Update 14 for Mike Pless (by Mike Pless): March 6, 2024 - 7:00 PM

It’s official, I’m back in the hospital. I have developed an infection in the right side of my neck. It’s serious but Dr. El-Deiry’s game plan is to hold off on another surgery and treat it with wound packing and cleaning, IV Antibiotics, and best practices while closely monitoring blood and pathology reports.

The right side is inflamed and angry looking and now, more sensitive and painful than it was just after surgery.

So, as it stands now, I’ll be here through the weekend and then they’ll reevaluate. Am I disappointed? Of course! I’d much rather be at home. However, remember dear friends, perspective is critical to wellbeing. I’ll gladly trade 5+ days in the hospital for no surgery and a (hopefully) quicker recovery time. Besides, who knows what wonderful souls I’ll have the opportunity to meet and share life and hope with?

Editors note: Pray for endurance for dad and mom as they're back at Emory for a while. Praise for the Lord allowing dad's body to heal and trend in the right direction.

I know it's cliche, but the saying applies. "I don't know what the future holds; but I know the One who holds the future." He will hold me (us) fast.

Love you friends. Thanks for praying.