Prognosis Reportedly Improves for Everett

Buffalo Bills tight end Kevin Everett had voluntary movement in his arms and legs today and was experiencing only a small amount of swelling in his spinal cord, a Buffalo television station reported.

"We may be witnessing a minor miracle," orthopedic surgeon Andrew Cappuccino said, according to WIVB-TV.

The station reported that the prognosis for Everett improved dramatically and there was increased optimism among his doctors that he might be able to walk again. Doctors reportedly lifted some of Everett's sedation.

Cappuccino performed a four-hour emergency surgery on Everett on Sunday after the reserve tight end was injured making a tackle on a kickoff during a game against the Denver Broncos. Cappuccino said during a news conference Monday that Everett had suffered a catastrophic and life-threatening spinal cord injury and it was unlikely that Everett would ever walk again. Everett was placed under sedation and was on a respirator in the intensive care unit of a Buffalo hospital, and doctors said Monday it would be 48 to 72 hours before they could make a more reliable prognosis.

Everett's mother, Patricia Dugas, issued a written statement in which she thanked the Bills, the hospital staff and fans who had expressed support.

"I would ask for everyone to continue to keep Kevin in their prayers," she said.

By Mark Maske |  September 11, 2007; 7:52 PM ET  | Category:  Bills
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