Sunday, December 26, 2010
BOULDER DAILY CAMERA 12/25/2010
'Miracle Michele' prepares for a return to Superior home
Mother of four's life forever changed after freak accident in Mexico
By John Aguilar Camera Staff Writer
Posted: 12/25/2010 04:53:29 PM MST
Mother of four's life forever changed after freak accident in Mexico
By John Aguilar Camera Staff Writer
Posted: 12/25/2010 04:53:29 PM MST
Michele O Donnell, right, gets a kiss from her daughter, Alyssa, while her son, John III, and her sister, Amy McAlister, left, sit with her outside her hospital room at the Mapleton Rehabilitation Center at Boulder Community Hospital earlier this month. Michele suffered a severe brain injury when she slipped and fell during a family vacation in January. ( MARTY CAIVANO )
How to help Donations to the O'Donnell Family Fund can be made in person or by mail to:
1stBank
500 S. McCaslin Blvd.
Louisville, CO 80027
Account No. 868-290-1625
Visit http://www.miraclemichele.blogspot.com/ to read about Michele O'Donnell's life over the last 11 months. Donations can also be made on the blog via PayPal.
Michele O'Donnell has been trying for 11 months to get back to her Superior home.
The journey has been slow and wrenching: Michele, 42, has been through seven hospitals in two countries, undergone five brain surgeries, and twice came within a whisper of death.
But her family says the dream of having the once-vibrant mother of four back in "her domain" on Alma Lane could finally come true next month. That's when she's expected to be released from Boulder Community Hospital's rehabilitation wing, where she's trying to re-learn the most basic living skills after suffering a critical head injury when she slipped and fell during a family vacation.
"I can't quite say the home runs the same without her," said John O'Donnell, Michele's husband of 20 years, who has barely missed a day visiting his wife since her January accident. "She loved to entertain, she loved to cook, she loved to take care of her kids."
On a recent afternoon, Michele pointed and smiled at her two daughters and two sons as they milled around her hospital room. Her husband and eldest son helped her from a wheelchair to a bed, where she folded one hand over the other and looked longingly at her family.
Each day brings improvement and reason for the O'Donnell family to hope that everything will be a little closer to normal again. Michele can eat solid food now, string together rudimentary sentences, and even walk a few dozen feet with help. She smiles and weeps and
Michele O Donnell gives her husband, John, a thumbs-up after he helped her into bed at the Mapleton Rehabilitation Center at Boulder Community Hospital earlier this month. At left is their son, Billy. ( MARTY CAIVANO )
But she has a long way to go to become the person she once was.
Dr. Julie Stapleton, a doctor at the Mapleton Rehabilitation Center who has worked closely with Michele, said Michele's injury -- an acute subdural hematoma -- was severe, and the complications she endured during her long recovery have taken their toll.
"She won't be 100 percent again, but I can also promise she will get a lot better," Stapleton said.
She said Michele's chances for significant additional improvement are bolstered by the amount of attention and love her family has shown her.
It's a level of love and commitment her family plans to continue giving her as long as she needs it.
'I heard a crack'
On Jan. 27, John O'Donnell was resting in the living room of his family's timeshare in Cancun, Mexico, when he heard a sound he'll never forget.
"I heard a fall and I heard a crack," he said. "Then nothing."
He rushed into the bathroom and found his wife lying on the granite floor bleeding profusely. She had slipped on a wet spot and landed on the back of her head.
Paramedics rushed Michele to the local hospital, where she underwent 51/2 hours of surgery to relieve pressure on her brain. She slipped in and out of consciousness and breathed on a respirator.
"She was fighting for her life," John said.
That fight continued for the next month in Cancun and the next two months at Jackson Memorial Trauma Center in Miami. Some days were better than others, and some were simply horrible.
In late March, Michele had several seizures and her brain began to exert five to seven times its normal pressure. She didn't wake up for three days. Doctors removed an abscess from her brain and she lapsed into critical condition and remained unresponsive for weeks. She had to wear a mouth guard to keep from biting her tongue.
The next month Michele stopped breathing while her 14-year-old daughter Alyssa visited with her. "We almost lost her twice," John said. At
Michele O Donnell gets a kiss from her son, Billy, as she receives acute care in a Cancun, Mexico, hospital about a month after slipping and striking her head on the floor during a family vacation. (Courtesy of the O'Donnell family)
In mid-December she was admitted to Mapleton Rehabilitative Center in Boulder.
Michele's body has been under incredible wear and tear during the last 11 months. For most of that time, her head has been shaved of her long blonde hair to make her brain accessible to surgeons and doctors. Part of her skull, which had inexplicably been lost by medical personnel at the hospital in Miami, has been replaced with a titanium flap. She takes up to 15 medications a day to stave off brain headaches, pain and seizures.
For Michele's sister, Amy McAlister, the tragedy of Jan. 27 brings her deep sadness. She remembers a person who never had time to rest or be idle. Aside from running a busy household and overseeing four children ranging in age from 8 to 18, Michele worked with her husband at his business and equipment financing firm in Arvada.
"The girl never sat still," McAlister said. "If it wasn't doing stuff around the house, it was doing stuff for others. She always had lists, always had things she had to get done."
While Michele has been stilled from her busy life, her family and friends have taken delight in the improvements of the last couple of months.
Steve Smith, a family friend, said he was floored this past autumn when he noticed Michele express emotion for the first time in eight months. She winked at him as he read the newspaper to her and smiled ever so slightly, as if she could understand what he was saying.
"It was almost like she re-entered her body," he said.
Since then, Smith has seen Michele, who now has a short crop of golden hair, take her first steps and crack her first jokes.
"There's a fight inside of this lady that you can't believe," he said.
Astronomical bills
But the fight for life hasn't been cheap.
John's business has had to take a back seat to his wife's well-being. Meanwhile, the medical bills for Michele's care have climbed into astronomical figures. The O'Donnells' home in Superior was foreclosed on in mid-December.
"I've had to take care of her medical needs, so I had to let the mortgage go," John said.
Despite the foreclosure filing, the family hopes to remain in the house for the foreseeable future. John moved ahead with renovations, making the bathroom and master bedroom wheelchair accessible. He is trying to figure out if he needs to install some kind of lift or elevator in the home.
"He's wiped out," said Smith, who fears that his friends won't be able to remain in the house for much longer.
Even so, John recently took over for Smith as president of the Rock Creek Homeowners Association, a move Smith described as his friend's way of staying busy and staving off depression. John also started a blog called "Miracle Michele," in which he documents the struggles, and the increasing delights, that have unfolded over the last 11 months.
John said he places his trust in God and draws off his Catholic faith for inspiration and the will to go on. The result is a man who greets everyone with an infectious energy and warm smile -- the rare person who seems devoid of pessimism.
He said his wife -- and high-school sweetheart (Michele graduated from Boulder High while John graduated from Regis Jesuit High School in Aurora) -- supported him when he lost a kidney to cancer. Now it's her turn to receive his undying love.
"She never left my side and I will never leave her side," he said. "We'll figure it out. If I have to get five jobs, I will."
John said his children have been instrumental in keeping the household running in Michele's absence. Their oldest son, 18-year-old Billy, has had to shoulder much of the burden of caring for the family. The Monarch High senior, who is bound for the Navy, said his mother's accident thrust him into adulthood sooner than he could have ever guessed.
"We help each other out to make meals, to get to school," Billy said of his siblings. "I'm glad this was pushed on me. It made me grow up."
Going home a year later
Now the family thinks of nothing but bringing Michele home. If she is released from the Mapleton center in Boulder at the end of January, as expected, she will have spent a full year away from home.
"We're all excited for her to be here at this next level," said John, caressing his wife's arm outside her hospital room as she sat up straight in her wheelchair. "Normally you don't want to see someone crying. But in this case, it means you're living, you're getting better."
John has asked friends and family to wait until 3 p.m. every day before visiting Michele so she can put all of her focus on getting better.
McAlister said her sister walks farther and farther every day, pushing herself through the pain and frustration of making her body work again.
"She cursed and screamed and cried through the whole thing, but she did it," McAlister said of a recent physical therapy session.
Smith said he doesn't know how long it will take, but he's confident that one day his friend will be her old self again -- funny, buoyant, tireless and ready to welcome someone into her home for a delicious meal and an evening of grand conversation.
"The truth is that I believe that Michele will recover 100 percent," Smith said. "I think she'll amaze everyone."
Contact Camera Staff Writer John Aguilar at 303-473-1389 or aguilarj@dailycamera.com.
