While family members have asked for prayer for Billy Graham, a close associate says his condition has remained relatively the same for weeks.
Graham has been in a weakened condition since his 95th birthday party on Nov. 7, says Billy Graham Evangelistic Association spokesman Mark DeMoss, but his vital signs are still strong.
“People keep saying different things, some good and some not so good,” DeMoss told Asheville, N.C.’s Citizen-Times.com. “But he’s about the same. I think everybody’s intentions are good. The family members want everybody to pray for Mr. Graham, and I understand that.”
DeMoss says he is in touch with Graham’s medical staff daily.
“I think everybody is concerned about Mr. Graham, but we’re not getting any different reports from the medical staff,” he says. “I’m checking in every day, and there has not been a change for better or worse in the last number of weeks. He’s weak, he’s at home, and his vital signs are good—his pulse, his heartbeat, his blood pressure. He’s not in any immediate danger.”
Speculations about Graham’s health started when his son, Franklin Graham, said last week that his father’s health had been declining in the weeks since his birthday party. Later in the week he asked for prayers for his ailing father.
Additionally, Graham’s grandson recently said the evangelist is close to going home to be with the Lord.
“On Nov. 7 [with his ‘My Hope America With Billy Graham’ outreach], he finished his race and up until that time, God had protected his health and gave him supernatural strength and now, the only thing left is for him to come home,” Will Graham, son of Franklin Graham, said. “God has removed His hand of protection, and old age has set in.”
When asked how to pray for his grandfather, Will Graham replied, “I don’t know how to answer that anymore. I wish He would give him strength, but I don’t think he needs strength anymore. It’s time to go home.”
Billy Graham’s nephew, Mel Graham, said Friday that the evangelist had had a good couple of days.
“Overall we are encouraged,” Mel Graham told WSCO TV. “He’s doing great today. He had a nice breakfast. He sat up in bed and had oatmeal and a banana, and his favorite fluffy cat was right there by his side.”
He added, “When I saw him a few days ago, we had a nice visit. He was a little weaker, but the last few days was considerably stronger then when I saw him, so I look forward to getting up in the next day or two and spending some time with him.”
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