I think your plan is good. Continue to let him think that he is in control. I said something to techguy that I will repeat here:
The grass has germinated. Now you need to carefully water it, but not too much, so it fouls.
I am not sure I will have the patience and strength to go through what you been through. This has been a long, long time to finally see the first little sign of change. I am very happy for you and cannot wait to hear how it will develop.
AN
M43 W45, M17 S9 D6 Bomb: 11/11/08 EA: 10/26-12/31/08 ? Retrouvaille: 2/13-2/15/09 Healed, but still heading for D My situation