Pinky's Blog

Thank You All

2010-03-16T12:05:00.002-06:00

Well,

I'm not sure if people are still looking at Pink's blog now that she is there, but I wanted to take a minute and tell all of the wonderful people who have been so supportive, THANK YOU. Pinky has some wonderful friends and now that I know her, I see why. She really is an awesome person and an amazing spirit to be around.
Pinky was fortunate enough to have a very good situation for healing and strengthening and that is because of all the support you guys gave. What we were able to do for her simply would not have been possible without all of her friends support. During the 16 months she was here, I never ceased to be amazed at not just the support being offered, but the consistency of the support. It was simply amazing and I learned a lot about life and relationships by just being near the Pink. You all rock and a BIG thank you again. Take good care of the Queen! The Beaver is Out.

Pinky is returning to New Jersey

2010-01-17T07:50:00.003-07:00

Sound the trumpets and alert the media, Pinky is coming home. Air plane tickets have been bought!!! She is doing much better, she is back to re-hab and swimming, but more important than that she knows that she needs to heal both physically and spiritually. For the spiritual part she needs all her wonderful friends around her.
Holly and Steve are going to fly her home in mid February. They will be staying in New Jersey for a week to help with the transition.

2010-01-03T15:15:00.002-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Pinky has been a bit better since she started the Antibiotics. Yesterday and today she went outside in the sun and called some old friends and worked out a bit. She is not were she was with her strength in October but hopefully she can get back to were she was and beyond quickly. The plans still are to come back soon. Gene is waiting with the house all ready. We will keep you informed as we all know it.
Sincerely, Beth

2010-01-01T14:24:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Sorry it has been so long since anyone has updated this. I(Beth) was here is October and when I left I didn't think I would be returning to Albuquerque to visit mom, Holly and Steve again. If I was back it was to pick her up or help her get packed, but I am back for a visit, this time I brought Page along.
Pinky wanted you all to know that she has had a major set back for the last 3 months. She has had a recurring bladder infection that she had to be hospitalized this past week for. The hospital sent her home after 3 days but she still is getting a intravenous drip for at least one full week maybe two. Her spirits have been really down for the last few months along with her health, she has been experiencing unbearable pain. This is why she has not called any of you and this is also why she has not come back to New Jersey. We are all hoping that she will be coming home in a month, if this round of anti-bio tics works then she will be starting her journey back.
We all would like to wish you a great New Year. We are praying for a better 2010 than 2009 for our-selves.
Pinky wants you to know that she loves you all, and thanks you for the prayer and love you send her. She would also like to know if the grand-children could please stop growing until her return.
Sincerely, Beth

Dear Friends

2009-11-16T12:18:00.005-07:00

Dear, Dear friends...Sorry it has been so long since I have blogged. I haven't been feeling up to par due to my urinary tract infections. I am getting so sick of being sick. It makes me beyond uncomfortable and very depressed. That is why i haven't called much. On a brighter side, I still am fighting like crazy to beat this tone thanks to steve and hollys hard work. For fun, I started driving the truck. I can do it. It was so exciting. I still don't want to drive where there is a lot of trafic. I am afraid after the fall. I have a lot of fears i'll have to overcome. Gene is coming out next week to help out. Steve's mom needs an operation. It will be a good test to see how well he can cope with my body. I want to come home soon but until i can handle this pain i have to stay here. I am seeing a doctor tomorrow to see if there is some medicine i can take to help me out. I am starting to use canes to walk instead of the walker. It is so much easier for me. Steve has been working realy hard to get my etsy store up and working so please forward it along to all our friends. I like to work when I can.

Update: (Steve's writing now) Pinky's made 3 days without significant pain. That's a really big deal for her. Her current UTI is responding to antibiotics now and we will begin a preventative measure when she's all cleared up. The doctors and all of us have strong hopes this will prevent the frequency of the UTI's. More than half of her battle has been overcoming the Tone which greatly increases when she has any sort of infection or really any irritation at all. She works really hard and makes truly incredible progress when all is well. When it's not, it's not and we focus most efforts on pain management and although she continues to work while sick, the Tone really hinders all efforts. It's a stubborn thing. The past few days have been amazing. It seems the new efforts to to tackle the tone may be paying dividends. I'm keeping my fingers crossed and remain optimistic. We were able to adjust her occupational therapy exercises today as her body was different than it has been...in a very good way. Her muscle position literally changes when things improve. She completed other exercises that were simply out of the question just days ago. And she's a really good driver.

A quick note to all of you supporting Pinky's efforts. Thank you, Thank you. I can't think of a better spirit to be helping. She has incredible will and gives it her all always. She inspires me daily and all of ya'lls thoughts and prayers inspire me as well. It's not always easy to keep people close to your hearts when they're away, so for all the die hard Pinky supporters, a big hug and thank you. I see your letters weekly and it amazes me and in many ways gives us all the strength and fortitude that's neccessary. It's easier when you're caring for angels.
SK

Regarding the etsy site: It's up and running at www.pinkyart.etsy.com. We are adding new things every chance we get. Please take a look and let all of her friends know. There is some pretty fun stuff there.

2009-10-25T18:41:00.002-06:00

Hello Everyone,

I (Beth) am back at Red Neck Rehab. I have been here for a few days, mom has another urinary track infection and it really hits her hard, both her body and her spirits. I and Steve are a little under the weather so the feeling is pretty grey, but mom still managed a 'Pinky Party' today she had 5 women over plus Holly and I we made a colage of who we are now and who we will be, it was very nice, I think all the ladies had fun.
What I can tell about her progress, is that she is building more stamina she can walk a lot better than last time and she can even take steps without any assistance (no walker, or person holding her). but the best news is that she has been talking about coming home for Christmas. WOW that would really be a great Christmas for me, hopefully some of you too.
Another note, on Nov 29th some of Holly's old friends and the family's, are gonna having a benefit concert for mom. The group 'Lizard Music' is going to have a re-union concert at the 'Down Town Cafe' in Red bank and our other friend John Kleiman's band 'The Rib Eye Brother's' is opening for them. It should be a great deal of fun. Mom is very moved that she has had such an affect on Holly's friends that they would think of her this way.

Pinky Encore

2009-10-06T12:02:00.006-06:00

Hi my dear friends. Thought you would like to hear what I have been up to. Not too much except working hard to get strong enoughto come home. I am getting depressed because I am not geting better faster. Today I pooped in my pants and I know I can not come home till I can get this under control. Holly and steve are so good to me. This past weekend we ventured out for a small day trip. We went to an artist town about fourty min away. We brought the poty with us...I hate wearing dippers, so it was fun pulling over four times. You will see from the pictures that the old pinky is back. I have made my coloring book. It will soon be up for all of you to see. I am really proud of it. I can not believe it has been almost a year since i have seen all of you. Some times it seems like it has been ten min and some times like ten years. i keep thinking it is still some bad dream i am caught in. i am very lucky though because with my injury i should only be able to move my head. It is all your prayers that have got me this far. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have to go and get to work. I have to practicing standing for longer periods of time. talk soon ,love to all

Pinky Live In Person

2009-09-22T13:18:00.005-06:00

Dear friends of mine,
This is a first for me. Steve thought it was about time I started to tackle something new for myself even though my hands feel like steel belts are crimping down on the joints I shall persevere because it is so good for me. I am tackeling new things every day so i can come home to the best life I have created thanks to all of you that have filled me with such awe. There is not a day that goes by where I still get a least five cards. I find that amazing. I am not the best writter in the world so I will just ramble on. Today started out strange for the first time in months I actually slept. Holly had to wake me up to give me my five oclock pain pill, it is a pill I still need to help control the spasms I hate taking any pills but i still need them. Ican not stand how long this body of mine is taking to heal. The doctors say it takes two years for the spine to get back. Every one thinks I am making great progres, but for me it is way to slow. I still am waiting to figure why this happened to me. I know that in rehab I am an inspiration to so many people and when I see some of them who are so worse than me I am grateful. I fell and hit my head really badly and i am lucky i did not get brain damage. I am setting my goal to try to come home by christmas. I will require alot of help. I still need alot of hands on stretching and i will need help going to the pool alot. I am hoping I can enroll alot of you to take turns to help me out. I have been a tremendious alot of work for holly and steve. I want them to get back to their lives. They have been in school for 6 years and then taking care of his dad while he was recovering from a neck surgery for almost a year. I started making a coloring book to help raise ssome extra cash. Pretty soon you can see what i am up to. Steve is working hard to get it up and working. I am doing my pet pictures in water color because that is all i can handle with the strength i have in my hands. once you all see whats available i am asking for you to pay it forward by emailing it to ten of your pet loving friends and then ask them to pay it forward. I got the idea from a dream what else is new. My hands are constantly feeling like they are being in a vice that is squezing my joints i hate it i need to work alot on getting my strength back i can barely pick up my pills . oh well time and hard work will over come this also. i am saying good by for now my arms are starting to hurt. know i love you all and i am working like crazy to return.

