Hello friends and family,
Lacey had her pre op appt on Thursday 12/13 and Dr. Downs discovered that Lacey's nose cartlidge had softened since he last saw her in August. He decided to only do the lip reconstruction surgery, which we are very happy he decided to do. He took a piece of Lacey's tissue below her lower lip and implanted it to her upper mid lip area, which had an amazing outcome. She now has a normal upper lip area below the middle of the nose. Before, she did not have any tissue in that area and her lip had receeded, not allowing her to close her mouth. He placed a flap between her upper and lower lip, which connects it with a nerve and blood flow and sewed the upper and lower together in the middle of her lips. It was a 4 hour procedure and the outcome is so amazing. Lacey cannot talk, except to say things out of the corners of her mouth, which she is getting better at each day. She is receiving nourishment through a straw in the corner of her mouth. Milkshakes, smoothies, soup, etc.
Today we went for her post op appt. and we told Dr. Downs that when Lacey woke up from surgery, her right side was slower than normal. If you remember, she was completely paralyzed on her right side, so that was a worry. He ordered her to the ER to have a CT scan, which came out normal. The Neurosurgeon thought an MRI might be wise, but Lacey was very tired and ready to go home. We will see how things progress over the next few days. We are hoping it was just a side effect of the anesthesia and things will continue to improve. If they do not, we will go in next week and have the MRI.
We are so very thankful for Dr. Downs and the miracle he has accomplished and look forward to the lip contouring and the nose reconstruction in 6 weeks.
We are also very thankful for everyone's prayers and for all of your calls, either to us or to Liz. We are all good.
Lacey is a very courageous person.
God Bless you all.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Lacey December 7th
Hi everyone, if anyone is still out there.......
We are leaving tomorrow for Seattle, then Portland. Lacey has several appts lined up in Portland, but the big important one is her surgeries on Friday 12/14. Please pray for her. She will be in surgery from 0700 - 1300.
Lacey is excited but nervous, of course, about the first round of surgeries. We will keep you posted with the results after the 14th.
God Bless everyone. Lew W., you are an inspiration.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
We are leaving tomorrow for Seattle, then Portland. Lacey has several appts lined up in Portland, but the big important one is her surgeries on Friday 12/14. Please pray for her. She will be in surgery from 0700 - 1300.
Lacey is excited but nervous, of course, about the first round of surgeries. We will keep you posted with the results after the 14th.
God Bless everyone. Lew W., you are an inspiration.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Lacey October 28th
Hello friends and family,
Yesterday was a big step for Lacey. After a little more than 5 months since the accident, Lacey drove yesterday from Walmart to home. So everyone in Ketchikan clear the roadway when you see Lacey zooming down the road. LOL. Actually her movement in her neck is improving on a daily basis, which should allow her to drive more frequently now. We are hoping she will be done with therapy in the next week or two.
We celebrated Lacey's 20th birthday on October 22nd by going out to dinner at Cape Fox with Ed, Marcia, Russell and Jennifer. We had a very nice time and a very good dinner.
This Friday Lacey is going to the Kamm's and will receive a facial from Lesley. She is really looking forward to that. Thank you Lesley!!! You are amazing.
Mike is hunting on Prince of Wales Island with my brother Jerry and Terry Hugo. They are due back on Tuesday. We are hoping for fresh venison heart and liver for dinner on Tuesday night.
That is all the news for now. We hope you are all doing well and in good health. Stay away from those winter time flu bugs.
Blessings,
Shelly and Lacey
Yesterday was a big step for Lacey. After a little more than 5 months since the accident, Lacey drove yesterday from Walmart to home. So everyone in Ketchikan clear the roadway when you see Lacey zooming down the road. LOL. Actually her movement in her neck is improving on a daily basis, which should allow her to drive more frequently now. We are hoping she will be done with therapy in the next week or two.
We celebrated Lacey's 20th birthday on October 22nd by going out to dinner at Cape Fox with Ed, Marcia, Russell and Jennifer. We had a very nice time and a very good dinner.
This Friday Lacey is going to the Kamm's and will receive a facial from Lesley. She is really looking forward to that. Thank you Lesley!!! You are amazing.
Mike is hunting on Prince of Wales Island with my brother Jerry and Terry Hugo. They are due back on Tuesday. We are hoping for fresh venison heart and liver for dinner on Tuesday night.
That is all the news for now. We hope you are all doing well and in good health. Stay away from those winter time flu bugs.
Blessings,
Shelly and Lacey
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Lacey update 10/16
Hello again everyone,
Just an update. We received authorization for Lacey's surgery this morning. She is seeing Dr. London on December 11th for more tests on her double vision, then a pre op appt on December 13th and the surgery on Friday December 14th. Dr. Down's only does surgery on Mon's and Fri's. She will have her nose cast removed on December 20th and then we come back home for 4 - 6 weeks til the next surgery. It is bittersweet because she is so happy to have the surgery, but she will not get to enjoy mom's Christmas dinner. She will just have to have extra helpings at Thanksgiving. This will be one Christmas we will never forget. Of course 2007 is a year we will never forget.
We will schedule a trip to Elmira to see Glenn, and also Sue the first EMT on scene that night. We are looking forward to meeting her and seeing Glenn again.
Thank you Jamie and Linda for taking us in again. We love you.
More later.
Blessings,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Just an update. We received authorization for Lacey's surgery this morning. She is seeing Dr. London on December 11th for more tests on her double vision, then a pre op appt on December 13th and the surgery on Friday December 14th. Dr. Down's only does surgery on Mon's and Fri's. She will have her nose cast removed on December 20th and then we come back home for 4 - 6 weeks til the next surgery. It is bittersweet because she is so happy to have the surgery, but she will not get to enjoy mom's Christmas dinner. She will just have to have extra helpings at Thanksgiving. This will be one Christmas we will never forget. Of course 2007 is a year we will never forget.
We will schedule a trip to Elmira to see Glenn, and also Sue the first EMT on scene that night. We are looking forward to meeting her and seeing Glenn again.
Thank you Jamie and Linda for taking us in again. We love you.
More later.
Blessings,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Lacey 10/9/07
Hello friends and family,
Lacey finally got the go ahead from the Neurosurgeon to discontinue wearing her collar. She started the physical therapy on her neck last Friday. Should take 8 - 10 weeks of treatments before she has full motion of her neck. The followup xrays looked really good.
We finally had a teleconference today with Dr. Downs, our OHSU plastic surgeon. We are all very excited. The first stage of treatment will most likely be in December and will entail realignment of her nose, possible repair to her cartlidge and projection to getting it back to what it used to be. This will require taking cartlidge from her ear and putting it in her nose. At the same time he will be taking tissue from her lower lip and inserting it in her upper lip. This surgery will take 5 - 6 hours. Lacey will be eating and drinking through a straw for 4 - 6 weeks. After the lip has healed, getting the blood flow going with the new tissue she will be ready for the 2nd stage when he will do a one hour lip tissue rearrangement. At the same time of that surgery he will be able to start with a few scar revision procedures. Lacey has face volume loss and he will borrow tummy fat to insert where there is loss to get her face more symetrical. The rest of her procedures will be various stages for scar revision and derma brasion, eyebrow reconstruction and eyebrow hair implants and lastly will be her ear reconstruction. They need to get rid of some scar tissue around her ear to get it up and back to normal.
That is where we are at now. A long road ahead, but we are so looking forward to it.
Take care and God Bless,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Lacey finally got the go ahead from the Neurosurgeon to discontinue wearing her collar. She started the physical therapy on her neck last Friday. Should take 8 - 10 weeks of treatments before she has full motion of her neck. The followup xrays looked really good.
We finally had a teleconference today with Dr. Downs, our OHSU plastic surgeon. We are all very excited. The first stage of treatment will most likely be in December and will entail realignment of her nose, possible repair to her cartlidge and projection to getting it back to what it used to be. This will require taking cartlidge from her ear and putting it in her nose. At the same time he will be taking tissue from her lower lip and inserting it in her upper lip. This surgery will take 5 - 6 hours. Lacey will be eating and drinking through a straw for 4 - 6 weeks. After the lip has healed, getting the blood flow going with the new tissue she will be ready for the 2nd stage when he will do a one hour lip tissue rearrangement. At the same time of that surgery he will be able to start with a few scar revision procedures. Lacey has face volume loss and he will borrow tummy fat to insert where there is loss to get her face more symetrical. The rest of her procedures will be various stages for scar revision and derma brasion, eyebrow reconstruction and eyebrow hair implants and lastly will be her ear reconstruction. They need to get rid of some scar tissue around her ear to get it up and back to normal.
That is where we are at now. A long road ahead, but we are so looking forward to it.
Take care and God Bless,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Lacey Update 9/25/07
Hello Everyone,
Not really much to report on. Lacey is still doing well in therapy. In October she will be reducing to two days per week 3 hours a day. So she is progressing very nicely. We sent the followup xrays to her Neurosurgeon almost two weeks ago to get the okay to schedule her surgery next month to her nose and upper lip, but wouldn't you know it the doctor has been out of town and not expected back until next Monday. So, we just have to wait patiently.
Last weekend we were able to take a very quick trip to Whidbey Island to visit Mike's family and celebrate Scott Franzen's surprise 50th birthday party. Julie Franzen sent us airline passes so that we could attend this monumental event. Liz picked us up at the airport in Lacey's car and we all drove to Whidbey together. The birthday surprise went off without a hitch and he was very surprised. We were only gone two nights, left on Friday and back on Sunday. Didn't see everyone we wanted to see, but maybe next time. It was nice to see the family and friends on Whidbey. They especially were pleased to see Lacey and how well she is doing.
Lacey is taking the two online UAS classes, Lifespan Development and Health Science Nutrition. All is going well so far with her studies.
We will write more later after we have scheduled the surgery.
Hope all is going very well with you and yours. God bless and take care.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Not really much to report on. Lacey is still doing well in therapy. In October she will be reducing to two days per week 3 hours a day. So she is progressing very nicely. We sent the followup xrays to her Neurosurgeon almost two weeks ago to get the okay to schedule her surgery next month to her nose and upper lip, but wouldn't you know it the doctor has been out of town and not expected back until next Monday. So, we just have to wait patiently.
Last weekend we were able to take a very quick trip to Whidbey Island to visit Mike's family and celebrate Scott Franzen's surprise 50th birthday party. Julie Franzen sent us airline passes so that we could attend this monumental event. Liz picked us up at the airport in Lacey's car and we all drove to Whidbey together. The birthday surprise went off without a hitch and he was very surprised. We were only gone two nights, left on Friday and back on Sunday. Didn't see everyone we wanted to see, but maybe next time. It was nice to see the family and friends on Whidbey. They especially were pleased to see Lacey and how well she is doing.
Lacey is taking the two online UAS classes, Lifespan Development and Health Science Nutrition. All is going well so far with her studies.
We will write more later after we have scheduled the surgery.
Hope all is going very well with you and yours. God bless and take care.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Update September 6th
Hi Everyone,
If anyone is still out there looking for an update, we appreciate it. Sorry it has been so long, but we just don't have much new news. Thanks for prompting me the other day in the store Tom A. appreciate it. It was good to see you and get a hug. It has been really good to see a lot of people around town that we have not seen in a long time. Very heart warming. Even if you are driving by us on the street, we see you and thank you for the wave.
Lacey started two on-line classes in the last few weeks and today we met with Gail Klein and Chris Hoyt at UAS for possible accommodations for Lacey. What she really needs is what they were able to meet, which is longer time for Lacey's testing and electronic text files so she can read her text books on line, which is easier for Lacey to read and comprehend. We are very thankful for their help and for her speech therapist's Cindy's help for the accommodation efforts.
I talked with Liz today and she visits with the Kamm's often. Steve is doing better. Lesley has not left his side since the accident, which of course is very difficult for a mother of 3 beautiful young daughters. Hopefully Steve's surgery will go well tomorrow and he will heal well and get to go home soon. We can only pray and please do.
Love to you all. God bless and please be careful in whatever you do.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
If anyone is still out there looking for an update, we appreciate it. Sorry it has been so long, but we just don't have much new news. Thanks for prompting me the other day in the store Tom A. appreciate it. It was good to see you and get a hug. It has been really good to see a lot of people around town that we have not seen in a long time. Very heart warming. Even if you are driving by us on the street, we see you and thank you for the wave.
Lacey started two on-line classes in the last few weeks and today we met with Gail Klein and Chris Hoyt at UAS for possible accommodations for Lacey. What she really needs is what they were able to meet, which is longer time for Lacey's testing and electronic text files so she can read her text books on line, which is easier for Lacey to read and comprehend. We are very thankful for their help and for her speech therapist's Cindy's help for the accommodation efforts.
I talked with Liz today and she visits with the Kamm's often. Steve is doing better. Lesley has not left his side since the accident, which of course is very difficult for a mother of 3 beautiful young daughters. Hopefully Steve's surgery will go well tomorrow and he will heal well and get to go home soon. We can only pray and please do.
Love to you all. God bless and please be careful in whatever you do.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Friday, August 24, 2007
Lacey Update August 24th
Sorry it has been so long since we have written anything on the blog, but we just haven't felt like writing lately. Most of you reading this blog know Steve and Lesley Kamm and their 3 girls, Kendall, Shelby and Stevie. Steve had an accident with his Beaver on Thursday. This is a very difficult time for everyone in Ketchikan, especially all of the Kamm's close friends and relatives. Liz had just returned to her home in Gig Harbor with Lacey and I, and had just one day at work for AK Airlines when word came of the accident. Liz was on the first flight the next morning, and was in Ketchikan until the 21st. Lacey and I drove to Liz's on Wedneday the 22nd, early, and we all went to Harborview to see Steve and Lesley. Steve and Lacey were talking about the woes of the hospital, after all if anyone knows about wound cleaning and care, she does. We told Steve what a good patient Lacey was and how she said "thank-you" when the nurse gave her a shot. I don't think he believed us.......As I told Steve, he looks so good and I love his haircut. Lesley is a strong, beautiful woman and we love her. Liz is getting stronger and needs support and prayer. Lacey and I hated to leave her.
Steve and Lesley, if you can get internet in the room, we love you and Lacey wants you to know that she would like to do whatever she can do for you. She can babysit in a few months, so just let her know. She is free of charge. We love you so much.
Other than that, life is normal as it can be here. We miss our friends, the Kamm's, and pray for you daily, and also for Sara Steffen and little Allison, grandma and their familys.
Love and god bless to all.
Mike, Shelly, Lacey
Steve and Lesley, if you can get internet in the room, we love you and Lacey wants you to know that she would like to do whatever she can do for you. She can babysit in a few months, so just let her know. She is free of charge. We love you so much.
Other than that, life is normal as it can be here. We miss our friends, the Kamm's, and pray for you daily, and also for Sara Steffen and little Allison, grandma and their familys.
Love and god bless to all.
Mike, Shelly, Lacey
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Lacey Update August 15th
Hello Everyone this is Shelly,
Well, our little adventure to Portland from Ketchikan went pretty smoothly. We left Ketchikan on Monday the 13th with Liz, drove to her house, stopped by the oyster farm to get oysters on the way home and steaks at the grocery store. Well, Liz has this beautiful huuuuggggeee back yard with a pond with man made creek flowing into it and Koy fish, beautiful flowers and a newly built "tiki" hut with a BBQ. Well, Liz swears she has the BBQ thing down to a pat, but when I looked out the sliding glass door and saw huge flames shooting out of it about to burn down the tiki hut, I don't think so. The 30.00 steaks were burn't to a crisp, but Liz managed to cut off the charcoal and we had a very good dinner.
