I just finished a video conference with Winkie and Fae from his hospital bed in South Korea. Winkie was able to talk, although it's a bit tiring for him right now. The Doctors there are simply amazed at his recovery, though Winkie gets in trouble because they say he talks to much and never sleeps. That's our Winkie :)

Winkie has confirmed that he is not likely to be back in the USA until this time next year. They will be going to New Zealand directly from South Korea. If you have any bookings that fall within the next 12 months, please contact me to make alternative arrangements.

He really is looking great though, and full of faith and praise for how God has brought him back. He also is very very thankful for all the faithful people who have prayed and continue to pray for him.

Israel Anderson

END.

Thank you all for praying!

Winkie is still making progress here, but has run into a few minor bumps on the road. The first one is, the last IV they tried to give him didn't take- his veins were giving them too many problems (we think) and they finally gave up (we believe) on trying to administer the IV (hurray!) We saw it as a breakthrough when they took it out, but the hand they tried to put the last one in has suffered. Fluid was leaking out everywhere, and when they came to it found his hand had swollen. They have removed the IV, but now he has lost feeling along one side and in the pinkie and ring fingers of that hand. His hand also trembles when he tries to write (it's his writing hand). He had some fears as to not being able to write properly again but has been assured by a physiotherapist/physiotherapy professor that these symptoms are only temporary. The physiotherapist also gave us some great exercises for him to aid in his recovery. The second bump in the road was that after his new stiches were put in he bled after getting up. His dressing was changed later on that night, and we were hoping that the next time he got up he'd be okay. Unfortunately when he got up the next day, after walking around some again his clothes were again stained with blood. Tomorrow Dr. Lim comes to visit. He has assured me that this sort of seepage after new stiches is common- nothing to worry about. I mentioned to him my quick clotting agent that I brought with me from Africa (stops the bleeding of a gun shot wound in 2 minutes or less). If need be we could apply that to his wound. (It would be under a doctor's care here, of course)

If you are still praying, please pray
-for his hand to make a full recovery
-for the continued healing of his wound

Thank you. And God bless you for your prayers of faith!

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie has had his last tube removed now. His heavy stitches were also removed, and some lighter ones put in instead. So, 9 abdominal drainage tubes and 1 pleural cavity drainage tube later, he is free to walk about the hospital without the worry of tubes coming out of him. His abdominal muscles are still severed vertically, of course, and it's not easy for him to sit up on his own. But at least he doesn't have the tubes to worry about when getting up or moving about. His voice is also coming back. He's not quite able to write properly again, yet. His hands are a little shaky, and his legs tremble if he stands for too long. But we are encouraging his excercise, and it's good to see him eating some solid food again. Step by step, he's coming closer to being able to leave the hospital and return to his home in New Zealand.

A word from Winkie "Think of what it means to discover you can't talk, or walk, or sing, or write or move without having people hold you, connected to up to 10 tubes. One by one, those faculties, have to be brought back into full use. Today the last tube came out. Enough skin had to heal for them to be able to set up the final operation, which ought to take place in the next six months, where the layers of muscle across the front of the abdomen have to be sewn back together. In such a long battle, people often lose heart. But I am confident from your prayer, words of encouragement, the scripture you have sent and other support that this last hurdle will be overcome to bring great glory to Him."

Winkie also wanted me to add, that the reason (again, in case you didn't catch it earlier in the blog) he needs a 4th surgery later on down the road is, during his post-3rd surgery, the doctors were draining the infection out of his abdominal cavity. Resewing the muscles would necessitate a removal of the drainage tubes, and seeing as he almost died, getting rid of the infection was priority #1. Therefore his muscles were left severed and only the skin was sewn back up. He has asked me not to post any pictures of the post-surgical wound, but I can tell you that it runs about the full length of his abdomen- about 12 inches. When I showed him a picture (before he could easily look down and see it for himself) of the stitching job, he said, "Football." Sadly, folks, that is what his abdomen looked like. And it is still healing. He's not allowed to lift anything heavy until this 4th surgery is performed. And he'll have to get it later because his body simply isn't up for the battle necessary to recover from such an operation at this time- if done now it could possibly kill him.

Please pray for God's guidance as to the where and when of this 4th surgery. We want to avoid as much trama and drama as possible. I plan to go to New Zealand with Mom and Dad and help with Dad's recovery for at least 3 weeks.

Thank you again for your prayers. The prayers of God's saints have really been felt. And we can tell God has been listening.

William Pratney

END.



Posted by Israel Anderson

Well, Winkie had a visit from Dr. Dwight Leland Paris, along with Dr. Daniel Moon today. They came and prayed for Winkie, and gave us some money for food. Winkie is finally off of all of his drips! He now has only the drainage tube from his pleural cavity on his left side and two drainage tubes at the bottom of his abdomen (where the incision for the surgery was made) to come out. They've taken him completely off of the antibiotics, which means the majority of his infection is gone (actually I think they said it was all gone, except for along the cut which is still healing [which they are applying iodine to every day]- this healing is probably the main thing that they are waiting for). He's making progress and people here are just amazed at how fast it is. Day by day he's regaining muscle control and strength. He's able to pretty much feed himself now, and was able to brush his own teeth this evening. Building back his sitting/standing/walking strength is a process, and standing up for 5 minutes for him is probably something like going for a 30 minute run for someone of average fitness.