Read more: 'Miracle Michele' prepares for a return to Superior home - Boulder Daily Camera http://www.dailycamera.com/news/ci_16933998#ixzz19BWvG9ec DailyCamera.com
Thursday, December 23, 2010
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE O'DONNELL FAMILY
Merry Christmas from The O'Donnell Family
As you all know 2010 brought our family a tragedy that has kept us on our toes throughout the entire year. We started out the year with "Hope". Hope that our Mother and wife would make it through the day, week, month and ultimately the year. Our Faith kept us strong during trying times when we just were not sure what the outcome would be. Our Love for each other grew even stronger than ever before and when you add them all together we ended up with a year of Faith, Hope and Love that resulted in a Miracle from our Lord. Our Family is truly blessed this year.
Billy now 18 has grown up so much this year and has become a gentleman. He recently finished high school and is preparing to head off to the navy early next year. Billy is a waiter at local restaurant and enjoys skiing twice a week.
Tana is 16 and now has her drivers license and is a Junior in high school. She has a boyfriend and works at an Ice cream store at the mall, babysitter and hangs out with her friends.
Alyssa is 14 and is in 8th grade. She has been doing great in school to prepare for high school. Alyssa is also a babysitter and enjoys hanging out with her friends. She is still our little artist of the family and she is painting many pictures. She has taken a special interest in her Mothers care and I will not be surprised to see her someday working in the health care industry.
John is 8 and still the smiling joy in our house. He works hard at school work and plays every spare minute with the neighborhood boys. Legos, dart gun wars, Xbox, WII are some of his favorite things to do.
I spent the entire year in hospitals praying next to my wife. I watched her for 6 months as she continued to get worse and worse and while I never gave up Hope I continued to pray by her side and ask God to give her back to her family. I watched my children grow up quickly this year and I was amazed and proud on how well they responded to every battle we faced as a family. They flew out to Florida the week of Easter as I felt that their Mother may not make it and all of them handled it well and the week we spent together in the hospital will never be forgotten.
Michele will attend Christmas Eve mass with the family and she will be home Christmas day to spend the holiday with her family. Michele should be home on January 27th exactly 1 year after her fall and we are blessed to have her back.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Miracle Michele, John, Billy, Tana, Alyssa and John John
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
UPDATE 12/22
I can't help but write a little note about my visit with Michele this afternoon. I arrived at 3:05 today, and Michele was grinning from ear to ear, telling me that she just got her feed tube taken out 10 minutes ago! She showed me her bandage (see the great pic), said that it hurt, and also said that she was supposed to have PT any minute . . . and that Dr. Stapleton told her just to rest for the remainder of the afternoon. She also just got her period, so between that and the feed tube removal, she was NOT going to PT. (You know what I was thinking . . . WE'LL SEE!)
Heather, the physical therapist came in right on cue and Michele got very upset saying that Dr. Stapleton told her to rest. Heather checked this out and told Michele that Dr. Stapleton had not said this . . . and then the real fun began! Michele got very upset, but after Heather calmed her down, and I told her that maybe I could watch her session and see what she could do, she started smiling and looking to prove herself. I said that there was no way she could be in enough pain that she was smiling at the same time, so she whipped her legs off the side of the bed and pushed herself up so that she was sitting on the side of her bed. She sat up very tall on her own and I was just amazed to be able to see this progress from December 9. She was supporting herself completely, with feet on the floor. Very cool.
Heather first stretched out Michele's right foot and leg, which was really tight. The two of them had a conversation regarding the tightness and the fact that this leg was looser than it was just yesterday. Then, Heather put her wheelchair in front of her, with handles facing Michele. Michele tucked her feet in a bit and with just a little of Heather's help, stood straight up, holding the handles. It was beyond amazing. There was no crying . . . only smiling! I wish I had my camera to show you how she did this. Her hips are still a little tight so her butt was out a bit, but the rest of her body was straight and tall. After standing for about a minute, she reached back towards the bed and sat back down. Then, it was up again to a standing position. She did this three times and on the third time I stood in front of her . . . looking at her eye to eye . . . something I told her we hadn't done in a year! It was so cool and she was smiling! She said "I'm going home to be with my girls and boys!" That's the truth!
After she got back to bed I told Heather that this is Michele's new bar - that she can work through ANYTHING, even the pain of her period and after having her feed tube yanked out! Her headache was only at a 4, which was lower than I've seen in a very long time. She looked great and obviously felt great. The only thing that's bugging her now is that darned eye patch. Amy came in and then an old family friend, Ann Williamson who volunteers at the hospital on Tuesdays. Michele was very talkative and it was a great visit! I left at 4:30 so Amy could give Michele her manicure treatment. And did I mention, NO FEED TUBE!!!!!!!
Cindy.
Heather, the physical therapist came in right on cue and Michele got very upset saying that Dr. Stapleton told her to rest. Heather checked this out and told Michele that Dr. Stapleton had not said this . . . and then the real fun began! Michele got very upset, but after Heather calmed her down, and I told her that maybe I could watch her session and see what she could do, she started smiling and looking to prove herself. I said that there was no way she could be in enough pain that she was smiling at the same time, so she whipped her legs off the side of the bed and pushed herself up so that she was sitting on the side of her bed. She sat up very tall on her own and I was just amazed to be able to see this progress from December 9. She was supporting herself completely, with feet on the floor. Very cool.
Heather first stretched out Michele's right foot and leg, which was really tight. The two of them had a conversation regarding the tightness and the fact that this leg was looser than it was just yesterday. Then, Heather put her wheelchair in front of her, with handles facing Michele. Michele tucked her feet in a bit and with just a little of Heather's help, stood straight up, holding the handles. It was beyond amazing. There was no crying . . . only smiling! I wish I had my camera to show you how she did this. Her hips are still a little tight so her butt was out a bit, but the rest of her body was straight and tall. After standing for about a minute, she reached back towards the bed and sat back down. Then, it was up again to a standing position. She did this three times and on the third time I stood in front of her . . . looking at her eye to eye . . . something I told her we hadn't done in a year! It was so cool and she was smiling! She said "I'm going home to be with my girls and boys!" That's the truth!
After she got back to bed I told Heather that this is Michele's new bar - that she can work through ANYTHING, even the pain of her period and after having her feed tube yanked out! Her headache was only at a 4, which was lower than I've seen in a very long time. She looked great and obviously felt great. The only thing that's bugging her now is that darned eye patch. Amy came in and then an old family friend, Ann Williamson who volunteers at the hospital on Tuesdays. Michele was very talkative and it was a great visit! I left at 4:30 so Amy could give Michele her manicure treatment. And did I mention, NO FEED TUBE!!!!!!!
Cindy.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
UPDATE 12/19
Well it has been just over a week at Mapleton and Michele is doing great. This transition to the 7th and hopefully the last hospital has been one of the hardest. You would think we have this down by now but each new phase she goes through gets tougher and tougher with this one being no different. The family had to come to terms with the fact that it is best that we are not at the hospital during the day as Michele has work to do and we would only be in the way. This is tough as we all have spent so much time with her and know her routine and what she wants and needs, however this is exactly why we needed to stay away. What we were used to is what Michele has to now learn on her own. No more speaking for her, no more getting the tissue box, no more helping get dressed, no more helping to eat. All of these things we all take for granted and Michele has to learn them again as if she was a new born baby. I can proudly say she can now walk over 60 feet with a walker, dress her self, bathe her self, eat, take her meds by mouth, brush her hair and teeth and much more. She does not always want to do the things she is being made to and that is why I made it mandatory that she has no visitors during the day until after 3pm. It is very hard to watch as she trys to say no to therapy and no is not an option. This is her job and she only has a limited amount of time. Because of this she is really progressing very quickly because she wants to come home. Today she started to use the stairs which means she will walk to her bedroom when she finally returns home. Our goal is for her to return home on January 27th which will be the 1 year anniversary of her accident. I have a calendar on her wall and we mark off each day getting closer to our goal. I had Michele's shunt moved again this week as she has lost the ability to say her childrens names and I think the adjustment just may do the trick and we will see over the next few weeks. Michele will be fitted for prism glasses for the time being and we will have her 6th nerve operated on in the future to fix her double vision. My sister Brenda came to visit and helped me with the transition to the new hospital.
John
John
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
SPECIAL UPDATE 12/15
A very special request for my sister Miracle Michele and her family:
Dear Friends and Family,
I have a very special request of you this holiday season. If you know me well, you know how much my sister Michele means to me. This past year has been more difficult than I could ever imagine, for myself… but more importantly for my sister and her family. There are several people I know who can’t live without her, me being one of them.
