Surgery number ???

If you had told me—even a few years ago—that 23 years after becoming a burn survivor I would still be facing surgeries, I don’t know that I would have believed you. There was a time I thought this chapter would close, that healing would eventually mean *done*. And yet, here I am, still walking it out.

There has to be a reason for that.

In July, I will be undergoing what is nearing my 90th operation.

This past Tuesday, I met with a burn specialist at Lehigh Valley in Allentown to evaluate some open wounds I’ve been dealing with—wounds that have lingered since my last surgery in 2021, and even from years prior. After examining everything, Dr. Eberwine shared that surgical intervention is no longer optional. The skin has become too tight, and the wound beds are not capable of healing on their own.

While that isn’t easy news to receive, it is clear direction—and sometimes clarity is a gift, even when it’s heavy.

The plan moving forward is a two-part surgery process. The first procedure is scheduled for July 29th. This will involve creating a new, healthy wound bed and beginning the healing process with a wound vac for approximately 2–3 weeks. Once the tissue shows strong, healthy growth, we will move into part two: a traditional skin graft, followed again by time on a wound vac.

The reality of this process is significant. We are anticipating a minimum hospital stay of 4-6 weeks, followed by a long recovery period before even considering future reconstruction or release surgeries.

And yet—there is still hope.

Hope in healing.

Hope in progress.

Hope in the fact that we are not stuck—we are moving forward.

One of the things that continues to humble me is how many people reach out, ask for updates, and commit to praying and walking alongside me in this. It means more than I can fully express. Truly.

There’s even talk of a “surgery party” (think baby shower, but for surgery prep), which honestly just makes me smile. It’s a reminder that even in hard seasons, there can still be joy, community, and lightness. So stay tuned for that. (Reach out if you'd like more details on this or how to support in the midst of it!)

As I prepare for what’s ahead, I have a few specific prayer requests:

• Peace in this decision and trust in a new doctor who comes highly recommended (my current surgeon is in Baltimore and said I am in good hands. But still always in the back of the mind)

• Discipline and strength as I work toward getting healthier before surgery (I would like to lose weight and get my blood levels managed before going under).

• Financial provision for what will be a costly and extended process (this is going to be major.)

• And peace—deep, steady peace—in the midst of all the planning, waiting, and unknowns

If you’ve been following my journey, thank you. If you’re new here, welcome—this story isn’t over yet! There is Always hope!

It is hard to explain the faith I have that it will all work out. It definitely is the Spiritual gift of Faith because I dont know how but I am at peace about it all. The Lord has it!

And if you want to continue walking this road with me, I’d love for you to stay connected. The best way to do that is by signing up for the newsletter, where I’ll be sharing updates, deeper reflections, and everything in between as this next chapter unfolds. Because even after 23 years as a survivor and 27 on this earth… this is still my story and God is still more. And I’m believing there is purpose in every single part of it.