Pastor Ed Stetzer provides post-surgery health update

Christian pastor, author, and evangelism expert Edward Stetzer planned to speak at two events in the Phoenix, Ariz., area after a successful surgery in July to repair a fistula, he shared Monday. Currently a dean and professor at the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, or Biola, Stetzer received a rare spinal diagnosis after several days of testing in July.

The author developed an abnormal growth connecting two parts of the body that shouldn’t be connected, known as a fistula, according to Cleveland Clinic. Stetzer described the fistula as an abnormal blood vessel connection that wrapped around his spinal cord. The growth, identified specifically as a rare spinal dural arteriovenous fistula, potentially damaged the nerves controlling his legs. He experienced pain earlier this year and underwent surgery at the beginning of July.

The fistula was repaired, but he still needed a walker and suffered constant neurological pain, he said. Stetzer planned to board a plane for the first time since his surgery on Tuesday, having been cleared for air travel by his doctor, he added. He planned to resume travel, ministry, and public speaking at a reduced rate, the 59-year-old explained.

Will he heal? Statistically, it is unlikely that Stetzer will heal fully due to the unpredictability of spinal cord injuries. Stetzer said he had about a 30% chance of full recovery. While healing, Stetzer planned to rely on a wheelchair and a walker, as necessary. He thanked people for their previous prayers and asked for continued prayers for full recovery, complete resolution of neurological pain, patience, and the upcoming work trip.