12/7/25 Update from Pastor Alex

Beloved First Scots family,

I am writing to send you a brief update on my health, as well as to thank you for the remarkable love you have shown to me and to my family over these past weeks.

As many of you know, I was initially hospitalized at MUSC in Charleston on November 15 due to a strep anginosus infection that settled deep in my mediastinum, likely tied to an illness I contracted while traveling earlier this year. The doctors considered this a very rare and complicated medical occurrence, as the mediastinum is difficult to access and safely operate on. As the infection progressed, I also developed pneumonia, which complicated things even more. On Monday, November 17, the surgical team performed an emergency procedure to address the infection, and I am deeply grateful for the Lord’s mercy in guiding them.  I returned home on Nov 21, which meant I was able to enjoy Thanksgiving with my family (my favorite holiday!).

While home, progress was initially slow but steady. However, after a few days at home, fevers began to be a normal thing, and my energy level was waning. On this past Wednesday, December 3, things got substantially worse: my heart rate was elevated, fever was high, and chest pain was severe. Stefany made the wise decision that I needed to return to MUSC, where I was admitted first to the ER and then to the ICU. The diagnosis was pericarditis, an inflammation in the area that contains and protects the heart. It has responded well to medicine, and I finally feel like myself again.

Lord willing, I will be discharged today to go home and recover. They have removed my tube, and the meds I will be on are oral, so I will have my picc line removed soon, and ought to be a "normal" person again (I mean, as normal as I’ll ever be!).

I cannot thank you enough for the care, prayers, and love you have extended to us. Your meals, messages, kindnesses, and many unseen acts of service have been a profound encouragement. The Lord has used you to strengthen us more than you know.

At this point, I expect to be out of the pulpit for at least several more weeks. My doctor is pleased with the progress and says I am the best judge of what I can/ can’t do, but I’m aware that I am not yet ready for the demands of preaching. I hope to be able to encourage you in other ways in the meantime. Thank you for the way you have supported and encouraged our guest preachers during this time—your warmth toward them is a ministry in itself.

Church family, the love you have shown to me and to Stefany and the boys has been overwhelming in the best way. We feel upheld, carried, and cherished by you. Thank you for being the body of Christ to us.

With deep gratitude and affection in the Lord,
Alex