Home, Again

This is not Elder Orchard's latest letter home.  This is his mom:(.  On Monday I got a call from Elder Orchard asking what time would be convenient for me to pick him up from the MTC.  I was disappointed to say the least but after his letter last week I knew this was the direction we were headed.

This super awesome group of missionaries walked him to the car.  They inherited him a week ago when his district headed out to their intended destinations.  They were a great support and strength to Elder Orchard.  He mentioned how nice they all were and how they fasted together last Sunday for  his knee to be healed.

While at the MTC they did x-rays and an MRI.  Both came back normal but the knee was sore, swollen and not getting any better.  On Friday, Douglas was given crutches to get around.  On Monday night he was released as a missionary.

Tuesday we met with an orthopedic surgeon.  He reread the MRI and believes that everything is structurally sound.  The possible problems are either a strained MCL which will heal without surgery or a knee cap pulled to the side which may heal or not.  There's always the chance that something is torn and is not showing up on the MRI.  That does happen but we are optimistic that is not the case.  He prescribed 2 weeks of physical therapy and that felt like the right plan of action so we started that right away.  Although Doug's knee is sore from the hard work, he has made significant progress in his ability to walk.  He is no longer using crutches and walks without a limp...that just after 2 therapy sessions.

Things are pointing to a quick recovery.  We continue to pray for Heavenly Father's guidance and spirit for us and for Douglas.  I have no doubt he will lead us along if we rely on him.  I hope to resume posting letters from my missionary soon!