Winkie had a lot of visitors today. Besides the visit from Dr. Paris and Dr. Moon this morning, pastor Hong from Harvest Shalom also visited, along with one of his youth pastors and various others from the church. I can't wait to take him out to a meal in a restaurant, but I know we're still a little ways off from that.

Until next time

William Pratney.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

You never know how much you're loved until you have stood at the line of death and watched heaven trigger hundreds and hundreds of astonishing intercessory prayers.  From all around the world they came- Israel, Australia, Korea, New Zealand, The United States, Canada, Romania, Malaysia, in fact all over the world - standing in the gap for my family and I.  We have been absolutely overwhelmed by your love, generosity, passion, and prayer.  More to come when this saga has been brought to the conclusion.  God has it in His heart for us all.

Bless you, bless you, bless you so very much!

Winkie.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Well, Winkie seems to be making progress each day. He is walking now (either with someone's aid or a wheeled-walker). The drainage tube coming from his pleural cavity is still in place, and he's still on some sort of fluid drip, so walking to the bathroom or doing anything out of bed can be a bit of an ordeal, but we're managing. The private room is nice to have. I'd dare to say that Winkie had the best night's sleep he's had since coming out of the coma last night in that room- probably 5 or 5 1/2 hours. I was able to sleep more as well. Soon I must return to him to swap shifts with Mom.

Thanks for your prayers of faith. Blessings to all of our friends all around the world. We love you.

William Pratney.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie Update

More good news! Pastor Hong has paid for Winkie to get a private room in the hospital! He was just moved today, and has his own refrigerator, flat screen TV and bathroom with shower and toilet. Mom is really happy. He's also getting more attention now and thus better care. Pastor Hong visited him last week, and I think that after seeing Winkie, and the living conditions he was in, must have had pity on us and arranged for it. Now Winkie (and us) will be able to sleep better (provided he doesn't stay up all night watching television!)

Winkie continues to heal. One of the doctors said that they expected him to be another 2 or 3 weeks, but it looks like he might be discharged now in a week (hopefully less!). Thanks everybody that were part of organizing and getting to us the Mannatech Ambrotose. Special thanks too to Dee Patton for doing a lot of running around for us and helping organize the finances on that side (Texas) of the world, as well as Israel Anderson for posting these updates.

We want to thank at this time, first of all the Lord Who has been faithful to hear the prayers of His saints, and heal his servant. He has been so faithful to provide through His people for us as a family, and Winkie in particular. God has so obviously been in control. And His provision has been apparent. We also want to thank all the many who have been faithful to pray for Winkie during this time, as well as the many who have sent in letters, emails, flowers and cards during this difficult ordeal. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
I don't at this time have a complete list of all the people who have contributed to covering Winkie's medical and recovery expenses, but want to post a list at a latter time.

One more thing...
I should probably mention again that according to the doctors, Winkie WILL NEED ANOTHER SURGERY! Although the infection has been stopped and he is healing well, the muscle walls between his bowel and skin were never resewn together! This I think, was due to the need to drain the area of infected fluid and pus. So he will need another abdominal surgery somewhere down the line to sew those muscles back together. Until then, he cannot lift heavy objects on his own, and thus cannot travel by himself. Dr. Han mentioned him maybe getting the surgery in another 2 months or so. He could get it in New Zealand or in the United States... it doesn't matter so much where, but he will (according to Dr. Han) need the surgery.

Thanks again for your prayers of faith. Mom and I are doing much better now that we've had some time to rest/recoop. I was able to work out last night (something I've been needing to do for a while) and I got some real good sleep today. Special thanks to YWAM Korea for loaning us Eun-Ji Song, who helped me get my passport extension, as well as took us shopping and has been a translator to us. She has been helping more directly with Winkie's care in recent days, and has been a relief, I think, to my mother.

I will continue posting updates for a while. We're going to need some specific prayer for the right place to move Winkie after he is discharged from hospital. Somewhere we can easily access him and attend to him, as well as a place where he can recover and heal.

Thank you again to all you who have been praying for us as a family, and for Winkie in particular.

William Pratney.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie stood on his own after the earlier post.
Dr. Lim said he would visit us tomorrow and update us as to Winkie's condition.
The test results, etc. he will inform us of. He also said that Pastor Hong of Harvest Shalom Church was paying to have Winkie transferred to a private room tomorrow. Winkie has probably only been sleeping 2 hours at a time max. It's just very hard to sleep in a room with 9 other people, not to mention the incessant nurses visits. Also, Winkie has been taken fully off of the antibiotics, something we are glad for. With only the drainage tube and 1 nutritional type drip remaining, it looks like Winkie could be out of here pretty soon! (Can't say for sure, though, of course)

I am starting to get sick. Mom has already been feeling ill. Please pray for our strength, health, and for us to find a temporary helper for Winkie.

William Pratney.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Pratney Family Update

Things have been crazy.

