First accident update

Written by: Bobbye Jean Manzari

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers,

Matt had his 7th surgery yesterday and it was a step in the right direction. They applied a layer of material called Integra to his arms, chest, and stomach that will be the foundation for skin grafts to adhere to in the future. Most of his muscle was removed and they cannot graft straight over bones. We are grateful the removal process is diminishing and we are stepping into the rebuilding process. The Integra will require a month of healing and adhering before they can begin to look into skin grafting. They cannot give us a time estimation for completion. The pain Matt is experiencing brings us all to our knees, wishing there was a way to minimize it. Even through the pain that has been described to us as one of the worst things a human can endure, he continually prays with his medical staff before each dressing change and thanks God for his blessings. Needless to say, there are not very many dry eyes when he does so. He is a true example of faith in the storm and God is exemplified in him, even in his lowest moments. Every medical person we have encountered explains that Matt is a walking miracle to be even at this point… and we know it is true. God has heard the prayers you all have lifted and is working in a mighty way. We ask for your continued prayers as we trek through this journey. Specifically, if you could lift up in prayer some of the following things: Peace that surpasses all understanding for Matt, relief to his pain, healing to his bones that will need replacement without God’s hand, health for our baby as we push through emotional struggles, and a resistance of the attacks that are all around us during our weak moments. Our hearts are overwhelmed with gratitude for the selfless ways in which you all are helping us to survive, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We are humbled and cry tears of joy. We see God working in each person He brings our way and we see answers to prayer. God is so BIG and yet so concerned for the little things… He blows us away. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and we love you all.

Love,

Matt and Bobbye Jean Manzari