I need prayers

[2manypets]

On Thursday the 13th of May my 21 year old daughter was in a bad car accident. She was coming home from Radiology school when her front tire left the roadway and when trying to correct herself, she spun out and hit a pole.

Ashley is now in a coma with Traumatic Brain Injury and a broken neck. According to her doctors, she has damage to the lower part of her brain. As of today they are still trying to get her stable. We understand she will have permanent damage, but until she wakes up we won't know the extent. The waiting to see her beautiful eyes open is pure torture. She make little improvements daily like moving her arms in response to stimuli or bending her knees slightly. This means that she won't be paralyzed. the doctors are putting in a Trach and a permanent feeding tube for the long haul. I'll take any baby step that she makes. Though small they are still a step forward and a miracle in my eyes.

Even though you don't know me or her, I'm asking for prayer for Ashley. She needs as much positive energy coming her way that she can get. Her and her fiance were planning on getting married in just 3 weeks and she was due to graduate college around the same time. Her life was beginning to be just what she wanted.

On Facebook, Georges family has started a group called "PRAYING FOR ASHLEY BLOUNT" He reads the posts to her daily in hopes that she will know everyone wants her back. Please feel free to add your wishes and prayers. Also please pray for George, her fiance. He has not left her side since the accident. He's a strong person and has so much love in him for her, but at this time he's not taking care of himself.



I won't be posting often in the next several days, weeks, months, but want to thank you all for your kindness and support.

[gator75]

oh my gosh i "am so sorry i will definetly keep her and your family in my prayers. i know what you are going through on two accounts. right before i was to graduate high school i was in a car that rolled over. all of us where thrown out. i broke multiple bones in my face and arm, and had more surgery ,and therapy then i can count. i still have some disability ,but i just take each day as it comes. also my dad was in an accident, and was also in a comma for three months. he also had brain damage . it has changed all of our lives forever. he has sever memory and cognitive problems that will never return. may i ask how old she is? if she is young she will be strong, and she will bounce back . again i'm so sorry you sre going through this all your family is in my prayers

[2manypets]

Thank you so much for your prayers. Ashley is 21. She's strong willed young woman and we're hoping between the prayers and her strength and will power, she'll pull through soon. We are patiently waiting for her to return to us.

[Momelie]

All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you hugs and strength, my friends and my very best "hang in there" to Ashley.

[Bugsmom73]

Prayers for her.

[kirstenb1]

I'll pray for you and your family, and Ashley's fiance. I'm so sorry.:hug:

[kknpj]

Definitely praying for your sweet daughter, Ashley. Also for you, and her fiance.

[Sunbeamblue2002]

Praying for you and may Gods blessings be with you in this time of need

[bidnow5]

So sorry to hear this keep praying for her no matter what doctors say my friend was in an accident with brain damage and was in a coma for 2 months they gave him 5% chance at first then he showed them they were wrong he will never be the exact same person but is doing fine.

[MinnieVanMom]

Lord, hear our prayers.

[Debbie Jean]

Hugs and prayers for Ashley, George and your whole family. :hug:

[Bete]

with prayers and more prayers. God speed!

[GoofTroop]

Praying for Ashley, George, and your entire family. Please keep us updated as you can. ((((hugs to you all)))

Elizabeth

[a1tinkfans]

Sending prayers and Good thoughts for your daughter Ashley and your entire family.
Stay strong, stay focused, she is young and strong and can endure! Bless you ALL, may her recovery be swift!!! :grouphug:

[camp4]

You got our prayers for Ashley's speedy recovery and all the strength you need:thumbsup2

[iwrbnd]

I will be praying for Ashley, too! And I'm so sorry this has happened!

[Kat77]

Ashley and family will be in my prayers. :hug:

[WDWFOREVER]

Believe me, you have all the prayers my family and I can muster. As a mother I can only imagine what you are going through. And poor George so near to the start of their lives together having to see her go through this. You will be in our prayers this evening along with a friend of mine who today had a heart attack. He, thankfully, has had the blockage cleared and should be home in a few days. I wish the same was true for Ashley but I will pray that her stay in hospital is long enough to get her as strong as she can be, but short enough that you have her back at home as soon as possible.

Jackie

[mdvlprof]

Praying that all goes well. :hug: You'll find the strength to make it thru whatever comes your way. You'll have it because your daughter will need you to be strong. Don't give up hope.

DS suffered TBI when he was 17 and sophomore in college. Currently has something akin to locked-in syndrome. For months, drs didn't believe that he was 'in there' They were looking for movement. He understood what happened, understood requests that he move this or that body part, but he just cannot move anything other than eyes. -But he does laugh.

[visitingapril09]

Continue to be strong and know that many are praying for your beautiful girls total healing. I joined the FB group also. Be strong........:grouphug:

[cm8]

:hug: in our thoughts and prayers:flower3:

[blessedmom4]

Thinking of you and asking God to bring a complete and total healing, while giving you peace and comfort. His Grace is infinite!

