Many of you have already heard this news, but I imagine there are those who have not.
From an initial posting last week - Fred Duling was very seriously injured in a fall down the steps at Malta BC on Monday, Dec. 6. He was found almost unconscious at the foot of the steps. Body temp was down to 86 degrees, as he was found after an undetermined period of time on the floor inside the front door at Malta.
He is in very bad condition. Doctors say he fractured his spine in 4 different places, the C1, C2 and C6, C7 vertebrae. He suffered a concussion, broken nose, broken bones at both orbital sockets, broken cheek bone, and has several deep lacerations on his face. He was working alone at the Boathouse, decorating for Christmas. No one knows exactly what happened or how he fell, but he apparently landed hard on his head and face and was not able to break his fall with his hands.
Fred had surgery last Tuesday morning to relieve pressure on vertebrae at the top of the spine. He has some movement in his arms, which is good, but has no movement or feeling below the waist. He is at Thomas Jefferson Hospital.
Please note - Fred's family asks that you check with them before visiting Fred's ICU room. They are concerned that folks not say anything about Fred's condition that might upset him. Check with them in the family room or call Fred Jr. at 215-768-9889.
You may know Fred ran the Schuylkill Navy Run for his 51st consecutive time on Thanksgiving. He is one very tough guy.
Update for the past week or so - Fred is awake and responsive. He has a breathing tube so cannot speak, but his eyes are open and expressive, he follows conversation, makes gestures with his shoulders and hands. Fred has full use of his upper body, squeezing the hands of visitors. He's in a lot of pain, mostly from the facial fractures.
One piece of good news is tests shows no brain damage.
You may send cards and encouragement to Fred at:
Thomas Jefferson Hospital
111 S. 11th St.
Room 4136 Gibbon Building (Fred Duling Sr.)
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Updated Tuesday, Dec. 14 - Fred is recovering from Monday morning surgery. They fused 3 vertebrae. He's OK. Awake. Can't talk because of newly inserted breathing tube thru trachea. But eyes are responsive and he squeezes your hand to answer questions. Face is looking a lot better, black eyes not so black, swelling reduced. His spirits are up and down.
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