It's always difficult to see a friend in pain, especially when he has been a source of strength for so many. But when I visited Simon this weekend in the hospital, I was heartened to see for myself how high his spirits are. The wisdom in his eyes is deeper than ever after this experience, and yet, for most of the time I spent with him he was smiling and talking animatedly about the many old friends who have visited him these past two weeks--some of whom he hadn't seen in 20 years.

Simon returned home from the hospital on Tuesday afternoon; he called me and asked that I thank everyone on his behalf for all the support, prayers and love that have been sent his way:

"Thank you for all of your prayers. Your prayers have kept me going, and they mean a lot to me. Your loving support has gotten me out of the hospital and to where I am, giving me the energy to reach a full recovery."

All of us at AASG are deeply moved by the outpouring of support we have been able to send him, and the continuous flow of emails and letters we receive daily. Our dearest thanks to everyone who has sent their love and healing thoughts to Simon these past weeks.

CJ Lonoff, our associate in New York, has the most recent medical update:

"The shoulder surgery was canceled. Simon's shoulder will be treated in out-patient therapy. The broken ribs and affected lung will take some time to heal. His shoulder and elbow are not quite right either. The doctors want to discharge him, primarily to reduce his susceptibility to an infection with his affected lung. I was in the room with one doctor who said it may take 4-6 months before he feels completely better. He will need some kind of rehabilitative therapy once he is released."

Though it will be a long road to full recovery, it was obvious to me that Simon already has a renewed sense of purpose. He is regaining his strength and looking forward to resuming his work to bring freedom to his people and to all who remain in bondage. All of you who have reached out with your thoughts, prayers and visits, are keeping him motivated to get his health back as soon as possible and continue to advocate for change. Though there are still obstacles to overcome, Simon's strength is equal to the challenge, and, with you, we look forward to seeing him back on his feet...