Question L

[Jonetta]

Patrick Kincaid awakens! Do you think he’ll be able to resume his old job at some point? Was his recovery after two years realistic?

[Robin]

When I read it had been two years since he had been injured and in a coma, I had to go back and make sure I read it correctly. I had a hard time buying this. Yes, miracles happen. But he would be in such bad physical shape if he awakened, it will take years to get back to where he was, if it is at all possible.

I can't remember what Patrick's old job was. Was he a private investigator?

[Jonetta]

Patrick headed a cyber crime unit with the San Diego Police Department. He may be able to resume his career but probably not with the SDPD.

I’ve heard of people coming out of comas after an extended period of time but it takes a while to regain cognitive skills, too, if I’m recalling things correctly. His body would be extremely weak, needing lots of physical therapy. He’s got a road ahead of him.

[Charlene]

It seems that the author did get his bodily weakness right, since he struggled to pick up a five-pound weight in the hospital room and talked about all the PT he'd have to go through to get back. I do hope his cognitive functions come back as well -- long road to recovery perhaps?

[Anita]

Two years was a really long time to be in a coma. Like you all said, physical and cognitive recovery is going to take a really long time.

[Melissa]

I think he will with some time. I did feel like he came around too quickly for being in a coma for 2 years.