Lacey and I were up very early the next morning and on the road by about 0800. We stopped by Rosie and Tina Greenup's in Vancouver and had a very good visit and a very nice lunch they made for us. We kind of got lost, took a wrong turn, but Tina helped us out.
Linda, Lacey and I arrived at OHSU this morning and had the halo removed. Glenn was in the waiting room when we came out. We then went to see the plastic surgeon, who had very good news for us. She will have her lip and nose repaired in just two months. Lacey's birthday is October 22nd and she doesn't mind at all being in surgery during that time. His news was very encouraging. He hopes that all procedures will be completed in the next year and a half. We were very happy today. Lacey is in a C collar for the next month and will be weened off of it after that. She will have physical therapy to get her neck and shoulder muscles moving again.
We celebrated tonight with Pizza Schmitza, our favorite pizza.
More later.
Love,
Shelly, Lacey and the Heisler's
Well, our little adventure to Portland from Ketchikan went pretty smoothly. We left Ketchikan on Monday the 13th with Liz, drove to her house, stopped by the oyster farm to get oysters on the way home and steaks at the grocery store. Well, Liz has this beautiful huuuuggggeee back yard with a pond with man made creek flowing into it and Koy fish, beautiful flowers and a newly built "tiki" hut with a BBQ. Well, Liz swears she has the BBQ thing down to a pat, but when I looked out the sliding glass door and saw huge flames shooting out of it about to burn down the tiki hut, I don't think so. The 30.00 steaks were burn't to a crisp, but Liz managed to cut off the charcoal and we had a very good dinner.
Lacey and I were up very early the next morning and on the road by about 0800. We stopped by Rosie and Tina Greenup's in Vancouver and had a very good visit and a very nice lunch they made for us. We kind of got lost, took a wrong turn, but Tina helped us out.
Linda, Lacey and I arrived at OHSU this morning and had the halo removed. Glenn was in the waiting room when we came out. We then went to see the plastic surgeon, who had very good news for us. She will have her lip and nose repaired in just two months. Lacey's birthday is October 22nd and she doesn't mind at all being in surgery during that time. His news was very encouraging. He hopes that all procedures will be completed in the next year and a half. We were very happy today. Lacey is in a C collar for the next month and will be weened off of it after that. She will have physical therapy to get her neck and shoulder muscles moving again.
We celebrated tonight with Pizza Schmitza, our favorite pizza.
More later.
Love,
Shelly, Lacey and the Heisler's
Friday, August 10, 2007
August 10th
The last couple days were really fun and inspiring. Last night Lonna made us really good stir fry and brought a movie. Thank you so much Lonna. It means so much to me.
Tonight Bett and Jim Jakubek brought over wonderful mexican food! I really enjoyed talking with you guys and your company. It was really inspiring for me to talk with you and I am just really thankful.
Today was my last day of therapy while my halo is on! All my therapists are really looking forward to me coming back without it on. I am so excited:)
Much Love,
Lacey
Hi this is Shelly,
Thank you also JJ and Bett for coming over tonight. I think we all received a little therapy that was needed by all of us. You are right Bett, a tragedy does not have to happen for good friends to get together. We love you guys. It was an awesome dinner and we look forward to seeing more of you in the near future.
Thank you too Lonna. What would we do without our instant housesitter, who drops everything to take care of our house and animals on a few hours notice in a crisis situation. You are appreciated.
Jennifer and Cheyan, again thank you for the transport services to rehab for Lacey so I don't have to take more time off. You are gems. Thank you!!!
We will write more later after the halo is off on Wednesday.
Love and God Bless to everyone.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
OK, I had 2 helpings of Bett's dessert. Did you make that up? Yummm... Who would have known...vanilla ice cream, carmel, mangos, with almond cinnamon cookies. Close to heaven :)
I am also thankful..for good friends.
Love you guys.....
Liz K.
Tonight Bett and Jim Jakubek brought over wonderful mexican food! I really enjoyed talking with you guys and your company. It was really inspiring for me to talk with you and I am just really thankful.
Today was my last day of therapy while my halo is on! All my therapists are really looking forward to me coming back without it on. I am so excited:)
Much Love,
Lacey
Hi this is Shelly,
Thank you also JJ and Bett for coming over tonight. I think we all received a little therapy that was needed by all of us. You are right Bett, a tragedy does not have to happen for good friends to get together. We love you guys. It was an awesome dinner and we look forward to seeing more of you in the near future.
Thank you too Lonna. What would we do without our instant housesitter, who drops everything to take care of our house and animals on a few hours notice in a crisis situation. You are appreciated.
Jennifer and Cheyan, again thank you for the transport services to rehab for Lacey so I don't have to take more time off. You are gems. Thank you!!!
We will write more later after the halo is off on Wednesday.
Love and God Bless to everyone.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
OK, I had 2 helpings of Bett's dessert. Did you make that up? Yummm... Who would have known...vanilla ice cream, carmel, mangos, with almond cinnamon cookies. Close to heaven :)
I am also thankful..for good friends.
Love you guys.....
Liz K.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Lacey Update August 05
OK, This weekend wasn't bad, Shelly didn't work me too hard. But when she asked me to clean the cat box, that was a bit much for a non cat person. Plus the cat hissed at me earlier. No wonder I usually go fishing with Mike on the weekends!!
We are doing good tho, Lacey seems happy I am here. We did most of a jigsaw puzzle today and I washed Lacey's hair. I see why Shelly's back is out, it is quite a production, every other day. Lacey is so appreciative of the care we give her, I am happy to do it. She made Shelly and I some music CD's, she told us she put some old stuff on the CD too. Oh, that's good, for us old folks, you know.
I think she is very anxious to get the halo off, this will be a huge turning point in her recovery. Again, she remains strong and brave, and I am so proud of her.
Liz K.
We are doing good tho, Lacey seems happy I am here. We did most of a jigsaw puzzle today and I washed Lacey's hair. I see why Shelly's back is out, it is quite a production, every other day. Lacey is so appreciative of the care we give her, I am happy to do it. She made Shelly and I some music CD's, she told us she put some old stuff on the CD too. Oh, that's good, for us old folks, you know.
I think she is very anxious to get the halo off, this will be a huge turning point in her recovery. Again, she remains strong and brave, and I am so proud of her.
Liz K.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Lacey Update August 2nd
Hi Everyone,
It's Shelly, Liz, Lacey and Lonna,
We are having a girls dinner tonight and watching movies. What a beautiful day in Ketchikan. Mike and the boys went out hunting today, so they can have some man time and get us some venison. It's opening deer season so the girls are hoping to be cooking up some back-strap when they get back next week.
Shelly's back is a little better, but she needs to take it easy so she is just orders me (Liz) around.
Thank you Harriet and Loreli Richardson for the wonderful basket of dinner and baked goods you sent us home with us after our visit the other day. Was very yummy!
Thank you again to Jennifer for your shuttle service this past week.
Thank you also to Sammy, Cindy and Pam at Ketchikan Therapy. You are appreciated.
Liz is here until the 13th, when we go south for the halo removal. Thank you Liz for everything you are going to do for me in advance while you are here. I have a big list. LOL.
Love and God bless,
Us girls, Lacey, Shelly, Liz and Lonna.
It's Shelly, Liz, Lacey and Lonna,
We are having a girls dinner tonight and watching movies. What a beautiful day in Ketchikan. Mike and the boys went out hunting today, so they can have some man time and get us some venison. It's opening deer season so the girls are hoping to be cooking up some back-strap when they get back next week.
Shelly's back is a little better, but she needs to take it easy so she is just orders me (Liz) around.
Thank you Harriet and Loreli Richardson for the wonderful basket of dinner and baked goods you sent us home with us after our visit the other day. Was very yummy!
Thank you again to Jennifer for your shuttle service this past week.
Thank you also to Sammy, Cindy and Pam at Ketchikan Therapy. You are appreciated.
Liz is here until the 13th, when we go south for the halo removal. Thank you Liz for everything you are going to do for me in advance while you are here. I have a big list. LOL.
Love and God bless,
Us girls, Lacey, Shelly, Liz and Lonna.
Friday, July 27, 2007
July 27, Friday
Hello everyone,
Here is our weekly update. This is Shelly. The back/leg situation has not been good. It was two weeks ago when the pain really started in and I have been babying myself like crazy, Mike doing the cooking, Lacey running around getting things for me, etc., but it is not healing quickly like it has in the past. I went in for an epidural this morning at the hospital. Only a 50-50 chance it will help. I did have relief immediately from the numbing medicine, but we will see if it works permanently in the next day or so. If not, I will be making an appt. with the Spine Center in Portland when I take Lacey down for the halo removal.
Lacey has been continuing to improve with each therapy session. When she first went in for her Occupational Therapy session and was tested for strength in her right hand grip, she tested 10 lbs, and now she is at 28lbs, which her OT was very, very happy with. Of course as she was at RIO in Portland, she is their little star at the Ketchikan General Hospital Therapy unit. Thank you KGH Therapy staff so much.
We want to send a big thank you to Jennifer and Cheyan Cockrum for shuttling Lacey to her therapy visits. It is so helpful, we can't thank you enough. And of course we want to thank Liz for caring so much for us. Liz hired a housekeeper who came in and did a deep clean at the Dunn household. Mike is a fisherman/hunter, not a cleaner. Thank you Auntie Liz. We love you and look forward to you coming back to stay with us on August 1st.
Anyone that would like to come and visit, just give a call prior to coming over, Lacey would love to see you.
Love and God Bless,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Here is our weekly update. This is Shelly. The back/leg situation has not been good. It was two weeks ago when the pain really started in and I have been babying myself like crazy, Mike doing the cooking, Lacey running around getting things for me, etc., but it is not healing quickly like it has in the past. I went in for an epidural this morning at the hospital. Only a 50-50 chance it will help. I did have relief immediately from the numbing medicine, but we will see if it works permanently in the next day or so. If not, I will be making an appt. with the Spine Center in Portland when I take Lacey down for the halo removal.
Lacey has been continuing to improve with each therapy session. When she first went in for her Occupational Therapy session and was tested for strength in her right hand grip, she tested 10 lbs, and now she is at 28lbs, which her OT was very, very happy with. Of course as she was at RIO in Portland, she is their little star at the Ketchikan General Hospital Therapy unit. Thank you KGH Therapy staff so much.
We want to send a big thank you to Jennifer and Cheyan Cockrum for shuttling Lacey to her therapy visits. It is so helpful, we can't thank you enough. And of course we want to thank Liz for caring so much for us. Liz hired a housekeeper who came in and did a deep clean at the Dunn household. Mike is a fisherman/hunter, not a cleaner. Thank you Auntie Liz. We love you and look forward to you coming back to stay with us on August 1st.
Anyone that would like to come and visit, just give a call prior to coming over, Lacey would love to see you.
Love and God Bless,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Friday, July 20, 2007
Lacey update 7/20/07
Hi everyone it’s Lacey.
First of all, I would like ask everyone to pray for my mom. Her back problem has been very painful and has been keeping her from going to work and doing her everyday things. I really just want her to get back to normal and be pain free so please, pray for her.
Therapy is going really well for me. It’s amazing how much more I can do now. Once I get my halo off I’ll practically be back to normal : ) I feel my biggest achievement in therapy is being able walk up and down the stairs without holding on to the railing. It’s a pretty scary feeling, especially going down. Also, my memory continues to improve and everyday I can remember more and more.
Night before last a bunch of friends came to visit. It was amazing to see everyone and made me really happy. Its ok if people want to come out and visit. I would love to see people.
I want to say thank you to my cousin Erin for my new glasses. I love them! Thank you so much. Also thank you Aunt Nancy for helping us out and taking me to therapy, and just everything you have done. And Jennifer, thank you for taking me to therapy and the much needed coffee. I love you all so much!
I hope everyone is doing well. 26 more days until my halo comes off! ( Not that I’m counting down or anything!) Take care.
Much Love,
Lacey
First of all, I would like ask everyone to pray for my mom. Her back problem has been very painful and has been keeping her from going to work and doing her everyday things. I really just want her to get back to normal and be pain free so please, pray for her.
Therapy is going really well for me. It’s amazing how much more I can do now. Once I get my halo off I’ll practically be back to normal : ) I feel my biggest achievement in therapy is being able walk up and down the stairs without holding on to the railing. It’s a pretty scary feeling, especially going down. Also, my memory continues to improve and everyday I can remember more and more.
Night before last a bunch of friends came to visit. It was amazing to see everyone and made me really happy. Its ok if people want to come out and visit. I would love to see people.
I want to say thank you to my cousin Erin for my new glasses. I love them! Thank you so much. Also thank you Aunt Nancy for helping us out and taking me to therapy, and just everything you have done. And Jennifer, thank you for taking me to therapy and the much needed coffee. I love you all so much!
I hope everyone is doing well. 26 more days until my halo comes off! ( Not that I’m counting down or anything!) Take care.
Much Love,
Lacey
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
To Bett and JJ Jakubek
Bett & JJ,
We just wanted to send a personal thank you to you. We appreciate the trip to First Bank that you made, but most of all thank you for your girls. We will never forget the first night at the hospital when Jodi appeared in the waiting lounge and later when both Jodi and Erin came to visit in ICU. It meant the world to us. They were so strong when they saw Lacey and it brought strength to us. It must have been a hard thing to do after what they had been through just a year earlier. We could have easily been in your families shoes, but by the grace of God we were spared. Thank you. We love you.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
We just wanted to send a personal thank you to you. We appreciate the trip to First Bank that you made, but most of all thank you for your girls. We will never forget the first night at the hospital when Jodi appeared in the waiting lounge and later when both Jodi and Erin came to visit in ICU. It meant the world to us. They were so strong when they saw Lacey and it brought strength to us. It must have been a hard thing to do after what they had been through just a year earlier. We could have easily been in your families shoes, but by the grace of God we were spared. Thank you. We love you.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Lacey update 7/17/07
Hello Everyone,
I am semi on my feet today after having been on my back for the past 5 - 6 days. I felt it coming on when we were in Portland, but held off I guess for the big one til we got home and had Auntie here. Who would have thought Auntie would get a spell of vertigo and I would have to be on the floor and Lacey would be taking care of us. She really felt wanted and it was very good occupational therapy to take care of us. The therapists today said she had really improved in so many areas. She is a miracle and a kind hearted person.
I have concluded my research to date and would like to include the entire list of people we have received cards, flowers, gifts and donations from. I would like you to know that every single piece of correspondence that we have received is so appreciated. Lacey went through every card and flower card the other day now that she can remember everything and she was very touched. The donations are very appreciative as they will cover the many trips that we will need to take to Oregon for the surgeries that are not covered by insurance along with other expenses not covered. We can't thank everyone enough for all of your support.
Yesterday Lacey went to see Dr. Nordtvedt and he was very encouraging. No damage at all to her teeth. Thank you Dr. Nordtvedt and staff for all that you have done for us.
