Christopher Sparkman, the security guard seriously injured during the April shooting at a FedEx facility in Kennesaw, continues improving and was able to enjoy a visit with his pets, his wife said in an online update.

Sparkman, the most critically injured of  19-year-old Geddy Kramer's victims, has been recovering at WellStar Kennestone hospital ever since. He's now undergone more than 20 surgeries.

"Pretty soon, we'll be ready for our 'waiting period' at home where Chris will wait for 6-7 months until his final surgery," Jamie Lynn Sparkman said in the online update. "He is still in some pain with the wound, the area on his leg where they pulled the skin graft, and constant bladder spasms and horrible headaches. It's difficult for him to get rest in the hospital, so he's looking forward to coming home. Chris has a lot going on with his body, and he says he appreciates specific prayers for some relief of pain during this time of healing."

Sparkman, 28 at the time of the shooting, turned 29 inthe hospital and celebrated his first anniversary. The Sparkmans met through a church youth group and asked her out on their first date while he was still deployed to Kuwait with the Army.

Last week, they marked another milestone.

"Chris and I celebrated Independence Day at the hospital, and my parents were able to bring the dogs by to visit with 'Daddy' for a few minutes outside," Jamie Lynn Sparkman said. "Chris was SO excited to see his boys...we sure do love our fur-kids. :)"

She continues to thank supporters for their prayers.

"One of the most difficult lessons we've learned through all of this is the natural roller coaster of dealing with trauma," she said. "The doctors tell us these 'surprises' are ups and downs, we say they are just side steps. :) Either way, Chris' body is STILL healing every single day and we can remain confident in this. We will continue to see the GOODNESS of the Lord."

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