stubborn tumor, stubborn dad

So my dad's operation, originally anticipated at 3-4 hrs, took over 10. A very long wait in a very dreary hospital waiting room. It was a fibrous, veinous, "well fed" calcified tumor. Stubborn tumor.

The night after the operation, semi-unconscious, with a giant bandage on head, myriad tubes, monitors, and immobilized/hands tied down, my dad managed to spit out the breathing tube. Yes, that is the kind that goes all the way down one's trachea. At the hospital, nobody had ever heard of anyone being able to do this. Indeed, it isn't supposed to be possible. My dad was quite proud of his feat. Stubborn dad.

He's been out of the hosp. since Sunday and doing very well. Stubborness can be helpful if directed appropriately, at least.