Billy Graham Hospitalized for Pneumonia

Billy Graham, who is hospitalized at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC, near his home in Montreat, had a comfortable night and was able to sleep well, his nurses reported today. He is listed in fair condition.

Graham’s pulmonologist, Shaw C. Henderson, MD, confirmed this morning that he does have pneumonia, as indicated by initial tests, and that his temperature is normal. Henderson said that Graham is doing well and is being encouraged to resume his normal activities, including his ongoing program of physical therapy. No discharge date has been set.

During his stay, Graham has engaged in watching television and joking with hospital staff. He was visited last evening by his eldest daughter, Gigi, and met this morning with his pastor, Dr. Don Wilton.

Through his spokesperson, A. Larry Ross, Graham expressed his appreciation for the media interest in his condition and his gratitude for the outpouring of love, concern and prayers of so many individuals across the country.

Graham was admitted to Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC, a short distance from his home in Montreat, NC, on May 11 for observation and pulmonary treatment.

The 92 year-old arrived at Mission Hospital for medical assessment on Wednesday, following a health episode overnight. Initial testing suggested pneumonia, and further diagnostic studies showed his heart was normal.

“Appropriate antibiotics are being administered, and he is clinically stable at this time,” pulmonologist Henderson said early Wednesday afternoon.

Though no date has been set for his release, Graham’s primary physician confirmed his condition with a positive report. “He is resting comfortably and is fully alert,” said Lucian Rice, MD.

“Mr. Graham has great confidence in the Mission Hospital medical team, and is already feeling much better since his arrival this morning,” said Ross. “We anticipate his pneumonia to clear with treatment and hope he will be able to soon return home.”

Ross indicated Graham had episodes of sweating and coughing: “He had a slight fever and experienced difficulty breathing. But he was never in any distress or in an acute situation.”

According to Ross, Graham has remained in good overall health with a strong heart and a clear mind, though age-related conditions—such as macular degeneration and hearing loss—have kept him mostly at home in recent years.

But he continues to be involved in writing projects, including completing a manuscript for a new book on aging, based on his personal experience, and the necessary emotional and spiritual preparation for what he has found to be the most fulfilling years of life.

Ross added that the evangelist also spends time each morning and evening in Bible study and prayer with family and staff; receives personal visits from close friends; keeps informed of the ongoing ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) under the leadership of his son, Franklin; and stays abreast of current events through nightly local and network television newscasts and cable programs.

Although this condition is not life-threatening, we are sure Mr. Graham and his family would appreciate your prayers.

Used with permission of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.