When Winkie was transferred to general ward, no one told us of the Korean Medical system here - where family members are expected to care for patients. To make matters worse, Winkie was found to have a high temperature and they suspected an infection somewhere in his body.

Just when things for us seemed to be settling down, it got crazy really quickly. We learned (around 10:30pm) that we were expected to clean and change him. On top of that, they had already asked us to be with him for the next 48 hours around the clock.

Winkie has been undergoing extensive testing- X-rays, CT scans, blood tests AND they have asked us to stop feeding him. He hasn't been allowed any food OR water all day (it is around 5:00pm).

They have him on an IV to maintain his fluid intake. They found a lot of fluid in the space between his rib cage and his left lung. Dr. Han said there was danger of his lung collapsing. They have inserted a drainage tube to remove the fluid and already they've drained many cups of fluid out. They also found fluid in his abdominal cavity near his spleen.

I slept off and on in the small, Korean style bed next to him last night. I was right on call if he needed anything. One time I woke to hear him coughing, and lept out of bed to his side. He said, "Ninja." and I realized I was, indeed, wearing black. lol.

It's hard to sleep where he is. Every hour someone had to check his urine output, and every two hours a nurse would come in to check either his body temperature, blood pressure or something, sometimes turning on the lights. So sleeping where he is at right now is sort of like trying to sleep on an airplane, only the lights off until morning rule is NOT followed by the flight attendants. Poor guy. He did NOT sleep well last night at all. I was with him all night, and Mom came in around 7:00am.

We found out more about the system here this morning- where to pick up clean clothes, where to put the dirty ones. That we have to BUY diapers and various other things necessary for his care. I have put in a request with the hospital to hire some private nurse aids, that will be able to help change him, exercise him, etc. The cost, I'm told, is only about 50,000 Won per person, per day (about $50US).

I'm taking the late shift again tonight, it looks like, so please pray for me that I will be able to maintain my health while surrounded by so many sick people! Mom also needs prayer. It is very tiring not only being with someone day and night, but also caring for them. We were unprepared for the mountainous work load that would be placed upon us during this time in his recovery.

So please pray for grace and wisdom for both of us, and for the strength to see this through.

Also, please continue to pray for Winkie's healing- he's not walking and fully well, yet.

Thanks

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie has finally moved to the general ward this afternoon. He still remains on 1 drip and is receiving antibiotics 3x daily through his IV.

He's eating solid food now, but his wound (incision) still looks really bad.

They are going to depend a lot more on Mom and I from here onwards for Dad's care and monitoring and have asked us to be there from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. over the next two days.

Coming out of ICU means that the hospital costs will not mount so quickly now. We expect to have an idea of where we stand with the hospital in terms of finances in the next few days. Many thanks to those who have been praying and giving so sacrificially. We are amazed at all that God is doing.

At some point we think that Dad will need to go back to New Zealand for further care and recovery, but we don't know yet when any of that will happen.

So many people are praying, helping and giving. We can't even find words to express our deep thanks to everyone. Thank you all so much! We are tired, but our hearts are full.

Prayer Points

Please pray for strength for Mom and I as we assume more responsibility for Winkie's care and that God protects our health during this time.
Please pray that Winkie's healing will continue to progress quickly and be complete and especially that his incisions will heal properly.
Please pray that God will provide wisdom for us and that we will be able to point the way to Jesus while we are here.
Please pray that God will help us as we work to understand and communicate in this culture. The Koreans are such a wonderful people and we are so thankful for all the care and love we have received from them.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie is still in ICU. Apparently, Dr. Han (the doctor directly responsible for him) hasn't given the order yet, for him to be moved. We were told by a different doctor that he would be moved today. So, slight communication error there (or lack of communication), but no big deal. Anyway, we're actually liking the fact that he's got a room to himself. In the general ward he probably won't have the same special care that he's receiving where he's at. I've been talking with him, feeding him, and even helping him exercise a little. He's still only on liquid foods, but he's loving being able to eat again. When we got there this morning, he said he was thirsty, and wanted orange juice. We've been feeding him on and off all day. I've been able to ask him many questions, and his eyes are looking sharp. He is regaining range of motion and looks forwards (I think I can say) to eating more real foods.

Bless you for your prayers.

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie Update

Praise God!
It seems the majority of the battle is finally over!

The majority of his infection, it seems has been taken care of, and he has come off of both the dialysis machine and the ventilator.
I think he's been taken off a few drips and his pain medication has been lowered.
He is talking now (albeit, with a bit of a raspy voice), and is drinking (with some assistance) liquids.
His abdomen has now been sown up, and his kidney function continues to improve. His bowel is working properly, now (it seems), and they plan to move him out of ICU tomorrow! Praise God! Thank you for all your prayers of faith for him!

The only two health concerns, now are:
1. The slit where he was opened for abdominal surgery has been sown shut, but it (the actual line) is infected (they are using a topical antiseptic cream).
2. They did NOT resow his abdominal muscles back together before sowing up his skin, so he will (I'm told) need another surgery for that (further along down the line). Dr. Han says he will be able to travel home (with the aid of an abdominal bandage), but will need to get the muscle layers they cut through sown back together eventually.

