Updates about Karen's Condition - January 2001

• January 1 - 7 - Karen has scheduled her muscle flap surgery (to close the wound once and for all) for next Monday, January 15. After she recovers from the operation, she'll have to stay in a long term care clinic for 4-8 weeks while the flap heals. During that time, she'll also undergo therapy to regain some of the upper body strength that she has lost during her long stay in bed and she'll start working on independent living skills again. Your prayers are appreciated for a successful surgery.
• January 8 - 14 - Unfortunately there is bad news again this week... Karen had to go back into the hospital on Wednesday because she continues to struggle with infections and intestinal problems. It is very unlikely that she'll be able to have the surgery tomorrow, but her doctor will at least visit and give her an update. Any significant developments will be posted here through out the week.
• January 15 - 21 - Karen was released from the hospital on Wednesday but she goes right back in tomorrow...this time for the long awaited surgery to heal the ever-present sore. She has to report to the hospital at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow morning then she'll have the surgery and stay in the hospital for approximately one week for short term recovery. She'll then transfer to Barnes Extended Care facility in Clayton for long term recovery and rehabilitation. She's a little nervous about the surgery so your prayers are appreciated.
• January 22 - 28 - Karen's surgery went very well and she is recuperating nicely at Barnes. She doesn't know for sure when or where her move for long term recovery will be -- there may not be room for her at the Barnes Extended Care facility so the doctors are looking for some place suitable. She is looking forward to getting on with the recovery though and she thanks everyone for their prayers and support.