E-mail update sent on Feb 24, 2002:

Just a short note to let you know I'm doing fine after the surgery.  The surgeon was pleased with the procedure and has been very upbeat about my recovery thus far. As she expected, the infection seemed to be confined to the ankle/heel area and she stated she felt I wouldn't have further problems due to the infection. In addition to that, I've not had any diabetes medication in a week and my blood glucose levels have been in the normal range thus far. There's nothing conclusive just yet, but the initial indications look very good.

I'm adjusting to having only one foot fairly well. It's certainly been a new and unique experience for me. I'm having quite of lot of phantom sensations from the missing foot, however. Yesterday, it was itching and, without thinking first, I would reach down to scratch the foot that wasn't there. That happened several times and startled me each time I tried to scratch the foot. It amazes me how I can still feel the foot that isn't there!  I suspect I'll be in the hospital for another few days. That could be anything from 3 days to two weeks.  I'm just not certain at this time. Physical therapy is going well but the therapists say there isn't much else they can do for me already.  I have the advantage of having had to use a walker quite a lot during the last two and a half years. Physical therapy exercises are a bit difficult. However, this experience is a piece of cake compared to learning to and regaining the strength to stand up as I had to do almost 3 years ago in Dallas.

Several folks have had trouble finding the number and address for the hospital I'm in. It's currently called Baylor All Saints Hospital but it's only been a part of the Baylor University Hospital system for a few months. Prior to that it was called All Saints Episcopal Hospital and All Saints Medical Center of Fort Worth. I'm not sure of the address, but the direct number to my room is 817 922-1228. I'm in room 228 of the hospital.

Hope you all have a great week. I'm looking forward to a good one. I want to thank you all for your prayers, your concern and your messages of support for me. I have an excellent support system in my family and friends and I'm quite thankful for it. I am very blessed and life is good!

John