Richard is now out of surgery for this Tibias (bottom of his shin bone), Feet, and Ankles. The surgeon (who my mom and aunt now have a huge crush) told us that there were just too many breaks to count, but that his breaks were almost identically. In that each foot/leg had symmetrical injuries. Nothing Dr. Dimples had ever seen before. Richard apparently landed on both feet at the same time. Amazingly, this distributed the injury to his spine and legs evenly… probably preventing a complete break of an entire side (leg, knee, hips, pelvis, etc.)
The surgery was successful and he now has external bars and screws holding the bones exactly where they need to be. It is very Sci-Fi looking. I keep expecting Walter Bishop from Fringe to come in and consult. :)
This external hardware will stay in place for a while…but are not completely permanent. WHEN the time comes for him to stand, they will do a surgery to “install” internal plates and screws. But this is a major surgery which he could not sustain, or even need, at this time. But the current apparatus is all he needs to secure the bones where they need to be.
He is so strong though! I saw him just 30 min ago and he is breathing on his own! And they had removed his neck brace… Which I am taking as a good sign. All vitals are good, and if he weren’t so drugged, would be able to communicate.
More to come!
Keep praying and thanks for all of the support!
