Bills' Everett showing movement in both hands, greater strength in legs

[jaspegs]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3024532

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- Kevin Everett is showing some movement in both hands and greater strength in his leg muscles, further positive signs for the Buffalo Bills tight end following a life-threatening spinal-cord injury.

"Kevin Everett remains medically stable in the intensive care unit, and continues to make daily improvement in his neurological status," Bills doctor John Marzo said Monday in a statement released by the team.

Marzo provided his evaluation after the player was examined Sunday evening by Bills orthopedic surgeon Andrew Cappuccino.

"Kevin demonstrated increased strength in the muscles of his legs," Marzo said. "In addition, he was able to show some movement in both hands."

Marzo added that doctors are now beginning to focus on his neurological and muscular system rehabilitation.

Everett was hurt making a tackle during Buffalo's season-opening game against Denver on Sept. 9. He arrived at Millard Fillmore Gates Hospital paralyzed from his neck down, and doctors feared he would never walk again.

Their prognosis changed dramatically Wednesday when doctors said Everett had begun wiggling his toes, bending his hip, moving his ankles, elevating his legs and slightly moving his arms.

By Thursday, Everett slightly -- and voluntarily -- moved three fingers on his right hand, something he had previously been unable to do.

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

[Sperm Edwards]

He's still got a long way to go. But any good news is welcome.

[Maxman]

This is great news!

[Thai Jet]

Great news. Everything being reported out of the local media here is most encouraging.