Update – September 17, 2018 – Below is a message from General Secretary Spitzer:
Dear OGS Team, BGM, NLC, and ABCUSA Family,
Today is Monday, September 17 and this is my first attempt to update you all on my healing journey. Thanks to all of you who have sent me emails, Facebook messages, cards, phone calls, and in particular those who visited and prayed for me while I was in the hospital.
My surgery took place on Friday, September 7 at Deborah Hospital in New Jersey and featured two major components: the replacement of a congenitally defective aortic valve and a triple bypass. The surgeons and cardiologists believe that the surgery was very successful and I came home from the hospital this past Friday, September 14.
The next phase of my adventure begins tomorrow with physical therapy here at home with Visiting Nurses Association and doctors’ follow-up visits after which I will have a better idea about the length required for recovery. I cannot drive for two months primarily because as my ribs heal, it is also difficult to turn my head to the left the right, and I cannot afford to be in an accident and have the airbags deployed.
During these next few weeks, I intend to focus entirely on regaining my strength and health. It is a strange thought for me, having lived with a heart condition all my life, that my heart may actually be healthier after I recover than it has ever been. I presently do not have the energy to correspond via email or social media. Reading is also a challenge at this point and I need a lot of rest. I know I can count on your continued support and prayers. Please know I think about you all and our ABC family during those parts of the day that I am coherent!
In Christ,
Lee
Update – September 16, 2018 – Dr. Spitzer was discharged from the hospital on Friday, September 14, and is doing better. He is enjoying being home. He and his wife Lois are thankful for continued prayers for the family.
Update – September 12, 2018 – Dr. Spitzer has been moved from the ICU to the Cardiac Care Unit. He is making progress and regaining strength. Please continue to keep Lee, his wife Lois, son Josh, and daughter Larisa, in your prayers.
If you would like to send a card or well wishes, please direct them to:
Dr. Lee Spitzer
American Baptist Churches USA
PO Box 851
Valley Forge PA 19482
We will see that Lee receives your greetings.
Update – September 8, 2018 – Dr. Spitzer’s surgery went well yesterday and he is resting comfortably. After 2-3 days in the intensive care unit, he will remain in the hospital for 5-7 days.
Lois Spitzer, Lee’s wife, said, “I spent the day before surgery with him and he was in good spirits. Thank you all for your kind words and prayers. They mean a great deal to us.”
September 6, 2018 – American Baptist Churches USA General Secretary Lee B. Spitzer will be undergoing heart surgery tomorrow, September 7, 2018.
Please hold Dr. Spitzer, his family and the medical team in prayer as he undergoes the procedure and during his recovery time in the upcoming weeks.