We have a quick note about Kevin’s surgery, which went really well. The goal of the surgery was to set Kevin up for a device that can stimulate his diaphragm so he can breathe without the assistance of a ventilator, at least for some portion of the day. Kevin was in and out more quickly than anticipated – which was for a good reason. Initially, the surgeons believed that they would need to graft nerves from Kevin’s shoulder or leg for the device to work. During the surgery, however, they found some scarring that had been inhibiting the responsiveness of the nerve that controls the diaphragm. The doctors discovered that the nerve was more responsive than previously thought, which meant that they did not need to graft any additional nerves.
This is good news because it increases the chances that this device will work for Kevin. We still do not know yet whether it will work or how much it will reduce his dependence on the ventilator, but today’s surgery was very encouraging and an important first step.
Kevin was really happy to hear the news and he was, of course, tremendously grateful to the staff at Jersey Shore Medical Center for taking good care of him.
In a few weeks, he will start working with the device to see if it will work. We are optimistic, as always. We will keep you posted on his progress!
The plan is for Kevin to be home from the hospital on Thursday, but we are still not sure when he will be ready for visitors. We will try to keep everyone posted. In the meantime, please call ahead if you’re planning to visit.
Thanks again for everyone’s prayers and support!
Danny Hill Jr. said:
Keep on fighting Kevin!! The Hill’s love you!!
Denise Delpizzo Braud said:
This is wonderful news… Very encouraging! Every little step is a blessing. Sending prayers and support to all the Nearys.
Joanie said:
Great news!!! xoxo
MaryJane Murphy said:
Praise God! We are keeping Kevin and his family in our daily prayers.
dianelancaster said:
Mr. Neary,
We are soooo happy about the results of Kevin’s surgery. If you think it would be ok at some point to visit Kevin, we would really love to meet him. It is up to you and Kevin. Blessings to you Kevin and your entire family
Pam Seibert said:
wonderful news 🙂
dianelancaster said:
That last post was from Diane Lancaster who donated some medical equipment at Kevin’s benefit.
Beth McCanna said:
Awesome news! So glad to hear it!
dauna ross paquier said:
kevin….uncle pete called me this afternoon to give me the good news honey. i was so excited everything went well for you. i know your dad and brothers are ecstatic. prayers continue for you kevin. we all love you.
Jeanne McKeeman said:
Great news. prayers and thoughts are with Kevin and the family.
Susan Haggerty said:
Your courage and optimism are inspirational. God bless you all.
Susan Haggerty — Daughter of Joe Haggerty
Nancy Kenyon said:
Great news for Kevin! Can’t wait until I see you again…xo Nancy
Joanne said:
That’s such great news…hoping that things continue to go well. Thinking of you Joe and your boys.
Mayzee said:
What incredibly good news to wake up to.
Thanks
Mayzee
Barbara Ebner said:
Wonderful news! The Ebner Family sends their best wishes.
Jaclyn Cook said:
That’s amazing news!!! Sending prayers and good thoughts to all of you boys!
Mary and Charlie Kelly said:
Great news, Kevin! Sending you all good vibes for a speedy recovery.
God bless! Love and prayers from Mary and Charlie Kelly
Dennis Keene said:
Thanks for the update. God is good! You all continue to be in our prayers.
The Keene’s, Kim’s and Hubbard’s continue to pray for you all.
God bless you all.
Michelle said:
This is truly wonderful news! Keeping fingers & toes crossed, plus some prayers that things continue to progress well. Thinking of you all and appreciate the updates to the website. BTW, the Phils need your cheer & enthusiasm for each game this season. What with Chase bailing on them & all…….. only the “fightin” Neary family could make the difference for the Fighin Phils. The Jones family (Pete’s folks)
janethaggerty said:
Great news Kevin. Couldn’t stop thinking about you on Tuesday. GOD BLESS.
luz said:
It’s so good to know that there is a GOD and HE is looking out for you. Our payers and thoughts are with you. You are amazing!
JoAnn Williams said:
So happy to read of the success of the operation. Good things are going to happen from this, because he
aven is hearing all of our prayers. J.A.