Sooo...here is the huge list. If I missed someone, please call me. I want to know who you are.
Love you all. God bless.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Al & Rashell Lineberger
Alaska State Troopers, Ketchikan Post
Aunt Cheri & Uncle Cory
Aunt Janet, Uncle Manny, Celena & Joe
Aunt Nancy Dickey
Aunty Pat Durham
Best Western Landing Staff
Carlos, Joey and Vince
Colton, Deb & Greg Haag
Dana and Sue Blouin
David and Linda Deal
Dawn & Marvin Randall
Debbie, Leif, Bailey & Tore 2 cards
Ed Toribio and Marcia Kirby cards
Glenn Hogan
Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl
Harriet Richardson
Jamie, Linda, Tommy and Jamie Kay
Jeannette Pittman
Jedd Gould Family
Jeff and Heidi Carlin
Jennifer & Cheyan Cockrum
Jim and Paula Rood Family
Jodi & Erin Jakubek
John and Tonya Rymer
John, Rebecca and Kate Brown
Judee Mettler
Kay Sims and Mike Salazar
Ken, Peg, Brandi and Dylon Beckedahl
Krantz Family
Lew, Vicki, Jodi and Milan
Liz and Harold Kennedy
Liz Orr
Lonna Murray
Major and Mrs. Matt Leveque
Mary and Tom Schulz
Peter, Linda, Christina, Jeremy & Nicole Package
Randy & Cindy Johnson and Alan Dale
Scott, Patty and Sharlie Blouin
Sheila, Vanessa, Erin and Brien
Southeast Stevedoring Staff
Susan McFadden & WOU Dance Class
Terry Wanzer
Tim, Katie, William and Thomas Montgomery
Tom and Dean Nordtvedt
Werner and Gabriel Reinas
Will, Dana, Sean and Alec Kennedy
Alaska State Trooper's-"A" Detachment
Kurt and Sue Ludwig
Rodney and Lisa Dial
David and Linda Deal
Gary Webb & Family
Steve Shern & Family
Marvin & Dawn Randall
Jesse Osborn and Renee
Jason and Andrea Wick
Ron and Denise Whitton
Lonna Murray
Sharon Furey
Richard and Vanessa Nowland
Tina Wood
Jodi Williams
Stephanie Chatham
Bob Claus
Ray Howard
Bernard & Gena Chastain
Clyde and Sarah Campbell
Mark Finses
Jeremy & Kristi Baum
M/M Jesse McCarron
Lorne & Lori Nagy
Ray Streitmatter & family
Kurt Walgenbach
Herv Ibarra
AJ and Laura Charlton
Alyssa & the girls in 3H
Amy Herron
Andy Otis
Beth Updike
Betty Bollert
Bill and Elaine Hallstrom
Bill, Diane, Amanda, Jason and Kendra Hack
Carl and Mary Brown
Chris Ashcraft
Cindy Balzer
Cruise Line Agencies, Juneau
Cruise Line Agencies, Ketchikan
Darren & the EIS Gang
Dawn, Sydney and Haley Nichols
Debi Koons
Don and Jan Ross
Emily & Lenora Eichner
Emily Baker
Eric Tyson
Eric, Sarah & Benaiah Bird
Fran Buchanan
Gary, Jenny & Jessie Webb
Heather Krantz
Heritage Hall Staff
ILWU
Jeff & Kim Langkau and Alicia and Jordan Rymer
Jessica & Tara Hofmann
John Peterson, Ziegler Law Firm
Kay and Rich Andrew
Kendra Fresh
Kristin Rost, Mike Grove and Ray Prentice @ AK Airlines
Leslie, Slade, Tawny Stockli
Lew & Vickie Williams
Linda Paquin and Lisa Krussow
Lonna Murray, Jason Wick and Ron Whitton
Lysbeth Toribio
Madison Lumber and Hardware
Mahinalani Barrows
Margee Shaffer
Marjean Zeiser
Mark & Vicki Heizler
Marlys Hack
Mattie
Mike, Jeanne, Kimberly and Mary Durham
Paula, AJ, Mason, Duncan Slagle
Rita Cassman-Jensen and Family
Robbie and April Whitton
Ron, Denise, Joron and Jaron Whitton
Rosie, Larry, Travis & Taylor Tinney
Sam Spidell
Scott, Julie, Hunter and Chase Franzen
South Tongass Alliance Church-Pastor Cade King
Steve, Leslie, Kendall, Shelby and Stevie Kamm
Taylor and Travis Tinney
Terry, Kim and Axel Hugo
Uncle Jerry and Aunt Brenda Heisler
William Tuttle and Catherine Bersani
I am semi on my feet today after having been on my back for the past 5 - 6 days. I felt it coming on when we were in Portland, but held off I guess for the big one til we got home and had Auntie here. Who would have thought Auntie would get a spell of vertigo and I would have to be on the floor and Lacey would be taking care of us. She really felt wanted and it was very good occupational therapy to take care of us. The therapists today said she had really improved in so many areas. She is a miracle and a kind hearted person.
I have concluded my research to date and would like to include the entire list of people we have received cards, flowers, gifts and donations from. I would like you to know that every single piece of correspondence that we have received is so appreciated. Lacey went through every card and flower card the other day now that she can remember everything and she was very touched. The donations are very appreciative as they will cover the many trips that we will need to take to Oregon for the surgeries that are not covered by insurance along with other expenses not covered. We can't thank everyone enough for all of your support.
Yesterday Lacey went to see Dr. Nordtvedt and he was very encouraging. No damage at all to her teeth. Thank you Dr. Nordtvedt and staff for all that you have done for us.
Sooo...here is the huge list. If I missed someone, please call me. I want to know who you are.
Love you all. God bless.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Al & Rashell Lineberger
Alaska State Troopers, Ketchikan Post
Aunt Cheri & Uncle Cory
Aunt Janet, Uncle Manny, Celena & Joe
Aunt Nancy Dickey
Aunty Pat Durham
Best Western Landing Staff
Carlos, Joey and Vince
Colton, Deb & Greg Haag
Dana and Sue Blouin
David and Linda Deal
Dawn & Marvin Randall
Debbie, Leif, Bailey & Tore 2 cards
Ed Toribio and Marcia Kirby cards
Glenn Hogan
Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl
Harriet Richardson
Jamie, Linda, Tommy and Jamie Kay
Jeannette Pittman
Jedd Gould Family
Jeff and Heidi Carlin
Jennifer & Cheyan Cockrum
Jim and Paula Rood Family
Jodi & Erin Jakubek
John and Tonya Rymer
John, Rebecca and Kate Brown
Judee Mettler
Kay Sims and Mike Salazar
Ken, Peg, Brandi and Dylon Beckedahl
Krantz Family
Lew, Vicki, Jodi and Milan
Liz and Harold Kennedy
Liz Orr
Lonna Murray
Major and Mrs. Matt Leveque
Mary and Tom Schulz
Peter, Linda, Christina, Jeremy & Nicole Package
Randy & Cindy Johnson and Alan Dale
Scott, Patty and Sharlie Blouin
Sheila, Vanessa, Erin and Brien
Southeast Stevedoring Staff
Susan McFadden & WOU Dance Class
Terry Wanzer
Tim, Katie, William and Thomas Montgomery
Tom and Dean Nordtvedt
Werner and Gabriel Reinas
Will, Dana, Sean and Alec Kennedy
Alaska State Trooper's-"A" Detachment
Kurt and Sue Ludwig
Rodney and Lisa Dial
David and Linda Deal
Gary Webb & Family
Steve Shern & Family
Marvin & Dawn Randall
Jesse Osborn and Renee
Jason and Andrea Wick
Ron and Denise Whitton
Lonna Murray
Sharon Furey
Richard and Vanessa Nowland
Tina Wood
Jodi Williams
Stephanie Chatham
Bob Claus
Ray Howard
Bernard & Gena Chastain
Clyde and Sarah Campbell
Mark Finses
Jeremy & Kristi Baum
M/M Jesse McCarron
Lorne & Lori Nagy
Ray Streitmatter & family
Kurt Walgenbach
Herv Ibarra
AJ and Laura Charlton
Alyssa & the girls in 3H
Amy Herron
Andy Otis
Beth Updike
Betty Bollert
Bill and Elaine Hallstrom
Bill, Diane, Amanda, Jason and Kendra Hack
Carl and Mary Brown
Chris Ashcraft
Cindy Balzer
Cruise Line Agencies, Juneau
Cruise Line Agencies, Ketchikan
Darren & the EIS Gang
Dawn, Sydney and Haley Nichols
Debi Koons
Don and Jan Ross
Emily & Lenora Eichner
Emily Baker
Eric Tyson
Eric, Sarah & Benaiah Bird
Fran Buchanan
Gary, Jenny & Jessie Webb
Heather Krantz
Heritage Hall Staff
ILWU
Jeff & Kim Langkau and Alicia and Jordan Rymer
Jessica & Tara Hofmann
John Peterson, Ziegler Law Firm
Kay and Rich Andrew
Kendra Fresh
Kristin Rost, Mike Grove and Ray Prentice @ AK Airlines
Leslie, Slade, Tawny Stockli
Lew & Vickie Williams
Linda Paquin and Lisa Krussow
Lonna Murray, Jason Wick and Ron Whitton
Lysbeth Toribio
Madison Lumber and Hardware
Mahinalani Barrows
Margee Shaffer
Marjean Zeiser
Mark & Vicki Heizler
Marlys Hack
Mattie
Mike, Jeanne, Kimberly and Mary Durham
Paula, AJ, Mason, Duncan Slagle
Rita Cassman-Jensen and Family
Robbie and April Whitton
Ron, Denise, Joron and Jaron Whitton
Rosie, Larry, Travis & Taylor Tinney
Sam Spidell
Scott, Julie, Hunter and Chase Franzen
South Tongass Alliance Church-Pastor Cade King
Steve, Leslie, Kendall, Shelby and Stevie Kamm
Taylor and Travis Tinney
Terry, Kim and Axel Hugo
Uncle Jerry and Aunt Brenda Heisler
William Tuttle and Catherine Bersani
Sunday, July 15, 2007
The Dunn Women Saga July 15
The women in the Dunn household are not doing so well. When Mike, Harold and I came back from Cape Chacon, Lacey was taking care of Shelly, Aunt Nancy and Kona. Shelly's back is acting up AGAIN....she is in a lot of pain. Aunt Nancy is having her dizzy spells and Kona's leg was hurting her. Lacey was practicing her nursing skills on them. Shelly is hoping today will be the turning point for her pain, because when her back acts up, it is usually 3 days.
Aunt Nancy is leaving on Thursday, so everyone needs to get well, otherwise; we will be down to Mike caring for his girls. It is fun for a while, but then everyone starts starving to death and the coffee cups and cereal bowls start piling up in the sink. Mike washed Lacey's hair for the first time this morning. Mike didn't understand the hair conditioner thing. But now he knows, and he's good to go!! Lacey is doing so well, she is really getting quite self sufficient. Yes!! Jennifer is going to take Lacey to physical therapy when Aunt Nancy leaves, so that will be very helpful.
We had a nice dinner the other night at the Cockrums, halibut cheek tacos with mango salsa. Mike, Lacey, Shelly, Ed and Marcia came and we had a wonderful time. Harold managed to drink most of Russell's whiskey.
I am leaving Ketchikan tomorrow, but I will be back the 1st of August for a few weeks. Take care. Shelly should be back on here in a few days. Liz K.
Aunt Nancy is leaving on Thursday, so everyone needs to get well, otherwise; we will be down to Mike caring for his girls. It is fun for a while, but then everyone starts starving to death and the coffee cups and cereal bowls start piling up in the sink. Mike washed Lacey's hair for the first time this morning. Mike didn't understand the hair conditioner thing. But now he knows, and he's good to go!! Lacey is doing so well, she is really getting quite self sufficient. Yes!! Jennifer is going to take Lacey to physical therapy when Aunt Nancy leaves, so that will be very helpful.
We had a nice dinner the other night at the Cockrums, halibut cheek tacos with mango salsa. Mike, Lacey, Shelly, Ed and Marcia came and we had a wonderful time. Harold managed to drink most of Russell's whiskey.
I am leaving Ketchikan tomorrow, but I will be back the 1st of August for a few weeks. Take care. Shelly should be back on here in a few days. Liz K.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Lacey July 10th
Sorry it has been five days since our last blog, but we really haven't had much to write about. Lacey continues to improve at home every day. She had her first really busy day at therapy today. She told the Ketchikan physical therapist today that this is a lot harder than what she was used to in Portland and the therapist told her she is in the second stage and improving now, so things are going to be harder.
Mike and Jerry went out fishing this weekend and caught us a lot of King Salmon and dungeness crab. The women of the house were very happy when they came home. They completed their assigned task at the fishing grounds to a tee.
I will do another blog tomorrow, as I am awaiting some information. I want to send a thank you to everyone who has sent something to us since the last time I sent one and am awaiting a little info. Soooooo, will write more tomorrow if I do in fact receive the info.
Love you all and God bless you all,
Mike, Shelly, Lacey and Auntie
Mike and Jerry went out fishing this weekend and caught us a lot of King Salmon and dungeness crab. The women of the house were very happy when they came home. They completed their assigned task at the fishing grounds to a tee.
I will do another blog tomorrow, as I am awaiting some information. I want to send a thank you to everyone who has sent something to us since the last time I sent one and am awaiting a little info. Soooooo, will write more tomorrow if I do in fact receive the info.
Love you all and God bless you all,
Mike, Shelly, Lacey and Auntie
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Lacey July 5th
I forgot to mention yesterday that Brian Taro stopped by and visited for quite some time and it really made all of us feel very good. He has been a very good friend to Lacey for a long time. Thank you Brian.
Brianna Krantz and Lindsey Tucker also stopped by and brought Lacey a huge card that everyone had signed and visited for quite a bit. Thank you!
Today we had an intense therapy day. We are used to 1/2 sessions at RIO, but had 3 one hour sessions today. Lacey was very exhausted and had to have a nap when we got home. Very impressed with the new Ketchikan facility and with the staff and the therapists.
Tomorrow we go to a doctor at the Wilson clinic for follow up, then 3 days of therapy starting next week. Lacey is doing so well. She is walking in the house on her own now, only needing the cane and assistance to go up and down the stairs.
More later.
If anyone wants to call and say hi, you certainly can. As long as she is up for it, she will talk to ya. It is good therapy for others to hear her voice.
Love and God Bless,
Shelly
Brianna Krantz and Lindsey Tucker also stopped by and brought Lacey a huge card that everyone had signed and visited for quite a bit. Thank you!
Today we had an intense therapy day. We are used to 1/2 sessions at RIO, but had 3 one hour sessions today. Lacey was very exhausted and had to have a nap when we got home. Very impressed with the new Ketchikan facility and with the staff and the therapists.
Tomorrow we go to a doctor at the Wilson clinic for follow up, then 3 days of therapy starting next week. Lacey is doing so well. She is walking in the house on her own now, only needing the cane and assistance to go up and down the stairs.
More later.
If anyone wants to call and say hi, you certainly can. As long as she is up for it, she will talk to ya. It is good therapy for others to hear her voice.
