The new adjustment causes blood to escape his trache area as it heals. Despite the hard decision, this was pivotal in comfort for Bob. "We should have done this sooner," Anita said. (Corey Perrine/The Augusta Chronicle)