2009-08-25T10:50:00.002-06:00

Hello Pinky's followers,

I(Beth) am back in the ABQ, ready to give an update on the progress I see. As you all know Pinky had a couple of pretty rough weeks with her sprained ankle,but she has turned the corner for the better. Since I left she has been working hard on getting more stamina with her walking, when I left she needed a long board between her feet so that she wouldn't trip herself, and since her hands really didn't have much strength she needed a walker that could go under her elbows. She only could go about 150 feet then she would get light headed and winded. Now she doesn't need a board which is easier on Holly's knees, since she would be the one who was keeping it in place. She also has a low walker now since her hands are strong enough to hold her weight, they still get a little soar but she does it anyway. Pinky can go up and down the stairs at the rehab, she does this with a helper holding her but soon I am hoping she will do it alone. Also as you all know Pinky loves and needs to be in the pool, when I left she needed a life-vest, now she doesn't and she is working on walking in the pool without any walker, if she falls she knows she will not get hurt.
Pinky is getting antsy without working, so I think she is ready to do some animal portraits so get ready to send pictures out, you will be able to get them back in time for Christmas presents.
Hope you all are doing well in your lives,
Beth, (Pinky,s oldest daughter)

Pinky, You look GREAT!

2009-08-14T23:34:00.006-06:00

Hi all,

Things have been going pretty good here at RR. I say pretty good because Pinky is making good progress, but unfortunately the TONE monster has returned. Tone has been visiting for a few weeks now and we're all sure that everyone knows a 3 week visit is pushing the limits of hospitality, so we all expect that Tone is on the way out. Tone, by the way, is increased muscle tone to the point where it's not helpful. For example, when you and I lift a leg or arm, we contend with gravity only for the most part. Pinky is overcoming not just gravity, but the resistance of the increased tone within the muscle. She must move this weight first and then do whatever she's doing. It's super frustrating for her because she knows that without it, things would come easier and because it's uncomfortable at best and at worst resembles a charliehorse throughout the body for extended periods. Not fun.
Ok, now the good stuff. She cranked out 300 steps on the stairstepper: beginning with 20 and then 50 and then 70. That's day one. The next day, she stepped up with a bit of help and cranked out the 300. Topping off day one's success, she climbed a flight of stairs. Mean hospital, weird corridor stairs. 12 steps to a landing and then 13 more to the top. She needed a little help for the last run up. Regardless, STAIRS! IvyRose has set up an electrical stimulation program that we do on our own. Ivy has allowed us permission and guidance to use the machine, so we set aside some extra time during our day at the Rehab and have been been seeing some improvements in her hands.
It's a tough road and demands grit. The Pink Lady has grit. She battles for every inch and calls upon some unseen source for patience and fortitude the likes I doubt many of us have. Some days an inch is lost to be fought for again. She has many inches now and many more to gain. We all give thanks to the many wonderful people in our lives and the many we continue to meet. The people here and there have been exemplar and for some bad luck, it's pretty damn good.

HELLO

2009-07-22T00:19:00.002-06:00

IF YOUR LOOKIN' YOU CAN COMMENT!!!!
Mom feels people don't care anymore because we don't get comments anymore. Please comment.
Pinky needs her friends and support, this injury is long and hard and we need real long term support. So for crying out loud please write and comment.
Letters to 1125 Dartmouth NE
Albuquerque, NM 87106
thanks,
H.

Pinky Party!

2009-07-20T23:27:00.001-06:00

Having a little fun.

2009-07-20T16:07:00.002-06:00

Pinky has been having Sunday art parties at the house. Last week we had Wendy and Glenn (friends we made from the pool) and Gobind and Jim (the pool therapist "aquatic master" and her husband) over for Pinky fun. She taught them how to made roses out of sculpy and do lots of other groovie things. It's so nice to see Pinky being Pinky and doing Pinky things!!!

We had a wonderful surprise visit from mom's good friend Karen Herrick last week. Karen was on her way to Reno for a wedding and rearranged her flight so she could have a 6 hour layover in Albuquerque to play with mom. We didn't tell mom about about her coming and seeing moms face as Karen approached the front door was priceless. Thank you Karen for giving mom some company and making the visit possible.

Surprise visit!!!

2009-07-20T16:02:00.001-06:00

AquaEagle

2009-07-11T10:43:00.002-06:00

NoPunking???

2009-07-08T11:16:00.002-06:00

TheQueen

2009-07-06T00:23:00.002-06:00

Pinky's Angels

2009-07-06T00:09:00.004-06:00

Pinky hanging out in 'Old Town' in the Rehab with Holly and her Physical Therapist, Rose. She had to step up onto a curb to get there. Not bad. The other picture is of Ivy Rose, Pinky's Occupational Therapist, visiting us at the pool. Don't let her youthful good looks fool you. She's sharp, well educated, and dedicated. They both bring great energy to Pinky's re-abling. To all of us in fact.

DooDa...GreatDay

2009-07-05T23:57:00.003-06:00

Pinky standing around goofing off. You can tell how normal this is becoming by the general lack of enthusiasm from the background crowd. What's not so normal was Pinky walking to the car today to run some errands with us and then walking back into the house. No easy feat as our driveway has given way to tree roots and there's two not so easy ramps to navigate. She made it look pretty easy. And she transfered out of the truck by herself. She continues to amaze me with her strength and go get 'em attitude. Rock on Pink Pink! SK

PeaceOutBB

2009-07-05T23:50:00.003-06:00

B...You'll be missed. I guess I'll have to start washing dishes again. Beth rocks out and gave both Holly and I a little time off from our schedule at RR. We will all miss her and will be awaiting her return. SK

2009-06-26T19:36:00.002-06:00

hello everyone,
I am back in Albuquerque, it is raining here also so I wasn't able to escape it. I am writing to give my observation after 5 weeks of being away. wow, mom is really working hard as you all know but it is paying off. When I transfer her it is pretty easy, she can mostly lift all of her body weight, I am there for balance and guidance. when I was here last she would walk with her walker but with a lot of effort, she needed 3 people around her helping, now one person is needed just to spot her. Pinky is working on stamina, and still rebuilding muscles that have been weakened by lack of use.
This week I was able to accompany mom to pick up a 'Jazzy' this is a motorized wheel chair, so far she is loving more Independence, we put her in it and she doesn't have to wait for anyone to push her. The first day she got it she took it out on the street and met an artist who is a neighbor hopefully they can get together and play. This weekend we will use it more and let you all know how she did.
Pinky's daughter,
Beth

Fun Pics

2009-06-20T13:23:00.006-06:00

3 blogs in a day?

2009-06-20T11:35:00.002-06:00

Ok, so we're not very good at posting to the blog. But 3 post in a day? Well, it's actually kind of raining here today and that kept me from working in the yard preparing the Queen's grounds (I'm trying to get the ground leveled and ready for Pinky's kiddie pool: it is redneck rehab after all). And besides, I've really been wanting to get everybody up-to-date. Pinky is walking with the walker really well and things have been going really good. I'm hesitant to say it, but everyone has told us that the recovery is usually exponential in nature and I really feel we are approaching that spot on the curve where it begins to climb quickly. She's a damn hard worker.

We are going to try to maintain the blog a bit better. Perhaps in more of a photo essay kind of way rather than writing. It's faster and more interactive as you guys will have to make up your own version of the story that way. No guarantees of course, but we'll try. SK

Wow!