Love and God Bless,
Shelly
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Lacey July 4th
okay, have to put a little stop to the cigs and soap saga. Auntie and Lacey do not smoke cigs and watch soaps, just was a little joke between Rosie, Auntie and Liz. Was funny, but I think people really thought they watched soaps. Ha! Anyways.......
Today was a good day. It poured in Ketchikan, so we stayed home all day and did not go to town to watch the parade. Yesterday, Lacey climbed the 5 flights of stairs to SE Stevedoring and saw all the gang at work. She was so happy. We were all doing fine til Judee showed up and brought us to tears. Thank you again Judee. We all needed that!!! Lacey said she is saving her Judee Jewelry til next July 4th.
We are off to therapy tomorrow. I thought I would be able to go to work a little this week, but it is too much. Can't leave my little girl just yet. Saw Dawn and Marvin Randall at Safeway, along with Debbie Short and Marsha Scudero (sorry Marsha, forgot your married name). They know God does work miracles.
Love to you all. God Bless.
Shelly
Today was a good day. It poured in Ketchikan, so we stayed home all day and did not go to town to watch the parade. Yesterday, Lacey climbed the 5 flights of stairs to SE Stevedoring and saw all the gang at work. She was so happy. We were all doing fine til Judee showed up and brought us to tears. Thank you again Judee. We all needed that!!! Lacey said she is saving her Judee Jewelry til next July 4th.
We are off to therapy tomorrow. I thought I would be able to go to work a little this week, but it is too much. Can't leave my little girl just yet. Saw Dawn and Marvin Randall at Safeway, along with Debbie Short and Marsha Scudero (sorry Marsha, forgot your married name). They know God does work miracles.
Love to you all. God Bless.
Shelly
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Lacey July 3rd
We made it home yesterday. We had a two hour delay, as our plane had a fuel leak and they had to find us a replacement airplane. This is a typical day of travel whenever you travel with Shelly. I can't remember a non eventful trip. We are normally overflying Ketchikan and going to Wrangell, or being pulled off the plane due to weight and balance when traveling on one of Liz's or Larry's passes. Ha!
When we passed my work at the troopers, we were so happy to see the gigantic "Welcome Home Lacey" sign. Thank you Linda and the gang for that. It mean't so much!
It was a nice day in Ketchikan and Mike was very happy to see us all after two weeks of separation. He had fresh King waiting for us for dinner. Too bad you had to have toast and jam for dinner Jamie. Our king was so good. :)
No rest for the weary. We are off to the eye doctor today to get Lacey's new glasses prescription filled.
Looking forward to seeing all of our Ketchikan friends and family soon.
Love,
Mike, Shelly, Lacey and Auntie
When we passed my work at the troopers, we were so happy to see the gigantic "Welcome Home Lacey" sign. Thank you Linda and the gang for that. It mean't so much!
It was a nice day in Ketchikan and Mike was very happy to see us all after two weeks of separation. He had fresh King waiting for us for dinner. Too bad you had to have toast and jam for dinner Jamie. Our king was so good. :)
No rest for the weary. We are off to the eye doctor today to get Lacey's new glasses prescription filled.
Looking forward to seeing all of our Ketchikan friends and family soon.
Love,
Mike, Shelly, Lacey and Auntie
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Lacey July 1, 2007
Hi Everyone,
Hard to believe it is July already, when it seems so long ago when Mike and I left Ketchikan in May. Lacey, Aunt Nancy and I made the 4 hour drive today from Oregon to Gig Harbor. Lacey did really well. Closed her eyes most of the way. Yes, my driving frightens her and many others. Liz and Harold had a wonderful dinner all ready when we arrived. BBQ Beef tenderloin and all the fixin's. Rosie, Larry, Travis and Taylor Tinney and Scott, Julie, Hunter and Chase Franzen all were here to see us. It was a wonderful time.
It will be an emotional time to step off the plane at home tomorrow for us, but we are so looking forward to it. Seems like an eternity since we have been home.
Love and God bless,
Shelly, Lacey and Auntie
Hard to believe it is July already, when it seems so long ago when Mike and I left Ketchikan in May. Lacey, Aunt Nancy and I made the 4 hour drive today from Oregon to Gig Harbor. Lacey did really well. Closed her eyes most of the way. Yes, my driving frightens her and many others. Liz and Harold had a wonderful dinner all ready when we arrived. BBQ Beef tenderloin and all the fixin's. Rosie, Larry, Travis and Taylor Tinney and Scott, Julie, Hunter and Chase Franzen all were here to see us. It was a wonderful time.
It will be an emotional time to step off the plane at home tomorrow for us, but we are so looking forward to it. Seems like an eternity since we have been home.
Love and God bless,
Shelly, Lacey and Auntie
Friday, June 29, 2007
June 29th
Hi everyone this is Lacey. I just got discharged from RIO yesterday and finally got to read all the blogs. It was pretty emotional for me leaving because it's the next step for me and I will miss a lot of the therapists there, but I am ready to go home! Thank you everyone for thinking of me and all of your prayers. They truely helped me recover and heal as fast as I did. It surprised me how many people truely cared about me and it brought me to tears reading the comments. What an experience this has been! Hard at times, but it really taught me a lot about myself and life. I love you all and I can't wait to get home!
Love,
Lacey
Love,
Lacey
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
To Ronda
Ronda,
Thank you for your comments. You of all people know about miracles and I hope our two miracles, Lacey and Scott, can get together with all of us soon. We will be overnighting in August on our way to get the halo off and maybe we could visit then. Or, we could wait and all go to a Seahawk game for a big celebration of two of God's miracles in the fall. We still think about you all the time Scott. Also, the door is always open at the Dunn's for fishing and fun. Maybe next summer though.... Love you guys.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Thank you for your comments. You of all people know about miracles and I hope our two miracles, Lacey and Scott, can get together with all of us soon. We will be overnighting in August on our way to get the halo off and maybe we could visit then. Or, we could wait and all go to a Seahawk game for a big celebration of two of God's miracles in the fall. We still think about you all the time Scott. Also, the door is always open at the Dunn's for fishing and fun. Maybe next summer though.... Love you guys.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Lacey June 27th
Hello again everyone,
One day left. We are so happy, yet tomorrow will be a difficult day to say good-bye to all the wonderful staff at RIO. If ever you need any treatment after any type of injury that requires in-patient rehab care, the only facility you should consider is the Legacy Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon. Very caring people, who have only done the most outstanding work with Lacey and we are so appreciative of this. It helps them when you have a patient that is non-whining, which we all know Lacey is. She is so eager to get better every day.
Tonight Jamie, Linda, Tommy, Jamie Kay, Lacey and I met Glenn at the Spagetti Factory and we had a wonderful laugh and story filled dinner. It was sad to leave Glenn, but we know some day in the near future he will be visiting us in Ketchikan. We are praying for his daughter Beth, who was admitted to the hospital nearby with an infection of some sorts, that they have not quite figured out yet. So, he went from the dinner with us to spend time with her at the hospital. We love you Glenn.
When we returned from dinner at 8:15 pm, there in the waiting room sat Kendra, Lacey's dear friend from college. She had come to say good-bye before we head to Ketchikan and brought a basket full of cards, gifts and a quilt she had made with her mother and also the huge banner that had hung in Lacey's dorm hall for all the residents to sign. Lacey was so over whelmed. Thank you Kendra for everything. It really mean't the world to Lacey to have you there. She will be able to share a place with you and Mattie hopefully next spring and for sure the following September for the full year. We love you!
More later to the residents and staff of WOU. We have just received the letter from the RA and will write tomorrow after Lacey gets to Uncle Jamie and Aunt Linda's. I will try and have her write something to you.
God Bless you.
Shelly
One day left. We are so happy, yet tomorrow will be a difficult day to say good-bye to all the wonderful staff at RIO. If ever you need any treatment after any type of injury that requires in-patient rehab care, the only facility you should consider is the Legacy Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon. Very caring people, who have only done the most outstanding work with Lacey and we are so appreciative of this. It helps them when you have a patient that is non-whining, which we all know Lacey is. She is so eager to get better every day.
Tonight Jamie, Linda, Tommy, Jamie Kay, Lacey and I met Glenn at the Spagetti Factory and we had a wonderful laugh and story filled dinner. It was sad to leave Glenn, but we know some day in the near future he will be visiting us in Ketchikan. We are praying for his daughter Beth, who was admitted to the hospital nearby with an infection of some sorts, that they have not quite figured out yet. So, he went from the dinner with us to spend time with her at the hospital. We love you Glenn.
When we returned from dinner at 8:15 pm, there in the waiting room sat Kendra, Lacey's dear friend from college. She had come to say good-bye before we head to Ketchikan and brought a basket full of cards, gifts and a quilt she had made with her mother and also the huge banner that had hung in Lacey's dorm hall for all the residents to sign. Lacey was so over whelmed. Thank you Kendra for everything. It really mean't the world to Lacey to have you there. She will be able to share a place with you and Mattie hopefully next spring and for sure the following September for the full year. We love you!
More later to the residents and staff of WOU. We have just received the letter from the RA and will write tomorrow after Lacey gets to Uncle Jamie and Aunt Linda's. I will try and have her write something to you.
God Bless you.
Shelly
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Lacey June 26th
Hello Everyone,
It is a gorgeous day in Portland, I think it was 83 degrees today. Reminded me of Ketchikan. Ha!
We had a great day today. Lacey is getting happier everyday since check out time is day after tomorrow. We have already said good-bye to some of her therapists, since they are either on vacation or having days off. It is emotional, as they have all done so much for Lacey. We had our final conference today and she passed for being discharged on Thursday with flying colors.
We had a 3 hour appt. today with the Neuro Optomotrist. Lacey was able to forego the wheel chair and used a cane only to travel to the appt in downtown Portland. She did very well. They did lots of tests on her eyes and gave her a new prescription for glasses with prizim in the lenses, which should help the double vision. Then when we come back in August they will do further tests on her eye muscles to see if there is damage and if so, they will correct that with surgery.
Linda brought in Chinese food tonight and we all had a good time talking and laughing about the things Lacey did in ICU that she never new about. She was in stitches laughing about it.
Tomorrow we are heading to the Old Spagetti Factory to have dinner with Glenn and meeting his daughter and return his laptop. Has been so nice using it in the hospital.
Well, good night. Take care and God Bless.
Shelly and Lacey
It is a gorgeous day in Portland, I think it was 83 degrees today. Reminded me of Ketchikan. Ha!
We had a great day today. Lacey is getting happier everyday since check out time is day after tomorrow. We have already said good-bye to some of her therapists, since they are either on vacation or having days off. It is emotional, as they have all done so much for Lacey. We had our final conference today and she passed for being discharged on Thursday with flying colors.
We had a 3 hour appt. today with the Neuro Optomotrist. Lacey was able to forego the wheel chair and used a cane only to travel to the appt in downtown Portland. She did very well. They did lots of tests on her eyes and gave her a new prescription for glasses with prizim in the lenses, which should help the double vision. Then when we come back in August they will do further tests on her eye muscles to see if there is damage and if so, they will correct that with surgery.
Linda brought in Chinese food tonight and we all had a good time talking and laughing about the things Lacey did in ICU that she never new about. She was in stitches laughing about it.
Tomorrow we are heading to the Old Spagetti Factory to have dinner with Glenn and meeting his daughter and return his laptop. Has been so nice using it in the hospital.
Well, good night. Take care and God Bless.
Shelly and Lacey
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Lacey June 24th
Lacey was able to come to Jamie and Linda's with me for another overnight stay yesterday. She did much, much better riding in the car for the 20 minute ride to their house. I believe she will now be strong enough for the two plus hour ride to Gig Harbor next Sunday for an overnight stay at Liz's before heading home on Monday. We spent a relaxing evening at home. This morning we attended church where Jamie once again lead Worship. Lacey walked into church today with my assistance, no wheel chair. It was awesome. So many of their member's are praying for Lacey on a daily basis. It is so wonderful and appreciated.
We are headed back to the hospital in a few hours. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
We are headed back to the hospital in a few hours. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Friday, June 22, 2007
Lacey June 22nd
Hi everyone,
We are coming home July 2nd. Thank you Judee. You mean the world to us. We will come and see you as soon as we can so we can give you a hug. Lacey really wants to hug a real hug, but won't be able to do that til after the Halo comes off. Debi, thank you so much too, for going in on your day off and being ill and all. We soooooo appreciate it. You are an angel like Judee.
Lacey was in really good spirits today. Everyone from STAC and all other Christians that are reading this, know that God does have a purpose for this accident and Lacey will be an even better person from it. She has stated that there was a reason for this to happen and she is accepting this really well. She is a lot stronger than her dad and I ever thought she would be.
We love you all very much.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
We are coming home July 2nd. Thank you Judee. You mean the world to us. We will come and see you as soon as we can so we can give you a hug. Lacey really wants to hug a real hug, but won't be able to do that til after the Halo comes off. Debi, thank you so much too, for going in on your day off and being ill and all. We soooooo appreciate it. You are an angel like Judee.
Lacey was in really good spirits today. Everyone from STAC and all other Christians that are reading this, know that God does have a purpose for this accident and Lacey will be an even better person from it. She has stated that there was a reason for this to happen and she is accepting this really well. She is a lot stronger than her dad and I ever thought she would be.
We love you all very much.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Lacey June 21st
We had a great day today. We saw the Neuro Surgeon at OHSU today, Dr. Nemecek. He was very impressed with Lacey's progress and healing. He called Lacey OHSU's miracle girl. They xrayed her neck and it is healing nicely. The Halo has to be on 12 weeks from the date of the accident, so we made a removal appt. for August 15th. We will see the plastic surgeon the same day after the halo is removed. We have an appt this coming tuesday with the Neuro Optometrist to check out her right eye and the double vision. Please pray for a good outcome for this visit.
We will be home the first week in July. Lacey and I have tickets we did not use when we were suppose to come home on June 17th, when we had originally planned for Lacey to come home for the summer from college. I just need a little help from Debi Koons in booking these unused tickets. Looking forward to your call Debi.
Dana, got your care package today. Lacey was thrilled. We will try and call you soon. Sometimes hard with the Florida time zone thing. Thank you.
Lacey is getting back to normal, it was evident today, when I got lost and took the wrong direction on the freeway. What's a few miles anyways. At least she got to miss a therapy session. She'll probably thank me later tonight. Ha!
Take care. God bless and please pray for a cure for her double vision.
Thank you.
Shelly
We will be home the first week in July. Lacey and I have tickets we did not use when we were suppose to come home on June 17th, when we had originally planned for Lacey to come home for the summer from college. I just need a little help from Debi Koons in booking these unused tickets. Looking forward to your call Debi.
Dana, got your care package today. Lacey was thrilled. We will try and call you soon. Sometimes hard with the Florida time zone thing. Thank you.
Lacey is getting back to normal, it was evident today, when I got lost and took the wrong direction on the freeway. What's a few miles anyways. At least she got to miss a therapy session. She'll probably thank me later tonight. Ha!
Take care. God bless and please pray for a cure for her double vision.
Thank you.
Shelly
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Lacey June 20th
Sorry for not getting on here for a couple of days, but we just run out of time some days. Therapy takes up most of the day and I try to attend all of Lacey's therapy sessions, then when we get back to the room there is the wound care to take care of, eating of course and then opening mail and packages. It's so exhausting, even for mom. Ha!