As you shop for holiday gifts over the next few weeks, please take the flyer below into department stores and grocery stores. Ask to speak to the manager and tell them Michele’s story. Tell them about her children and husband, and what they’ve all endured the past year. Many stores have an alottment of gift cards they can give away for charitable reasons. How great would it be for us to present John and his family with a stack of gift cards to make this a great Christmas!
Regardless of the lifestyle any of us lead, the O’Donnell Family needs our help right now, and I for one am not ashamed or embarrassed to ask for your help. I would do anything for them, so please help me with my fundraiser! John has no idea I’m doing this, but I think he’ll catch on when the gift cards come rolling in.
Please send the gift cards to the address below. On the outside of your envelope write “Amy’s Fundraiser”.
THANK YOU ALL!!!
Michele’s Partner in Crime, Amy
The O’Donnell Family – 1856 Alma Lane Superior, CO 80027
For those of you out of state, our local grocery stores are Safeway, Alberstons, Whole Foods and Kroger Stores.
Dear Friends and Family,
I have a very special request of you this holiday season. If you know me well, you know how much my sister Michele means to me. This past year has been more difficult than I could ever imagine, for myself… but more importantly for my sister and her family. There are several people I know who can’t live without her, me being one of them.
As you shop for holiday gifts over the next few weeks, please take the flyer below into department stores and grocery stores. Ask to speak to the manager and tell them Michele’s story. Tell them about her children and husband, and what they’ve all endured the past year. Many stores have an alottment of gift cards they can give away for charitable reasons. How great would it be for us to present John and his family with a stack of gift cards to make this a great Christmas!
Regardless of the lifestyle any of us lead, the O’Donnell Family needs our help right now, and I for one am not ashamed or embarrassed to ask for your help. I would do anything for them, so please help me with my fundraiser! John has no idea I’m doing this, but I think he’ll catch on when the gift cards come rolling in.
Please send the gift cards to the address below. On the outside of your envelope write “Amy’s Fundraiser”.
THANK YOU ALL!!!
Michele’s Partner in Crime, Amy
The O’Donnell Family – 1856 Alma Lane Superior, CO 80027
For those of you out of state, our local grocery stores are Safeway, Alberstons, Whole Foods and Kroger Stores.
PRINT FLYER BELOW
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On January 27, 2010 Michele O’Donnell fell and suffered an acute subdural hematoma, requiring emergency surgery to save her life. She was in Cancun, Mexico on vacation with her family, and spent the next month in ICU fighting for her life in and out of comas, and enduring a multitude of infections in the hospital in Mexico. Her husband John was by her side the entire time.
When Michele was stable enough to fly back to the United States on a Medivac flight, John was by her side when they landed on US soil. It was an emotional day for her entire family. Although the family lives in Colorado, the closest flight from Mexico was to Miami, Florida, as Michele's safety was priority. She spent the next 2 months in ICU, enduring another hematoma, several surgeries and another round of infections. There was no real prognosis of Michele’s recovery, it was a constant waiting game and there were no clear answers or solutions to her injuries. John remained by her side in Miami, and flew the kids down during Easter when things looked like they were taking a turn for the worse.
In April, Michele was stable enough to make the trip home to Colorado on another Medivac flight with John. She endured another surgery, replacing the portion of her skull that was removed and discarded in Miami. She spent another 2 weeks in ICU before being transferred to an acute care hospital for 5 months, a skilled nursing facility for 2 months, and is currently going through intense physical, occupational and speech therapy for 50 days in a specialized rehab facility for patients with brain injuries.
Michele O’Donnell is the mother of 4 children, Billy 18, Tana 16, Alyssa 14, and John John 9. She is married to her high school sweetheart, John of nearly 20 years. Michele has always lived her life to the fullest and truly enjoys being a mother and wife. She loves to cook, and created her own cookbook for friends and family of recipes that she has created over the years. Her home is her domain, and is a place where Michele entertains friends and family often, for any occasion.
We hope that Michele regains the ability to walk and talk, so that she can lead the life she deserves to lead. As before, her life will be dedicated to raising her children and enjoying a fulfilling marriage with her husband. Her husband and 4 children are clearly her purpose for living. YOU MAY FOLLOW MICHELE’S RECOVERY AT http://www.miraclemichele.blogspot.com/
Thursday, December 9, 2010
UPDATE 12/8
It has been some time since my last email but the action has not stopped regarding Michele's recovery. Every day is a new day and full of accomplishments. I have spent the last 2 weeks planning Michele's next step in her progression towards her ultimate goal of returning home for good. Michele needs to go to an Acute rehab facility which means she needs to participate at least 3 hours a day. This is a tough task for someone that has spent 10 months without moving at all however I do believe Michele is ready for the next step in her recovery and when I ask her if she is ready she says yes but she is scared. Her therapy is hard and changing hospitals brings new chalanges and more work. If you know my Michele you all know she is a hard worker and she will make it ovr time. She is not one to give up easily and over time she will get used to her new schedule. I have included below the last 2 updates from her sisters to let you all know what she has been doing the last few days. Michele will be discharged from the Boulder Manor tomorrow morning at 9:30 AM and heading to Mapleton Rehab Center located in Boulder. This facility is close to home and gives the family a chance to help in her rehab on a daily basis. You will see below what progress Michele has made recently as she has discovered the "PHONE" I get a call 3-4 times a day and I cant tell you how excited I am to talk to my wife during the day no matter where I am. I have spent the last 11 months making an effort to go to the hospital to kiss my wife good night EVERY night and I still do for the most part but this new communication takes us to a new level as I can actually have a conversation with her over the phone and it is like when we were teens. You know the story! "I love you! I love you too! ok you hang up first, no you, OK on the count of three we both hang up. 1,2,3 are you still there of course I am you did not hang up, but you agreed to hang up, so did you. Ok lets try this again on the count of 3 we will hang up. OK? Yes.
I feel like a kid again! John
12-06-10 by Amy McAlister
Michele had a great evening... she was REALLY talkative! It's amazing that now she can almost talk in full sentences. AND she's HILARIOUS!!! We were laughing pretty hard. One of her favorite things to do is talk on the phone, and boy did she ever surprise me yesterday!!!
Michele called my work phone around 12:50 yesterday. I was so surprised when I answered! Although we used to talk every day, she was actually the last person I expected to hear on the other line. I asked her if Cindy was there and she said, "no she just left". So I asked if Cindy wrote down my work number for her and she said, "no, I remembered it!". WOW!!! Amazing!!! I called her again when I left work to tell her I was on the way and ask if she needed anything. It's really cool that she has this new connection to the outside world!
Billy called to chat with his Mom for awhile, and Michele also talked to Karen at length.
We practiced names earlier in the evening, and it really upsets her when she can't get names right. When she holds up 4 fingers I know she's referring to the kids. It's a relief when she laughs at herself when she gets the name wrong, and she's determined to get it right.
Overall, Michele had no complaints last night, other than her meds were late. She called Lindsay in to ask for them. Dinner was ordered, and when it arrived, she ate quite a bit - pasta with a light meat sauce. She seemed to enjoy it. Amy.
12-08-10 Cindy Skerjanec.
I write this report today with mixed feelings . . . thinking about how far Michele has come at Boulder Manor, and getting the news today that she will move over to Mapleton Rehabilitation Center TOMORROW MORNING! Yes, John was able to work some magic and get her approved to move quickly. Michele is a little nervous about it (she keeps thinking that she needs to be walking on day one) but everyone that came in and talked to her today, or said goodbye, told her that she was going to do great! She had a sweet and tearful goodbye with Carla, as she told Carla that she loved her and thanked her for everything she did. There wasn't a dry eye in the room.
She was in good spirits and even sent me out (with Carla's approval) to McDonald's to get her a plain cheeseburger since she had missed the lunch tray earlier in the afternoon. Carla worked with her on speech while John worked with the wheelchair guy on fitting Michele's wheelchair with some new bells and whistles.
Michele pointed to the pictures and practiced names as John carefully removed all of the pictures from the walls and the closet door. He got everything boxed up and ready to go for tomorrow, taking most of it with him in his car. The room is pretty bare now, which made the reality of it all hit home. We have all gotten so comfortable with the staff, knowing each person by name and by their quirky personality traits, and knowing her schedule to a tee. Now all of that is going to be new again, which I think scares Michele a little, too. She had that place hopping!