2009-06-20T11:11:00.003-06:00

Pinky wanted us to post these 'statistics.' Mostly, she loves the letters and support and wanted you guys to know why it's hard for her to be around the phone.

Since Pinky came home in January:

164 hours of supervised therapy. (i.e., with the therapist at rehab)

540 hours of self-initiated therapy.

90 hours changing diapers, or adult briefs for the more sensitive readers.

360 hours intermittent catheterization.

30 hours taking showers at rehab (since sometime around March).

30 hours in the soaking tub (we've only had it for about a month).

60 hours driving to and fro'.

45 hours digi-stemming. If you don't know...don't worry about it.

1800 transfers of Pinky's butt to an eclectic mix of surfaces.

We generated about 5000# of garbage and recyclables.

And she's been asleep for about 1620 hours.

So, please keep the letters coming and the phone calls. They really give here a lot of energy and passion to keep working hard. A lot of people in Pinky's situation simply decide not to do the work that's necessary and never get to the point she's already at and certainly not to the heights we will reach. It takes an incredible amount of work and perseverance and wherewithal. After each knew challenge has been met, there's another waiting and people of less character and strength simply get worn out by it all. Understandably so. Though we have some of that in very briefs moments, she's a trooper and is always up to the challenge. Simply amazing! She wanted me to tell you guys, she loves and misses everyone very much and is working hard to get back to her life. SK

What's Pinky Been Doing?

2009-06-20T10:19:00.010-06:00

A typical day in Pinky's world:

10:00 a.m.:
"Family." Pinky's up and usually calls out, 'family,' to let us know she's awake.

10:00 a.m -11:00 a.m:
Morning hygiene and phone calls back to Jersey and Gene.

11:00 a.m-12:00 a.m:
Stretching regiment and Bonnie Hunt on the T.V.

12:00 p.m-1:00 p.m.:
Usually Pinky has some snacks and we drive to rehab.

1:00 p.m-6:00 or 7:00 p.m.:
Depending on the day, Pinky is either working with her Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist or working out at home. In between, we run whatever errands we have. Pinky has begun going into the grocery store to pick out her own food. It turns out she's a great driver of the big 'phat' electric carts with the baskets attached.
At some point during this time, we usually go swimming for an hour or so and have a shower at the rehab center. Most of the pool time is spent working out and fine tuning mechanical skills necessary in walking. We try to allow her some free time to visit and swim around. She's a hard worker though, and rarely takes us up on it. She does, however, really enjoy the pool and the independence it affords. If time allows and she's feeling good, we take advantage of some of the equipment the rehab center has and we work out on our own.

7:00 p.m -9:00 p.m.:
Like everyone else, we normally have dinner and try to veg out with the T.V.: usually, a network series rented from netflix or a movie and who knows what's for dinner.

9:00 p.m-10:30 p.m.:
It's bath time at R.R. Pinky usually gets into a soaking tub around 9 or 9:30 and hangs out for an hour or so at about 99-100 degrees. Of course, being R.R., we have T.V. available in the spa room, so she normally continues the movie while in the tub.

10:30 p.m-11:30 p.m.:
Once again, like most everyone else, we prepare for bed with many nightly rituals.

11:30 p.m.- 10:00 a.m.: Pinky's in Pinky land, usually dreaming of kicking it with Bonnie Hunt, or doing some light carpentry work building herself a house. Some nights she plays with Jack and Will in her dreams. Other nights she paints or drives her car around town. Tonight, who knows what Pink will be up to....

Variations:
Some days are different than others. But that's pretty much the routine.
The weekends are different, but she continues to work out albeit, perhaps a bit of a lighter work out. We try to have some fun on the weekends, inviting friends over for Pinky parties or going out to the movies or for snacks. Holly and I fear that we're not as much fun for her as all of you guys in Jersey, but we manage to laugh a lot and we have a pretty good time.
As for her pain management, she's been doing really well. The soaking tub and pool really seem to help with the spasms as long as the water is warm: at least 90 degrees to swim, with 92-94 being ideal and usually around 100 degrees for the soak. When she does have significant pain, the routine changes and revolves primarily around management and dismissal of the evil spasms and tone. Otherwise, we're kicking it and rocking out at R.R. SK

Pinky in New Mex

2009-06-10T20:49:00.002-06:00

Pinky's kicking BUTT!

2009-06-07T21:23:00.002-06:00

Hi all,
It's been a while since our last post as we've been busy keeping up with Pinky. There has been a lot of progress and many 'first' since the last entry. Her pain levels have been much more manageable and as a result, she has really started working hard. We usually average around 4-5 hours of working out per day both here at R.R. and Lovelace with her two therapist, Rose and IvyRose. I'm short on time as we are off to get Pinky in her soaking tub and get ready for bed. I just wanted to let you all know she is doing really well. We have begun Pinky games again as well as Sunday art days with our neighbors kids and friends, so that ought to tell you something. SK

2009-05-28T23:50:00.000-06:00

great things from Albuquerque

2009-05-28T23:45:00.000-06:00

2009-05-06T17:07:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone,

I have been away from Pinky for 6 weeks. The progress as all of you have seen with the video that Steve and Holly posted last, is quite impressive. I did a transfer (moving her from bed to chair or chair to pool etc.)with mom when I got here and her improvement is huge, Last time I was here I would have to lift all of mom's weight this time only about 20% she lifts the rest of her weight. It was so great to see such improvement. Now mom really needs to work on all of her small muscles too(core muscles) she needs all these so she can move around in bed and get out of the bed. When I was here last, mom had so much pain that it really broke my heart, this time the pain is down to a minimum, which keeps every ones spirits high. Because of the pain she was experiancing she got spasms which brought her arm progress way back, her arms have alot of tone(muscles are tight) they are getting better now with everyones efforts but I must tell you all, it is a battle of epic poportions, her progress is slow and tedious, 2 steps forward one step back. Since mom wakes until she gets into bed about 8 or 9 at night they work, mom wants her life back, so we all know if you want something bad enought, it isn't just gonna happen, you got to work for it. Thanks for all her letters and prayers they are always welcome and they work with her spirits.

Pinky's daughter,
Beth

Little Dove Nesting in the yard

2009-04-26T22:27:00.008-06:00

Spring has sprung here at Redneck Rehab. The Spring winds have reminded me that another year has past and so much has changed. Pinky came to visit last March and I keep thinking what should have been done differently. My lovely mother...
well oh well, shouldn't dell in the past.
This Spring a cute little dove, whom we call Peachie due to her peach head, has decided to make a nest right out side our kitchen window. New life. We think she is a new mother because her nest is small, a little shabby and the branch she's on is a bit shaky. Not the work of a seasoned dove. We look forward to seeing her every morning that she still sits and waits for her chics to come. Here's looking at you Peachie!
Pinky has been kicking ass and taking names this week!!!
Just today she stood up on her own from a high-low mat into a walker. Huge move. THEN in the same therapy session she walked with really minimal assistance in her legs for the first time. Rose just held her waste but Mom's leg movements were all her own. Hot Dog!!! If everyday were like today I would kneel down and become a nun or something. Go Pinky.
These past two weeks or so have been so amazing, Pinky has gotten her power back. New magic and movements everyday, thank you universe.
I hope, God do I hope and pray, that we are in an upward swing and Pinky is on the road to recovery. We met two men at rehab this week, Elkrider and Frank, that I believe have inspired Pinky to work harder. These gents work out all the time and their recovery has been markable. Her work ethic is stronger and she's always exercising. It's either the guys or her wanting to get back to her great life in NJ. Either way, Pinky is the queen of patience and pose.
God save the queen!!

Pinky walks!!!

2009-04-17T22:14:00.004-06:00

Standing God

2009-04-11T14:24:00.005-06:00

Mom's therapist came to the house this week with her youngest son Gabe. He was so taken by mom that he went home and made her a "Standing God". This God takes chocolate treats to help mom stand up and walk. The God has legs of steel so mom will be strong like bull and starting walking around. Too cute. We went to the pool at rehab 4 times this week and are planning to keep it up an a weekly bases.
Mom had a great week, less pain and more strength. Hip-hip-hooray.
Gene arrived today so mom has some better company than just the regular staff at Redneck Rehab.
I'll try to take pictures of mom the "Aqua Eagle" this week, it's so great to see her floating around relaxed.
hugs and kisses,
Holly

Swimming!