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. ~Psalm 27:14

[Janny]

As I take out my rosary for the recitation at 7:30 am channel EWTN EST, Ashley will be my priority in thought and prayer. My sweet daughter lapsed into a coma at age 2 from encephalitis....she is 8 now and remains in an open'eyed coma but is the love of our lives. Stay strong. God answers our prayers.....it may not be in the way we want or think, but in His ultimate wisdom, it is with faith the final picture for the reasons why will be revealed. We cannot tell you how much the prayers from others truly make us strong. Please tell everyone you know to keep praying for your precious Ashley.

[sorul82?]

Thinking of you, Ashley, and your family. :hug:

[littlewitch34]

Praying for all of you.

[mcbailey]

Prayers for Ashley and prayers for you also!!!!

[2manypets]

Thank you everyone for your prayers, they're still needed.

Ashley is still in a coma and has been breathing on her own for over 24 hrs. In the last day, the Dr's have removed her ICP (IntraCranial Pressure)moniter. Which means her brain swelling has abated. We did a happy dance for her!

With those accomplishment she's mostly out of the woods. The Dr.s keep on reminding us that this will be a very long road to recovery. Things that I really don't want to hear. I understand her risk for permanent disability and don't care. I'll take Ashley any way I can. Until she wakes up though, we won't know the extent of damages.

I'll be staying with her for the next week and have high hopes that she'll wake up and let us know what's going on. Being 3 hours away from her, waiting to see her again is so hard. Unfortunately, I have to work enough to maintain the insurance. Each day I'm away seems like a life time.

Please keep praying for her. Each day Ashley makes another baby step towards recovery. I see or hear about little miracles every day in her.

[cm8]

Thank you everyone for your prayers, they're still needed.

Ashley is still in a coma and has been breathing on her own for over 24 hrs. In the last day, the Dr's have removed her ICP (IntraCranial Pressure)moniter. Which means her brain swelling has abated. We did a happy dance for her!

With those accomplishment she's mostly out of the woods. The Dr.s keep on reminding us that this will be a very long road to recovery. Things that I really don't want to hear. I understand her risk for permanent disability and don't care. I'll take Ashley any way I can. Until she wakes up though, we won't know the extent of damages.

I'll be staying with her for the next week and have high hopes that she'll wake up and let us know what's going on. Being 3 hours away from her, waiting to see her again is so hard. Unfortunately, I have to work enough to maintain the insurance. Each day I'm away seems like a life time.

Please keep praying for her. Each day Ashley makes another baby step towards recovery. I see or hear about little miracles every day in her.
:hug:

[boysmom5150]

:hug:Praying for you and Ashley:hug:

[minniebeth]

Praying for Ashley and your family~:hug:

[DaniB]

I'm so sorry this has happened to your family! Ashley is in my thoughts and I am wishing the best for her!! :hug:

[Deesknee]

Please God watch over this young girl & show us a miracle. Lord help all those that love her.

Peace and comfort in these days to come.

[stinkerbelle's mom]

So very sorry. Lots of good thoughts and prayers coming your way. Keep us posted. :hug:

[Brightsy]

You are all in my thoughts. :hug:

[SueM in MN]

I work in a hospital that cares for people like your Ashley after they have stabilized a little and no longer need to be in the ICU.

There are lots of baby steps and sometimes falls along the way, but many people see miracles.
I hope for miracles for your family and pray for strength in your journey.

Since this is not about WDW, I am going to move this thread to the disABILITIES Community Board, where it will be more on topic.

Please post updates as you have them so that we can follow Ashley’s progress.

[2manypets]

Thank you everyone for your hope and prayers.

Ashley is still in a coma, but she's stable. The 3 hour drive to our hometown exhausted her. We felt it was the best move because all her family and her fiance's family live here. We know she'll have an advocate with her at all times. George, her fiance has not left her side yet.

I was really surprised at all the nurses and specialist that streamed into her room the first day. The poor thing had so many blood tests and other tests she most likely slept most of the day to get away from all the pain of needles and being moved around. Because of the exhaustion, Ashley had to be put back on the ventalator. Hopefully tomorrow her O2 levels will be right enough to start weening her off the vent again.

The nurses sat Ashely in a chair yesterday and she looked absolutely beautiful. We had a chance to try to comb out what hair the doctors left after putting in her ICP monitor. We're thinking of shaving the rest of her hair because of the matting. The nurses can't get her into a shower just yet and we can't wash her hair with her neck brace on.

Her ortho will take another Xray of her neck in a week and half to see if we can take off the neck brace for her C2 fracture.

Ashley will start PT, OT, Speech therapy (not sure what they can do while she's still unresponsive?) and have swallow test done today. So another exhausting day for her. The experts say that they need to be aggressive with her right now. It's so hard to watch but we know she needs to wake up soon.