Her head was itchy, so when Liz came, she and I washed Michele's hair in her bed and she said it felt much better afterwards. Billy was going to stop by and have dinner with Liz and Michele in her room, which she was really looking forward to.
Hard to believe that we are on to a new adventure again . . . one surely to be filled with many more exciting advancements! John said that the staff at Mapleton will need some time to evaluate Michele, and get her routine and schedule down before we all make our plans to visit. Stay tuned for more information as we work to accommodate the new facility and the new rhythm of Michele's schedule. We will get a new schedule together once everything has been established, but I'm guessing that next week will be a family-only week as we set the stage for this new stepping stone for Michele. Cindy.
Our Miracle does not seem to stop and only gets better by the day. Michele and I spent the evening last night going over her complete story including pictures of what she has been through. Yes all the gory details I have told her and shown all pictures. She was amazed, emotional and in wonderment. She asked why am I alive? This was really bad! Why am I still hear? I told her she was a true Miracle and we all need to appreciate the wonderful gife that has been give to us and use our new gift of life to the fullest potential. She agreed and we vowed to work together to make the best of the miracle that has been bestowed upon our family. Michele is determined to get better and continue her life with her family and friends. It is only a matter of time now.
John
I feel like a kid again! John
12-06-10 by Amy McAlister
Michele had a great evening... she was REALLY talkative! It's amazing that now she can almost talk in full sentences. AND she's HILARIOUS!!! We were laughing pretty hard. One of her favorite things to do is talk on the phone, and boy did she ever surprise me yesterday!!!
Michele called my work phone around 12:50 yesterday. I was so surprised when I answered! Although we used to talk every day, she was actually the last person I expected to hear on the other line. I asked her if Cindy was there and she said, "no she just left". So I asked if Cindy wrote down my work number for her and she said, "no, I remembered it!". WOW!!! Amazing!!! I called her again when I left work to tell her I was on the way and ask if she needed anything. It's really cool that she has this new connection to the outside world!
Billy called to chat with his Mom for awhile, and Michele also talked to Karen at length.
We practiced names earlier in the evening, and it really upsets her when she can't get names right. When she holds up 4 fingers I know she's referring to the kids. It's a relief when she laughs at herself when she gets the name wrong, and she's determined to get it right.
Overall, Michele had no complaints last night, other than her meds were late. She called Lindsay in to ask for them. Dinner was ordered, and when it arrived, she ate quite a bit - pasta with a light meat sauce. She seemed to enjoy it. Amy.
12-08-10 Cindy Skerjanec.
I write this report today with mixed feelings . . . thinking about how far Michele has come at Boulder Manor, and getting the news today that she will move over to Mapleton Rehabilitation Center TOMORROW MORNING! Yes, John was able to work some magic and get her approved to move quickly. Michele is a little nervous about it (she keeps thinking that she needs to be walking on day one) but everyone that came in and talked to her today, or said goodbye, told her that she was going to do great! She had a sweet and tearful goodbye with Carla, as she told Carla that she loved her and thanked her for everything she did. There wasn't a dry eye in the room.
She was in good spirits and even sent me out (with Carla's approval) to McDonald's to get her a plain cheeseburger since she had missed the lunch tray earlier in the afternoon. Carla worked with her on speech while John worked with the wheelchair guy on fitting Michele's wheelchair with some new bells and whistles.
Michele pointed to the pictures and practiced names as John carefully removed all of the pictures from the walls and the closet door. He got everything boxed up and ready to go for tomorrow, taking most of it with him in his car. The room is pretty bare now, which made the reality of it all hit home. We have all gotten so comfortable with the staff, knowing each person by name and by their quirky personality traits, and knowing her schedule to a tee. Now all of that is going to be new again, which I think scares Michele a little, too. She had that place hopping!
Her head was itchy, so when Liz came, she and I washed Michele's hair in her bed and she said it felt much better afterwards. Billy was going to stop by and have dinner with Liz and Michele in her room, which she was really looking forward to.
Hard to believe that we are on to a new adventure again . . . one surely to be filled with many more exciting advancements! John said that the staff at Mapleton will need some time to evaluate Michele, and get her routine and schedule down before we all make our plans to visit. Stay tuned for more information as we work to accommodate the new facility and the new rhythm of Michele's schedule. We will get a new schedule together once everything has been established, but I'm guessing that next week will be a family-only week as we set the stage for this new stepping stone for Michele. Cindy.
Our Miracle does not seem to stop and only gets better by the day. Michele and I spent the evening last night going over her complete story including pictures of what she has been through. Yes all the gory details I have told her and shown all pictures. She was amazed, emotional and in wonderment. She asked why am I alive? This was really bad! Why am I still hear? I told her she was a true Miracle and we all need to appreciate the wonderful gife that has been give to us and use our new gift of life to the fullest potential. She agreed and we vowed to work together to make the best of the miracle that has been bestowed upon our family. Michele is determined to get better and continue her life with her family and friends. It is only a matter of time now.
John
Thursday, November 25, 2010
UPDATE 11/25
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Our family has a lot to be thankful for this year. Michele came home today from 1pm to 8pm and we had 16 people at the house. I cooked my first Turkey and it turned out perfect. The rest of the family brought dishes and help out to make this a wonderful Thanksgiving feast. Michele is normally the one in the kitchen as cooking is her passion. Today was my turn to do the cooking and she kept calling me over to tell me she was bored. I could tell she wanted to help but she is not ready for that yet. Michele did have dinner and ate half her plate. Last night I spent the time to write our prayer for thanksgiving and I though I would share it with all as it really does have a common factor between all faiths. "The commitment to life" Again our family has a lot to be thankful for and we will never forget it. I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
John
Thanksgiving Prayer 2010
Lord God we pray to you in rejoice of the life you have spared upon our family. Our petty living and abundance's have separated us from our true vision in your eyes over time but you have always shown us the true way to "love life and prayer" in your name. We are all thankful for the true miracle you have bestowed upon us and we vow now to never let that miracle be forgotten and we promise to use this opportunity to help others in need.
Your servant our Pope Benedict XVI has ask us all to join him in prayer this weekend of Thanksgiving Saturday at dusk, to pray for the commitment of life that has been given to us all by you our savior. How appropriate for a nation wide prayer after 500 years from a Pope to pray for life that is of all race, creed and religion in common. Our family has only one prayer and it is yours, one of life love and family. We pray to you for continued blessings upon our family and we continue to pray to you to continue your work to help our dear Miracle Michele as she struggles in her recovery by your guidance.
Bless our food and our family as we are thankful for the life you have given us all.
Our family has a lot to be thankful for this year. Michele came home today from 1pm to 8pm and we had 16 people at the house. I cooked my first Turkey and it turned out perfect. The rest of the family brought dishes and help out to make this a wonderful Thanksgiving feast. Michele is normally the one in the kitchen as cooking is her passion. Today was my turn to do the cooking and she kept calling me over to tell me she was bored. I could tell she wanted to help but she is not ready for that yet. Michele did have dinner and ate half her plate. Last night I spent the time to write our prayer for thanksgiving and I though I would share it with all as it really does have a common factor between all faiths. "The commitment to life" Again our family has a lot to be thankful for and we will never forget it. I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
John
Thanksgiving Prayer 2010
Lord God we pray to you in rejoice of the life you have spared upon our family. Our petty living and abundance's have separated us from our true vision in your eyes over time but you have always shown us the true way to "love life and prayer" in your name. We are all thankful for the true miracle you have bestowed upon us and we vow now to never let that miracle be forgotten and we promise to use this opportunity to help others in need.
Your servant our Pope Benedict XVI has ask us all to join him in prayer this weekend of Thanksgiving Saturday at dusk, to pray for the commitment of life that has been given to us all by you our savior. How appropriate for a nation wide prayer after 500 years from a Pope to pray for life that is of all race, creed and religion in common. Our family has only one prayer and it is yours, one of life love and family. We pray to you for continued blessings upon our family and we continue to pray to you to continue your work to help our dear Miracle Michele as she struggles in her recovery by your guidance.
Bless our food and our family as we are thankful for the life you have given us all.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
UPDATE 11/24
"Projects" as we call them in the O'Donnell family are often events were us men have nothing else to do but to tear down something and build in the new. It is often a hobby and keeps us busy and out of trouble. Over the years I have learned my share of handyman talents mostly from my Father as well as my Brother and Uncles. Since Michele and I bought our home we have just about renovated every part of the house but our bathroom. I wanted to do something special for Michele before her arrival home for good as in her condition she would never be able to use our current master bathroom including the shower, tub and toilet. What Michele needed was a handicap accessible bathroom that she cold use when she return home.
