As Kodiak says hope for a quick recovery, a revolver is always in my reach at the very least a .357 mag. Can't trust .38 spl no more, I hear they can't even kill armadillos!!!
No, they won't.
In fact, studies show the bullet will likely bounce back and hit the shooter!
Seriously though, a .357 magnum is a beautiful thing, but for defensive use like the OP is talking about, a .38 special I find to be even better. With loads like the classic 158 grain LSWCHP +P FBI load and the new Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel 135 grain JHP +P (yes even from a 4" barrel) you'll get plenty of stopping power (with good shot placement) and with faster follow up shots and less damage to the ears indoors, with less muzzle flash to boot.
My S&W Model 64-6 sleep above my pillow every night with me. It's got a 4" barrel, DAO from the factory with the front sight painted flourescent orange, and wears Pachmayr presentation grips. It is a 1999 make and was used by Brink's security company until it was sold as surplus by J&G Sales, when I bought it last year for a steal. It's in excellent shape, the classic "carried often fired little" trade in. Here it is:
I keep it loaded with the above mentioned Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel .38 special +P 135 grain load. This particular load, designed for snub nose revolvers, also performs extremely well from 4" service guns like this one. Low recoil, almost no muzzle flash, and very respectable performance in calibrated ballistics gelatin, comparable to many 9x19mm JHP loads in said media.
I keep it with the two speedloaders at the ready as well, with a flashlight right next to it. I feel like if God forbid I'd ever need it, it would do the job. Can't help but like a good revolver, super reliable and always cleared hot. I sure love mine!!