Mom and I are taking turns spending time with him, and are able to speak with him and ask him questions. I told him, "The world is waiting to hear from you. What would you like to say to everybody?" He said, "I love Jesus and I love my son." (Mom wasn't in the room at the time) He looks well. I was able to feed him some water and Barley tea (something the hospital provided).

Dr. Han said that his recovery was, "miraculous"... I can only smile.

William Pratney.

END.


I am sure that today the throne will hear the sound of the saints rejoicing in the victorious power of our God. May all glory go to Him. Continue to hold WInkie up in your prayers. Thank you all!

Posted by Israel Anderson

Pratney Family Update

Winkie is still on 4 drips, being fed intravenously as well as orally 5 times a day (through a tube). He's still on pain medication, but since they've taken him off the sedative, seems to be coming more and more into consciousness each day. He's still connected to the ventilator, but only receiving CPAP (as mentioned in the previous post). He's able to interact with us more and more each day, via head nods and with his eyes, but is still fading in and out of consciousness constantly. He seems to be tracking with us more, but fades out about every minute.

It seems that every day he's getting a little better. Dr. Lee said today that his kidney function had improved, and also he had his first bowel movement (either yesterday or today, can't remember).

Thanks for your prayers of faith for him. Mom and I are doing well. I spoke to the Harvest Shalom youth group today. They are receiving me well. Afterwards, some of the youth group took me out for pizza. I've just come from visiting with Dad. He can't write or talk yet, in fact he only seems to retain consciousness for maybe 20 seconds at a time. But during that time, we can ask him yes or no questions. When he comes to, however, he looks as if everything is new for him. I'm also not sure how much he remembers when he comes to again.

Please keep praying. He can't see quite right yet, and his muscle control is still returning. But praise God he's doing better than he was! Praise God the Lord kept him! Praise God he's still with us! Thank you... thank you for your prayers of faith!

Please pray for Mom and I. We need to maintain good health if we ourselves are to minister to him.

Thank you to all who have been sending notes and encouragement. Thank you to all who having been joining in on the fight. Bless you.

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Pratney Family Update

Winkie continues in his new room adjoined to the rest of the ICU.
He has been taken off of dialysis. Previously, his blood was being purified 24 hours a day to remove high levels of impurity in his blood.
The nurses continue to care for him, and encouraged us to spend the day with him. Mom and I spent quite a bit of time with him today, and we are hoping for some basic motor function skills to return soon. So far he seems to be able to, at times respond to verbal commands and questions with blinks or shows his alertness by raising his eye browes, but at other times remains unresponsive.

Mom and I continue to try to adapt to the culture, and God has been sending us many new friends.

Thank you all for your prayers.

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

More good news! Winkie is breathing on his own now. He's only on what they call CPAP (he's still connected to the ventilator, but it's only providing some air pressure, NOT breathing for him). The swelling continues to come down, and he's looking more and more like himself. Dr. Lee says that his kidneys are functioning better, and has arranged for him to be moved to a room within the ICU on his own where (we are told) we will be allowed visit him anytime, day or night. I've just come from visiting him in that room. Since we were allowed to stay so long, we were able to see him fed and tended to. Actually, I told him that Mom and I were leaving, and that I had to post this to Israel Anderson and Dee Patton so that we could put this on his blog on his website. But he squeezed my hand like he really didn't want me to go. Mom agreed to stay, and I was able to leave. She is there now with him as I write this.

Dr. Lee consented to feed him (for those of you who are savvy to these things) Cell Food, a product recommended to us by a friend and health specialist in Australia. He is also still on Ambrotose and Chlorophyll (again, for those of you savvy to these things).

Winkie's probably in a lot of pain right now. His skin has actually split in certain places. He also has some sort of rash that covers parts of his legs and arms.

Please pray specifically for:

1. Winkie's continuing bowel function to normalize
2. Winkie's continuing kidney function to normalize
3. Winkie's immune system, and for him to adequately fight off the infection
4. Winkie's skin to heal quickly
5. Winkie to be able to cope with the pain he faces

Love and God bless. Thank you all for your prayers of faith.

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Good news! We spoke with Dr. Lee (the anesthesiologist) this morning. Winkie has been taken completely off of the sedative (sleep inducing drug) now. He is still only on antibiotics and a pain killer. Which means that slowly, he is becoming more fully conscious. Kidney function continues to increase and already they have begun to feed him some water (down his throat). He was even more responsive today, and with his head actually tracked at least some of our movements. He still has quite a high heart rate, and it would be good to see that come down. But things are looking up, and with a continued IV fluid reduction alot more of the swelling is coming down.

Truly the Lord, He is God. There is no one greater. Hallelujah! Thank you for your continued prayers of faith.

William Pratney.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Pratney family update:

Winkie continues to have a fever and high heart rate. They had him on ice packs when we were with him. From what I was able to determine from the doctor, his intravenously fed fluid intake is being gradually reduced, allowing (at least some) of the swelling in his body to come down. Obviously some of the swelling was due to infection, but also some of it due to the massive fluid intake they had him on. This, from what I was able to determine was for the cause of maintaining his blood pressure. From what I was also able to determine from one of the nurses, the coma-inducing drug that they have kept him on is also being reduced, a little at a time, allowing him to slowly come out of the coma. Yea! This, I believe explains why he has been at times responsive to us. He was again responsive to at least physical touch multiple times tonight. It's just encouraging, you know, even though he is in a "coma", to think that he can or might be able to hear and understand us.