I'm having a hard time balancing life right now. I have a younger child (16) that's being neglected right now, along with laundry, cooking, work, taking care of life I guess. DD16 can cook her own dinner, but I only see her about an hour a day if that. That balance will come with time. We're all working on scheduling and new routines.

[rodeo65]

Also saying prayers for Ashley and hope that in the couple of days since your last post she has been more comfortable after her move close to home.

This is great for you to be able to have her close and not have to miss days with her from being three hours away.

Don't worry about the balance right now - you need to focus where your heart is. The balance will return when your daughter is more stable.

I'm sure your 16 yr old DD is as concerned as you about her sister and understands where your focus needs to be right now. The hour a day that you can spend with her lets her know she is still a priority but that Ashley has greater needs right now. Again - balance will return.

:hug:

[Arenita]

Prayers for recovery for Ashley, peace and strength for your family, and wisdom for her medical professionals.

[mdvlprof]

Ashley will start PT, OT, Speech therapy (not sure what they can do while she's still unresponsive?) and have swallow test done today. So another exhausting day for her. The experts say that they need to be aggressive with her right now. It's so hard to watch but we know she needs to wake up soon.

I'm having a hard time balancing life right now. I have a younger child (16) that's being neglected right now, along with laundry, cooking, work, taking care of life I guess. DD16 can cook her own dinner, but I only see her about an hour a day if that. That balance will come with time. We're all working on scheduling and new routines.

Can Ashley move her eyes? Took a speech pathologist, not a dr, to realize DS could move his eyes (something I had known for a while).

Don't worry too much about 16 yr old. She knows what is going on, and that Ashley needs you.

[Loodlow]

You and Ashley are in my our prayers.

[WDWFOREVER]

Just wanted you to know that I am still keeping Ashley, you and all your family in my prayers. Hope things are progressing.

Jackie x:hug:

[2manypets]

Thank you for your continued prayers.

It's been a month today since Ashley's accident. On the Rancho scale, she's entering Rancho 3. Ashley still can't communicate "on demand" but she's moving her arms around a lot. Very random movements, but the doctors say it a good thing. Her brain is trying to retrain her muscles. She was fitted for a wheel chair and should receive it today. It'll hopefully do her good to take her outside to get some fresh air. Ashley still can't regulate her own tempature so we won't be out long in this southern heat.

We're continuing to pray for her improvement. When she gets to Rancho 4, she'll be accepted into Shepherds Center in Atlanta. I've heard many good things about this place. They have a higher rate of a more normalized life after traumatic brain injury than most other places.

It's a bit overwhelming still at all we have to do in the next months. DH is working up plans to add an addition on our home. Ashley will need an ADA compliant environment, so while I take a FMLA to be in Atlanta with her, DH will be adding a large room with a roll in shower and anything else she'll need. Her case worker said that if our home wasn't ADA compliant that Ashley would not be able to come home. Naturally, that's our #1 priority right now.

Our goals have changed in the last month. Ashley most likely will never walk again but our goal now is for communication and upper body coordination. Her acceptance will come with time. She knows she's loved and that we'll be there for her through everything that will come.

[WDWFOREVER]

Thank you so much for taking the time to update us on Ashley's condition. I'm glad you and your family are changing your goals for her - she will need you to keep grounded and concentrate on all the little improvements and celebrate them. I know it will be a long haul for you all. But she is still with you, and still making improvements even if they are small ones. Keep your faith and I will pray for strength for you all as you go through the upcoming changes in your family.

Jackie

[Brightsy]

Thank you for the update. YOu and your family will continue to be in my thoughts.

[cm8]

Thank you for your continued prayers.

It's been a month today since Ashley's accident. On the Rancho scale, she's entering Rancho 3. Ashley still can't communicate "on demand" but she's moving her arms around a lot. Very random movements, but the doctors say it a good thing. Her brain is trying to retrain her muscles. She was fitted for a wheel chair and should receive it today. It'll hopefully do her good to take her outside to get some fresh air. Ashley still can't regulate her own tempature so we won't be out long in this southern heat.

We're continuing to pray for her improvement. When she gets to Rancho 4, she'll be accepted into Shepherds Center in Atlanta. I've heard many good things about this place. They have a higher rate of a more normalized life after traumatic brain injury than most other places.

It's a bit overwhelming still at all we have to do in the next months. DH is working up plans to add an addition on our home. Ashley will need an ADA compliant environment, so while I take a FMLA to be in Atlanta with her, DH will be adding a large room with a roll in shower and anything else she'll need. Her case worker said that if our home wasn't ADA compliant that Ashley would not be able to come home. Naturally, that's our #1 priority right now.

Our goals have changed in the last month. Ashley most likely will never walk again but our goal now is for communication and upper body coordination. Her acceptance will come with time. She knows she's loved and that we'll be there for her through everything that will come.

:hug:, here is for more breakthroughs and blessings!:flower3:

[2manypets]

Thanks everyone for continuing to pray for Ashley's recovery!

