Dr. Kent Brantly, the Christian missionary who survived the ravages of Ebola after top-notch medical treatment in Atlanta, left the hospital on Thursday — declaring in a moving statement that “God saved my life.”
Brantly, who contracted the disease while working with patients in West Africa, was transported three weeks ago to Emory Hospital in Atlanta for treatment, along with nurse Nancy Writebol.
And this week, he and Writebol were both discharged, becoming two of a small minority to survive Ebola through the use of new, experimental drug treatments.
“Today is a miraculous day,” Brantly began. “I’m thrilled to be alive, to be well, and to be reunited with my family.”
The doctor explained how he first contracted the disease from a patient in Liberia. “As I lay in my bed in Liberia for the following nine days, getting sicker and weaker each day, I prayed that God would help me be faithful, even in my illness,” he explained. “And I prayed that in my life or in my death, He would be glorified.”
“I did not know then, but have learned since, that there were thousands, maybe even millions of people around the world, praying for me throughout that week and even still today,” he said with emotion. “And I have heard story after story of how this situation has impacted the lives of individuals around the globe, Both among my friends and family, and also among complete strangers. I cannot thank you enough for your prayers and your support.”
“But what I can it tell you is that I serve a faithful God who answers prayers,” he asserted. “Through the care of the Samaritan’s Purse and SIM missionary team in Liberia, the use of an experimental drug, and the expertise and resources of the health care team at Emory University Hospital, God saved my life. A direct answer to thousands and thousands of prayers.”
Brantly finished by embracing the dozens of doctors and hospital staff who helped heal him — perhaps a not-so-subtle message to the viewing public that the doctor is now cured and will not spread Ebola within America’s borders.