Mom and I continue to adjust to this culture. I have started a growing list of Korean words and phrases. Thank God, almost every day we have someone with us that can help us with things like shopping, buying a meal, or going somewhere in a taxi. We have been getting offers from other Christians who live in Korea, who have heard of Winkie's condition to help us. Today, YWAM helped us. Other days it might be someone from the church, or someone from a military base, or a stranger we meet in a cafe. Every day God is providing for us, and it is wonderful to see his sovereign invisible hand at work.

All those who have helped us so far, THANK YOU! so much.

Now, as to Winkie's medical expenses: we got our first bill today (the church took care of the first one, so this is technically the 2nd, but it is the 1st one that we've seen). Both bills, combined, in total BEFORE any insurance discounts come into play come to around $70,000US. The good news? Winkie has been placed on a Christian foreign workers insurance that allows him a 40-60% discount- we are thrilled. Very special thanks to our new friends Harvest Shalom Church (in association with HIM ministries and WLI) for "taking care of" the first 20,000,000 Won (about $21,420US)! (If you were a part of this and I didn't include you I apologize) That 20,000,000 Won was payment one. BIG THANKS to YWAM Korea for "taking care of" 5,000,000 Won worth of payment two. (That's pretty impressive, YWAM!) Winkie's remaining bill, thanks to the incredible discount available through the foreign workers insurance, comes to 8,426,140 Won (about $9,025US) thus far. That is, next Wednesday we will receive our next bill, which I can at this time only guestimate. Other monies have been coming from different sources which I won't mention at this time, but we are told that his hospital stay is costing approximately $3,000US per day. I'm guessing what they mean by that is actually 3,000,000 Won per day. That's around $3,213US per day. $3,213US x 7 (days) = $22,491US per week divided by 50% discount = approximately $11,246US. So we're looking at needing to pay around that every week until dad gets out of ICU.

Please continue praying. We believe God is answering prayers already.

Love and God bless,

William Pratney.

END.


Let's not also forget that on top of Winkie's medical expenses there is just so much more. Winkie is unlikely to be speaking for a good 6 months after he gets out of hospital, and perhaps Winkie will decide to take an even longer break. He will need our financial support for this time as well. He has no regular income, only what people gift to him when he speaks. As you consider the self-sacrificial investment Winkie has made in your life and ministry, please consider how you can be a blessing to him now.

Posted by Israel Anderson

Update

From William Pratney: Winkie has a fever, and elevated heart rate once again. It's not too bad, but keep praying. He was again responsive when we rubbed his feet tonight. Thank you for your continued prayers of faith.

From Fae Pratney: We're still getting used to taking our shoes off every two seconds. Koreans even have plastic shoes you're supposed to put on for the bathrooms. We appreciate sleeping on cot beds, because most Koreans sleep on the heated floors. Everybody drinks bottled water, and we've just bought a couple of crates. We're drinking Ginsing tea, which Koreans say is their coffee. We're well acquainted with their famous Kim Chee now- their hot peppered cabbage, the ingredients of which appear similar to Winkie's "Master Tonic". We have been taken out for some Korean meals, and are improving our ability with chopsticks. The Koreans are very polite- they're always bowing incessantly. They have been gracious and kind to us. The money scared us at first because the Won has such large figures- whereas $10,000 Won is roughly $10 US. We are praising God for this room we have (courtesy of Dr. Lim) and all we have to pay are the utilities. It takes us about 5 minutes if we run to get from our apartment to the hospital entrance. Onyong hi sayo! Goodbye! and God bless you all!

END.

Posted by Israel Anderson

Good news!

We met with the three doctors today and they said the Dr. Schulze Intestinal Formula #1 is working! His bowel is working! Praise God! They are up to 3 or 4 pills a day. Due to this breakthrough, they have consented to the administration of Mannatech's Ambrotose, something many of you have recommended. Special thanks to Janice Rogers for the 10 canisters of Ambrotose she had sent to us. Because the product was shipped within the country, the label was in Korean. I prayed as Dr. Lim and Dr. Lee looked over the product. I prayed for grace. As I was praying, and as they were looking it over, they began to get excited and talk amongst themselves. They consented not only to the use of the Ambrotose, but also to the use of liquid chlorophyll, a supernutritional supplement that was recommended to us early on. Thanks to Noel Maxwell of Papakura, New Zealand for the Chlorophyll.

Praise God for your prayers!

END.

Sometimes we have a tendency to back off our prayers once we hear some good news, but let's use this good news to stir us to redouble our prayers and thanks to our awesome God. We have great improvement, and your prayers rising before the throne will see Winkie come into complete restoration. Praise Yeshua!

