Walk it Out

Preacher Fred continues to improve.  Today the therapist had him walk with his cane.  He was able to walk from his recliner to the kitchen and back three times.  The therapist told him not to use the cane without her supervision, but that he would soon be able to use it on his own.  The therapist mentioned that he would probably be a little sore tonight.  He had no drainage from his knee after working out, and the hematoma on his leg has gone down.  Each day he continues to improve.  This wouldn't be possible without God through your prayers.

Doctor Gives Thumbs Up!

Preacher Fred received good news from the doctor after his visit yesterday afternoon.  The doctor removed the medical tape and said that the knee was looking better. The doctor did ask that Fred continue to keep the knee clean.  He also wanted him to continue to keep it wrapped from thigh to toe and changing the bandages out twice a day.  He also wanted Fred to continue to take it easy and keep the same workout regiment as before.  The doctor said that if things continue to progress, Fred could be back up and preaching in three to four weeks.  Praise the Lord!!  Keep moving forward Fred, God is right there with you. 

Patsy's Cooking Motivates

Preacher Fred continues to improve.  For the normal gathering at Patsy's Fine Foods restaurant Sunday afternoon, Fred worked his way to the table and ate with the family.  Not sure if that was out of fear that food would not be delivered to his recliner :)  Whatever the case maybe, it was nice to see improvement and have him back at the dinner table. Fred has a scheduled visit with the doctor this afternoon. Continue to pray that his health improves and that he has a good checkup today.

No News is Hopefully Good News

There isn't much news to report today.  Preacher Fred has felt fairly well over the last couple of days.  His incision isn't draining as badly since his doctor visit on Monday.  Continue to pray for his healing. 

Pray for Healing

Preacher Fred had a doctor's appointment yesterday.  At this appointment, the doctor took out most of the staples from his knee.  He left about three staples at the bottom of the incision to help that part continue to heal.  His knee is still draining blood and fluids.  As a way to help that, the doctor wants Fred to wrap his leg from his toes to his thigh.  He also wants Fred to continue his therapy.  Preacher Fred has to go back to the doctor next Monday for a follow-up.  If his knee is still draining, he will have to be put back to sleep for the doctor to go back in the incision and clean it.  After this procedure, Fred will have to stay a couple of days in the hospital.  We have faith the God can heal this problem before Monday.  Please pray that Fred's knee continues to heal and that it stops draining so he will not have to have his knee opened up again.

In Knee'd of Strength

After two good days, Preacher Fred has felt weak today.  He is still working out with his leg motion machine for six hours a day.  He has a check up with the doctor tomorrow.  At this visit they will look at how the knee is healing and check the incision, which is still draining fluids and blood.  For the most part, Fred's health has been much improved compared to the previous two surgeries.  We are hoping that this is a sign of healing. 

Better Days Ahead

Preacher Fred had a pretty good day today.  Fred's sister (Francis) and brother-in-law (James) from Sanford, NC assisted nurse Patsy today.  Fred's medication is issued with an antibiotic pump, which feeds his antibiotics through his PICC line. He is also taking two other antibiotics by mouth.  Fred continues to gain strength daily with the use of his leg motion machine (CPM).  The purpose of this machine is to work out and stretch the knee to certain degrees each day.  The doctor wants Fred to work out on the CPM for six hours a day.  Right now the motion machine assists Fred with bending his knee to 65 degrees.  His goal is to reach 120 degrees within the next couple of weeks.  Starting tomorrow Fred will being his physical therapy with a trainer.  With the help of the trainer and Fred's motivation to get better, the family continues to pray that God will guide his path.