Anyways. Judee, got your probably the 5th or 6th card you sent. Lacey loves you, I hope you know. She also loves everyone that has sent so many cards and gifts. Leslie and Steve, we got your package today. Lacey opened it on her own today, when I was out getting the gray removed from my hair. Will talk to you more later about the products you sent Leslie, because we do not see t he plastic surgeon until August when the halo is off. Call me Leslie about that 617-3935. Thank you for all your gifts. We appreciate it.
Axel and Nichols girls, Dawn and Marcia, we received your package with all of your cards, thank you. Lacey was very appreciative. Linda Paquin and Lisa Krussow, we received the flowers, thank you. So good to hear from Janet as to who you were. We love you.
Marjean, oh my gosh, the blankie you sent to Lacey with so many prayers tied into the quilt, thank you. She loves you so much. Only the best dental hygenist in the world would think to send the electric toothbrush to make is so much easier and the floss things. You don't know how wonderful this gift was. We don't want a cavity, right? and she is still on your cavity free list. We need to set up an appt prior to the one in August, cause I know Dr. Nordtvedt will want to check out things. She has been complaining of her front two teeth sensitive to biting on. Sooooo, can you schedule us in after 7/2? Thank you.
Will write more later with a few more people that have sent cards and things, but got to get to bed now.
Love to everyone.
God Bless,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Anyways. Judee, got your probably the 5th or 6th card you sent. Lacey loves you, I hope you know. She also loves everyone that has sent so many cards and gifts. Leslie and Steve, we got your package today. Lacey opened it on her own today, when I was out getting the gray removed from my hair. Will talk to you more later about the products you sent Leslie, because we do not see t he plastic surgeon until August when the halo is off. Call me Leslie about that 617-3935. Thank you for all your gifts. We appreciate it.
Axel and Nichols girls, Dawn and Marcia, we received your package with all of your cards, thank you. Lacey was very appreciative. Linda Paquin and Lisa Krussow, we received the flowers, thank you. So good to hear from Janet as to who you were. We love you.
Marjean, oh my gosh, the blankie you sent to Lacey with so many prayers tied into the quilt, thank you. She loves you so much. Only the best dental hygenist in the world would think to send the electric toothbrush to make is so much easier and the floss things. You don't know how wonderful this gift was. We don't want a cavity, right? and she is still on your cavity free list. We need to set up an appt prior to the one in August, cause I know Dr. Nordtvedt will want to check out things. She has been complaining of her front two teeth sensitive to biting on. Sooooo, can you schedule us in after 7/2? Thank you.
Will write more later with a few more people that have sent cards and things, but got to get to bed now.
Love to everyone.
God Bless,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Monday, June 18, 2007
Lacey June 18th
Happy Belated Father's Day to all the father's out there. We had a wonderful Father's Day weekend with Mike here and the overnight pass for Lacey at Jamie and Linda's. Everything went very well. I managed to get all of Lacey's med's into her on time. I have even gotten to give her 3 shots in her tummy now, my favorite part. Ha! The shots are to prevent clotting.
We all attended Life Christ Church yesterday. It was a very emotional service, as Jamie led worship and dedicated their first song to his niece Lacey, one of God's true miracles. Pastor Werner recognized one special father at the beginning of his service, which was Mike. Werner and Gabriel, his wife, were in ICU with us the day after Lacey was admitted, which we are truly thankful for.
Mike flew home right after church, which of course it was very difficult for him to leave Lacey once again. But we are hoping time will fly by and we will all be together in Ketchikan shortly after June 28th.
Lacey is still receiving cards that were mailed shortly after her accident, but they were forwarded to our street address, which took a very long time to get to our PO Box in Ward Cove. Never did receive your card or Travis and Taylor's Rosie, but maybe some day.
Thank you for the use of this computer Glenn, allowing us the internet access right in the room. Lacey is enjoying getting onto Myspace, this blog and her other websites.
Will write more later.
God Bless,
Shelly & Lacey
We all attended Life Christ Church yesterday. It was a very emotional service, as Jamie led worship and dedicated their first song to his niece Lacey, one of God's true miracles. Pastor Werner recognized one special father at the beginning of his service, which was Mike. Werner and Gabriel, his wife, were in ICU with us the day after Lacey was admitted, which we are truly thankful for.
Mike flew home right after church, which of course it was very difficult for him to leave Lacey once again. But we are hoping time will fly by and we will all be together in Ketchikan shortly after June 28th.
Lacey is still receiving cards that were mailed shortly after her accident, but they were forwarded to our street address, which took a very long time to get to our PO Box in Ward Cove. Never did receive your card or Travis and Taylor's Rosie, but maybe some day.
Thank you for the use of this computer Glenn, allowing us the internet access right in the room. Lacey is enjoying getting onto Myspace, this blog and her other websites.
Will write more later.
God Bless,
Shelly & Lacey
Friday, June 15, 2007
Lacey 15th
Hi again everybody,
Don and Jan Ross, we got your email through Russell and Jennifer Cockrum. Thank you so much. It was really good to talk with Don that day I called and you weren't home Jan. I really would have liked to have talked with you, but it sounds like he clued you into everything that was going on with us. You just take care of one of my favorite guys, which you know has been Don for many years. He and Salazar were my favorite bosses in the 70's-80's. Ha! We love ya and will come and visit when we come home.
Lacey continues to improve daily. I will be making appt's next week for the final week we are here for all the specialist's we need to see before she comes home. Two important appt's, the nerologist (sp) for the halo check and adjustment and then make the appt for August when it comes off, then most importantly her double vision with a Nero Optomitrist. I am not too good at spelling these doctors professions, but I will be when all is said and done.
Tonight Glenn Hogan, Jim, Linda and Jamie Kay Heisler, Rashell and Al Lineberger, Mike, Lacey and I all had the best Garlic Jim's Pizza Party in the family lounge at the hospital. It was an emotional time, as Lacey and everyone else for the very first time, except for me, heard in person from Glenn the events of the accident. Lacey did hear the story from Glenn a week ago, however, her short term memory loss has prevented her from remembering the meeting. We believe she will remember this one. We will all pray for this tonight that her memory will improve so that she is able to remember this night and hopefully many more to come. Honestly she does improve daily with her memory. It is just the events of this past year since 9/06, that she does not remember.
Will write more after we bring her home and have the blessed time with her from noon on Saturday until 8:00 pm on Sunday at the Heisler home.
We love you. God Bless.
Mike, Shelly & Lacey and the Heisler Family
Don and Jan Ross, we got your email through Russell and Jennifer Cockrum. Thank you so much. It was really good to talk with Don that day I called and you weren't home Jan. I really would have liked to have talked with you, but it sounds like he clued you into everything that was going on with us. You just take care of one of my favorite guys, which you know has been Don for many years. He and Salazar were my favorite bosses in the 70's-80's. Ha! We love ya and will come and visit when we come home.
Lacey continues to improve daily. I will be making appt's next week for the final week we are here for all the specialist's we need to see before she comes home. Two important appt's, the nerologist (sp) for the halo check and adjustment and then make the appt for August when it comes off, then most importantly her double vision with a Nero Optomitrist. I am not too good at spelling these doctors professions, but I will be when all is said and done.
Tonight Glenn Hogan, Jim, Linda and Jamie Kay Heisler, Rashell and Al Lineberger, Mike, Lacey and I all had the best Garlic Jim's Pizza Party in the family lounge at the hospital. It was an emotional time, as Lacey and everyone else for the very first time, except for me, heard in person from Glenn the events of the accident. Lacey did hear the story from Glenn a week ago, however, her short term memory loss has prevented her from remembering the meeting. We believe she will remember this one. We will all pray for this tonight that her memory will improve so that she is able to remember this night and hopefully many more to come. Honestly she does improve daily with her memory. It is just the events of this past year since 9/06, that she does not remember.
Will write more after we bring her home and have the blessed time with her from noon on Saturday until 8:00 pm on Sunday at the Heisler home.
We love you. God Bless.
Mike, Shelly & Lacey and the Heisler Family
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Lacey June 14th
Oh my gosh, where do we begin? Thank you Judee for the lavender roses and other flowers in her arrangement, which we don't know the names of, but they are gorgeous and they along with Cruise Lines Agencies flowers brought tears to Lacey's eyes. She loves you all so much and misses you. Some day she will be back in the office. Cruise Lines, the dozen yellow and orange colored roses are very fragrant and so beautiful. Thank you!!! Haag Family, the lily arrangement is very beautiful with the other flowers in the bouquet and Lacey was very moved by your note. When Lacey is able to make phone calls, she will be calling friends and family. We have a tentative discharge date of 6/28 and hope to be home the following week. A little longer than we had anticipated, but definitely do not want to rush anything.
More tomorrow. Dad is here now and we are getting up very early to visit Lacey and have a big day. Lacey will be going to Uncle Jamie and Aunt Linda's for an overnight stay on Saturday. We will leave RIO at noon on Saturday, spend quality time together at home and then on Sunday attend Life Christ Church, returning back to RIO by 8:00 pm.
More tomorrow. Thank you all so much and thank you to all of Glenn's very dear friends who have joined the blog sight.
Love you all and God bless!
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
More tomorrow. Dad is here now and we are getting up very early to visit Lacey and have a big day. Lacey will be going to Uncle Jamie and Aunt Linda's for an overnight stay on Saturday. We will leave RIO at noon on Saturday, spend quality time together at home and then on Sunday attend Life Christ Church, returning back to RIO by 8:00 pm.
More tomorrow. Thank you all so much and thank you to all of Glenn's very dear friends who have joined the blog sight.
Love you all and God bless!
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Lacey June 13th #2
Lacey's Dr. appt went well today, but no sutures to her wounds. We met with a plastic surgeon specialist today, who examined her and would like the wounds to heal as they are. He will then examine her in mid to late August when the halo is removed and will make the "plan" for her surgeries which will be needed over the next year. We were so very happy to meet with him today. Lacey is very encouraged and left the visit with a very positive attitude.
Jennifer and Cheyan, as I write this, Lacey is snuggled up taking a nap with her blankie that Cheyan made for her. She loves it Cheyan. She was looking at the photos of our Cabo pictures today that you sent to her and can't wait to go on the next vacation with you and your mom and I. No sun for a year though, so it will have to wait. She also wore one of the night gowns last night that you sent Jennifer. Fit perfectly over the halo. Thank you.
More later.........
Shelly
Jennifer and Cheyan, as I write this, Lacey is snuggled up taking a nap with her blankie that Cheyan made for her. She loves it Cheyan. She was looking at the photos of our Cabo pictures today that you sent to her and can't wait to go on the next vacation with you and your mom and I. No sun for a year though, so it will have to wait. She also wore one of the night gowns last night that you sent Jennifer. Fit perfectly over the halo. Thank you.
More later.........
Shelly
Hi Shelly and Lacey
I'm so happy Lacey is progressing so well. You are touching hundreds of peoples lives with your stories. Lacey is a beautiful angel on earth and in heaven and her light will shine for all to see now. I am so happy to hear of GH's story because when first hearing about her accident I was so worried she was alone until rescure services came. To know someone was praying over her feverently is so reassuring.
Call if you want or need anyone to chat with.
Lots of love,
Dana K.
Call if you want or need anyone to chat with.
Lots of love,
Dana K.
Lacey June 13th
Hello everyone,
Not everyone knows I was home alone during the early hours of Sunday May 20th, when I received the phone call from the Pastor at the Eugene Sacred Heart hospital at 0106 hours. Mike was at a cabin with Ed Toribio and Terry Hugo and not due to return home until Sunday afternoon. No cell phone service at the cabin also. I would like to thank Marcia Kirby for coming to my home and giving me the much needed support I needed during this awful time and for her and Ed's help and support since the accident.
I would also like to thank Candy and Jerry Scudero, Koz and Ernie Robb, for allowing me to wake you up at such a dreadful hour and arranging for Ernie to pick up Mike so we could get on that first Alaska Airlines flight that morning.
Thank you also to Terry and Kim Hugo. You are wonderful friends.
There are many others that we have already thanked in person and you know who you are and we love you so much.
Lacey, Mike and I would also like to thank the following for your support by sending cards, flowers, and/or gifts. Thank you so very much.
Al & Rashell Lineberger
Alaska State Troopers, Ketchikan Post
Aunt Cheri & Uncle Cory
Aunt Janet, Uncle Manny, Celena & Joe
Aunt Nancy Dickey
Aunty Pat Durham
Best Western Landing Staff
Cade King
Carlos, Joey and Vince
Colton, Deb & Greg Haag
Dana and Sue Blouin
David and Linda Deal
Dawn & Marvin Randall
Debbie, Leif, Bailey & Tore
Ed Toribio and Marcia Kirby
Glenn Hogan
Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl
Harriet Richardson
Jamie, Linda, Tommy and Jamie Kay
Jeannette Pittman
Jedd Gould Family
Jeff and Heidi Carlin
Jim and Paula Rood Family
Jodi & Erin Jakubek
John and Tonya Rymer
John, Rebecca and Kate Brown
Judee Metler
Kay Sims and Mike Salazar
Ken, Peg, Brandi and Dylon Beckedahl
Krantz Family
Lew, Vicki, Jodi and Milan
Liz and Harold Kennedy
Liz Orr
Lonna Murray
Major and Mrs. Matt Leveque
Mary and Tom Schulz
Peter, Linda, Christina, Jeremy & Nicole Package
Randy & Cindy Johnson and Alan Dale
Scott, Patty and Sharlie Blouin
Sheila, Vanessa, Erin and Brien
Southeast Stevedoring Staff
Susan McFadden & WOU Dance Class
Terry Wanzer
Tim, Katie, William and Thomas
Tom and Dean Nordtvedt
Werner and Gabriel Reinas
Will, Dana, Sean and Alec Kennedy
I hope you all do not mind me listing your names, but I thought you would want to know we really did receive a card/flowers/phone call or gift from you for Lacey.
And thank you all so much for your comments on this wonderful blog site.
Thank you and God Bless you.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Not everyone knows I was home alone during the early hours of Sunday May 20th, when I received the phone call from the Pastor at the Eugene Sacred Heart hospital at 0106 hours. Mike was at a cabin with Ed Toribio and Terry Hugo and not due to return home until Sunday afternoon. No cell phone service at the cabin also. I would like to thank Marcia Kirby for coming to my home and giving me the much needed support I needed during this awful time and for her and Ed's help and support since the accident.
I would also like to thank Candy and Jerry Scudero, Koz and Ernie Robb, for allowing me to wake you up at such a dreadful hour and arranging for Ernie to pick up Mike so we could get on that first Alaska Airlines flight that morning.
Thank you also to Terry and Kim Hugo. You are wonderful friends.
There are many others that we have already thanked in person and you know who you are and we love you so much.
Lacey, Mike and I would also like to thank the following for your support by sending cards, flowers, and/or gifts. Thank you so very much.