2009-04-06T22:07:00.003-06:00

An extra special thanks to all who attended mom's "funraiser" last week. Pinky cried for 3 hours straight while watching via hidden camera. I can't even imagine how much love she felt while watching all those amazing people gathered just for her. THANK YOU ALL FOR MAKING MY MOM FELL SO LOVED!
On our front this week; Pinky got to go into the therapy pool for the first time Friday. Wow, what a difference no gravity makes. She was like a like guppy swimming around feeling her body out of a bed or a wheelchair. We have paid to use the pool 3 times a week and went again this afternoon. It helps so much to loosen her muscles and to feel weightless. Another added bonus is the shower room after that we have use of. Pinky hasn't been bathed with full on water since December. Our bathroom is too small us to transfer her into. But don't get the wrong idea, we DO bathe the beloved Pinky with bed bathes. It sounds so horrible to say she hasn't showered in 3 months. We are looking into our local YMCA to see about swimming everyday.
Mom's therapist Rose made a house call today (don't tell her boss) with her two amazing boys . Being at home made mom feel so comfortable verse being at the rehab hospital. The florescent lighting effects her and the whole vibe of the place brings her down so working out at home was great. Thank you Rose, Xavier, and Gabriel for coming over to play.
Pinky's pain level has been manageable for the past few days and she has been sleeping well. Let's keep praying for more better days. Thanks again for all the love.
-Holly

2009-04-05T20:31:00.002-06:00

Wow, this has been a really big week for Pinky and family. This past Thursday night most all of my mothers friends and family got together to help raise money for her recovery, to say that the night was a success is an understatement. There was about 260 people who attended, it was held at the Merri Makers in Sea Bright, the room was set up beautifully, I have been there for weddings before, but the room had a completely different feel to it, much more cozy. Because of modern technology and the efforts of Lori Schoenig, Sophia Kho, and Sarina Tu (and many others) my mother was able to attend via. the Internet, there were 2 cameras that showed Pinky live feed from the party, one in the back of the room and one by the stage. Her being able to see everyone there did so much for my mothers recovery, I know it in my soul. She misses her beautiful life in New Jersey so so much this gave her a real sense of how much she is loved, I know she will work that much harder to get back to everyone. So from the bottom of my heart I would like to say thank you for everyone who attended and of course everyone who was involved in the orchestration and execution of the event.

Sincerely, Beth

Red Neck Fun

2009-03-29T18:24:00.002-06:00

Since the weather here in Albuquerque as been so wonderful we have hired Jeff, our transportation tech., to transport Pinky around in her very own trailer. Via la Rojo Neck.

Still hoping and praying in Albuquerque

2009-03-29T16:19:00.003-06:00

Greetings followers of the great Pink one,
Another week has past and it feels more like a year than just days. Mom has been up and down, some really bad pain then other moments of peace. A few mornings ago she had whole body spasms that made her curl into the fetal position and she thought her bones where going to break. Poor mommy. But things seem a little better since then so who knows. We have moved up to mega pain killers and they seem to be helping when nothing else will.
The days here are boring for mom, she has just a rich a wonderful life in NJ but here it's just me and Steve to amuse her. I fear that Steve and I are sort of losers and don't keep much company but luckily our neighbors on both sides are very kind and like to visit with mom.
I am forever optimistic about moms recovery but when the doctors said slow I really didn't nor could have imagined anything this slow.
Pinky also continues to be positive and optimistic but when the pain is unbearable she speaks a different tune. Please continue to pray and send magic healing energy to my amazing mother.
-Holly, Case Coordinator at Red Neck Rehab.

Roller coasters suck.

2009-03-19T23:54:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone,
It's been a really rough 2 weeks. Mom's been in a lot of pain and has been recovering from a bad urinary tract infection. We've had better days. Her infection has causes those damn spasms to come all the time and her whole body is so stiff and tight. Mom's physical therapy had to slow down due to her pain and therefor has causes her to lose some muscle mass and strength.
I have to honor mom's physical therapist Rose Vallejo, this wonder woman is a saint. Rose is taking a week off from work for her children's spring break but is going to come over to our house to continue therapy with mom without pay during that week. She even offered to stay late so Steve and I could go on a date. Wow! I love Rose.
I hope and pray to write better news soon. I apologize for miss spellings and poor grammar on this blog but our time is better spent tending to Pinky.
All my love and gratitude to all who love my mommy.
Holly

Pinky and Steve doing some hand therapy. Most acivities bore mom so we have to try to make things fun.

2009-03-12T12:28:00.001-06:00

Hello

2009-03-12T10:34:00.003-06:00

Hello,
The past few days have been rough. Pinky has yet another Urinary Tract Infection which causes bad spasms and sleepless nights which in turn means she doesn't do her physical therapy. We've missed two days this week with Rose and I'm hoping we can make it tomorrow. Everyday in bed sets her back so it's hard to balance her healing and getting her up and out to do exercises. I hate this cycle!!!
Beth has been here since Saturday and has yet to see Mom at her best. We have 5 good days then a few bads days. I know this isn't a recovery of a straight upward slope function like x^2 but I really wish I did have a mathematical equation to predict the out come.
As a reminder, Pinky's Fundraiser is coming and tickets need to be purchased in advance because food is being served. Please send your RSVP to:

Admission: $40 per person

Reservation: By mail by March 25
Make check payable to Andrea Adubato
(Pinky’s legal name) and mail to: Lori Schoenig,
23 Mitchell Place, Little Silver, NJ 07739.
Include names of persons attending, address, phone, and email. Indicate if you plan to bring gold fo cash.

Can’t come? Donations welcome.
CHECKS AND CASH ONLY.
Sponsor a page to wish Pinky a speedy recovery.

Thanks everyone for your continued support and love.
Holly

2009-03-10T14:16:00.011-06:00

Hi everyone,

I just got into Albuquerque Saturday, after being away for 6 1/2 weeks, the difference I see in my mother is in her spirit. When I was here last time I tried to have a couple of times to talk about the future and mom was not having it! This time she is open to more than one day in advance, I see this as a wonderful advancement. Physically she is also getting better, she is starting to have a lot better control of her body, her mussels are still weak so that is what everyone is focusing on, getting stronger. (I never really got that we have up to 2000 different mussels, and mom has to work on them, almost one at a time.)

It is great to be back with her,Holly and Steve. Holly and Steve have basically put their lives on hold to take care of Pinky, I am extremely grateful to them as I am sure my mother is too. An average day consists of getting up at 5:00am for pills, most likely changing of her briefs also because she is voiding quite often at night. At 9:00am is when we start to get her out of bed but first she needs some more pills and a little breakfast which usually a yogurt and a shake. 10:00 is out of bed and starting with exercises, Steve is her drill Sargent he is wonderful with her since he is not her child she can not manipulate him as easy as she does with Holly and I. They work out for about 4 hours, it is not consecutive, in between she has lunch and needs to be chatherdized 3 times a day. When she is not doing something she tries to nap since keeping her energy up is key. Mail comes late in Alberquerque about 4:00, this is a really big time for Pinky she loves to read her mail from her great friends and family. At night we put her back into bed for dinner and she really enjoys TV.

This was a day without going to re-hab. When going to re-hab they still work out at home but it is mostly stretching they do not want her to get too tired out. They have to put her in the truck, Steve up to now is the main transfer person (he lifts her by him-self, by using balance and her own weight.) Mostly re-hab is at 12:00 and 2:00, 1 hour for Physical therapy and 1 hour for occupational therapy with an hour in between to rest, this is when they usually run out for lunch at either McDonalds or Burgerking and they all have something on the $1 menu. Re-hab is three days a week the other four days are at Holly and Steve's. Holly also spends many hours ordering supplies and calling Dr.'s, Therapists, massage Therapists and so many other peoples.

I thought you should know why Pinky doesn't have time to call her friends, it is because she is very busy getting better.

