Sequim Gazette staff

Following a tractor accident Oct. 12, Tom Schaafsma, 64, Sequim’s 2009 Citizen of the Year, continues to recover in Seattle at Harborview Medical Center.

His wife, Jacque Schaafsma, said Monday night that he is progressing well and was moved out of the intensive care unit in the early evening.

“We’re really encouraged,” she said. “He’s looking so much better and eager to get home. For the most part he is all smiles, gratitude and communicating well.”

Schaafsma was hospitalized after a tractor flipped over on him behind his home while he was pulling a tree out of the ground. Jacque said he was without oxygen for at least 10 minutes and he sustained 10 broken ribs and two partially collapsed lungs.

Last week, he was taken out of the ICU but doctors decided to treat him there again a few days later to better monitor his pain levels.

Jacque said with Tom out of the ICU a second time, doctors have found a good balance for him and he’s in a good place.

Schaafsma’s family has been by his side through his treatment and they’ve updated a journal, www.caringbridge.org/visit/tomschaafsma/journal, on his progress daily.

“He’s coming more and more aware of how many people have been reading the blog and praying for him,” Jacque said. “He’s overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Schaafsma remains day-to-day and his family hopes he begins therapy as soon as Tuesday.

He has been involved in programs such as ShelterBox USA Response Team, Sequim Sunrise Rotary and many more.

He and Jacque have four children.