Here's an update.

Ashely is fully in Rancho 4 now, the confused/agitated state. She still can't communicate and her movements are quite random. She's extremely frustrated that she can't move her body at will. Ashley tries so hard that her whole body starts shaking. It's very exhausting for her to try so hard. She's also started crying a lot in the last week, which I just can't handle. I end up crying right along with her. It seems her conscienceness is waking up now and she's able to focus more everyday. It's a good thing, but so hard to watch her go through it. Nothing can prepare a person for this.

For the first time yesterday though, she smiled a little. Ashley has been scowling for the past few weeks. She's been wearing a hospital gown for 7 weeks now so I bought her some street clothes to wear during PT. She gave me a little smile. It brought tears to my eyes! All of her belongings are still in Nashville with her EX-fiance. I just can't deal with dealing with him right now.

I think a lot of her improvements right now are because she finally got her neck brace off on Monday and on Tuesday, the nurses pulled her trachiotomy tube. She looks beautiful! It's so nice to see all of her now.

For the past three weeks we've been fighting with the insurance company to send her to Shepherd's in Atlanta or a place called Timber Ridge in AR. Most of the brain injury rehab facilities in Tennessee have turned us down, due to Ashley not being able to participate in the therapy. She sometimes responds when asked to lift her hand or sqeeze, but it's very inconsistent. She wants to, her darn body won't co-operate. We have hope last hope here in TN at a place called Stallworth's at Vanderbilt. The hospital she's staying at now contacted them last week, but we've gotten no response from them yet.

Please continue the prayers that Ashley will find peace in her situation and that she will be able to go to a rehab facility that will help her to bring about the best possible outcome.


Oh, and as a side note...DH & I decided that by December we'll be completely insane from all the stress, so we've booked a trip to WDW. We cancelled our trip in September so we have several hundred dollars returned onto my Disney rewards card that expires at the end of this year. I just happened to check my emails the day I decided that I was going to lose my mind and found a WDW discount code. We'll hopefully be staying at CSR on the 40% off discount so it's already paid for. I'm not overplanning this trip as I know it may not really happen. It all depends on how Ashley is doing and how far along she is in her recovery.

[mhawk4]

My thoughts are with you and your family.

[mdvlprof]

We're still praying. :hug: If you ever need to talk, send a PM.

Nothing can prepare for this. Haven't dealt with car ccident, but watched/worried as gifted DS suffered catastrophic illness that left him aware, but unable to move anything other than facial muscles.

[WDWFOREVER]

Thank you so much for taking the time to keep us updated. Ashley and all of you are constantly in my prayers. It must be exhausting for you and your family and I think a planned holiday is important so that you have something to aim for. Ashley seems like such a fighter. Having you there fighting for her too is, I am sure, an incredible help to her. She may not know everything that is going on but I am sure she is more than aware that you and your family are with her, every step of the way.

God bless all of you.

Jackie & Family x:hug:

[Raspus]

I'm so sorry to hear about this. You and your daughter are in my prayers.

[2manypets]

Ashley is now in a rehab facility! The difference between the Acute care hospital and the rehab center are night and day. Rehab is so bright and cheerful, the staff are absolutely wonderful. Ashley will have therapy (physical, occupational and speech) for 3 - 6 hours a day. She'll be exhausted, but it's just what she needs at this point in her recovery. At the LTAC (long term acute care) we felt the need to not let her out of our sight because the care was so inconsistent.

This new place, I just can't say enough wonderful things about it. The staff check on her every 1 - 1.5hrs. This rehab is just the 2nd step in recovery. In about two months she'll have to go to a long term rehab facility to fine tune her daily care and functionability. All of a sudden things are looking up!

Please pray that she continues improving! OH, more exciting news...we definately know that she knows us now. She acually smiles when we come into the room and tries to touch our faces. Her hand isn't quite working yet, but it's coming along!:dance3:

[rodeo65]

I'm so glad to hear that Ashley is showing improvement!! You must be so relieved both with that and with the change to a facility that you feel comfortable about. Thanks for keeping us posted. Great news too that she is recognizing you!!

[A Mickeyfan]

my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It may be a long road ahead with Ashely, but is sounds like the road it getting easier. Every little step leads to the light at the end of the tunnel. :grouphug:

I haven't read every post here & not sure if anyone else has suggested this, but maybe you can find out if the facility will allow you to bring in a CD player and you can play some of Ashley's favorite music for her. She may want to hear it..

[brighteyes]

I will send prayers your way for Ashley and your whole family :grouphug:

Awesome news - just hope it gets better.

[2manypets]

Thanks for your continued support and prayers.

Sorry it's been a while since I updated. Ashley continues to improve! She is now trying to use her stomach muscles and she's moving her left leg around. Hopefully it won't be long before she can turn over by herself. This brings excitement and fear. Fear because I don't want her to accidently throw herself out of bed. The hospital has a "tent" they put over the bed that will help her stay in it.