Israel Anderson

Mom (Fae) and I (William) visited Winkie tonight. Mom really wanted to rub some Miracle II Gel on his feet, along with some cayenne tincture. A health specialist friend of ours in New Zealand recommended rubbing a little cayenne on his feet. As she was doing this, I was simply watching him, talking to him, etc. All of a sudden, he sort of jerked a bit, and his one eye that was partly open, opened wider. Believing him to be partly conscious, I asked him to blink for me one time if he could understand me. In the count of about 2 he slowly blinked his eye one time. Now you must understand he never blinks. Since I've arrived I haven't ever seen him blink. So, excited by this I began to talk more to him, believing him to be more cognizant of what I was saying.

There were no doctors around to ask of any change in his condition. However, glad to say his heart rate was at a more normal rate, which leads me to believe the fever he was fighting has subsided.

Bless you all for praying.

William Pratney

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Pratney family update:

Thankyou first off to all who are standing with us for Winkie. Your emails, donations, prayers and cards show us the great love that is out there for Winkie, and how much he and his family mean to the Body of Christ. For cards and letters of sympathy, I am still in the process of verifying the correct address for the place where we are staying.

Winkie's condition is at the moment, stable. He is neither digressing nor progressing. Praise God that he's not digressing, but progress at this time is crucial. Please continue to pray.

Mom (Fae) and I (William) spoke at Harvest Shalom Church this morning. They gave us the service. Mom preached on hope, and I followed her with a message emphasizing the ascension of Christ to heaven and His inevitable return. I closed with an altar call for first time commitments to Christ Quite a few responded (although, not all, I am quite sure, were first time responders). Later, Mom and I went to the college and career age group BBQ where I spent time with the youth group and she spent time with our new friend Young Shin Kim (a YWAMer) and others there. The BBQ was held at the home of one of the elders in the church. This church has been amazing. They have helped us in every way. The youth pastor invited me to speak to the youth group (ages 18-30, roughly) the following Sunday. Praise God! Even in the midst of this pain, He is opening up ministry oportunities and providing for us. Hallelujah!

Mom and I are doing quite well. Thank you for your prayers of faith.

END.

Posted by Israel Anderson

Pratney family update.

Winkie is still currently in a drug induced coma. The lowdown thus far: He went in originally for a hernia operation. That's when part of the bowel pushes out through the muscle wall. The hernia operation was a success. However, after the surgery they found blockage in his transverse colon. They opened him up and found leakage in his gut, abrasions on it, and a transverse colon that was literally sagging like a pinched water hose. It was also swollen. They operated immediately, removing 10cm of his bowel, rejoining the sections. However, the gut hadn't been cleaned internally before surgery (it takes days to properly clean a bowel) and the doctors saw it as an immediate need situation. So, coupled with an apparent incomplete colon section rejoining (there was apparent seepage at the point of rejoining evident after the surgery, which meant the stiching didn't tightly hold) the waste in his gut began to seep out, spreading infection throughout his entire abdominal cavity. Since that second surgery, infections were found in his lungs, bowel and kidneys. His appendix was also found to be leaking. They operated a third time, removing another 10cm of bowel, making sure this time that the rejoining would hold.

At the moment, he is in his second drug-induced coma, on anti-biotics and basic intravenously fed nutrition. He is also on a ventilator (breathing machine). His bowel function had completely ceased for a time, and so now, the two main things he faces are the restoration of proper bowel function and fighting off the infection that rages throughout his body. Dr. Lim has consented (at least, for the time being) to the administration of Dr. Richard Schulze's Intestinal Formula #1, a formula guaranteed to cause peristaltic action (the movement the bowel makes to move food within itself). We started him on the first dosage today. Hopefully, within the next 4 days, we should begin to see good results.

Please pray specifically:
1. For the restoration of his bowel function
2. and for his body to win the war against the infection it faces

The sooner his proper bowel function is restored, the sooner the Dr. and nurses will allow us to give him supernutrional and/or cellular nutritional products that will we believe will greatly speed his recovery and help him to fight off the infection (and yes, even Super tonic [Winkie juice] too, once he's conscious).

Mom and I (Fae and William) are fine. We are slowly adjusting to Korean life. It is alot like New Zealand here, and God has sent us many helpers since I got here. We have been asked to speak tomorrow at the church (Harvest Shalom) that has been taking care of Dad. We ate dinner tonight with the pastor, a gracious man, and a few of his staff.

Thank you all for your prayers of faith. Thank you also so very much to those who have been contributing financially in this hour of desparation. God bless you very much!

Love,

William Pratney.

END.


Posted by Israel Anderson

From William (Billy) Pratney:

Mom and I are moving from the hotel we are currently staying at to a guest room located at the University right next to the hospital soon today. So hopefully an internet connection there won't be a problem. Trevor's been wonderful. He's flying back tonight.

Dad is undergoing another surgery today: he will have the fluid drained out which they found was surrounding his lungs (not actually in his lungs). They will insert two tubes to drain the fluid out. Complications can include a hemotoma (blood clot). And I don't have to tell you, we don't need any complications right now. Dr. Lim says, if there's one more complication, he doesn't have a great chance of survival. Please ask everyone to keep praying. He is in another drug-induced coma at the moment, with a fever and high heart rate. Mom, Trevor and I met with Dr. Lim and Dr. Han (the doctor that performed the transverse colon operation). Winkie has thus far had 20cm of bowel removed.