Al & Rashell Lineberger
Alaska State Troopers, Ketchikan Post
Aunt Cheri & Uncle Cory
Aunt Janet, Uncle Manny, Celena & Joe
Aunt Nancy Dickey
Aunty Pat Durham
Best Western Landing Staff
Cade King
Carlos, Joey and Vince
Colton, Deb & Greg Haag
Dana and Sue Blouin
David and Linda Deal
Dawn & Marvin Randall
Debbie, Leif, Bailey & Tore
Ed Toribio and Marcia Kirby
Glenn Hogan
Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl
Harriet Richardson
Jamie, Linda, Tommy and Jamie Kay
Jeannette Pittman
Jedd Gould Family
Jeff and Heidi Carlin
Jim and Paula Rood Family
Jodi & Erin Jakubek
John and Tonya Rymer
John, Rebecca and Kate Brown
Judee Metler
Kay Sims and Mike Salazar
Ken, Peg, Brandi and Dylon Beckedahl
Krantz Family
Lew, Vicki, Jodi and Milan
Liz and Harold Kennedy
Liz Orr
Lonna Murray
Major and Mrs. Matt Leveque
Mary and Tom Schulz
Peter, Linda, Christina, Jeremy & Nicole Package
Randy & Cindy Johnson and Alan Dale
Scott, Patty and Sharlie Blouin
Sheila, Vanessa, Erin and Brien
Southeast Stevedoring Staff
Susan McFadden & WOU Dance Class
Terry Wanzer
Tim, Katie, William and Thomas
Tom and Dean Nordtvedt
Werner and Gabriel Reinas
Will, Dana, Sean and Alec Kennedy
I hope you all do not mind me listing your names, but I thought you would want to know we really did receive a card/flowers/phone call or gift from you for Lacey.
And thank you all so much for your comments on this wonderful blog site.
Thank you and God Bless you.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Hi Lacey!
Hi Lacey, Shelly and Mike,
It's so good to hear about your great progress Lacey! Keep up the good work (and the positive attitude). We know it is very difficult at times. Please know that we are continuing to pray for your recovery, your Mom and Dad as well as all of your Doctor's and Nurses. Hunter even reminds me if I forget :). He was really touched by the story GH told.
Well, bye for now and hope to see you soon.
Love to all,
Scott, Julie, Hunter and Chase
It's so good to hear about your great progress Lacey! Keep up the good work (and the positive attitude). We know it is very difficult at times. Please know that we are continuing to pray for your recovery, your Mom and Dad as well as all of your Doctor's and Nurses. Hunter even reminds me if I forget :). He was really touched by the story GH told.
Well, bye for now and hope to see you soon.
Love to all,
Scott, Julie, Hunter and Chase
Lacey
Hello Ladies,
I am so glad to here that Laceys appt went well yesterday , I have been thinking of you daily and praying that you are feeling much better day by day .
Also a special thanks to GH for all is great thoughts and presence that evening .
Lacey the boys ask about you every day and check to see your progress ,they will be glad to acctually see you to know that you are ok .
Well take care and see ya soon ,Shelly do you need any thing ?
love ya all
Rosie
I am so glad to here that Laceys appt went well yesterday , I have been thinking of you daily and praying that you are feeling much better day by day .
Also a special thanks to GH for all is great thoughts and presence that evening .
Lacey the boys ask about you every day and check to see your progress ,they will be glad to acctually see you to know that you are ok .
Well take care and see ya soon ,Shelly do you need any thing ?
love ya all
Rosie
Monday, June 11, 2007
Lacey June 11th
Lacey's trip to OHSU to see the surgeon today went well, however a journey like this tuckers her out. We are going again to see him on Wednesday where he will suture a few areas on her forehead and cheek that are not healing properly. The "Halo Mechanic" removed a pin from the halo that was preventing an area from healing. I was very relieved to be able to schedule the appt. and have these worrying areas taken care of so quickly. Thank you for driving us to the appt. Linda. A third person makes the travel so much easier.
Brianna and her mom Patty visited today. Lacey was happy to see her good friend Brianna and to get caught up on all the Ketchikan gossip. Thank you for visiting.
More tomorrow...
Take care.
Shelly
Brianna and her mom Patty visited today. Lacey was happy to see her good friend Brianna and to get caught up on all the Ketchikan gossip. Thank you for visiting.
More tomorrow...
Take care.
Shelly
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Lacey June 10th
Hello everyone,
Please do not pay any attention to my older senile brother Jerry's comments about my husbands fishing capabilities. Mike promised me the derby winner this year for my 50th, however things changed a bit, as we all know. Otherwise, if I was there the fishing would be a lot better. Soooo, it will have to wait for the 51st.
Lacey is in good spirits. She and I hung out in her room most of the day napping and watching TV and a movie after Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl left for Whidbey early this morning. Lacey also participated in a cooking class and made chocolate chip cookies.
Everyone at Southeast Steve....Lacey wanted me to tell you how much she loves the Terry Pyles picture and all of your comments and get well wishes on the border. It is so beautiful and she was brought to tears by all of you. She misses you so much and wishes she was at work rather than in a bed in the hospital.
The splint has been removed from her right arm. She is able to move it more now, every day is improving with that arm and hand. It is so inspirational.
I want to send messages to everyone on this blog, so that you know Lacey, Mike and I have received your cards and gifts. I want to start today with Cindy, Randy and Alan, who we received a card from today. Thank you very much. All the other cards and gifts (and there are many) are in Lacey's room and I will be sending thank you's through the blog starting tomorrow. I just wish there was internet in her room, then I could get so much more done during the day, but she comes first.
Lacey did say to me that everyday she does thank God that she is here and how much worse it could have been. She said she is going to be a great influence on many people when she is able to be.
More tomorrow, we have a big day, going to OHSU for a Dr. appt.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Please do not pay any attention to my older senile brother Jerry's comments about my husbands fishing capabilities. Mike promised me the derby winner this year for my 50th, however things changed a bit, as we all know. Otherwise, if I was there the fishing would be a lot better. Soooo, it will have to wait for the 51st.
Lacey is in good spirits. She and I hung out in her room most of the day napping and watching TV and a movie after Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl left for Whidbey early this morning. Lacey also participated in a cooking class and made chocolate chip cookies.
Everyone at Southeast Steve....Lacey wanted me to tell you how much she loves the Terry Pyles picture and all of your comments and get well wishes on the border. It is so beautiful and she was brought to tears by all of you. She misses you so much and wishes she was at work rather than in a bed in the hospital.
The splint has been removed from her right arm. She is able to move it more now, every day is improving with that arm and hand. It is so inspirational.
I want to send messages to everyone on this blog, so that you know Lacey, Mike and I have received your cards and gifts. I want to start today with Cindy, Randy and Alan, who we received a card from today. Thank you very much. All the other cards and gifts (and there are many) are in Lacey's room and I will be sending thank you's through the blog starting tomorrow. I just wish there was internet in her room, then I could get so much more done during the day, but she comes first.
Lacey did say to me that everyday she does thank God that she is here and how much worse it could have been. She said she is going to be a great influence on many people when she is able to be.
More tomorrow, we have a big day, going to OHSU for a Dr. appt.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Lacey June 9th
Today was a more relaxing day for Lacey, just two therapy sessions normally on the weekends. So, we are hoping there will only be two again tomorrow, cause it is time for mom to shower Lacey and wash her hair. The most wonderful thing she likes to have done is her hair washed and french braided. The halo really does make it a challenge though and normally takes quite a while to accomplish it. I am going to get Linda to help me tomorrow, since Auntie Liz won't be here.
Yesterday Uncle Manny, Aunt Janet and cousin Celena drove down from Whidbey Island. And today Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl drove down from Whidbey. They took us out for Italian food just 3 blocks from the hospital, which we got a pass from the Dr. to take Lacey with us in her wheel chair. The bumpy sidewalks were a bit much and caused pain in her neck, but she was able to finish dinner and then we headed right back for some pain meds. Now we know to take the pain meds before the next outing. Celena, who is a massage therapist gave me a much needed massage on Lacey's roommates bed today. Fran was able to go home with her husband for the weekend, so we had the whole room to ourselves. Thank you so much Celena, I needed that so much!
Lacey is so looking forward to Dad's visit on Father's Day weekend. She misses her daddy.
To Lacey's Ketchikan friends in the Portland area, Lacey will probably be going home in about two weeks, when all of you are probably going to be back home and she would like to wait to see you then, rather than in the hospital. Thank you for your patience.
Thank you everyone again for your wonderful comments. Comment anytime, I love to hear from you and soon as we have time I will be letting Lacey read more of the blog comments.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
PS- Linda Heisler, thank you so much for my new wardrobe today. You are such a smart shopper and I was getting tired of wearing the two shirts and one pair of pants I brought down. I love you so much!
Yesterday Uncle Manny, Aunt Janet and cousin Celena drove down from Whidbey Island. And today Grandma Mary and Grandpa Meryl drove down from Whidbey. They took us out for Italian food just 3 blocks from the hospital, which we got a pass from the Dr. to take Lacey with us in her wheel chair. The bumpy sidewalks were a bit much and caused pain in her neck, but she was able to finish dinner and then we headed right back for some pain meds. Now we know to take the pain meds before the next outing. Celena, who is a massage therapist gave me a much needed massage on Lacey's roommates bed today. Fran was able to go home with her husband for the weekend, so we had the whole room to ourselves. Thank you so much Celena, I needed that so much!
Lacey is so looking forward to Dad's visit on Father's Day weekend. She misses her daddy.
To Lacey's Ketchikan friends in the Portland area, Lacey will probably be going home in about two weeks, when all of you are probably going to be back home and she would like to wait to see you then, rather than in the hospital. Thank you for your patience.
Thank you everyone again for your wonderful comments. Comment anytime, I love to hear from you and soon as we have time I will be letting Lacey read more of the blog comments.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
PS- Linda Heisler, thank you so much for my new wardrobe today. You are such a smart shopper and I was getting tired of wearing the two shirts and one pair of pants I brought down. I love you so much!
Friday, June 8, 2007
Message from Glenn Hogan for Lacey
This is from GH. Thank you Glen Hogan. We love you.
Hello Russ,
I am not computer smart so to speak, and was wishing to make a post to Lacey's site.
Lacey, Shelly, & Mike,
That night when I was talking to you Lacey, awaiting arrival of the Lane Rural Ambulance. I recall a "Presence" about me and the area. I told You to come back, Your parents loved You and needed You. But most of Jesus has plans for You.
I am so glad that I finely got to see You today, Was just about 3 weeks ago when the accident happened and You are in such great hands, doing so good. It is sometimes hard to look at things and wonder how anything good can come of this. But it will, Lacey in time, We just ask for God's Blessing's and Grace's, and say "Show me the way Lord", and He will. I am writing this out in my truck now, I am still in shock and wonder at how far You have come from where You were. I am grateful that I was able to be a good Samaritan to You.
God Bless You Lacey, Your mother Shelly and Your dad Mike,
I will be up to see You again before You Get released to go home to Alaska,
Your new Friend,
Glenn Hogan
Hello Russ,
I am not computer smart so to speak, and was wishing to make a post to Lacey's site.
Lacey, Shelly, & Mike,
That night when I was talking to you Lacey, awaiting arrival of the Lane Rural Ambulance. I recall a "Presence" about me and the area. I told You to come back, Your parents loved You and needed You. But most of Jesus has plans for You.
I am so glad that I finely got to see You today, Was just about 3 weeks ago when the accident happened and You are in such great hands, doing so good. It is sometimes hard to look at things and wonder how anything good can come of this. But it will, Lacey in time, We just ask for God's Blessing's and Grace's, and say "Show me the way Lord", and He will. I am writing this out in my truck now, I am still in shock and wonder at how far You have come from where You were. I am grateful that I was able to be a good Samaritan to You.
God Bless You Lacey, Your mother Shelly and Your dad Mike,
I will be up to see You again before You Get released to go home to Alaska,
Your new Friend,
Glenn Hogan
Lacey June 8th
We have a very spiritual story to share with all of you. When Lacey was in ICU and the ventilator was removed, she shared some experiences she had encountered. She stated that "God gives good gifts to you when you go to heaven", and she stated someone was telling her she could not go to heaven and had to go back, as it was not her time yet. She also said she saw her great grandmother Elsie Dunn, who died a number of years ago. These are just a few of the things she has told us, which is so amazing, as the rest of this story will undoubtedly explain why.
Lacey's first flower arrangement was received at ICU from a man we will call GH. His card said "God Bless you Lacey. I was with you shortly after the accident and myself and many others across the country are praying for you". Of course Mike and I were very interested in talking with this person, but there was no phone number to contact him at. When Mike returned home on Sunday June 3rd, that evening he received a phone call from GH, who had traveled to OHSU from the Eugene area to see Lacey. The hospital would not give him any information about Lacey, except that she was no longer there. He had thought that Lacey had passed and wanted to call us to let us know of the time he spent with her at the accident site. He was amazed and relieved to find out she is alive and at a rehab center here in Portland. He visited Lacey and I today at RIO and told Lacey and I the events that took place. Colton had flagged him down on the highway and let GH know what had happened. GH called 911 to report there was a possible fatality accident. He found Lacey lying in the vineyard next to the pickup. She had no pulse and was not breathing. GH prayed over Lacey and told her she had parents that love her and that it was not time for her to leave and to come back. He said this over and over to her. After a minute had passed, just prior to him thinking he was going to have to start CPR, Lacey took a big gasp of air and continuted to breathe. GH did not want to move her to do the CPR, as he knew she may possibly have a spinal injury, therefore, he was very relieved to hear her breathing. He continued to pray over her for the 8 - 10 minutes it took for the ambulance and paramedics to arrive.
We owe so much to this wonderful human being and child of Jesus. He blessed Lacey today prior to leaving the hospital and he will be back to see her before we go back to Ketchikan. GH, Lacey remembered your visit today, which is a great improvement for her short term memory loss. Tonight she said to me, " Mom, I want you to tell everyone one about this. He is a wonderful man who saved my life and I really wished I could have hugged him today, but I couldn't with my halo on."
Lacey is truly a miracle child and God has great plans for her. She will touch many lives during her life time, we are quite sure of this.
I will end this with the verse made for Lacey and Tommy's favorite:
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill and to destroy. I have come, come so they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10.
Love and God bless you all and especially Glen.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Lacey's first flower arrangement was received at ICU from a man we will call GH. His card said "God Bless you Lacey. I was with you shortly after the accident and myself and many others across the country are praying for you". Of course Mike and I were very interested in talking with this person, but there was no phone number to contact him at. When Mike returned home on Sunday June 3rd, that evening he received a phone call from GH, who had traveled to OHSU from the Eugene area to see Lacey. The hospital would not give him any information about Lacey, except that she was no longer there. He had thought that Lacey had passed and wanted to call us to let us know of the time he spent with her at the accident site. He was amazed and relieved to find out she is alive and at a rehab center here in Portland. He visited Lacey and I today at RIO and told Lacey and I the events that took place. Colton had flagged him down on the highway and let GH know what had happened. GH called 911 to report there was a possible fatality accident. He found Lacey lying in the vineyard next to the pickup. She had no pulse and was not breathing. GH prayed over Lacey and told her she had parents that love her and that it was not time for her to leave and to come back. He said this over and over to her. After a minute had passed, just prior to him thinking he was going to have to start CPR, Lacey took a big gasp of air and continuted to breathe. GH did not want to move her to do the CPR, as he knew she may possibly have a spinal injury, therefore, he was very relieved to hear her breathing. He continued to pray over her for the 8 - 10 minutes it took for the ambulance and paramedics to arrive.