I will be here for the next few weeks and I come out as much as I can to take a little stress off my sister and of course to help my mother. Gene and I usually switch spots.

Pinky's oldest daughter, Beth.

250 ft. and counting

2009-03-07T10:16:00.005-07:00

Hello everyone,
This was a great week for Pinky! The end of last week was difficult due to lack of sleep and a bad stomach flu that I had. It's hard when the care giver gets sick but thanks to Lunesta and a few days of eating dry toast things are back on track. Pinky hasn't sleep well in the 4 months since her accident. We've tried Ambien and she would still wake up every hour. Last Friday we tried Lunesta and hip-hip hooray Pinky finally sleeps. She wants to buy stock in the company.
Tuesday at rehab Pinky showed amazing strength and was able to stand on her own (with the help of leg braces) for a few minutes. This is a far cry from about 6 weeks ago when she would either vomit or faint or a combo of both. It's hard to mark the daily progress when you're in the thick of it. It's kind of like when your dog gets fat, you don't realize it till someone comes over and says "wow, your dogs really fat". Like watching your hair grow.
Thursday Rose her therapist did a test called the STANDARD NEUROLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION OF SPINAL CORD INJURIES. Muscles are tested and scored between a 1 ( the lowest) and 5 (the highest). Pinky scored a 3+ on most leg muscle groups which is all she needs to walk. She may have to wear leg braces but thats nothing compared to her lack of mobility about 2 months ago. Great news!!! Her left foot is a little non-responsive to testing, perhaps the nerves aren't communicating well there yet but whats a few toes in the big picture of things.
Friday, Mom walked the best she ever has and the furthest. She's initiated most steps on her own and showed more control of her moments. When I say walk I mean she has a table in front of her to support her arms and Steve and Rose are holding her on either side and kicking her feet forward but it's a start.
Her arms have been the cause of most pain and frustration. She was doing so well but now the muscle spasms have turned her arms into a tight mess.
Beth returns tonight for a 2 week visit and Gene leaves tomorrow. My house feels like a hostel. All are welcome.
Peace and love,
Holly

2009-02-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

There’s No Place Like Home
A Fundraiser to Benefit Red Bank Artist
• • • Pinky • • •

Thursday • April 2, 2009 • 7-10pm

Merri-Makers at the Waters Edge • 1465 Ocean Ave, Sea Bright, NJ

Local artist Pinky suffers from an incomplete spinal cord injury from a hiking accident a few months ago in New Mexico. The fundraising is to assist her recovery to bring her home to her beloved communities in Red Bank. Visit Pinky’s blog at:

Click your heels and play for Pinky while you enjoy a casual, fun-filled evening!

• Art and photography for sale

• Live, silent, and Chinese auctions

• Cash for Gold – Bring your unwanted gold jewelry and get cash on the spot.
Jewelers will donate 10% of their proceeds to Pinky.

Live music • Light food • Cash bar • Complimentary wine

Admission: $40 per person

Reservation: By mail by March 25
Make check payable to Andrea Adubato
(Pinky’s legal name) and mail to: Lori Schoenig,
23 Mitchell Place, Little Silver, NJ 07739.
Include names of persons attending, address, phone, and email. Indicate if you plan to bring gold fo cash.

Can’t come? Donations welcome.
CHECKS AND CASH ONLY.
Sponsor a page to wish Pinky a speedy recovery.

For questions, basket donations, and sponsorship, contact:

Lori Schoenig: lorischoenig@comcast.net

Sarina Tu: pinky.stu@live.com

Paul Fleming: pjfleming3@hotmail.com

2009-02-25T16:12:00.005-07:00

Mom is resting for a moment from her aggressive physical therapy with our own therapist Steve. Bike riding, leg lifts, leg swoops and such. Her muscles are slowly gaining strength and coordination. She gets tired quickly so we rest and then continue until she needs more rest.
We will return to work on her arm therapy in a few minutes.
I wanted to share pictures of our surprise visit from baby Olive this morning.
How can you have a bad day well this is the first thing you see.

Working out is fun,

2009-02-25T16:12:00.001-07:00

Another day

2009-02-24T22:34:00.003-07:00

Hello,
Another day here at Red Neck Rehab, the weather has been strange as is this whole scenario. We hit 73 degrees and the neighbors daffodils bloomed last week.
We saw Dr. Turner today (the neurosurgeon)and all good news. Mom's spin is healing nicely, as the doctor put it "she'll always has an abnormal x-ray of her spin" but that's OK with us if she recovers. Psss.. don't tell anyone but her T-9 is compressed and may look odd in an x-ray. Speaking of x-rays, Sunday we took a new set and forgot to take out two bobby-pins in her hair. The technician taking the x-rays was really concerned about the strange pins in her head until we all realized what they were. Humor comes in the oddest of places some times.
Mom is continuing to walk with her leg braces at therapy twice a week with the aid of her therapist and Steve. Today she walked about 130 ft. with slow confidence and speed. Anyone who knows mom will knows that she is a fast walker so trying to maintain her natural speed while remembering how to walk is a challenge.
Gene arrived Sunday and is falling back into pace here at Red Neck Rehab. It's easier for me and Steve because we haven't left this situation but for people coming and going it takes time to get back into the swing of things again.
Moms pain comes and goes. Last night was really rough and has set her back a bit. The spasms cause her whole body to tighten up that it takes days to return to a more relaxed workable state. Her arms were doing so well but now they are tight and stiff. She barely has any range of motion and it hurts too much even to move them. We have upped her spasm medication so hopefully she will find some relief.
Mom's good friend Lori is hosting a fund raiser on behalf of Pinky on April 2, 2009. I'll keep you posted on that in the near future.
Again, thanks to all for all the love and support.
Holly

An apple a day keeps the codes blue away.

2009-02-18T23:30:00.002-07:00

Hello Pinky fans,
We had a chicken day today. A message, good work outs at home and some fine rest. Jane's company has been wonderful. I've had the honor of having the Hofer sisters in the house for the past week. Jane brought pictures of their parents and cousins and we've been traveling down memory lane.
Our latest goal here at Red Neck Rehab is to get Pinky's stamina going. She gets tried so easily but slowly and surly she is getting back to business. We have been concentrating on getting her core muscle mass strong and remembering how to use the secondary muscles to aid in the process. I never thought about how to walk or move so much in my life but oh boy is it hard to get up and out of bed. We are all so lucky! Let's have a moment of thanks...

Go Pinky.

2009-02-16T20:53:00.003-07:00

Greetings earthlings!
We had a good day here at red neck rehab. Mom had a wonderful message that released a lot of the tension in her arms and shoulders. My Auntie Jane has been visiting and the 4 legged staff at red neck rehab is pleased as punch. Jane is amazing with the doggies and I'm am so thankful because they have been quite neglected. Mom had a great day!!! She is showing more strength and confidence in her body movements. Thank you Jesus!! We were given a number of a man that had a similar injury as mom from a therapist at rehab last week, we spoke to him and heard his story. After 7 months of feeling nothing below his waist he is now walking, chasing his children around and even climbing ladders. He offered his number to other people who needed hope and hope he did provide. Thank you Aaron Begay.
On another note, both of my neighbors have had babies born this past month. Aryan and Doug gave birth to baby Olive born Jan. 16 and ironically baby Andreas Hofer (mom's maiden name is Andrea Hofer) born Feb. 14 to Matthew and Scarlet. New life all around us!!! We enjoy visits from baby Olive as she is too cute for words and we all know that mom loves the kiddies. I feel mom as been given the opportunity for her own "re-birth". Let the queen thrive in her glory.
All my love,
Holly

2009-02-15T19:47:00.002-07:00

On Feb 12 2009, Thursday Pinky's sister Jane came out to Albuquerque to visit her sister and to lend a hand at the Red neck rehab. Jane jumped right in to lend a helping hand, walking the dogs, shopping, cleaning and just being great company to her sister. Thursday and Friday of this week Pinky had Rehab with Rose and Ivy Rose, they are using her new leg braces to walk, they are working on quality now instead of quantity. Saturday and today were workouts at red neck rehab. Tonight, Sunday they are watching "Enchanted" it is Pinky's 14th viewing of the movie but Jane had not seen it yet, for any of Pinky's friends who have not seen it yet, I recommend you do so, unless you are waiting for her to watch it with you too.

