Day 3 hospital update: Tuesday, June 23

First, an update on Jennifer. She is still feeling the effects of a kidney stone that her body is trying to pass. It’s not a large one. But, then again, every kidney stone feels like it is HUGE! Please continue to pray for her to pass that thing NOW!

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Dad is feeling much better this morning. When I called to check on him, he was shaving and taking a shower.

The plan for this morning is to look at the blood work and xrays. If he is still making good progress, they will slowly start him on a clear liquid diet. If he tolerates that well, doctors will introduce solid food tomorrow.

If the blood work and xrays do not show signs of progress, we will look toward Duke and possible surgery.

We have had many people ask what is medically wrong with dad. Let me explain.

On Sunday afternoon, Dad started having severe abdominal pain. Mom called EMS and they immediately rushed him to the hospital. The doctors determined that he has a kink in his bowel in two places. They are working to get the bowel to relax and straighten out on it’s own. If this were not successful, surgery would be necessary.

This is where it becomes complicated for dad.

A little over 10 years ago, Dad had a hernia repair that had major complications. Because of the complications, his abdominal muscle wall was destroyed and had to be replaced with a very large piece of Marlex mesh. This mesh is sewn to very compromised fascia. Now, Pastor Ron must wear a very thick, uncomfortable binder around his body everyday and has a 10lb weight limit for what he can lift. This is to protect the mesh that is in his body.

Surgery on Pastor Ron’s abdomen is complicated because of the mesh and the compromised abdominal wall and fascia. This makes it necessary to have any thoracic surgery take place at Duke University Medical Center.

We still believe that God will use the medical team here at New Hanover to bring healing without surgery. Dad is making progress and we expect a full, non-surgical recovery SOON!

Thank you for praying. I will work hard to keep everyone updated here on the blog so everyone can get the latest info.

We love you all!