A little over a week ago, Holly decided that her energy has improved enough that she could help me mow the lawn. I appreciated the offer, so while I was mowing one part, she was working on another part. While she was on a steep slope, her foot slipped, she rolled her ankle, and ended up severely fracturing bones in three places of her ankle. We are thankful Alyssa was standing nearby, and she ran and got me, and that began the process we are currently in. ER visit, X-rays, CT scan, visit to orthopedic surgeon, all confirmed that surgery will be required, which happens tomorrow, June 2. (Update below.)

The orthopedic surgeon confirmed that she will need a plate to hold her ankle together, as well as pins and screws. For the first time she’s ever had a broken bone, or gone in for surgery, the experts kept telling Holly, “Wow, you really did a good job on this one!” Not terribly encouraging.

Alyssa, our 17 year old who is still at home, has been a champ, taking good care of her mama. Holly is in quite a bit of pain, especially when she tries to move, so we are trying to make her as comfortable as possible. Interestingly, Alyssa just received her driving permit this past week, so although Holly won’t be able to drive for a couple months, hopefully Alyssa may be able to help some. I’m just thankful I was at home (and not on a trip to Africa) when all this happened.

I had a training in Oregon scheduled for Friday and Saturday this week, but since it is only two days after surgery, I need to be with Holly to help her, so I was able to find Pathways partners who can cover that training. We are still planning on me making my trip to Ivory Coast in 10 days to train the group in Abidjan.

Please be in prayer for Holly going through the surgery. She is a bit nervous, and I won’t be allowed inside, but the Lord is with her. We also have been deeply encouraged by the support from members of our home church who have offered meals, prayers, and much love.

UPDATE:

Holly’s surgery went well on Wednesday. The surgeon said it was a bad break, unusual because not only was the surrounding bone broken, but the joint itself was broken, with many bone fragments in the area, including a large one pinched in middle of joint. He was able to clean things up and realign the ankle, putting in a plate and many screws to hold everything together. He said that it will be a slow recovery, with no weight for six weeks, but by 3-4 months she should be moving toward more normal ability to walk.

Holly and I have commented many times how blessed we are to be in America where this procedure is possible. In many other parts of the world, with limited medical options, Holly would be looking at a lifetime of severe disability or even being crippled. Thank you much for your continuing prayers for her.