Biped

2009-02-08T18:33:00.002-07:00

Pinky walked approximately 100' on Friday. Under the direction of Pinky's primary Physical Therapist, Rose, we have finally assembled what appears to be a great team. Her PT and OT therapist are working together and coordinating all efforts to facilitate Pinky's re-abling. All of Pinky's muscles are firing when called upon and though there is daily and visible strengthening, she remains fairly week due to the longevity of the healing process. The good news is that the muscles and the brain are communicating. We can work on muscles.
The day following Pinky's 100 yard dash, Rose and the other therapist custom fitted braces to help support her weight while she builds the necessary strength. On Friday, Pinky was both anxious to try them and a little nervous. The first attempt she walked about 18', followed by another 30', and then the long mad dash after a brief rest. About halfway through the last walk, something changed and was readily visible. Pinky's posture improved and the rhythm steadied and then she was off...it was literally like a spirit entered into her body and we all struggled to keep up with the pace she set. Her blood pressure held steady and oddly enough, we didn't even need chap-stick. She told me afterward that it was like a bolt of lighting entered her body and her brain said, 'oh yea, I know how to walk.' And she did. And walked pretty damn good. Saturday morning she awoke and seemed a bit down. When asked about this, she said she she wished she didn't have to wait until Tuesday to get back to the gym. And trust me, that's a first. Friday afforded her her own belief that walking is in her future independent from our own words of encouragement. Sometimes we all need to see things for ourselves to have the faith needed and she experienced it first hand. We'll see how Tuesday goes.

On a different note, I'd like to say to all of Pinky's friends that more than anything, I think it's your guys love and support for her that gives her the strength she shows and the strength she needs. We have good days and some rough ones and when things get frustrating, I think it's the wonderful life she has waiting for her and all the love you all have shown that keeps her going. Nobody knows where we will end up with all of this, but what seems evident to me is that Pinky will remain Pinky. One step at a time...or in Pinky's case, perhaps two or three.

From Redneck Rehab, Steve

2009-02-05T22:48:00.002-07:00

This picture was taken a few days before the accident. God I pray for things to be different. Mom is really frustrated today. She's in pain, having spasms and is getting overwhelmed at the reality of this terrible thing. It's going to take a lot of hard work on her part to walk and regain mobility. It isn't easy. Her therapist said that mom will recover as much as mom is willing to work at it.
Strange to look at this picture of Pinky because she looks younger now than before. Go figure.
This is hard for everyone who knows and loves Pinky. Gene leaves tomorrow and that is causing some sadness for mom.
Anyone who wants to come to Albuquerque for a visit and help cheer Pinky's mood is welcome. The weather this winter has been amazing, we have extra beds and there is plenty to do.
Let's keep praying for my beloved mother.

2009-02-04T20:27:00.003-07:00

The queen!
The new acupuncturist seemed to do wonders yesterday. Pink isn't in as much pain as before and the spasms in her legs haven't reared their ugly head today.
We went to a restaurant after her message today, The Standard Diner, which we saw on the Food Network the night before. The meat loft was good as well as the Po'Boy Crab Cake Sandwich.
Another day with Rose the physical therapist and yet another new therapist, Ivy Rose tomorrow. I fear we may have gotten her last occupational therapist fired today. We have high standards here at Red Neck Rehab. My boyfriend may be my cousin but that doesn't mean we don't want the best for the queen.
Peace and love from the forgotten state.

Yet, another day...

2009-02-03T21:17:00.002-07:00

Poor Pinky is hurting more than usual. Spasms overtake her body and stiffen her whole body up. This spinal cord injury is difficult to understand. We seem to move forward then backwards real quick. I blame the urinary tract infection or maybe just the natural process of healing this type of injury. I wish we had a manual on what to expect everyday and know how to handle it but we don't so we just pull our pants up, try to make Pinky smile and we go on.
I pray that tomorrow brings a chicken day and some pain relief to my dear mother.
Maybe we can all do a chicken dance in her honor?!
Thanks mucho from the Red Neck Rehab. Please keep cards coming, it's a great escape for Pinky: Pinky Adubato , 1125 Dartmouth NE , Albuquerque, NM 87106.
Let there be light.

Another day

2009-02-02T17:34:00.003-07:00

Hello everyone. The past two days have been what we call feather days, good days are chicken days and bad days are feather days. Pinky has been really cramped up and sore. She isn't sleeping due to the fact that she is urinating about every hour at night and Gene has to change the diaper. Strange because she doesn't pee during the day just all night long. Let's all start praying that Pinky gets return of her bladder sooner than latter. Pinky has contracted another urinary tract infection from the catherization process of removing her urine manually with a tube. I should get an honorary nursing degree after all this is over. At least I have more skills to add to my resume.
Some of Pinky's friends are working on putting together a charity event for her some time in April, so I'll keep you posted on that.
Pink's getting acupuncture, cranial therapy and a message this week. Hopefully something can help relieve the pain she is in.
All our love from the Red Neck Rehab.

Turtle free and lovin' it!

2009-01-30T17:52:00.003-07:00

Today was the first day without the turtle!!! Pinky's attitude was amazing as she cried with joy that she never has to wear that damn turtle again. We thanked the turtle for doing it's good and told it to not let the door kick it's ass on the way out! Good day turtle. 3 months of wearing that thing, I can only imagine. Tomorrow we return to Lovelace for more therapy with our angle Rose.
Go Pinky!!!

2009-01-29T22:38:00.002-07:00

Late night at the rehab. Pinky is really stiff and sore tonight, reminds me of a picture I made for her at the hospital. The Princess and the Pea. She's packed into bed tonight with tons of pillows and some nights it's just never quite right. She worked so hard today that I guess it only makes sense she's hurting. You can theorize the situation all you want but it still sucks to see your mommy in pain. Let's all keep the good mojo flowing and lets get Pinky better. Go team Pinky!

Pinky Walked Today!!!

2009-01-29T19:23:00.003-07:00

Great news from Red Neck Rehab: Pinky went to our sister rehab, Lovelace Rehabilitation Hospital, to work with her therapist Rose and she walked 13 feet. They wrapped her knees with the most high tech. equipment around (notice in picture: cardboard and duct tape). With just a little help she managed to move her legs and walk. Pinky cried with joy as today really gave her hope that with a lot of hard work she will be rehabilitated. Pinky and Rose really bonded today which will help mom's mental attitude towards this whole progress.
GO PINKY!!!
We just ate some Greek food and are going to watch some TV and celebrate Pinky's amazing first steps to recovery.

2009-01-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

The amazing Pinky

2009-01-27T17:39:00.002-07:00

Pinky and Steve. I guess the Red Neck Rehab has a new mascot, The Beaver. Pinky went to rehab today and no code blue!! She got a little faint but the therapist learned her lesson and put mom down for a few minutes. She's pretty tired now and is watching some TV to float away into another world for a little while. I spoke to the neurosurgeon's nurse today who ahvised us that mom can start sleeping on her side once the turtle is off. Pink is very excited since she's had to sleep on her back for the past 3 month. The staff at the rehab is also excited because we hope this will quite the insane snoring that Pink produces. For such a lovely woman she sure can knock back some zzz's.
Pinky is enjoying Gene's company and they enjoy late evening rendezvous while Gene changes mom's diaper.
All in all, things are good, everyday a little better. Yesterday we went out to eat at a restaurant and Mom was so great. She's not letting the wheelchair or back brace get in the way of enjoying life. My mom is so amazing, every moment I'm in awe of her spirit. God save the queen!!

Sunday in the culd-de-sac

2009-01-25T19:29:00.002-07:00

Mom spent part of the day at the local kiddie park watching children playing and laughing. We've been on the look out for our local road runner but no luck today. Pinky is doing a little better everyday and I can't wait for Saturday to throw that damn turtle way!!! Pinky seems to be more relaxed when we don't have to go to the rehab hospital but let's all pray she find her strength to overcome each and every fear.
Another week to conquer...