Well with that said about 4 weeks ago I got out the tools and started demolition. The usual trusted and steady helpers followed immediately, Brian, Billy and John John. After a week of demo and reconstruction I started to feel the work wearing on me. I forgot one helper that was always by my side, telling me to stop for the evening, feeding me and messaging my muscles for the next day "Michele". My point was I would go non stop with out Michele. I was truly wearing myself out for the first time in my life with a "project". This was not like me but I had to call in the troops. Other than my Father who would have been at my home in a moments notice the next best and most trusted carpenter I know showed up within a week to help with the project. Jim O'Donnell my Uncle, my fathers brother as well as Brians father came to the rescue. His wife Kathy came to keep us all in line, cook wonderful food and help with being a caregiver to Michele. Brian and I had most of the construction done before Jim arrived and honestly I had never done tile work before. I guess that was the one thing my father never taught me in construction. I can tell you though that from the tutelage of his brother Jim I have now learned the art of tiling. Jim upon his arrival decided on the pattern we should make and OH! it just so happens it is one of the toughest patterns to do. I feel like I can tile the world now after learning what we did. As you can see from the Pics below Michele now has a wonderful 35 square foot shower with 3 shower heads and a seat. she can operate the shower from a sitting position or from a wheelchair. Her toilet is handicap approved and she has handle bars all around where needed.
After 4 weeks of non stop work in the evenings till 3AM at times the work was done. My fathers brother came to the rescue and I thank him and Kathy for that. My trusted right hand man Brian never left my side and my 2 sons learned something from this that my father was never able to teach me. My wish was for Michele to see the finished project and that has yet to come. She is unable to get to the upstairs without being carried and she is not ready for that. She has seen the Pics and is waiting for the day to see the unbelievable job done by the trusted O'Donnell boys.
Thanks guys and this one is for the scrap book!
John
Well with that said about 4 weeks ago I got out the tools and started demolition. The usual trusted and steady helpers followed immediately, Brian, Billy and John John. After a week of demo and reconstruction I started to feel the work wearing on me. I forgot one helper that was always by my side, telling me to stop for the evening, feeding me and messaging my muscles for the next day "Michele". My point was I would go non stop with out Michele. I was truly wearing myself out for the first time in my life with a "project". This was not like me but I had to call in the troops. Other than my Father who would have been at my home in a moments notice the next best and most trusted carpenter I know showed up within a week to help with the project. Jim O'Donnell my Uncle, my fathers brother as well as Brians father came to the rescue. His wife Kathy came to keep us all in line, cook wonderful food and help with being a caregiver to Michele. Brian and I had most of the construction done before Jim arrived and honestly I had never done tile work before. I guess that was the one thing my father never taught me in construction. I can tell you though that from the tutelage of his brother Jim I have now learned the art of tiling. Jim upon his arrival decided on the pattern we should make and OH! it just so happens it is one of the toughest patterns to do. I feel like I can tile the world now after learning what we did. As you can see from the Pics below Michele now has a wonderful 35 square foot shower with 3 shower heads and a seat. she can operate the shower from a sitting position or from a wheelchair. Her toilet is handicap approved and she has handle bars all around where needed.
After 4 weeks of non stop work in the evenings till 3AM at times the work was done. My fathers brother came to the rescue and I thank him and Kathy for that. My trusted right hand man Brian never left my side and my 2 sons learned something from this that my father was never able to teach me. My wish was for Michele to see the finished project and that has yet to come. She is unable to get to the upstairs without being carried and she is not ready for that. She has seen the Pics and is waiting for the day to see the unbelievable job done by the trusted O'Donnell boys.
Thanks guys and this one is for the scrap book!
John
Monday, November 22, 2010
UPDATE 11/22
Last week we had a very nice visit from the Local 7th and 8th grades from Eldorado Elementery School where John and Alyssa attend. The event was so nice and Michele enjoyed it very much as well as much of the residents of the Boulder Manor. I would like to thank the children and the parents that made this happen and a specuial thanks to the music director of the school Mr Call. They made this night a very special one and Michele was once again enjoying her music and beat to the rythym.
Dori Ariniello attended this event and I asked her to give her perspective.
"During my visit with Michele this past Tuesday, Alyssa, Michele's youngest daughter, brought her in a wonderful surprise. Mr. Call and the El Dorado school choir came to the Boulder Manor to surprise Michele and the other residents with their beautiful voices. Since I already knew about the surprise, I brought Annalise with me. We got Michele all ready and in her chair by 4:30 and shortly after Alyssa, John and John John arrived to deliver the news. Alyssa rolled Michele down into the Community room where a lot of other residents had already gathered and put Michele right up infront of the choir. I sat on the side and took pictures most of the time while I listened to the wonderful children singing their hearts out. The one thing that captured my attention while taking pictures was the look on Michele's face. The way she looked at Alyssa and John John, the love she has for them was written all over her face. She motioned at one point for John John's hand. He reached up and put his hand in hers and her smile could light up the room. She then started tapping their hands together to the beat of the music the choir was singing. It was a great experience. After about 4 or 5 songs, they asked the choir to come out to the cafeteria where there were several others waiting to hear them sing.
Love, Dori"
Life passes us by so quickly and special events like this usually only open to us by special circumstance as in our case. I first hand experienced the wonder of the faces of the residence and how much they truly enjoyed these children singing with all their hearts. It was enlightining to witness and I hope to withness and be involved in more similiar special activities for those in need in the future. I have said in the past, Michele and I will spend a life time paying our good fortune of health and happiness forward to others. Miracles are not often given and we will not waste the one that has been bestowed upon us.
Dori Ariniello attended this event and I asked her to give her perspective.
"During my visit with Michele this past Tuesday, Alyssa, Michele's youngest daughter, brought her in a wonderful surprise. Mr. Call and the El Dorado school choir came to the Boulder Manor to surprise Michele and the other residents with their beautiful voices. Since I already knew about the surprise, I brought Annalise with me. We got Michele all ready and in her chair by 4:30 and shortly after Alyssa, John and John John arrived to deliver the news. Alyssa rolled Michele down into the Community room where a lot of other residents had already gathered and put Michele right up infront of the choir. I sat on the side and took pictures most of the time while I listened to the wonderful children singing their hearts out. The one thing that captured my attention while taking pictures was the look on Michele's face. The way she looked at Alyssa and John John, the love she has for them was written all over her face. She motioned at one point for John John's hand. He reached up and put his hand in hers and her smile could light up the room. She then started tapping their hands together to the beat of the music the choir was singing. It was a great experience. After about 4 or 5 songs, they asked the choir to come out to the cafeteria where there were several others waiting to hear them sing.
Love, Dori"
Life passes us by so quickly and special events like this usually only open to us by special circumstance as in our case. I first hand experienced the wonder of the faces of the residence and how much they truly enjoyed these children singing with all their hearts. It was enlightining to witness and I hope to withness and be involved in more similiar special activities for those in need in the future. I have said in the past, Michele and I will spend a life time paying our good fortune of health and happiness forward to others. Miracles are not often given and we will not waste the one that has been bestowed upon us.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
UPDATE 11/17
A quick note from Micheles sister Cindy.
I arrived at 8:30 this morning, surprised to find Michele awake. She greeted me with a smile and a wave. She said she was feeling good and we talked about her headache. She said that she was fine and I asked her what she thought she got the headaches from. She pointed to both her eyes and then covered up the right one and then the left one. I asked her if she could see me fine with each one and she said yes, but as we know, has a hard time focusing with both eyes. I guess that would give me a headache, too. I mentioned to her that I had a conference call at 9:30 that I had to take, so I'd probably slip out of PT for a bit to be on that call. I asked her if she was ready to get changed, but my sister has a schedule. She wanted to get ready at 8:55 so that Sonja and Donna could get her at 9:00. Fine with me!
She was feeling her left temple and I asked her if her head hurt or itched. She shook her head no and was trying to say something as she rubbed her temple. I felt her temple and it was indented a bit. Since I don't normally touch her head, I don't know if that is a new indent since the shunt adjustment or not. Just thought I'd make a note of it.
At 8:55 I asked her if it was OK that we get her ready now, and she smiled and said yes. JWe got her in shorts quickly and the CNAs were in like clockwork as well to transfer Michele. Sonja met us in the room and we headed down to PT. Sonja said that she was going to do the bike today and Michele wasn't thrilled with it, but in Michele style she worked through it. The bike has a regular seat, and she can push with her legs and push/pull with her arms (see attached photo). She was told do pedal for 5 minutes. When the 5 minutes were up (and 11 calories burned) Donna asked her if she'd like to continue or stop. She shrugged, didn't miss a beat, and kept pedaling away! Shortly after, she looked at the clock, and pointed to me and the clock and started saying something. Of course, she was telling me that it was time to get on my conference call. Always looking out for everyone else!!!!
