It's out! The breathing tube came out this afternoon & Dad was breathing on his own. He's really huffing & puffing though & the doctor just said that he hoped Dad could continue to breathe on his own & improve somewhat, otherwise it has to go back in & a tracheotomy scheduled. He was also awake & trying to talk again. His throat is sore (of course) & his voice is really gruff. It will be a few days before the sore throat goes away. He wanted to know when he can get out of the hospital. He expected to be home long before now. Like the day after surgery! The nurse had him sit at the side of the bed with his feet dangling down, but she had to hold him up.. he's as weak as a kitten.