END.

Winkie needs our prayers like never before. There has been improvement, yes, but there's still more surgery required, and he's still in a critical condition. I am sure though that you can feel this rising-up of faith stirring your spirit to intercede. Keep praying. Fast if you are able. We love you and thank you for your devotion and your prayers.

And THANK YOU Trevor Yaxley! You saw the need and leapt into action without anyone asking anything of you. Your servant heart is undeniable.

Israel Anderson

From Trevor and others...

Over the past few days many people have both asked about contributing to Winkie's expenses and offered to do whatever they can towards meeting them. This is a great encouragement to the Pratney family.

We have been endeavouring to ascertain what these expenses are likely to be and quite frankly there are many unknowns. One thing we can say is that they will be considerable. Five weeks of hospital stay could easily total in excess of $US100,000 and we have no idea what to expect for the three surgeries Winkie has already had.

It is amazing that a months free accommodation for Fae and William has been offered which will certainly be a great help and the church Winkie was to teach in together with YWAM Korea are both giving sacrificially. Considering that this is the first time Winkie has gone to minister in that nation, this is incredible.

We have two major areas of financial need. Firstly, as mentioned here, the whole medical and living needs in Korea and secondly what we would expect to be a considerable period of time for recovery and redirection for Winkie. This will include provision for adequate administrative needs which to date have not been available.

We do believe that God has something in mind that none of us fully understand. We also want to give God's people the opportunity to become partners with whatever is on His heart for Winkie's healing, restoration and future ministry. Whatever we suggest we only want to co-operate with what the Holy Spirit is leading.

Considering the thousands of churches worldwide that have benefited from Winkie's ministry we suggest that this is a good time and opportunity for the Body of Christ to join together in this giving.

Here are a few suggestions.

* Church Pastors, can you take up a special offering for Winkie's

healing and recovery during a Sunday service?

* Conference organisers especially those who have been recipients of Winkie's ministry and books. Include an offering from those who participate many of whom would want to show support.

* Festival leaders.. Winkie has been so faithful at so many of these festivals for years in the USA, UK and Australia. Can a special offering be taken at the festival or can you email concerning these financial needs to your em-lists now...

The "How To Give" tab gives information concerning where and how to give.

Please join with God's people now and see His plan unfold for this man of God for the future.

END.

Posted by Israel Anderson

From Trevor:

Winkie's vital signs are still all OK. He has an infection but it is NOT in the operating area so that is good and they are treating this now. They are inserting two drains to take away a small amount of fluid between his lungs and his ribs.

We met with Dr. Lim and Dr. Han this morning and they had a new CAT scan completed this morning that shows all is well in the operating area.

However Dr.Lim has said that there is still a 10-20% danger factor if all goes well. He says the main thing to pray now is that there are NO unexpected things take place as ANY complication would NOT be good at all.

Billy and Fae move to the unit at 4pm today. Dr Lim is going with them Just to make sure all goes well.

OK that's my last update. Sorry I haven't got more to report this morning but our dear friend still needs MUCH prayer.

END.

Posted by Israel Anderson

From Trevor:

Some good news. Dr. Lim has arranged for Fae and Billy to stay in the Hospital accommodation used for its international lecturers. It has phone and free broadband internet. They will be able to stay there for 1 month at no charge. So that is an answer to prayer. It is just across the road from the hospital so there will be no need for Taxi's each day. They will be able to move in tomorrow later afternoon.

Billy arrived safe and sound although a couple of hours late. We took him straight to see his dad and then back to the hotel to catch up with Mum. We have all been out for dinner and they have gone back for a good nights sleep.

Winkie is holding stable tonight. The nurse told us that he hasn't changed since this morning. Just holding steady at the moment.

END.

Let us rejoice in God our Savior that He is hearing the prayers of His people and Winkie is not getting any worse. As we lift up our voices together calling on God for a miracle of miracles, we know we serve a God with ears to hear and a strong right hand to heal. We thank you Lord our God for your display of power. We glorify you today. Lord continue to heal our friend, your servant, in this time of need.

Israel Anderson

From Trevor Yaxley.

We have just arrived back at the hotel from the Hospital. We will leave to pick up Billy in a few minutes. But I didn't want to hold back Good news. (I am in tears, God is so amazing) His condition has improved again from yesterday. Swelling going down visibly. All vital signs are holding well. He has once again better color. I would say almost normal.

Main prayer need is still for the bowel to start to function. He is now down to 7 drips. We are believing God that this will soon drop 5. He is now helping the respirator more. About double of yesterday.

Fae is doing well and sleeping.

END.

Posted by Israel Anderson

Thank you for those asking how you can give of your finances. The costs are very very high right now, and as Winkie will also need time to recover and will not be able to minister for some months, he will need your support for this time also. We are receiving quite wonderful gifts in the mail already and we do thank you for that, but many have asked how they give more quickly or with a credit card, and we're providing that for you today. If you wish to make an instant donation to Winkie Pratney via Credit Card or PayPal, click the button below. All donations are Tax Deductible if required.