Saturday Night Fever

2009-01-24T21:07:00.002-07:00

Another day at Red Neck Rehab, it is Steve's Birthday and in typical Pinky fashion we celebrated all day long. Steve (my boyfriend) has been invaluable to Pink's recovery. He has personally taken on building all equipment Pinky might need to recover quicker.
These past few days have been full of adventure...
A "code blue" at rehab that ended with 5 hours in the emergency room only to confirm that Pinky fainted again and that her heart and blood work was completely normal. This injury is strange because Pinky is healthy but has odd side effects to her injury like low blood pressure that can end up with fainting which is quite scary to witness but manageable if you know what to do, head back, feet up. Pinky continues to look forward to all the loving cards everyday so please keep them coming!!!
All our love and thanks for all the support we have been receiving.

2009-01-19T15:14:00.003-07:00

Happy MLK day, hopefully many of you are having a nice day off. Pinky is working hard every day, yesterday Gene came in and Pinky wanted to show off all of her new moves, so it was a good day of PT at the Red Neck Rehab. We have herd that it is really cold back home, the weather in Albuquerque is so nice the temp. is about 55 degrees and the sun is so warm, Mom likes to sit out side in the sun for a while during the day, the neighbors usually come out and chat for a while. On one side of Holly's the neighbor just had a baby on Friday, she had it naturally in her home with only her family, the mid-wife came about 20 minutes after the birth. For everyone who knows Pinky they know that this has been a great event for her spirits. Well it's time for us to do some more PT.

2009-01-17T20:28:00.002-07:00

Today was Saturday and we did go to re-hab at Lovelace. We met Rose, the 4th P.T. person that mom has been placed with. I hope she is the last because she is by far the best out of the 4. She will be seeing her Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. I believe that the prior 3 physical therapists were overwhelmed with mom's condition. Rose has had 15 years of spinal cord injury patients. Today Rose placed mom on a table that lifted to almost were she was standing, then she rocked forward and back, with Rose and me spotting her but she put her weight through her legs. It was a very good workout. I am confident that mom is going to be up soon. Along with every one's prayers we might have to thank Mc Donald's too, she has a new craving for fast food. Tomorrow Gene is coming in about 3:00 we are all happy he is back, but no one as much as mom.

2009-01-15T10:39:00.002-07:00

This morning Pinky got up early and told us to get her out of bed, so this feels like it is going to be a banner day. She is next to me and she would like to post her own blog so her she is; I would like everyone to know that it was your prayers that have been getting me better (ahead of schedule). I want to thank everyone for all your generosity, I am even overwhelmed how loved I am. Know that I can not wait to come home and spoil everyone rotten. Please keep the cards coming I LOVE them. Yours truely, Pinky.

2009-01-13T19:11:00.002-07:00

Well we met with Dr. Turner today and it was all good news! The swelling in her neck has gone down and her mid-back looks so good that he said the brace can be removed in 2 weeks. I believe that her healing has been so good, mostly thanks to all of the prayers she has received from all of her wonderful friends. Now it is up to Pinky, she has to do a lot of hard work to re-circuit her nerves system so she can use her arm and legs again, but I am sure the prays will still be wanted and welcomed.

c-spine MRI, my mommy is so pretty

2009-01-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

2009-01-12T20:28:00.002-07:00

Greetings from Red Neck Rehab. Today Pinky was showing her inner red neck by demanding McDonald's for dinner and lunch. We feed her what ever she wants since an appetite isn't something she has had. We met with a new physical therapist today, Leslie. Scheduling has been a nightmare since Pinky isn't sleeping because she keeps peeing all night. Peeing in bed is GREAT in her case because this means the bladder is starting to work on it's own. Good for Pinky's bladder but bad for Pinky and the rehab staff that have to wake up and change her multiple times a night. Skin break down (bed sores) is enemy number one so keeping Pinky's skin clean and mean is a priority here at the Red Neck Rehab. Pinky had an MRI yesterday (oh boy). Tomorrow is a big day, we meet with doctor numero uno, Dr. Turner her neurosurgeon at 1 pm. He'll hopefully will give us an insight on how much longer Pinky will have to where the damn turtle brace. Pinky HATES the brace, who wouldn't. Womens liberation has given women the freedom from girdles but poor Pinky is confined to a hard plastic bustier. Lets hope the turtle shell can be burned sooner than later. Thanks to everyone of Pinkys friends, she misses all of you so much. I believe missing her friends is the hardest thing for her to deal with. I'm sure our continued constant company may get a little dull. To another day to conquer...

2009-01-10T20:00:00.003-07:00

Today is Saturday at the 'Red Neck Rehab'. Pinky did her physical therapy on the P.T. table that Steve made for her. We got new exercises yesterday at rehab. At rehab they put her through a very vigorous workout, she did great, no matter how hard it is for her she does it, she wants to get better. Some of her exercise are to sit on the edge of the P.T. table and find her center of balance and sit by her-self with out any aid. She also has leg exercises and many arm and hand. For the last week Pinky has been experiencing muscle spasms in her hands and wrist this leaves her hand very stiff. The doctor yesterday upped her medication for this it seemed to help last night and today. Spasms, we have been told, are signals that the brain is sending information to her limbs but the signal is interrupted so the body spasms, to try jump start the connections.
My partner, Page is leaving us tomorrow for a week so the quality of the blog is most likely going to drop since he has written it up to now.

2009-01-10T18:19:00.001-07:00

Rosie, Pinky, Page and Reggie

2009-01-07T18:13:00.005-07:00

Pinky went to outpatient rehab today for about 2 hrs. The Physical Therapist evaluated her flexibility, and stretched out all of her muscles. She also gave us a set of exercises to perform at home to make sure that all muscles are excercised to keep her body in balance and make sure that the muscles that get used often don't overwhelm the muscles that are used infrequently. She perscribed a minimum of 5 minutes per hour of these exercises as well as 5 minutes of sitting up in bed balance exercises.

We talked to Minnie the Director of the rehab facility, former Colonel, and straight shooter. She gave us the useful tip of the day, "The bed is our emeny". Meaning, stay out of it as much as possible.

After rehab we drove around Albuquerque for about an hour and a half sightseeing.

Reggie has begun to make friends with the Steve and Holly's dogs. This is a big step for him.

2009-01-06T17:15:00.002-07:00

today mom needed to go get her blood tested, we got her in the car and Holly got the blood tech to come to the car to take it. This allowed mom to have more energy so we drove town and stopped at an Indian reservation. We got back to the "red neck rehab" in time for mom to get a wonderful massage. We are going to have dinner together and do a little more P.T.

Summary from 30 Oct 2008 - 4 Jan 2009 (Read from bottom of page to top)

2009-01-04T21:51:00.011-07:00

2009-Jan-04 Sunday
Pinky is sore from the previous days PT and sleeps in. She’s up in the chair at 12:00 and stays up until 6:00. She is now able to help fold some of the smaller laundry which includes ~100 washcloths.
We have dubbed Holly and Steve’s house “Redneck Rehab”. Steve finishes construction of a wooden PT table with wheels and we bring it in the house and rearrange the furniture to accommodate it.
Today the spasms have subsided, whether it is due to the cranial sacral work or her own body recovery who cares, today was a better day.

2009-Jan-03 Saturday
Pinky is a little banged up today and thinks she might have overdone the PT on Friday. She pushes through and does PT in the morning and OT in the afternoon. She has a cranial-sacral therapy at around 6:00 PM. She is having some spasms in her legs and arms.
The family wraps up the day with another episode of “Brothers and Sisters”. Note. This television series is not recommended for the homophobic.

2009-Jan-02 Friday
Friday was a good day including an hour or so of PT in the sun. A short ride around the neighborhood in the wheelchair and several hours of OT at the table.

2009-Jan-01
Gene returns to NJ today after a month in ABQ caring for Pinky.
Rehab begins first thing New Years Day. Beth, Holly, and Steve are providing round-the-clock care for Pinky and well as performing physical therapy and occupational therapy. Steve turns out to have a great aptitude, enthusiasm and positive attitude towards the difficult tasks at hand. Everyone in the family is showing great strength and compassion under these trying circumstances.

