As many of you know, I have been through two surgeries to fuse my neck @ C6-C7 due to degeneration. The first surgery (March 25th) failed, when the vertebrae split apart from the screws, causing severe nerve pain. A second surgery was done on May 3rd to correct that and I ended up wearing a large and very uncomfortable brace (24/7) for almost 8 weeks. The difficulty is that I lost my voice from the second surgery for 10 weeks. I have now seen an Otolaryngologist and a speech pathologist. I was getting rather discouraged, since I couldn't even answer the phone. Well, all, I can say is Praise God for technology and Botox! I had injections on both sides of the vocal cords to help them close tight enough to talk. The injection should last between 4-6 months. It is hoped that the nerve damage to the larynx will begin to heal in that time. If healing is not sufficient in that time, I can have another injection. If healing still does not happen, there is a surgical procedure in which they can place silicone implants next to the vocal cords as a more permanent solution.
My voice sounds a bit different than it used to, and will most likely never return to the same tone and pitch that it was before. Nevertheless, I am thankful to God for the advances in medical science that have allowed me to talk again! As a pastor, my voice is important. I am especially thankful for our church family and the patience they have demonstrated through this trial. Thank you to all of my friends and family who have encouraged, supported, and prayed for me throughout this long ordeal!
This week I will see the Doctors for final approval to begin the bike tour in Grand Rapids, MI (Aug. 3). There will be x-rays and a CT scan to insure that there is proper healing in the bone graft. To date, God has enabled me to raise over $8,000 in the fight against poverty! Thanks so much for your financial and prayerful support. If you would like to know more about the bike tour you can checkm it out at seatosea.org
Pastor Ken Prol
There is still a little time left for those who wish to donate.
http://www.seatosea.kintera.org/pastorkenprol
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