Update: Graham has returned home after two days in the hospital. Press release is after the jump.
Famed evangelist Billy Graham, 93, has been hospitalized since Sunday in order to treat a bronchitis infection.
Personnel at Mission Hospital in Asheville, N.C., have told reporters that Graham’s bronchitis is “responding well to treatment” and “the prognosis is very positive.”
This is Graham’s third hospitalization over the past year, notes The Asheville Citizen-Times. The previous two hospital stays, in May and December 2011, were for pneumonia.
CT has extensive coverage of Graham’s life and ministry, including his reflections on “death’s destination” from his latest book, 2011’s Nearing Home: Life, Faith, and Finishing Well.
Update from Mission Hospital and Graham spokesman Larry Ross:
Evangelist Billy Graham Returns Home Following Brief Hospital Stay
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (Aug. 14, 2012) – Evangelist Billy Graham returned to his home in Montreat, Tuesday following a two-day stay at Mission Hospital in Asheville, N.C . Mr. Graham was admitted to the hospital early Sunday morning and was treated for bronchitis.
“Mr. Graham had a quick recovery and responded very well to his treatment,” said Daniel Fertel, MD, Mission Hospital pulmonologist. “Catching these types of pulmonary infections early is crucial for a fast recovery, as was the case for Mr. Graham. Despite this illness he remains remarkably healthy for a 93-year-old man.”
Mr. Graham kept his routine and enjoyed visits from family members while also interacting with medical staff that put him in good spirits throughout his stay.
“I am grateful for the exceptional care I received at Mission Hospital,” said Mr. Graham. “It is never easy going to the hospital, but the doctors and nurses here provided me with wonderful care. Mission Hospital employs a dedicated team of professionals that administered prompt treatment to restore my health and allow me to return home quickly.”
“I am also grateful for the prayers and letters I received from people across the country and around the world during my short stay,” Mr. Graham continued. “Such an outpouring of love and support is always a blessing but was especially appreciated during my hospitalization.”
Mr. Graham’s staff reports that he will continue with his usual care and physical therapy at home. He will resume his involvement in ministry and writing projects and is currently writing a book about his past seven decades of public ministry.