I left and took the call in Michele's room. The three of them came back at about 9:50 and said that they had Michele standing up on a special walker and she took 5 steps! They had to support her a great deal, but she did it! Donna took a couple more pics for me and I will send them when I get them. Michele asked for her eye patch and we watched Price is Right as I put some lotion on her legs and got her situated with a nebulizer treatment. She wasn't sick all morning and didn't pinch her nose once. Dad came in at 10:45 and I left at 11 just as they were getting her ready to move back to bed.
Michele is a Rock Star!
Cindy
I arrived at 8:30 this morning, surprised to find Michele awake. She greeted me with a smile and a wave. She said she was feeling good and we talked about her headache. She said that she was fine and I asked her what she thought she got the headaches from. She pointed to both her eyes and then covered up the right one and then the left one. I asked her if she could see me fine with each one and she said yes, but as we know, has a hard time focusing with both eyes. I guess that would give me a headache, too. I mentioned to her that I had a conference call at 9:30 that I had to take, so I'd probably slip out of PT for a bit to be on that call. I asked her if she was ready to get changed, but my sister has a schedule. She wanted to get ready at 8:55 so that Sonja and Donna could get her at 9:00. Fine with me!
She was feeling her left temple and I asked her if her head hurt or itched. She shook her head no and was trying to say something as she rubbed her temple. I felt her temple and it was indented a bit. Since I don't normally touch her head, I don't know if that is a new indent since the shunt adjustment or not. Just thought I'd make a note of it.
At 8:55 I asked her if it was OK that we get her ready now, and she smiled and said yes. JWe got her in shorts quickly and the CNAs were in like clockwork as well to transfer Michele. Sonja met us in the room and we headed down to PT. Sonja said that she was going to do the bike today and Michele wasn't thrilled with it, but in Michele style she worked through it. The bike has a regular seat, and she can push with her legs and push/pull with her arms (see attached photo). She was told do pedal for 5 minutes. When the 5 minutes were up (and 11 calories burned) Donna asked her if she'd like to continue or stop. She shrugged, didn't miss a beat, and kept pedaling away! Shortly after, she looked at the clock, and pointed to me and the clock and started saying something. Of course, she was telling me that it was time to get on my conference call. Always looking out for everyone else!!!!
I left and took the call in Michele's room. The three of them came back at about 9:50 and said that they had Michele standing up on a special walker and she took 5 steps! They had to support her a great deal, but she did it! Donna took a couple more pics for me and I will send them when I get them. Michele asked for her eye patch and we watched Price is Right as I put some lotion on her legs and got her situated with a nebulizer treatment. She wasn't sick all morning and didn't pinch her nose once. Dad came in at 10:45 and I left at 11 just as they were getting her ready to move back to bed.
Michele is a Rock Star!
Cindy
Sunday, November 14, 2010
UPDATE 11/10
This is an article on the front page of the Colorado Home Town news paper.
John
Road to recovery
By Kimberli Turner
Colorado Hometown Weekly
The Superior mother of four has always been the rock of the family, someone her children and husband, John, could turn to for anything.
But now, it's their support she needs.
Michele is in a wheelchair and recovering at Boulder Manor from the head trauma she received while vacationing in Cancun on Jan. 27.
Michele slipped and fell in the bathroom of the family's timeshare, and hit her head, causing a brain hemorrhage that required an immediate operation.
She was in a drug-induced coma for a week during her month-long stay in a hospital in Mexico.
Michele was then moved to a Florida hospital for two months where she suffered a second brain hemorrhage, which doctors said was rare, John O'Donnell said.
John said he flew the couple's four kids down to see her during Easter week following the hemorrhage because she was on life support and he was afraid she was going to die.
"She was just barely hanging on," he said. This was one of eight times the family faced losing the woman who had always been the family's strength. "When (nearly losing your wife) happens multiple times, like a roller coaster, you just keep fighting," John said. "I have a wife who won't quit fighting. If she won't quit, I won't quit. We will continue our family."
Following Michelle's initial injury, her family did its best to fill in for her.
Her 18-year-old son, Billy, who was not in Cancun at the time, flew down to retrieve his sisters Alyssa, 14, and Tana, 16, and his 8-year-old brother, John John, while his father stayed to look after their mother. "After this event, we've become a lot closer in helping each other," Billy said.
"It wasn't hard," he said of taking care of his siblings, with help from Michele's mother. "I took them to school, made sure they ate, that they didn't kill each other," he said.
When Michele finally returned to Colorado in April, she spent five months at Kindred Hospital in Denver, where she remained in a comatose state for 45 days.
John said after doctors adjusted a shunt that controls the drainage in Michele's head, she began responding.
"It took me 45 days to get the right doctor to say what I wanted him to say," he said. "It was like watching grass grow in the beginning. She would move one finger one day and move another finger three days later. Now I see progress every single day."
Every movement means she is a step closer to her road to recovery.
Michele has been home for a couple hours twice since the accident, and was able to present the coin toss at John John's Mustang football game Saturday, Oct. 30, in Superior.
John John was thankful to have her at his game. "It felt good," he said with a big grin.
John said he hopes to have Michele back at home in January, nearly one year after her fall, and he has constructed a wheelchair ramp and an accessible shower for her.
They will start with baby steps, he said, bringing her home for Thanksgiving, and a sleep-over at Christmas. She will also undergo intense physical therapy at Craig Hospital in December, and John is hopeful he'll soon bring his "Miracle Michele" home for good.
"I'm convinced she's going to walk up the stairs to her bedroom," he said. "That trip might be exhausting, but that's our goal."
Michele, who also had lung punctures, a blood disease and received a tracheotomy in the last nine months, is still working at speaking. She can say a few words, but her eyes say it all when she looks at her husband.
When John asks her what her favorite thing to say is, she responds with, "I love you."
To help with medical expenses, donations can be made in person or by mail to the O'Donnell Family Fund, 1st Bank, 500 South McCaslin Blvd., Louisville
John
Road to recovery
By Kimberli Turner
Colorado Hometown Weekly
The Superior mother of four has always been the rock of the family, someone her children and husband, John, could turn to for anything.
But now, it's their support she needs.
Michele is in a wheelchair and recovering at Boulder Manor from the head trauma she received while vacationing in Cancun on Jan. 27.
Michele slipped and fell in the bathroom of the family's timeshare, and hit her head, causing a brain hemorrhage that required an immediate operation.
She was in a drug-induced coma for a week during her month-long stay in a hospital in Mexico.
Michele was then moved to a Florida hospital for two months where she suffered a second brain hemorrhage, which doctors said was rare, John O'Donnell said.
John said he flew the couple's four kids down to see her during Easter week following the hemorrhage because she was on life support and he was afraid she was going to die.
"She was just barely hanging on," he said. This was one of eight times the family faced losing the woman who had always been the family's strength. "When (nearly losing your wife) happens multiple times, like a roller coaster, you just keep fighting," John said. "I have a wife who won't quit fighting. If she won't quit, I won't quit. We will continue our family."
Following Michelle's initial injury, her family did its best to fill in for her.
Her 18-year-old son, Billy, who was not in Cancun at the time, flew down to retrieve his sisters Alyssa, 14, and Tana, 16, and his 8-year-old brother, John John, while his father stayed to look after their mother. "After this event, we've become a lot closer in helping each other," Billy said.
"It wasn't hard," he said of taking care of his siblings, with help from Michele's mother. "I took them to school, made sure they ate, that they didn't kill each other," he said.
When Michele finally returned to Colorado in April, she spent five months at Kindred Hospital in Denver, where she remained in a comatose state for 45 days.
John said after doctors adjusted a shunt that controls the drainage in Michele's head, she began responding.
"It took me 45 days to get the right doctor to say what I wanted him to say," he said. "It was like watching grass grow in the beginning. She would move one finger one day and move another finger three days later. Now I see progress every single day."
Every movement means she is a step closer to her road to recovery.
Michele has been home for a couple hours twice since the accident, and was able to present the coin toss at John John's Mustang football game Saturday, Oct. 30, in Superior.
John John was thankful to have her at his game. "It felt good," he said with a big grin.
John said he hopes to have Michele back at home in January, nearly one year after her fall, and he has constructed a wheelchair ramp and an accessible shower for her.