Ashley is moving her mouth as if she's speaking and her expressions match her mouth movements. Speech therapy will be getting a stethoscope(sp?) to listen at her throat to see if she is speaking, but just too low for us to hear. If she is, we'll get her an external voice box. I'm so excited to find out the results of this test. It'll open up a whole new world if she is really speaking!

Ashley also has learned new facial expressions. She can smile now!!!! She also has a sneer when she's uncomfortable and she puts on a puppy dog sad face when I tell her goodnight. Ashley's in there and is in the process of learning how to communicate by facial expressions.

The therapists are wonderful at her new facility. They really take there time with her and I can tell they really care. Most stop by her room to say hi in the morning and before they go home.

We've finally decided that renovating our house is not feasible. It's just too small to do much with, so we're in the process of buying a new house. Our budget isn't quite ready for this, but we have no other choice. I was planning on quitting my job and being a full time caregiver. Instead I'll go part time and keep her sitter we have now so I can bring in a bit of extra money. Between all of that and Ashley's disability check we should be able to do OK.

For now I'm keeping my ticker for Disney, but most likely won't go. The room is already paid for but the food and airfare are not. At this point it's not looking like Ashley will be ready for us to leaver her in December anyway. Here's hoping for next September or December 2011 with Ashley. I would love to see Disney through her "brand new" eyes.

[sorul82?]

Thank you for the update and I'm so happy to hear about the progress. :goodvibes

[mrsksomeday]

I am sending thoughts and prayers to you, your family, and Ashley. May she continue to improve every day.

I know how difficult and frustrating it can be to be a caregiver for someone you love, please don't forget to take care of yourself :hug:.

[disneymom3]

It is so wonderful to hear your hope and Ashley's progress. She is blessed to have such a wonderful mom and dad.

[Rekenna]

All our :love: to Ashley and your family. I'm saying a prayer right now.

[irishsharon]

sending love and prayers to Ashley and your whole family:hug: how is your other daughter doing:flower3:

[2manypets]

sending love and prayers to Ashley and your whole family:hug: how is your other daughter doing:flower3:

Thank you so much for thinking of Krysten my youngest daughter. She started school so she has other things to occupy her mind. Krysten's getting adjusted to having a sister that's not the same as she was.

Ashley is still improving every day. Her cognative reasoning is showing in little things. We were rolling a ball back and forth and I asked her to roll it to Krysten who was on the side of her. Ashley pushed the ball so fast it almost flew off the table. It was the first time she used her left arm externally.

We found out that she can still read and responds by pointing to the answer. It's still a bit inconsistent, but it's a great start. Her therapists are please with her progress in her movement on request. She's no longer taking baby steps...they're now toddler steps! Except for the speech therapist...Ashley is having a hard time relearning to swallow. She'll have to remain on the PEG tube (feeding tube) until she can swallow, clear her throat, stick out her tongue and chew on request. She can stick out her tongue and her swallowing is a bit faster now, but she chokes on her swallows still.

She's moving her lips like she's talking but no sound is coming out. We've heard little grunts and moans so we know that when she's ready to talk, her voice is there. We are beginning to understand what she wants by her pointing and facial expressions. It's still pretty much a guessing game which is very frustrating for her.

Our insurance is still giving us trouble and still denying our request for the next level of her care, a NeuroRestorative Rehab facility. As of yesterday, her current rehab is setting her discharge date as of 9/06/10. We'll have a CNA and Speech, OT, and PT set up to come to our house to continue her care. We've already ordered her hospital bed and a hoyer lift for home use. Unfortunately, we're in the process of buying a house that will accommodate her wheelchair and won't be closing on it until the 16th so we'll have to set up the bed in the dining room until we move. At least it will keep her in the hub of the activity and keep her stimulated with activity.

It's more stressfull than I ever imagined trying to get this house ready for Ashley's homecoming while trying to deal with buying the new house and then outfitting it with Ashley's equipment, (we're setting up one of the room at the new house as her rehab room) I have no idea what we're going to do with our sweet, overly protective dog when all these people will be at our house for Ashley. I hate the idea that Tempest (our dog) will be a garage dog. For the current house, we have to rip up the carpet and lay tile and then take down door frames. Rearrange the furniture and put a lot of it in storage so Ashley can get around easier. Oh I forgot about having to pack everything up to move it. Maybe we'll be so busy that we won't have time to feel sorry for ourselves!

We are buying a minivan that's equipped with a ramp and lowered floor today. We borrowed the van last Saturday and took Ashley over to her Aunt's house. Ashley was nothing but smiles that day! She did so well and was so "with it"! We were there for about 1.5 hours. Being home may be the best thing for her at this point. I'm scared of the change but it will be a good change, just a whole lot of work.

I've already cancelled our planned December trip, with everything that's going on there's just no way that we can take the finances or time away. It's so strange that I don't feel bad for not going this year though.

