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At 6:30 this evening (September 29), Mayumi was moved from the Intensive Care Unit on the 7th floor of the hospital, to the Intermediate Care Unit on the 11th floor. This is a sure sign that her condition is improving, although it comes at a price: more cramped quarters and less privacy than before. She will probably remain there for the weekend, and then be moved one more time, to a general care unit.

The swelling in her face, around her throat, and in her legs and arms has almost disappeared, her coughing has diminished, and she is sleeping better than before. She took a couple of short walks in the outer hallway; these will grow in number and length in the days ahead, in order to exercise her muscles and improve her circulation. She retains a positive attitude, and is ready to face the challenges ahead.

She has enjoyed the company of several visitors over the past twenty-four hours, including the associate minister of our church and his wife (who happens to work in administration at Brigham and Women's Hospital).