If you wish to send a check, click here for instructions.

Message from Trevor Yaxley, who is with Fae Pratney in South Korea.

We were able to spend two hours today with Mr. Lim the Christian heart surgeon who is heading up the team here. He has been overseeing all that is going on with Winkie and seems to be directing everything. He has been present at the surgeries and said that he has felt Gods presence continually. His prayer has been "God cover Winkie with the blood of Jesus and carry him through this" He said whilst they were operating on Sunday he was there and was very stressed, but then the presence of God came and he felt" VERY happy" were his words. "All the stress lifted".

We have been with Winkie and prayed three times today adding our prayers to ALL those around the world at this time who are standing together for Winkie's miracle and once again felt the presence of God very strongly. There is such an amazing peace in the ICU.

Now for the detail...firstly the fever he had yesterday has now subsided, (Wonderful) our prayers are working. I know we all will keep praying too. Both his Kidneys and liver are functioning normally now, however he is still on the dialysis machine. He remains on the respirator but every now and again helps the machine with some of his own breathing. He is still in the drug induced coma, but is looking much more peaceful and has some colour back in his face. He is also VERY swollen but Mr. Lim says that is OK they can deal with that later. He has 4 drains from his bowel (two from each side) and what is now draining is clear without infection. Another big step forward.YES!!

Mr. Lim said that Winkie is still in a dangerous condition until they can get his bowel working on its own and then start to take him off the respirator. He said this is the next BIG prayer need. Once he is off this machine the healing will start to progress much better as there will be far less drugs going into his system.

They have stopped all the drugs that were keeping his blood pressure up and we are thrilled to report that he is now maintaining almost normal blood pressure on his own. But Mr. Lim was careful to say that he is still not out of the woods and has a long way to go. So we need to keep the prayers of the saints going strong. He said yesterday morning was "very dangerous' and although he has today moved forward there is still many things to consider. His says, "He is still in a dangerous position" . However, he was in faith for God to provide all that is necessary for his full and complete recovery. This man is a God sent inspiration, his pastor told me this afternoon that he (Mr. Lim) has the gift of healing through his hands. We are praying. "God strengthen the works of his hands".

One noticeable change today was that there is a tangible lift in the faith of all those who are around him both Christian and non Christian. I know this sounds unusual but that is what is happening.

The Church have found a great Hotel not too far away from the hospital for Fae and Billy- who we are picking up at the airport tomorrow at 4.45 p.m. I am going up with one of the YWAM guys who doesn't speak English but knows the way fine.

Well that's it for today. Catch up tomorrow again with more good news for us all I am sure. God is surely on the move.

END.

Posted by Israel Anderson

"We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayer and publicity that has been circling the globe for our brother Winkie. 
 
If you know of publications that have featured Winkie during this time, please feel free to forward them to us here so we can show Fae and Winkie (when he is better). If you know of someone who plans to feature Winkie in an article our hope is that you will check here often to see if there is new intel. This situation is VERY fluid and we want to make sure the world gets information that is as accurate and up to date as possible. Please check with Israel before going to press.

You have permission to use any content from this site in NEWS articles.

Posted by Israel Anderson

We have had an update from our friend Trevor Yaxley who flew with Fae Pratney to Korea. They arrived in Seoul last evening.

Winkie is in a very critical state, on life support in an induced coma and on dialysis to allow his infected organs to start recovery.

The Surgeon (reputedly the best in Korea) has told Trevor it will be three days before they know how things are progressing.

These three days are critical.

Please hold on to God especially during these days not only for Winkie but also Fae who is under considerable pressure.

William Pratney's flight to Korea has him arriving at 4:45pm Thursday Korea time. Both he and Fae are having to deal with Winkie's state which is naturally very painful for them.

Trevor is an absolute God send for the family who will keep us up-to date day by day. We will pass this on his reports as we receive them.


Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie is now in septic shock, it is life threatening complication.
Please pray day and night. Today it is most critical.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_shock

Israel Anderson

Our brother in Winkie is now in critical conditional after having another surgery.

His blood pressure continues to drop.
They are keeping him stable artificially, but his organs are shutting down.

Right now, we need a miracle. Please intercede.

Israel Anderson

For those wanting to send a gift.

If you need a receipt, make checks out to Ministry of Helps.
If you do not need a receipt, please make the check out to Winkie Pratney.

Send them to:
Winkie Pratney Recovery Fund
PO Box 876
Lindale, TX 75771

Or donate with a credit card here:

We will have PayPal facilities soon that will let you pay via a credit card through a secure web page.

Flowers and get well cards can be sent to:
Winkie Pratney
43 Boorimdong
Gwacheon, Gyunggido
South Korea

Posted by Israel Anderson

Winkie is still in ICU but is now off the respirator and has spoken briefly with his wife Fae. He has an infection somewhere in his body, but they are not sure where. There is also some seepage from his bowel into his abdominal-cavity still.

Your prayers are so powerful, we are seeing results, please keep praying. Our brother is not over the worst of it just yet, but things are looking better than 24 hours ago.

Fae is flying out to South Korea tomorrow, and their son William should be there soon also.

Posted by Israel Anderson