[sorul82?]

Thank you for the update and thank you for allowing us readers here into this part of your journey in life. :hug:

[mdvlprof]

So glad to hear about Ashley's improvements. Good luck with ins issues.

It's scary bring home a child who is disabled, esp a college-aged who is newly disabled, totally depedant on you. Been there, done that with DS. But as a Dr told us, probably will get better care at home than even in a hospital. You can do it......:cheer2:

On a more practical note - have you applied for SSI for Ashley? Have you gotten a Power of Attorney?

[WheeledTraveler]

I'm really glad it sounds like she's doing really well!

I have so much sympathy for insurance problems. With the insurance I currently have I know that if I were to have an accident like Ashley's I'd be SOL in terms of getting enough care. And then they'd probably insist on dumping me in a nursing home long term rather than home care! (Which is kinda amusing because home care is cheaper than nursing homes, but insurance companies haven't grasped this yet)

Since it's obvious that she's trying to communicate, but for whatever reason her voice just isn't working yet in terms of speaking, has anyone talked about alternative augmentative communication devices (often known as AACs)? If she can press a button, she can likely use some form of AAC and the not being able to tell you what she wants is just going to get more frustrating for her the longer it lasts and while I don't think you meant it the way it came out, but I don't think the being "ready to talk" is something she has control over since it sounds like she's trying to! And learning to use an AAC and talking again are not mutually exclusive! I'm sure the speech pathologist is far more concerned about the swallowing and it's certainly important, but for Ashley's mental health getting a way for her to communicate directly is also very very important. I have a couple friends who use both feeding tubes and AACs due to progressive disabilities and it was far more upsetting for them when they couldn't talk before they got their AACs than moving to the feeding tubes.

I hope things continue to go well and the move to the new house and both of Ashley's moves go as smoothly as possible!

[mdvlprof]

They have eye-gaze systems that do not even require ability to use a switch or button. DS uses one. Techies find his computer fascinating. Therapists, also, because most have not seen one before.

[rodeo65]

Thanks for keeping us updated and it's so great to hear of Ashley's continued progress.

Good luck with the insurance issues, the renovations and move(s). The light at the end of the road will be having your daughter home with you again, even with some of the normal uncertainties around managing her care. I'm sure you'll be amazing - you have been every step so far!

[cm8]

Thanks for the update...wanted to see if Ashely came home yet. I understand that you may have your hands full at the moment. Praying for you and your family:hug:

[2manypets]

Ashley is home!!! :woohoo:

We closed on our new house on 8/31, stripped wallpaper and painted for the next two days, moved our stuff into it on 9/3, unpacked (almost :laughing:) and moved Ashley in on Monday. We haven't slowed down yet!

The first night, she slept for 12 hours straight. After being in the hospital for almost 4 months she's not been sleeping very often. It's so good to have her home with us where she can relax

All of the therapies will start this next Monday. She's progressing so rapidly that I can't wait to challenge her. But so far we've been able to help her to continue moving forward.

Ashley has come such a long way just in the last month, she now has torso control so she can sit up on her own. She is using her legs in a walking motion in her wheelchair and she has the most beautiful smile most of the time. Her head shakes and nods are pretty consistent now so we're beginning some very useful communication. She also has a wonderful electronic communication board thanks to Mid-South ACT that she can spell out full sentences. On Thursday she had a swallow test and passed with flying colors! I've gotten her some Gerber stage 2, 3 & 4 to start her off on feeding herself. I've pureed some of my own food, but I think she remembers that I'm not such a great cook. She only ate a little bit and then shook her head when I tried to give her more! :rotfl:

I never dreamed that having her home would be such a relief. I knew it was going to be hard work, but it's so worth it to see her grow and re-learn so much before our eyes.

[carley]

this is wonderful news!! my thoughts and prayers are with you .

[rodeo65]

Thats SO great to hear. Congratulations on moving into this next, exciting phase of your/her life. I'm sure she's just as thrilled to be home as you are to have her.

[kampfirekim]

I just found this thread and it nearly broke my heart. Then as I read further, i was so happy to see the progress she has made so far. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. May God continue to bless you and bring healing and restoration to your precious daughter.

[mdvlprof]

So glad Ashley is home. :thumbsup2 Be ready for positive changes...

After DS-20 came home [5 months in hospitals/rehab] - it only took a few weeks - he was off pain meds, didn't have painful brainstorms, twitched his thumb, didn't scream when someone touched his arms, was laughing and smiling -alot.

[Piper]

I am so glad she will be home with you. It will make a lot of difference for both of you! Prayers are continuing.:grouphug:

[irishsharon]

I'm so glad to hear that Ashley is home:cheer2: You and your family are in my prayers:flower3:

[sl_underwood]

I have been absent from this site for awhile so I just found your post today. I will add my prayers to all those you and your family are receiving. You are so positive and upbeat, a real inspiration. I know it is your attitude that is propelling your daughter forward. With you by her side, I have no doubt she will continue to do well.

