Oy Vey

Greetings and salutations, my faithful readers! Sorry for the delay on posts… the computer was out of commission for a while, and things have been extremely busy for us. This is the miracle herself (I am so tired of hearing that) writing to you. Don’t expect much from this final post, my brother Kevin is the writer in the family and my dad’s just… well, we love him because he tries so hard. Actually, I want to thank all of my family for helping me through this crazy time in my life... and I’d like to thank all you faithful readers! You don’t know how much it means to have such good friends.

Kevin is back from his excursions in Europe and I think he enjoyed himself; I, on the other hand am enjoying my snow globe and purse from Europe!!! We visited him this past weekend...it was great to see him, although I’m not sure how much of us he could see--- his hair was pretty dang long!!!

I am finally finished with therapy and am overjoyed about that!!!! Also, I am off to Xavier this Friday!!! I’m more excited than nervous, but I haven’t begun the painful packing process yet. That should be a blast.

Well, thanks again for sticking with the blog through its’ many authors! Those wonderful prayers from all of you have gotten me to a healthy place. I will probably never know the magnitude of everyone who has touched our lives in such a positive way. We love you all!!!


“The world breaks everyone, and afterwards, some are strong in the broken places.” –Ernest Hemmingway

Love,
Jenny

Days of Summer

Jenny is doing well with her therapy. We visit Xavier in a few days to discuss some of her limitations and the university's ability to accommodate her needs ---to be continued. Friends, teachers and neighbors drop by to bring a fresh face into Jenny's day and keep her and MOM from reaching the "boiling point" of too much togetherness. My wife worries about everything so I can go to work and know she has that department covered like a blanket! Although not the summer we had planned, all things considered we are fortunate and thankful to be dealing with the regimen of exercise and therapy and some practice driving sessions in the parking lots. Kevin is in his final week of the program in Tuscany and then on to Rome and Naples for more free spirited travel. The cards, phone calls, meals and just knowing you care, keep us going. Bless You All Papa Bear

Alive and Well

Jenny is now in out patient therapy and we try to deal with the all powerful insurance company for approved visits. Her mother is coach, trainer, chauffeur, chef and psychologist all at the same time (aka MOM). Jenny does more intense exercises, some while sitting on a ball to help coordination and balance --she is awesome! She hardly uses her cane and is at times walking without her temporary leg brace. Small motor skills with her right hand (like writing) are still very difficult but she works hard to improve and is starting to venture out of the house more often. Kevin is now in Italy (World Cup Champs) for three weeks and is enjoying his course of study. Good friends bring meals, stop to visit, offer to help with anything and most importantly continue to send prayers. Many Thanks, Papa Bear

Happy Fourth of July

Sorry we have not written sooner. Jenny is progressing rapidly and the in-home therapists are ready to send her to out patient therapy for more intense workouts. She moves around the house without a cane rather well and can handle the stairs to the basement for those needed retreats to her own space. Her mother keeps the daily vigil on her exercise routine and meals (she has gained back a few of those lost pounds), while her dad clowns and makes her laugh (who has the tougher job?). Kevin is enjoying Europe and just starting the scholastic three weeks of his trip. This being the Fourth of July, the fireworks are going off "inside" our home as we celebrate our daughter's recovery. She is determined to get herself ready for Xavier -we say go for it kid! Jenny is beating all the odds for a rapid recovery. Our thanks to all of you! Papa Bear

On "Recovery Road"

Jenny had a good weekend at home. She continues to do her exercises and her physical therapist comes on Tuesday for the first visit. We can see improvement everyday (a wiggle of the toes on her her right foot on Sun.) as she fights her way back to regain all that was lost. Her mom is right with her for help and encouragement every step of the way --this is the person you want on your team when it comes to good health and lots of LOVE! A family crisis like this one makes you re-think your priorities and appreciate those around you. Those of you that have surrounded us with your good wishes and prayers have touched us deeply and made a difference in our lives. Heartfelt Thanks Papa Bear

Home Sweet Home

Jennifer was released from the hospital today. She and my wonderful wife are back home, our lives are whole again. Words can not express the appreciation we have for those caring and skilled persons that work at Bethesda North Hospital. Our next step in the healing process is in-home therapy that will be scheduled real soon. Jenny, with the aid of a cane, is navigating around the house with little trouble, checking e-mail and texting on her phone (all looks normal to me). We have been blessed! "and when the night is cloudy, there is still a light that shines on me. Shine until tomorrow, let it be." Sweet Dreams

Happy Days are Here Again

The smile will not leave Jenny's face ---she departs the hospital on Friday 6/23! This is earlier than originally planned but her progress has been exceptional. If you plan to visit at the hospital, please do not leave anything for Jenny as we had to book Two Men and a Truck for the trip home. This evening she walked all over the rehab floor and up and down a flight of stairs with a cane and one of us along for support, if needed. The right leg and arm move more each day with growing strength and flexibility----it is like watching a miracle as her body gradually recovers what has gone dormant after the injury to her brain. All of you have participated in her recovery through loving prayer --God Bless You All!