They will start with baby steps, he said, bringing her home for Thanksgiving, and a sleep-over at Christmas. She will also undergo intense physical therapy at Craig Hospital in December, and John is hopeful he'll soon bring his "Miracle Michele" home for good.
"I'm convinced she's going to walk up the stairs to her bedroom," he said. "That trip might be exhausting, but that's our goal."
Michele, who also had lung punctures, a blood disease and received a tracheotomy in the last nine months, is still working at speaking. She can say a few words, but her eyes say it all when she looks at her husband.
When John asks her what her favorite thing to say is, she responds with, "I love you."
To help with medical expenses, donations can be made in person or by mail to the O'Donnell Family Fund, 1st Bank, 500 South McCaslin Blvd., Louisville
Thursday, November 11, 2010
UPDATE 11/11
Michele attended her first outdoor adventure in the last nine months. Her son John has been playing for the Mustang football league and they ended up divisional champions. Michele wanted to see one of his playoff games before the end of the season and we were invite by coach Steve to not only attend but as he stated we would do something nice to honor her hard work and perseverance. He hinted as to having Michele do the coin toss at the beginning of the game. Michele worked hard to practice her coin toss all week in preparing of the big day. During this time of the year you could have sunny 80 degree weather or it could be snowing. We were blessed with the most beautiful day and Michele even got a little color.
When we arrived early the boys were practicing before the game and coach Steve asked to do a team photo, presented Michele with a hat signed by all of the players and coaches, a team roster and roses. Much to our surprise this was a wonderful gesture by the entire team. Michele listened while the boys chanted her name and the team name.
Well game time came quickly after that and we were prepared to go out to the center of the field with the refs and 3 team managers John being one of them from each team. Well again much to our surprise all of the team members including coaches from both teams all came out to the center of the field and took a knee all around for Michele to make the toss. Michele had her moment and did a great job.
I want to thank all of the Mustang players as well as all of the coaches for making a very special moment for "Miss Michele" in a difficult time in her life. Not to mention what it will do to a small 8 year old son named John. I also want to thank the Mustang organization as John would have never had the chance at this experience without the donation from the league presented by Steve Smith.
Did I mention the Mustangs won 5 touchdowns to 1 to a very good team in the league. As we left the game the entire team chanted as we walked to the car to leave. What a wonderful day and a wonderful experience prresented by a wonderful team of young boys and dedicated coaches.
John
When we arrived early the boys were practicing before the game and coach Steve asked to do a team photo, presented Michele with a hat signed by all of the players and coaches, a team roster and roses. Much to our surprise this was a wonderful gesture by the entire team. Michele listened while the boys chanted her name and the team name.
Well game time came quickly after that and we were prepared to go out to the center of the field with the refs and 3 team managers John being one of them from each team. Well again much to our surprise all of the team members including coaches from both teams all came out to the center of the field and took a knee all around for Michele to make the toss. Michele had her moment and did a great job.
I want to thank all of the Mustang players as well as all of the coaches for making a very special moment for "Miss Michele" in a difficult time in her life. Not to mention what it will do to a small 8 year old son named John. I also want to thank the Mustang organization as John would have never had the chance at this experience without the donation from the league presented by Steve Smith.
Did I mention the Mustangs won 5 touchdowns to 1 to a very good team in the league. As we left the game the entire team chanted as we walked to the car to leave. What a wonderful day and a wonderful experience prresented by a wonderful team of young boys and dedicated coaches.
John
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
UPDATE 11/3
Tuesday
When I arrived this morning at 8:45, Michele was sleeping soundly. She woke up a little later and was very stiff and it looked as though she had spit up on the sheet to her right side. Shannon came in at that point, so we changed Michele's clothes and got her all freshened up. Donna and Shelly (PT) told Michele that they were going to put her into her chair with the standing lift (they had a special name for it, but I don't remember what it was called.) Michele didn't like that one bit, but we pressed forward. They strapped the belt around her waist, and lifted her up to a standing position with the machine. Then, they pivoted her and sat her down in her chair.
Niki came in to give Michele her morning "cocktail"" of meds, which as of last night no longer includes Robitussin, the brucella antibiotic, one of the stimulants and the folic acid. She's still on the anti-seizure meds, and John wants to keep her on them since she is doing so well. Don't want to take a step back. While in the chair, Michele began rubbing her left temple and pinching the upper part of her nose - like she had sinus pain. Niki gave her Tylenol with codeine, and PT began in front on Michele's mirror at her sink.
While sitting there, Michele put her fingers up to her trach hole and was looking at it. Shelly told her that it is healing up really well. Shelly had her brush her teeth, brush her hair, put deodorant on, and put chapstick on. Michele was having a hard time unclenching her right hand. She can do it - Shelly was just new to Michele's situation, I think.
Donna mentioned to me that Michele doesn't always get up for afternoon PT in her chair, and that in order for us to get to the next stage and get her to Craig, she needs to tolerate more chair time. I told Michele that in order for her to reach our goal, moving to her chair twice per day is so important. She promised me she'd do it, but Caregivers, please help Michele with this process in the afternoon. While sometimes she might be super sick (where you might want to cut her some slack) most of the time she can certainly tolerate it. John is going to talk to the staff about not asking Michele in the afternoon, but telling her that it's time to move to her chair. I know this seems harsh, but it's the only way we're going to get her progressing steps closer to getting home. It's much easier to lie in bed, but she has definitely proven that she can work . . . read on .
We went to the PT room and Michele sat on the side of the bed near the bars, facing them. Shelly was trying to physically open up Michele's right hand, but Michele was frustrated by this. I told Michele to just relax and stretch out her fingers like she always does, and this amazing person stretched out her fingers on her own, beautifully. Shelly was amazed and said that this was "active" use of the hand and not just relaxation. Michele was also proud of herself.
Her feet were nice and flat on the floor, and we got her all prepped to stand up while holding the bar. Of course, I didn't have my camera this time, but let me tell you, it is so amazing to see her stand! I know how much muscle strength it takes her to accomplish this, and even though she shakes just a little, she pushes through it. (Heather from Kindred would be so proud!!) Donna and Shelly were supporting her, so I got in front of her - eye to eye - and reminded her of our goal. She nodded her head "yes" and I told her that this is how we were going to get there.
Then, she sat down and Shelly asked her to support herself on the bed with her hands. Shelly moved away from Michele, and Michele supported herself in a seated position for a FULL 5 MINUTES while we talked about her and John, among other things. I was right in front of her again, just watching how she used her core strength to keep herself balanced. She would often self-correct and lift up her head and body so she was sitting up straight. It was quite amazing to see. I said, "see how I told you that you can do this" and she gave me some "Michele attitude" back, like "yeah, yeah, yeah." Priceless.
She stood up once more, and then she was back in her chair. She was using her legs to push herself back into her chair, so she is definitely gaining muscle strength. By then it was 10:00 - just in time for Price is Right, so we zoomed back to her room to get us there in time! JShe asked for her eye patch, and at 10:30 asked for her nebulizer treatment. That girl knows her schedule! We called the nurse in at 10:45 (as I had to leave) so we could get things in motion to get her back to her bed. Since I was on a time crunch, I put the call button and the bucket next to her in case she needed them and told them to push the button again if they weren't in there in 5 minutes. John was coming to take her to her appointment this afternoon. She did SOOOOO well today.
Thursday
I had a great morning with Michele. She worked VERY hard today! Donna and Sonja came in at 9:15 and moved her to her chair - without the board. Michele put her feet on the floor for a few moments to aide in the pivot and transfer. We got to the PT room where Carla joined us - it was a big group effort today!
Michele sat unassisted for a bit . . . what a great accomplishment! (see the first picture - that's Donna behind her trying to get out of the way while I snapped the photo - Michele is supporting herself on her own!). She also put deodorant on for herself (after saying "deodorant" and removing the cap herself), brushed her own teeth, brushed her own hair, washed her own face, and put chapstick on. With each of these tasks, she had to say the word . . . like brush, or chapstick before she used the item. She did REALLY well. You can see her grimacing in some of these photos since she was obviously working hard! (Amy her nails look FABULOUS in the pic of her putting the cap back on her chapstick) - that takes a lot of dexterity and she did it with ease! Sonja thought that in the next week or so they could try doing these things by her sink in her room so that she'd have her mirror and all of her supplies in front of her.
