Surgery Done!

It's almost 5:00 pm, and Carl's orthopedic surgeon just gave us the report that his first surgery has been successful. They put a rod into his right femur bone and a plate on the tibia bone and on the knee. They were able to close the outside incision (fasciotomy) that runs from his knee down to his ankle but left the one on his inner calf open to help with the swelling. That incision will be closed later and will likely need skin grafting in the future.

They had no problems with the transplanted vein: thank God it is still pumping blood to his lower right leg.

They did not attempt surgery on the left leg today.

Carl will wake up tonight without a steel frame imbedded into his right leg. In it's place is a knee immobilizer. That certainly is a big step in the right direction and he will be happy about that!

Thank you to those of you who have donated blood. In answer to prayer, Carl did not need another transfusion during surgery, but even if he never needs more blood, the hospital will use it to replenish the blood they have used for him.

Thank you to my wonderful sisters, my mom and my sister-in-law Vern (and Merrill) for sitting with me throughout the entire surgery. It was like having a good old-fashioned "Sisters Day" and was a great distraction for the hours of waiting.

Becky, your understanding heart means more than I can say. I will learn much from your wisdom and your experience.

For now, we are looking foward to seeing Carl in a little while. (They said he already asked about me....yeah!!) Thank you for your faithful prayers for our family. We really do sense your deep concern.

Fan