Overton facing dangerous spine infection

A minimally invasive procedure to alleviate a lingering herniated disc turned into a “life-threatening infection� in Jeff Overton’s spine, according to a Facebook post Sunday written by the PGA TOUR veteran’s wife. The infection prompted emergency surgery, and Overton has faced an extended recovery period. But his wife, Christina, says her husband has finally turned the corner. “After a month in the hospital and acute rehab center, many nights of excruciating pain and uncertainty, two months of IV antibiotics and ho home health care, we are finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel,� she wrote. Christina made the Facebook post, which her husband tweeted, on Jeff’s 34th birthday. “Today we are celebrating his health and his life,� she wrote. Jeff acknowledged his wife’s support in his tweet. “These last few months have been surreal and certainly makes you appreciate life and health. @OvertonMezzo, you have been incredible.� Jeff has only played once this year on the PGA TOUR, shooting rounds of 76-70 and missing the cut at The Honda Classic in February. Prior to that tournament, the former Ryder Cupper had not played since the Barbasol Championship in July of 2015. Here is the complete text of Christina’s Facebook post: “Happy 34th birthday to this guy! My best friend and the guy who keeps me laughing. There is no one I know with a more positive outlook on life, who takes life as it comes. “After taking several months off of competitive golf due to a herniated disc, Jeff underwent a minimally invasive procedure in hopes of improving the area. Through the procedure, he acquired a life-threatening infection in his spine, forcing him to have an emergency surgery. After a month in the hospital and acute rehab center, many nights of excruciating pain and uncertainty, two months of IV antibiotics and home health care, we are finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel. Today, we are celebrating his health and life. I’ve learned that life is precious and health is something we take for granted. I’ve also learned how to flush a picc line and make a chair very, VERY comfortable. “I want to thank all of our closest friends and family who have been near to us during this time. I’d also like to thank his doctor, who answered my texts at all hours and who has walked with us through this nightmare of a situation, holding our hands every step of the way.�

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