We owe so much to this wonderful human being and child of Jesus. He blessed Lacey today prior to leaving the hospital and he will be back to see her before we go back to Ketchikan. GH, Lacey remembered your visit today, which is a great improvement for her short term memory loss. Tonight she said to me, " Mom, I want you to tell everyone one about this. He is a wonderful man who saved my life and I really wished I could have hugged him today, but I couldn't with my halo on."
Lacey is truly a miracle child and God has great plans for her. She will touch many lives during her life time, we are quite sure of this.
I will end this with the verse made for Lacey and Tommy's favorite:
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill and to destroy. I have come, come so they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10.
Love and God bless you all and especially Glen.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Lacey June 7th
Today Auntie Liz left and we will not see her again for at least 3 weeks when she returns from her trip to Ireland with Harold. She definitely needs this break and will not have to worry about Lacey so much, since I can do the updates and she can check the internet from Ireland. Liz, I mean it, you have a good trip and do not worry. You have seen first hand how good I can take care of Lacey. Also, dad will be down Father's Day weekend, and before you know it, we will all be going home.
Lacey's tail bone pain was almost non existent today. This is the first time her mind was clear to focus on some good therapy. We wheeled her out to her car today, as I needed to receive training in transfering her to the car and putting the wheel chair in the trunk. I will be taking her to Dr. Nada, one of the Plastic Surgery team members on Monday for a check up and some minor surgery to a few areas on her face that need attention. It was good to get Lacey outside and she is looking forward to our trip on Monday to OHSU. Her short term memory problem is getting better, especially today, when her mind was clear with hardly any pain. I can't tell you what a wonderful facility the Rehabilitation Institue of Oregon is. Lacey is everyone's favorite patient of course.
We received a box yesterday from OHSU, where many, many people had sent cards to. It was so nice to receive these from everyone. Lacey read them all today. Thank you all for sending these. It was a little over whelming for Lacey, but that is understandable after what she has gone through. Up until late this afternoon she has been so very, very strong. I let her know today that she does not have to always be so strong and a good cry is very good therapy. After letting loose, she was in good spirits when Sheila and I left for the evening. Sheila drove 3 plus hours from Myrtle Creek to visit and stay the evening with me at Jamie and Linda's.
Uncle Jerry and Aunt Brenda, Lacey loved the music box. Thank you.
Again, thank you everyone for your wonderful comments and support. Mike, Lacey and I and everyone of you so enjoy reading them. It is what keeps us going. Tomorrow I hope to get Lacey to the internet floor to read more of the blog comments. It is slow going though.
More later.
God bless you all.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Lacey's tail bone pain was almost non existent today. This is the first time her mind was clear to focus on some good therapy. We wheeled her out to her car today, as I needed to receive training in transfering her to the car and putting the wheel chair in the trunk. I will be taking her to Dr. Nada, one of the Plastic Surgery team members on Monday for a check up and some minor surgery to a few areas on her face that need attention. It was good to get Lacey outside and she is looking forward to our trip on Monday to OHSU. Her short term memory problem is getting better, especially today, when her mind was clear with hardly any pain. I can't tell you what a wonderful facility the Rehabilitation Institue of Oregon is. Lacey is everyone's favorite patient of course.
We received a box yesterday from OHSU, where many, many people had sent cards to. It was so nice to receive these from everyone. Lacey read them all today. Thank you all for sending these. It was a little over whelming for Lacey, but that is understandable after what she has gone through. Up until late this afternoon she has been so very, very strong. I let her know today that she does not have to always be so strong and a good cry is very good therapy. After letting loose, she was in good spirits when Sheila and I left for the evening. Sheila drove 3 plus hours from Myrtle Creek to visit and stay the evening with me at Jamie and Linda's.
Uncle Jerry and Aunt Brenda, Lacey loved the music box. Thank you.
Again, thank you everyone for your wonderful comments and support. Mike, Lacey and I and everyone of you so enjoy reading them. It is what keeps us going. Tomorrow I hope to get Lacey to the internet floor to read more of the blog comments. It is slow going though.
More later.
God bless you all.
Love,
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
June 6th
Hello Everyone, this is Shelly again,
The first thing I would like to say is that I am sorry to any of you who have read the comment today from an anonymous person, who stated incorrect information concerning the events of Lacey's accident. Lacey was wearing her seatbelt and she has physical damage on her neck caused by the seatbelt.
That being said, this is Lacey's blog and I will continue with info on Lacey. We have had ups and downs lately due to pain in Lacey's tailbone, however, she is making good progress in her physical therapy despite the pain. She really wants to exceed expectations of everyone so she can go home. Her therapists and doctors at RIO are very impressed with her progress.
I will write again tomorrow.
Thank you everyone. Bless you all.
Love,
Shelly & Lacey
The first thing I would like to say is that I am sorry to any of you who have read the comment today from an anonymous person, who stated incorrect information concerning the events of Lacey's accident. Lacey was wearing her seatbelt and she has physical damage on her neck caused by the seatbelt.
That being said, this is Lacey's blog and I will continue with info on Lacey. We have had ups and downs lately due to pain in Lacey's tailbone, however, she is making good progress in her physical therapy despite the pain. She really wants to exceed expectations of everyone so she can go home. Her therapists and doctors at RIO are very impressed with her progress.
I will write again tomorrow.
Thank you everyone. Bless you all.
Love,
Shelly & Lacey
Monday, June 4, 2007
Lacey June 4
Hi Everyone, this is Shelly
I was going to write a very long detailed message of thanks to everyone of you, but my day today was very busy with Lacey. I attend all of her therapy sessions and when we are back at her room I play nurse to her as much as I can. She is the same sweet Lacey that everyone knows and loves. And she still has her sense of humor despite her pain, suffering and frustration. Right now she has a very short term memory problem, which should heal in hopefully the very near future. There has already been amazing progress in this area. Today she walked quite a distance with the help of a cane and with very limited support from the therapist. The use of her right arm and hand improves on a daily basis.
Ed Toribio flew into Portland today and came straight to the hospital to visit. It was very good to see Ed and he was very happy to visit with Lacey and I. Marcia, Lacey loved the purse. Her purse was destroyed in the accident and I had to toss it, so it is a very appreciated gift. Thank you for my BD card and goodie too.Mike and I have enjoyed this blog site so much and appreciate everyone adding their comments. You have no idea how uplifting it is for us to read the comments. I hope to have Lacey reading them by tomorrow. One small step at a time.I will write a more detailed and thankful blog tomorrow or Wednesday.
God bless everyone of you. We love you.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
I was going to write a very long detailed message of thanks to everyone of you, but my day today was very busy with Lacey. I attend all of her therapy sessions and when we are back at her room I play nurse to her as much as I can. She is the same sweet Lacey that everyone knows and loves. And she still has her sense of humor despite her pain, suffering and frustration. Right now she has a very short term memory problem, which should heal in hopefully the very near future. There has already been amazing progress in this area. Today she walked quite a distance with the help of a cane and with very limited support from the therapist. The use of her right arm and hand improves on a daily basis.
Ed Toribio flew into Portland today and came straight to the hospital to visit. It was very good to see Ed and he was very happy to visit with Lacey and I. Marcia, Lacey loved the purse. Her purse was destroyed in the accident and I had to toss it, so it is a very appreciated gift. Thank you for my BD card and goodie too.Mike and I have enjoyed this blog site so much and appreciate everyone adding their comments. You have no idea how uplifting it is for us to read the comments. I hope to have Lacey reading them by tomorrow. One small step at a time.I will write a more detailed and thankful blog tomorrow or Wednesday.
God bless everyone of you. We love you.
Mike, Shelly and Lacey
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Lacey Update June 3
Good Evening,
Shelly is giving me a night off.... tomorrow, she says she is going to write us. She thought she would get to it today, but it turned out to be a very busy day. She had to take Mike to the airport today and got a little lost on the way back. I managed to keep Mike's flight close to on time today, altho he said I was 1/2 hour late. Hey, that's on time to us!!
Shelly got checked out in the wheelchair today and she and Lacey went to the gardens for a little while. Lacey also got in a little therapy, she was able to walk with a cane for a few minutes with the physical therapists help. She had a great appetite today and things were generally pretty good.
Thank-you for your kindness, continued support and prayers.
Below is Lacey's address at the Center. Liz K.
RIO 1015 NW 22nd Ave Portland, OR 97210 Patient: Lacey Dunn Rm 9
Shelly is giving me a night off.... tomorrow, she says she is going to write us. She thought she would get to it today, but it turned out to be a very busy day. She had to take Mike to the airport today and got a little lost on the way back. I managed to keep Mike's flight close to on time today, altho he said I was 1/2 hour late. Hey, that's on time to us!!
Shelly got checked out in the wheelchair today and she and Lacey went to the gardens for a little while. Lacey also got in a little therapy, she was able to walk with a cane for a few minutes with the physical therapists help. She had a great appetite today and things were generally pretty good.
Thank-you for your kindness, continued support and prayers.
Below is Lacey's address at the Center. Liz K.
RIO 1015 NW 22nd Ave Portland, OR 97210 Patient: Lacey Dunn Rm 9
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Lacey Update June 2
Lacey has not been able to do much therapy today. Her tailbone has been hurting for several days, and today was especially painful. The Dr. believes it is just badly bruised. Hopefully, in a day or two she should be over the hump, and she will be able to continue with therapy on Monday.
She received some beautiful flowers and balloons from Brianna and her family today. Ken and Peggy bought her some tops and bottoms that fit over her halo. Janet sent her a pretty bracelet. Linda painted her nails today. Shelly gave her a foot rub with the lotion Erin and Jodi gave her. My friend Betty gave me some soft pajamas(with buttons) to bring down with me when I go back to Portland.... So she is being pampered, as a girl should be!
Shelly said the area around the Rehabilitation Center is very nice. A nice area for walking and window shopping. I am planning on going back to Portland on Wednesday or Thursday. Shelly suggested we go for a walk and dinner when I come. It seems we are all are settling down into a routine for the next few weeks. Take care Liz K.
She received some beautiful flowers and balloons from Brianna and her family today. Ken and Peggy bought her some tops and bottoms that fit over her halo. Janet sent her a pretty bracelet. Linda painted her nails today. Shelly gave her a foot rub with the lotion Erin and Jodi gave her. My friend Betty gave me some soft pajamas(with buttons) to bring down with me when I go back to Portland.... So she is being pampered, as a girl should be!
Shelly said the area around the Rehabilitation Center is very nice. A nice area for walking and window shopping. I am planning on going back to Portland on Wednesday or Thursday. Shelly suggested we go for a walk and dinner when I come. It seems we are all are settling down into a routine for the next few weeks. Take care Liz K.
Friday, June 1, 2007
Lacey Update June 1
Wow, we had some pretty good comments today regarding faith, hope and strength, when the chips are down....Thank-you for all of your very inspirational messages thus far. I am certain it is not only helping Lacey, Mike and Shelly, but all of us that care so much.
I talked to Mike tonight about 8:15pm and they were saying their good nights to Lacey. She had a pretty good day. She had several physical therapy sessions, plus some speech and puzzle work to help with the short term memory stuff. Mike felt that she was more alert today, than any other day thus far. She was even joining in on conversations.
The IV has been removed and she has started to eat. Her first dinner was pasta and bread, a girls dream dinner!! Especially that girl!! I remember when she was little, all she wanted was noodles, you didn't ever have to ask her what she wanted to eat. Mike said you should have seen her eyes light up when she saw what they were serving.
Mike is going back to Ketchikan on Sunday to take care of a few things. I will try to keep his flight on time, as I will be working flight 67.
I think we have seen a miracle for our Amazing Lacey. Thank-you for your prayers. Liz K.
I talked to Mike tonight about 8:15pm and they were saying their good nights to Lacey. She had a pretty good day. She had several physical therapy sessions, plus some speech and puzzle work to help with the short term memory stuff. Mike felt that she was more alert today, than any other day thus far. She was even joining in on conversations.
The IV has been removed and she has started to eat. Her first dinner was pasta and bread, a girls dream dinner!! Especially that girl!! I remember when she was little, all she wanted was noodles, you didn't ever have to ask her what she wanted to eat. Mike said you should have seen her eyes light up when she saw what they were serving.
Mike is going back to Ketchikan on Sunday to take care of a few things. I will try to keep his flight on time, as I will be working flight 67.
I think we have seen a miracle for our Amazing Lacey. Thank-you for your prayers. Liz K.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Lacey Update May 31
Lacey was successfully moved by ambulance to the Rehabilitation Center today. They are giving her a bit of a break today, but Shelly said tomorrow they are going to keep her very busy. She has 3 different therapists. Regular one, occupational and speech.
Lacey's roommate at the center has problems with her right arm too, so they can work on their arm exercises together. Shelly and Mike have to leave by 8:30pm every night, no if, ands or buts!! So Shelly feels more comfortable that she has a roommate to keep an eye on her. Her name is Fran.
Shelly said Lacey is doing pretty good today. She is starting to ask about her friends, she remembers Brianna and asked about Tyler Richardson. She asked me about my dog yesterday, not how's Harold or Christopher... Just, "how's Max doing?" So she is coming back to us little by little. I miss her after I leave there, so much. I wlll go back next week. You know, it's Shelly's 50th birthday on Tuesday. Oh no, now I am in trouble!! Oh well, what else is new!
Ken and Peggy are coming tomorrow. Shelly said she and Mike are looking forward to their visit.
Please pray for Mike and Shelly to have a peaceful nights rest tonight. I know its hard leaving her, but it sounds like the level of care at the Center is very good. Lacey, my prayer tonight will be for you to stay strong and brave and keep remembering all the people you have in your life that love you very much. Liz K.
Lacey's roommate at the center has problems with her right arm too, so they can work on their arm exercises together. Shelly and Mike have to leave by 8:30pm every night, no if, ands or buts!! So Shelly feels more comfortable that she has a roommate to keep an eye on her. Her name is Fran.
Shelly said Lacey is doing pretty good today. She is starting to ask about her friends, she remembers Brianna and asked about Tyler Richardson. She asked me about my dog yesterday, not how's Harold or Christopher... Just, "how's Max doing?" So she is coming back to us little by little. I miss her after I leave there, so much. I wlll go back next week. You know, it's Shelly's 50th birthday on Tuesday. Oh no, now I am in trouble!! Oh well, what else is new!
Ken and Peggy are coming tomorrow. Shelly said she and Mike are looking forward to their visit.
Please pray for Mike and Shelly to have a peaceful nights rest tonight. I know its hard leaving her, but it sounds like the level of care at the Center is very good. Lacey, my prayer tonight will be for you to stay strong and brave and keep remembering all the people you have in your life that love you very much. Liz K.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Amazing Lacey
wow what good news about Lacey today
Lacey we are praying and wishing your recovery in the rehab will go smoothly and quickly, we love you lotsand Shelly
Liz is right let us help any way we can we are here ....
love you all
Rosie,Larry,Travis and Taylor
Lacey Update May 30
Well, it will be a heck of a long day today, but everything I have experienced has been worth every minute of it. I drove down from Gig Harbor at 5:30a this morning and met Shelly at the hospital. After a little visit with Lacey we were off to WOU. When we arrived at the dorm there was a huge poster with very uplifting messages on it to Lacey from all of her college friends. We packed up her dorm stuff...Now that girl has some clothes!! Thank-you Kendra and Becca, you are so kind and we really appreciated your help. We said we were thirsty after hauling all the stuff out to the car, so Kendra sprinted across the campus to get us bottled water. Ask and you shall receive, I had a talk with Shelly about that on the way down. It is hard for her, because she has always been the person that helps us with a huge smile. She said she would try.