[Brightsy]

So happy to read that Ashley is home!

[2manypets]

So glad Ashley is home. :thumbsup2 Be ready for positive changes...

After DS-20 came home [5 months in hospitals/rehab] - it only took a few weeks - he was off pain meds, didn't have painful brainstorms, twitched his thumb, didn't scream when someone touched his arms, was laughing and smiling -alot.

This is where we are as well! Always smiling, always playing tricks on us! We've cut a lot of her medication and she's now weaning off the stomach tube. This morning Ashley ate scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuit and a sweet roll. Also a glass and a half of milk. After 4 months of not eating, she's making up for it now. :lmao: Her next appt for the gastro is in November. DH & I are expecting, at the rate Ashley is going for the tube to be pulled. Her therapists are coming almost every day to work her out. She's starting to bear weight for her transfers which is wonderful for my back. Her memory is still very affected. We took her to a restaurant a few nights ago for a friends birthday party, but the next morning she didn't remember it. The next night we took her to another friends house and this morning she didn't remember it. I'm hoping her memory improves in time. DH & I are beginning to video tape and take pictures as reminders of what she did.

She's doing really well at home, but she still needs more. We're fundraising to send her to Timber Ridge in Arkansas, where she'll have pretty intensive rehab. Ashley has the drive and determination to see this through!

[bookwormde]

Glad she is making such great progess. In this day of digital images, taking lots of pictures of her activities and printed them out (even if not at photographic quality) is a great way to help her imprint the memories and to be able to reference back to them later.

bookwormde

[sunset30]

so happy to ready she is making good progress, I send prayers that this continues x

[mdvlprof]

She's starting to bear weight for her transfers

That's great!

DS foot-drop was fast. We're having to look at surgery to fix his feet so he can weight-bear. [too bad he can't do ballet-toes are perfectly pointed].

[2manypets]

That's great!

DS foot-drop was fast. We're having to look at surgery to fix his feet so he can weight-bear. [too bad he can't do ballet-toes are perfectly pointed].

DD still has a bit of drop foot, but it was a long painful struggle to get her to this point. Her ortho made her some custom braces that will lock in place a degree at a time.

I'm praying for your son that he does well in his recovery. :hug:

[cm8]

Ashley is home!!! :woohoo:

We closed on our new house on 8/31, stripped wallpaper and painted for the next two days, moved our stuff into it on 9/3, unpacked (almost :laughing:) and moved Ashley in on Monday. We haven't slowed down yet!

The first night, she slept for 12 hours straight. After being in the hospital for almost 4 months she's not been sleeping very often. It's so good to have her home with us where she can relax

All of the therapies will start this next Monday. She's progressing so rapidly that I can't wait to challenge her. But so far we've been able to help her to continue moving forward.

Ashley has come such a long way just in the last month, she now has torso control so she can sit up on her own. She is using her legs in a walking motion in her wheelchair and she has the most beautiful smile most of the time. Her head shakes and nods are pretty consistent now so we're beginning some very useful communication. She also has a wonderful electronic communication board thanks to Mid-South ACT that she can spell out full sentences. On Thursday she had a swallow test and passed with flying colors! I've gotten her some Gerber stage 2, 3 & 4 to start her off on feeding herself. I've pureed some of my own food, but I think she remembers that I'm not such a great cook. She only ate a little bit and then shook her head when I tried to give her more! :rotfl:

I never dreamed that having her home would be such a relief. I knew it was going to be hard work, but it's so worth it to see her grow and re-learn so much before our eyes.

:lmao:, She's home momma, guess her remembering your cooking is a good thing! what a blessing to have the little things like that again:hug:

[cm8]

This is where we are as well! Always smiling, always playing tricks on us! We've cut a lot of her medication and she's now weaning off the stomach tube. This morning Ashley ate scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuit and a sweet roll. Also a glass and a half of milk. After 4 months of not eating, she's making up for it now. :lmao: Her next appt for the gastro is in November. DH & I are expecting, at the rate Ashley is going for the tube to be pulled. Her therapists are coming almost every day to work her out. She's starting to bear weight for her transfers which is wonderful for my back. Her memory is still very affected. We took her to a restaurant a few nights ago for a friends birthday party, but the next morning she didn't remember it. The next night we took her to another friends house and this morning she didn't remember it. I'm hoping her memory improves in time. DH & I are beginning to video tape and take pictures as reminders of what she did.

She's doing really well at home, but she still needs more. We're fund raising to send her to Timber Ridge in Arkansas, where she'll have pretty intensive rehab. Ashley has the drive and determination to see this through!

What types of Fund raising have you decided on?

[2manypets]

What types of Fund raising have you decided on?

Sorry for getting back to this thread so late.

