Update: Grafting Surgery Complete

Joe underwent a 4½-hour graft surgery this afternoon. The surgical team harvested several layers of skin from his right thigh. This is a very painful procedure because of the many live nerves in the healthy thigh skin.

They used the harvested skin, along with cadaver skin, to graft his side, back, and lower right arm. Thankfully, Joe did not need a blood transfusion during surgery, although the surgeon said he will likely need one within the next couple of days.

Joe will need to remain completely still for the next three days to allow the new skin cells to begin growing and healing.

Joe still has a long recovery road to travel so please continue to pray for comfort, strength, and complete healing for Joe in the days ahead. We are so grateful for every prayer and for everyone supporting him through this journey. ❤️

P.S. This daily message came up this morning, and it seemed so fitting for Joe during this difficult season of his life. He has been so positive, strong, and brave throughout everything he has faced. It was a beautiful reminder of the strength and faith he continues to show each day. ❤️🙏