Today was Pinky's first full day at Holly and Steve's house.

The day went well. Pinky spent a couple of hours in the New Mexico sunshine this morning where she relaxed and then did some PT with coach Steve. Highlights including throwing a rubber ball into a 5 gallon bucket.

In the afternoon Pinky did some OT and watched a slideshow of Beth, Page, and Reggie’s drive to N.M.
Dinner was mesquite smoked burgers.
We wrapped up the evening with a family viewing of the series "Brothers and Sisters"

2009 is off to a good start. Tomorrow is another day!

2008-Dec-31
Pinky leaves Rehab. The rehab center she is in is a state of the art facility but is not allowed to take in long term patients. The family has to decide whether to place Pinky in a nursing home or bring her to Holly’s house and continue rehab and care on their own. After visiting the nursing home, the decision is made that Pinky’s best chance for recovery is to bring her home to Holly’s house.
Pinky arrives at Holly’s house at around 2:00 on New Year’s Eve.

2008-Dec-30

2008-Dec-29
Beth, Page and Reggie arrive in Albuquerque. Beth notices great improvement in Pinky’s physical wellbeing, during the month that she has been away.

2008-Dec-28
2008-Dec-27
2008-Dec-26
Beth, Page and Reggie set out for Albuquerque. Pinky has requested that her beloved dog Reggie be brought out to help with her rehabilitation. Reggie, as many of you know is Beth and Page’s incredibly cute but ill-tempered Chihuahua.

2008-Dec-25
2008-Dec-24
2008-Dec-23
2008-Dec-22
2008-Dec-21
2008-Dec-20
2008-Dec-19
2008-Dec-18
2008-Dec-17
2008-Dec-16
2008-Dec-15
2008-Dec-14
2008-Dec-13
2008-Dec-12
2008-Dec-11
2008-Dec-10
2008-Dec-9
2008-Dec-8
2008-Dec-7
2008-Dec-6
2008-Dec-5
2008-Dec-4
2008-Dec-3
2008-Dec-2
2008-Dec-1
2008-Nov-31
2008-Nov-30
2008-Nov-29
Beth returns to NJ.

2008-Nov-28

2008-Nov-27
Gene travels to Albuquerque to help with the care of Pinky.

2008-Nov-26
New medicine is tried for spasms. Roboxin. In rehab, with assistance of an apparatice with counterweights draws her first 3 post-accident portraits.

2008-Nov-25
2008-Nov-24
2008-Nov-23
2008-Nov-22
2008-Nov-21

2008-Nov-20
Beth returns to Albuquerque.

2008-Nov-19
Gene returns to NJ.

2008-Nov-18
This is the first night that someone from the family doesn’t spend the night with Pinky.

2008-Nov-17
Pinky contracts an urinary tract infection from her catheter.

2008-Nov-16
Pinky’s neck brace is removed. Pinky is having some muscle spasms. Neurontin is prescribed.

2008-Nov-15

2008-Nov-14
Pinky is released from the hospital and admitted to Lovelace Rehab. Center.
Pinky finds the rehab environment much more soothing than the hospital.
Stipulation of being in this rehab facility is a minimum of 3 hrs. of rehab/day. This is very difficult for Pinky at this time. She puts in the effort because this facility is her quickest road to recovery.

2008-Nov-13
2008-Nov-12

2008-Nov-11
Gene arrives in ABQ.

2008-Nov-10
2008-Nov-9
Beth returns to NJ.

2008-Nov-8
Pinky starts taking Percocet and it is working for the pain. Dr. brings in copies of the MRI for the family.

2008-Nov-7
PT. All doctors visited today.
Current drugs: Morphine, Oxycontin, Dexamethasone, docusate sodium, famotidine, bisacodyl, Lovenox, Pepsid, colace, Coumadin.
Talked to doctor because pain medication wasn’t sufficient.

2008-Nov-6
Dr. Davis come in and switches Pinky from injected blood thinners to orally administered Coumadin. Blood tests are required for tests every 2 days initially and every week thereafter.
Pinky is fitted for compression stockings. The family is told to exercise her arms and legs passively every hour when not sleeping. She was also given a machine to blow into to exercise her lungs and prevent pneumonia.
Pinky has a neck brace put on.

2008-Nov-5
MRI’s results arrive and reveal that Pinky has suffered a neck injury. There is swelling in the neck that has caused damage to the spinal cord.
This was the first day of Physical therapy. Therapy entailed determining the ability to determine which parts of her body were being touched while she kept her eyes closed. Most of her perceptions of the places touched were incorrect at this time. Therapist says that these perceptions will get better over time.
Thoracic Support Shell (Turtle) is fitted and manufactured for Pinky. This device is basically a removable body cast that she must wear whenever she is not lying flat in bed. Once the turtle was in place the therapist attempted to bring Pinky to a 90 deg sitting position. Pinky’s heart rate dropped to 29 and she passed out.
Met with Neurosurgeon and he informed the family that the broken vertebra at T9 would not require surgery at this time. If there is still pain in the future the vertebra could be fused without major loss of motion. He stated that he would re-evaluate the neck after rehab and surgery may be necessary if blockage still remains.
Pinky is put on heavy steroids to reduce swelling in her neck.

2008-Nov-4
Pinky has surgery to install a filter in her artery to stop blood clots coming from the legs and prevent the clots from traveling to her upper body.
Pinky has low blood pressure which drops when we try to raise her to the sitting position in the bed. She also has low blood oxygen and requires external oxygen.

2008-Nov-3
Pinky is taken out of the ICU and moved to a semi-private room.

2008-Nov-2
MRI’s are taken. There is swelling in the neck that has caused damage to the spinal cord. She has very limited use of her arms and legs but has feelings in all of her extremities. The doctors are optimistic and say that there is a good chance of recovery but it will be a long road and a lot of work. Pinky is in a lot of pain; she can’t walk, sit up or move herself significantly in bed. She doesn’t have control of her bowels or bladder.

2008-Nov-1
Pinky leaves the ER and is admitted to the hospital and put in ICU.
Thus begins many long nights spent in the hospital by the family providing comfort to Pinky and getting few hours of restless sleep in stiff hospital chairs.

2008-Oct-31
Pinky continues in the ER. The Hospital is minimally staffed since it is the weekend.
Pinky’s daughter Beth immediately flies out to help.

2008-Oct-30
Pinky is spending a wonderful week visiting her daughter Holly in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Holly and her boyfriend Steve are in graduate school studying architecture at the University of New Mexico. Pinky wanted to spend more time with Holly and has been making regular visit over the past year or so. As the visit nears its end, Holly, Steve, and Pinky decide to spend a day in an area of natural hot springs near Santa Fe. They described the day as one of the most wonderful and beautiful days they have ever spent. The day was spent relaxing in various natural pools under the cloudless New Mexico sky. As the day winds down they leave the springs and start to head back to their car. At some point during the journey back Pinky loses her footing, gains momentum going downhill, veers off the trail and takes a serious fall. She is badly injured. Steve goes down to check on her and immediately tells Holly to go for help. Holly runs down the trail and eventually catches up with another person who had left the hot springs a few minutes earlier. He drives her towards town until they can get cell phone service. Eventually a rescue team arrives at the scene and determines that the severity of the injuries necessitate a helicopter rescue. By this time the day was winding down and daylight was fading. The first helicopter arrived but was unable to land due to the waning daylight. Eventually, a second helicopter arrived with night vision gear on board and Pinky was evacuated to UNM hospital. This was approximately 2 hours after the accident. There isn’t room on the helicopter for Holly and Steve so they make the 2 ½ hour drive back to the hospital in Albuquerque. Once at the hospital Pinky is evaluated. She has a deep 3” cut on her forehead, a broken nose and a cut lip. During the fall she had tumbled several times and was eventually stopped by coming face to face with a large rock. X-Rays reveal that she also has a cracked vertebra in her back. At some point in the emergency room Pinky complains about pain in her chest. The machines that are attached to her immediately alarm and she is rushed to another area of the ER to be revived. She had flat-lined. A few minutes later the doctor greets Pinky’s return to consciousness with the comment “Welcome back.”