For the fundraiser, we've asked for donations from friends and family. Ashley's been featured on the local news and the weekend of Columbus Day, we're having a benefit BBQ for her. In two more weeks a concert featuring 4 - 5 bands will be held. If there's extra money, it'll go into a grant to Timber Ridge for other patients that are uninsured or their insurance benefits are exhausted.

So far we've raised enough for almost a month at Timber Ridge. She's progressing so fast at this point hopefully she won't need but a month or two there. A rep will be coming to our house on Monday for her eval and placement.

Ashley is now eating solid foods, has dry days and as of last night, had a dry night!! She is starting to talk again also. The words are whispered mostly and hard to understand, but every now and again, she uses her voice. Ashley can help a lot with her transfers by bearing weight. She amazes me everyday! She'd definately strong willed and wanting to get back to her old self.

[mdvlprof]

I'm so glad Ashley is doing so well. :goodvibes Check FB regularly for updates. Think and pray about her alot.

[bookwormde]

2many pets,

I hope progress is continuing.

As part of a state council I am on we have been asked to comment on the new state webpage for TBI. I though i would give you the link in case there is any infomation that might be helpful or to get your comments as someone relatively new to the TBI world.

http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dsaapd/headinj.html

bookwormde

[2manypets]

Thank you so much for the links, I've added it to my toolbar. There's a lot of resources on the site to explore today!

Oh, I've got to mention that ASHLEY IS TALKING!:cheer2: She started making whispering sounds on day one and by day 5 she was talking in complete sentences with a voice!!!!!!!!! I have a miracle daughter!

[cm8]

Sorry for getting back to this thread so late.

For the fundraiser, we've asked for donations from friends and family. Ashley's been featured on the local news and the weekend of Columbus Day, we're having a benefit BBQ for her. In two more weeks a concert featuring 4 - 5 bands will be held. If there's extra money, it'll go into a grant to Timber Ridge for other patients that are uninsured or their insurance benefits are exhausted.

So far we've raised enough for almost a month at Timber Ridge. She's progressing so fast at this point hopefully she won't need but a month or two there. A rep will be coming to our house on Monday for her eval and placement.

Ashley is now eating solid foods, has dry days and as of last night, had a dry night!! She is starting to talk again also. The words are whispered mostly and hard to understand, but every now and again, she uses her voice. Ashley can help a lot with her transfers by bearing weight. She amazes me everyday! She'd definitely strong willed and wanting to get back to her old self.


:woohoo: glad to see that she is making great progress. If we wanted to make a donation for your DD could we and in way? Thanks!

[mdvlprof]

Oh, I've got to mention that ASHLEY IS TALKING!:cheer2: She started making whispering sounds on day one and by day 5 she was talking in complete sentences with a voice!!!!!!!!! I have a miracle daughter!

I think she, and you, deserve a trip to WDW. Or DCL.:goodvibes

[bookwormde]

You have a daughter with amazing spirit and strength, it is heartening hearing about her progress

Bookwormde

[Magix]

This is my first time visiting the disABILITIES board, so I'd missed your story until now. Just wanted to say that your daughter is an amazing woman...and so are you!

[2manypets]

Sorry I've neglected this post for almost a month now.

Ashley started in a 6 hour a day, intensive rehab program. She's been going for a little over a month now. Her amazing progress has slowed down some so we're not seeing the daily miracles at this time.

Ashley has learned the "Gift of Gab" though.:lmao: She has a lot to say! Her memory is only 5 - 30 minutes long, so we hear a lot of repeat questions and statements. It's so nice to hear her voice at all though! It's much stronger and louder now.

She is now able to hold onto our hands and "walk" somewhat unassisted. We're trying to teach her to walk heel/toe instead of toe/heel. Her balance is not quite there yet so we wouldn't dare do this with just one person. DH & I have her doing sit-ups, quad balancing, kneeling, balance ball sitting...anything that will strengthen her core muscles and re-train the brain.

It's become a struggle to get her to practice her writing or do much of anything with her hands. At times she forgets that she even has arms. We have to cue her to pick up her drink instead of her bending over to try to reach it with her mouth.

My poor Ashley is so frustrated because she remembers quite a bit of her life before the accident and she desperately wants to go back there. It's getting harder to explain about her fiance leaving her and she doesn't remember it after we tell her again. The pain is fresh each time. However we can't lie because we don't know if this will be the time she'll remember. Usually we avoid the subject and redirect her along some other thought.

It's only been 6.5 months. She truly is a miracle in the making. Ashley has a long way to go, but has come so far already!

[Brightsy]

Wow! Thanks for keeping us all updated! I'll continue to hold Ashley and all of her lovely family in my thoughts.

[bellebud]

your story has brought tears to my eyes, and at the same time lifted my heart! you are your dd's angel, and she is yours! I will pray for your family, and thank you for sharing Ashley's progress with us. :hug:

[mdvlprof]

So glad to hear that Ashley is doing sooo much better.