Lacey is doing so well. Yes, she is in pain, yes, she has to struggle through her therapy, yes, she has trouble with short term memory things, but she is so strong and brave and she wants to get better. Her eyes were very blue and bright today. She will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow and taken to the Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon, where she will live and breathe therapy. The therapist evaluated her today and said 3 weeks in the center, now I caution things change, but that is incredible news.
Lacey received some beautiful flowers today from the Gould and Haag familys. The fragrance is awesome.
If you wish to send cards or care packages, you can send them to:
Lacey Dunn c/o Heislers
14611 NW Lilium Drive
Portland, OR 97229
Well gotta go, we are having a quick dinner with Jamie and Linda, then, back to the hospital. Linda is making us lasagna. YUM Lacey told us pasta would be her first dinner request, when she is able to eat. Mike was disappointed he thought she would ask for venison!! Right!! Take care Liz K.
Lacey is doing so well. Yes, she is in pain, yes, she has to struggle through her therapy, yes, she has trouble with short term memory things, but she is so strong and brave and she wants to get better. Her eyes were very blue and bright today. She will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow and taken to the Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon, where she will live and breathe therapy. The therapist evaluated her today and said 3 weeks in the center, now I caution things change, but that is incredible news.
Lacey received some beautiful flowers today from the Gould and Haag familys. The fragrance is awesome.
If you wish to send cards or care packages, you can send them to:
Lacey Dunn c/o Heislers
14611 NW Lilium Drive
Portland, OR 97229
Well gotta go, we are having a quick dinner with Jamie and Linda, then, back to the hospital. Linda is making us lasagna. YUM Lacey told us pasta would be her first dinner request, when she is able to eat. Mike was disappointed he thought she would ask for venison!! Right!! Take care Liz K.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Lacey Update May 29
Hello to All,
Shelly said they moved Lacey to a regular hospital room this morning. The room is very bright with a view of the river. A nice change. They are telling her Lacey maybe released sooner than originally thought. Possibly a few days. Like I have said before tho, things change day to day. They are talking about a rehabilitation center every day, 3 hours a day, for the next few months. So that is the direction they are leaning today.
Shelly and I are going to WOU tomorrow to pack up Lacey's dorm. It will be a good change of scenery for Shelly, but yet another difficult step.
Thank-you for all the prayers. They will be trying some physical therapy tomorrow and we need to pray that Lacey has the strength for that. The physical therapists are going to want to see what she can do. Through the grace of God, she will show them. Liz K.
Shelly said they moved Lacey to a regular hospital room this morning. The room is very bright with a view of the river. A nice change. They are telling her Lacey maybe released sooner than originally thought. Possibly a few days. Like I have said before tho, things change day to day. They are talking about a rehabilitation center every day, 3 hours a day, for the next few months. So that is the direction they are leaning today.
Shelly and I are going to WOU tomorrow to pack up Lacey's dorm. It will be a good change of scenery for Shelly, but yet another difficult step.
Thank-you for all the prayers. They will be trying some physical therapy tomorrow and we need to pray that Lacey has the strength for that. The physical therapists are going to want to see what she can do. Through the grace of God, she will show them. Liz K.
Monday, May 28, 2007
More Lacey Update May 28
I went shopping tonight to find Lacey some soft pajamas. Can you imagine being in that ol' hospital gown, clean or not for weeks. Anyway, I wasn't sure what would fit over her halo, plus I started to have a bit of a melt down, so I decided to leave. On my way out of Nordstrom, I saw the most darling Juicy Corture purse. Now you would only understand if you knew how Lacey and I love our purses. Anyway, I will be on my way to Portland with one very cute purse for Lacey. No, no pajamas or anything practical. So if you see some soft pajamas that will fit over a halo, in size small to medium, please send, because Auntie Liz is not so practical.
Liz K
Liz K
Lacey Update May 28
Family and Friends.
Now that Lacey is awake, Mike and Shelly are spending time with her in shifts, so one is always by her side. Mike takes mornings, they both do afternoons, and the Shelly spends the night with her. Shelly said when Lacey is awake, which is quite a bit really, she is pretty alert. She has to tell her things a few times because she tends to forget easily, but she is communicating quite well.
This is day 8 in ICU and we received good news today. Lacey will be transferred to a regular room either today or tomorrow. She will be able to receive flowers and gifts at that time. They are not sure how much longer she will be hospitalized. I expect a few more weeks. So much is decided day to day.
I will go back to Portland on Wednesday, so I may not have access to a computer. If there is not an update on Wednesday or Thursday don't panic!
Again, thanks so much for your kind words. I know Shelly and Mike would thank each one of you individually if it was possible. Just know it is really, really appreciated. Liz K.
Now that Lacey is awake, Mike and Shelly are spending time with her in shifts, so one is always by her side. Mike takes mornings, they both do afternoons, and the Shelly spends the night with her. Shelly said when Lacey is awake, which is quite a bit really, she is pretty alert. She has to tell her things a few times because she tends to forget easily, but she is communicating quite well.
This is day 8 in ICU and we received good news today. Lacey will be transferred to a regular room either today or tomorrow. She will be able to receive flowers and gifts at that time. They are not sure how much longer she will be hospitalized. I expect a few more weeks. So much is decided day to day.
I will go back to Portland on Wednesday, so I may not have access to a computer. If there is not an update on Wednesday or Thursday don't panic!
Again, thanks so much for your kind words. I know Shelly and Mike would thank each one of you individually if it was possible. Just know it is really, really appreciated. Liz K.
Lacey
Mike,Shelly and Lacey,
We are thinking of you every day and keep praying for you to get better and we know you will. Travis and Taylor every day come home and ask about you and check the updates they are very concerened for you ( of course in there quite way like you would be ) we love you and get better soon they will be waiting to play some cards with you .... keep up good thoughts and we will see ya soon .
our love to Mike,Shelly and Lacey
Rosie, Larry, Travis and Taylor
We are thinking of you every day and keep praying for you to get better and we know you will. Travis and Taylor every day come home and ask about you and check the updates they are very concerened for you ( of course in there quite way like you would be ) we love you and get better soon they will be waiting to play some cards with you .... keep up good thoughts and we will see ya soon .
our love to Mike,Shelly and Lacey
Rosie, Larry, Travis and Taylor
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Lacey update May 27
Lacey is awake. The nurses have given her a small amount of information regarding her injuries. She is not happy about the halo on her head, and wants to wiggle out of it. So hopefully, the information they gave her will make Lacey understand why she has to wear it. She had sips of water from a spoon and a few ice cubes. Shelly says she is not coughing as much. The Dr. came in and got her to move her fingers on her right hand. Hopefully she will be moved out of ICU sometime in the next few days if she continues to improve like she has. All of the life support equipment has been taken out of the room.
Of course, we want to pray for continued movement of her right arm....but there is some really hard stuff still ahead. It's hard for me to put into words, but I am certain everyone knows what I am thinking about. We know Lacey has everything and more, that it will take to get through, but she will question whether she does. God, please give her that strength. If anyone deserves it, it is her.
Have a safe graduation Ketchikan.
Liz K.
Of course, we want to pray for continued movement of her right arm....but there is some really hard stuff still ahead. It's hard for me to put into words, but I am certain everyone knows what I am thinking about. We know Lacey has everything and more, that it will take to get through, but she will question whether she does. God, please give her that strength. If anyone deserves it, it is her.
Have a safe graduation Ketchikan.
Liz K.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Lacey Update May 26
I just spoke to Shelly this morning. She had good news. Lacey's ventilator has been removed and she did well. The pneumonia has not progressed and she is getting a very small amount of movement in her right shoulder area. See, our prayers are working. Thank-you so much.
Shelly said Mike's sister Cheri just arrived, so she will be some added support for a few days.
The nurses commented on how polite Lacey is. Shelly sounds much better and stronger this morning.
Liz K.
Shelly said Mike's sister Cheri just arrived, so she will be some added support for a few days.
The nurses commented on how polite Lacey is. Shelly sounds much better and stronger this morning.
Liz K.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Lacey update May 25
Good Evening,
I am so glad everyone appreciates the Lacey updates. I know Mike and Shelly look forward to reading your comments when they get back from the hospital at night. They again, would like to let everyone know how much they appreciate your kindness. Paula, I have to say your words were so right on. Lacey has a very strong will and sometimes its frustrating but it is getting her through now. Thank-you JJ for sending your angels, Shelly said she just wanted to go home with them and curl up on their couch. The words of encouragement. love and support from Ed and Marcia, Aunt Nancy, Brenda and Jerry, Jamie and family, The Alaska State Troopers, Mikes work family, Janet and Manny and family, Rosie and Larry, Scott and Julie, the Scudero family, Debi Koons, Ernie and Koz for picking Mike up at Square Island, Russell and Jennifer, Will and Dana, Scott and Ronda, Kerri and family, Cheyan and Johnny for setting up the web site, Jed and family, Ron, Linda and Jill and of course, Mike has been speaking to his mom often, it's unconditional we know.
Lacey made progress today. They still have not been able to remove the venilator, but were able to insert a smaller tube. Hopefully, this will be more comfortable for her until they can remove it. The physical therapist came in today. She got Lacey into a chair for a little while. Lacey actually took 2 steps back to the bed with the help of the therapist. Shelly said the therapist was pretty amazed. There is bit of setback tho, Lacey has pneumonia. They feel they caught it very early and started her on antibiotics right away. The nurses have told her she has been in an accident, They also tried to get her to write, but she could only scribble because she is right handed and there is still no movement with that arm. Our prayers for the next few days could be for movement or an answer to why she still has not moved her right arm, the antibiotics to kick the pneumonia and the small ventilator to be removed, so she can communicate with us.
Mike and Shelly are admittedly tired, but Mike buys Shelly a big iced mocha every morning and she says that helps. Talk to you tomorrow. Liz K.
I am so glad everyone appreciates the Lacey updates. I know Mike and Shelly look forward to reading your comments when they get back from the hospital at night. They again, would like to let everyone know how much they appreciate your kindness. Paula, I have to say your words were so right on. Lacey has a very strong will and sometimes its frustrating but it is getting her through now. Thank-you JJ for sending your angels, Shelly said she just wanted to go home with them and curl up on their couch. The words of encouragement. love and support from Ed and Marcia, Aunt Nancy, Brenda and Jerry, Jamie and family, The Alaska State Troopers, Mikes work family, Janet and Manny and family, Rosie and Larry, Scott and Julie, the Scudero family, Debi Koons, Ernie and Koz for picking Mike up at Square Island, Russell and Jennifer, Will and Dana, Scott and Ronda, Kerri and family, Cheyan and Johnny for setting up the web site, Jed and family, Ron, Linda and Jill and of course, Mike has been speaking to his mom often, it's unconditional we know.
Lacey made progress today. They still have not been able to remove the venilator, but were able to insert a smaller tube. Hopefully, this will be more comfortable for her until they can remove it. The physical therapist came in today. She got Lacey into a chair for a little while. Lacey actually took 2 steps back to the bed with the help of the therapist. Shelly said the therapist was pretty amazed. There is bit of setback tho, Lacey has pneumonia. They feel they caught it very early and started her on antibiotics right away. The nurses have told her she has been in an accident, They also tried to get her to write, but she could only scribble because she is right handed and there is still no movement with that arm. Our prayers for the next few days could be for movement or an answer to why she still has not moved her right arm, the antibiotics to kick the pneumonia and the small ventilator to be removed, so she can communicate with us.
Mike and Shelly are admittedly tired, but Mike buys Shelly a big iced mocha every morning and she says that helps. Talk to you tomorrow. Liz K.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Lacey udate May 24
Shelly and Mike want to thank all for the outpouring of care, concern and most importantly your prayers. The prayers are working. Today she crossed her right leg over her left. Still no movement in her right arm. She is waking up and understands what is being said to her. Shelly went to grab lunch today, she said "Lacey, I am putting Rock Honors on TV and getting lunch." Lacey gave her the left thumb up. The ventilator is still in, they gave her more medicine to alleviate the swelling and if not able to remove it by tomorrow morning, they will insert a smaller tube.
They have received calls from WOU faculty, guests from Yes Bay Lodge, people they don't even know. Lacey made many friends in college this year. The boys that brought up the flowers to her were Carlos, Joey Dell and Vince Morin. Thank-you we will read her your note soon.
Shelly said she may start to post when she can. We will be looking forward to that.
Shelly and Mike are staying with her brother which is about 25 mins from the hospital. Of course Jamie, Linda, Jamie K and Tommy will take good care of Mike and Shelly. Liz K.
They have received calls from WOU faculty, guests from Yes Bay Lodge, people they don't even know. Lacey made many friends in college this year. The boys that brought up the flowers to her were Carlos, Joey Dell and Vince Morin. Thank-you we will read her your note soon.
Shelly said she may start to post when she can. We will be looking forward to that.
Shelly and Mike are staying with her brother which is about 25 mins from the hospital. Of course Jamie, Linda, Jamie K and Tommy will take good care of Mike and Shelly. Liz K.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Lacey Update
They still could not remove the ventilator due to swelling in her throat. Maybe sometime in next few days is Mike's hope. We did have a break through today. We have been concerned about her right side, but today she lifted her right leg up. Still no movement in her right arm tho. She woke up a few times today to a small degree and Mike asked her if she could see or hear him and she squeezed his hand. The nurses also put her in a recliner chair and she sat up for about an hour. Tho she is not really awake there are moments when we know she is there. She has had a few visitors, family members, the Jakubek girls and a few boys that brought her up some flowers in a Gatorade bottle, I will post the boys' names when I can get them from Shelly. Colton and his family have also visited. Of course Mike and Shelly appreciate the support from everyone. I think our prayers for the next few days should be looking for the ventilator to be removed, more movement on the right side and a peaceful awakening. I know we have prayers as far away as Oklahoma and Florida. If you would like to post something on this site or have questions, feel free to ask, and I will try to get back to everyone daily. No flowers boys.... but cards and letters can be sent to OHSU Patient: Lacey Dunn 3181 SW Sam Jackson Road Portland, Oregon 97239 Talk with you all soon Liz K.
Lacey
Lacey,
We are all praying for your recovery and to get well soon ,we are also here for you Shelly and Mike for anything you need .
We love you all
Rosie,Larry,Travis and Taylor
We are all praying for your recovery and to get well soon ,we are also here for you Shelly and Mike for anything you need .
We love you all
Rosie,Larry,Travis and Taylor
First blog update on Lacey's condition
We are hoping the ventilator will be removed sometime today. There is some swelling in her throat so they have to wait for that to go down before removing it. The swelling is caused by fluid build-up. Lacey is actually breathing on her own, but the tube is still in place. They are gradually reducing the coma inducing medicine and are hoping to wake her up in the next day or so. Please pray for the Dunn family, this step will be a difficult one.
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