Dr. Kent Brantly Condition Latest Update, News: 'Thank God for His Mercy,' Says Missionary
Dr. Kent Brantly, one of the two Americans who contracted Ebola while treating virus-stricken patients back in Liberia, finally broke his silence about his condition, saying he is now steadily recovering and is "growing stronger every day."
The 33-year-old medical professional issued his statement through Samaritan's Purse, the aid organization he's working with.
"I am writing this update from my isolation room at Emory University Hospital, where the doctors and nurses are providing the very best care possible. I am growing stronger every day, and I thank God for his mercy as I have wrestled with this terrible disease," he said.
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Dr. Brantly and another aid worker, Nany Writebol, are currently being treated at the same health facility in Atlanta, Georgia. They were the first patients to receive the experimental Ebola treatment developed by Mapp Biopharmaceutical.
"My wife Amber and I, along with our two children, did not move to Liberia for the specific purpose of fighting Ebola. We went to Liberia because we believe God called us to serve Him at ELWA Hospital," his statement continued.
His wife Amber also issued a statement to the organization's website expressing her gratitude to the medical professionals who are behind the treatment.
"I have been able to see Kent every day, and he continues to improve. I am thankful for the professionalism and kindness of Dr. Ribner and his team at Emory University Hospital. I know that Kent is receiving the very best medical treatment available," she stated.
Dr. Brantly recalled the time he found out he has contracted the disease.
"When I started feeling ill on that Wednesday morning, I immediately isolated myself until the test confirmed my diagnosis three days later. When the result was positive, I remember a deep sense of peace that was beyond all understanding. God was reminding me of what He had taught me years ago, that He will give me everything I need to be faithful to Him," the doctor said.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Writebol's husband, David, who is still in Liberia, told the reporters that he was happy with the news of development concerning his wife and to that of Dr. Brantley's conditions.
Although there are only a few details disclosed about the specific conditions of the said patients, sources said that they are still undergoing rigorous treatment.
Moreover, there are reports indicating that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are now deploying 50 more staff members, in addition to the 31 who are already sent, to fortify their efforts in controlling the ebola outbreak.
"We will save lives in West Africa and protect ourselves at home by stopping Ebola at the source," director of the CDC Tom Frieden said in a statement.