Carla fed Michele some thickened water from a spoon and also had her try some vanilla pudding. She didn't like the taste of that, but was able to FEED HERSELF NUMEROUS TIMES! It was amazing to see the control she had as she lifted the spoon into her mouth. Absolutely incredible. I told her that soon we could go across the street to that Gelato shop! JCarla is working on getting the swallow test scheduled for next week. She's ready.
We were all amazed by the progress she has made in just the last few weeks! After the session, Michele and I headed back to her room to get our sunglasses before going outside. Tracey came over for a surprise visit, so the three of us headed outside to soak in some sun. Michele took her sunglasses out of her case and put them on herself! The three of us were out there 'til 11, and then Michele got to bed at 11:15, got some Tylenol with C at 11:30 (said her head was hurting) and I put her boots on shortly after. She's looking really good, and the two of us made a secret agreement that she'd be walking by the end of November. She said she thought she could do it by then . . . I have no doubt!
Friday
Without a doubt, Michele is on a completely new track. When I walked in at 2:55 today, I pointed at the clock and she pointed at the clock with a huge smile. It's Dr. Phil time! Before I turned on the show I reminded her of our "walk by the end of November" goal. She smiled and nodded her head. I reminded her how much her muscles had atrophied, so we decided to put together a workout plan for my visit. During each commercial of Dr. Phil and more than half of Oprah, we did leg exercises. Not much at a time, just 5 sets on each leg each time, but she did it! She would lift each leg and touch my hand with her foot. (See the picture of her workout move, attached). She is much stronger with her left leg than she is with her right. Then, I had her bend her knee and straighten her leg as she pushed her foot against my hand. She's got a lot of strength. She's also got a very strong will, so with this goal in mind, I know she's going to work hard.
Kenzie called and she talked to her on speaker, and Mom called and she spoke to her by holding the phone up to her own ear. She said very clear words to both of her callers. Mid-Oprah, Donna (RN) came in to change out Michele's food. Donna was getting ready to leave and Michele looked over at her and said something to her. I said, "Donna, Michele wanted to tell you something." Michele started waving her hands and making lots of noises. I was getting ready for the frustrating game of trying to figure out what she wanted but that didn't happen. Donna asked her if she wanted Tylenol, and Michele shook her head no. I asked her if she was in pain, and she shook her head no. She was pointing to her mouth and I said, "Oh, is it time for your nebulizer treatment?" She said yes! It was a great accomplishment for us to figure this out so quickly. Donna told Michele that she could have more than 2 treatments per day if she wanted to . . . good to know.
There was a portable toilet in the room but Michele said she hadn't used it. Perhaps they are getting ready to start working with that. I had Michele try and work the remote . . . she pushed channel 5 with the greatest of ease (that's The Price is Right and Dr. Phil!!) Funny!
When I was getting ready to leave I asked her if she knew if John was coming tonight. She shrugged her shoulder so I decided to call him and put him on speaker. As soon as he started talking, she got a huge smile on her face. He asked her if she wanted him to bring her earrings to wear so her holes wouldn't close up. She said, loud and clear, "no". I said she'd be home soon enough and she could wear all of her jewelry. JI left shortly after 5 and she wanted to listen to her music.
She is going home for the day on Sunday again. If you are coming by next week and want to drop off some bagged candy, the Manor is having trick-or-treating for kids, and the residents are giving out the candy. You can just leave a bag or two at the front desk.
Love,
C
When I arrived this morning at 8:45, Michele was sleeping soundly. She woke up a little later and was very stiff and it looked as though she had spit up on the sheet to her right side. Shannon came in at that point, so we changed Michele's clothes and got her all freshened up. Donna and Shelly (PT) told Michele that they were going to put her into her chair with the standing lift (they had a special name for it, but I don't remember what it was called.) Michele didn't like that one bit, but we pressed forward. They strapped the belt around her waist, and lifted her up to a standing position with the machine. Then, they pivoted her and sat her down in her chair.
Niki came in to give Michele her morning "cocktail"" of meds, which as of last night no longer includes Robitussin, the brucella antibiotic, one of the stimulants and the folic acid. She's still on the anti-seizure meds, and John wants to keep her on them since she is doing so well. Don't want to take a step back. While in the chair, Michele began rubbing her left temple and pinching the upper part of her nose - like she had sinus pain. Niki gave her Tylenol with codeine, and PT began in front on Michele's mirror at her sink.
While sitting there, Michele put her fingers up to her trach hole and was looking at it. Shelly told her that it is healing up really well. Shelly had her brush her teeth, brush her hair, put deodorant on, and put chapstick on. Michele was having a hard time unclenching her right hand. She can do it - Shelly was just new to Michele's situation, I think.
Donna mentioned to me that Michele doesn't always get up for afternoon PT in her chair, and that in order for us to get to the next stage and get her to Craig, she needs to tolerate more chair time. I told Michele that in order for her to reach our goal, moving to her chair twice per day is so important. She promised me she'd do it, but Caregivers, please help Michele with this process in the afternoon. While sometimes she might be super sick (where you might want to cut her some slack) most of the time she can certainly tolerate it. John is going to talk to the staff about not asking Michele in the afternoon, but telling her that it's time to move to her chair. I know this seems harsh, but it's the only way we're going to get her progressing steps closer to getting home. It's much easier to lie in bed, but she has definitely proven that she can work . . . read on .
We went to the PT room and Michele sat on the side of the bed near the bars, facing them. Shelly was trying to physically open up Michele's right hand, but Michele was frustrated by this. I told Michele to just relax and stretch out her fingers like she always does, and this amazing person stretched out her fingers on her own, beautifully. Shelly was amazed and said that this was "active" use of the hand and not just relaxation. Michele was also proud of herself.
Her feet were nice and flat on the floor, and we got her all prepped to stand up while holding the bar. Of course, I didn't have my camera this time, but let me tell you, it is so amazing to see her stand! I know how much muscle strength it takes her to accomplish this, and even though she shakes just a little, she pushes through it. (Heather from Kindred would be so proud!!) Donna and Shelly were supporting her, so I got in front of her - eye to eye - and reminded her of our goal. She nodded her head "yes" and I told her that this is how we were going to get there.
Then, she sat down and Shelly asked her to support herself on the bed with her hands. Shelly moved away from Michele, and Michele supported herself in a seated position for a FULL 5 MINUTES while we talked about her and John, among other things. I was right in front of her again, just watching how she used her core strength to keep herself balanced. She would often self-correct and lift up her head and body so she was sitting up straight. It was quite amazing to see. I said, "see how I told you that you can do this" and she gave me some "Michele attitude" back, like "yeah, yeah, yeah." Priceless.
She stood up once more, and then she was back in her chair. She was using her legs to push herself back into her chair, so she is definitely gaining muscle strength. By then it was 10:00 - just in time for Price is Right, so we zoomed back to her room to get us there in time! JShe asked for her eye patch, and at 10:30 asked for her nebulizer treatment. That girl knows her schedule! We called the nurse in at 10:45 (as I had to leave) so we could get things in motion to get her back to her bed. Since I was on a time crunch, I put the call button and the bucket next to her in case she needed them and told them to push the button again if they weren't in there in 5 minutes. John was coming to take her to her appointment this afternoon. She did SOOOOO well today.
Thursday
I had a great morning with Michele. She worked VERY hard today! Donna and Sonja came in at 9:15 and moved her to her chair - without the board. Michele put her feet on the floor for a few moments to aide in the pivot and transfer. We got to the PT room where Carla joined us - it was a big group effort today!
Michele sat unassisted for a bit . . . what a great accomplishment! (see the first picture - that's Donna behind her trying to get out of the way while I snapped the photo - Michele is supporting herself on her own!). She also put deodorant on for herself (after saying "deodorant" and removing the cap herself), brushed her own teeth, brushed her own hair, washed her own face, and put chapstick on. With each of these tasks, she had to say the word . . . like brush, or chapstick before she used the item. She did REALLY well. You can see her grimacing in some of these photos since she was obviously working hard! (Amy her nails look FABULOUS in the pic of her putting the cap back on her chapstick) - that takes a lot of dexterity and she did it with ease! Sonja thought that in the next week or so they could try doing these things by her sink in her room so that she'd have her mirror and all of her supplies in front of her.
Carla fed Michele some thickened water from a spoon and also had her try some vanilla pudding. She didn't like the taste of that, but was able to FEED HERSELF NUMEROUS TIMES! It was amazing to see the control she had as she lifted the spoon into her mouth. Absolutely incredible. I told her that soon we could go across the street to that Gelato shop! JCarla is working on getting the swallow test scheduled for next week. She's ready.
We were all amazed by the progress she has made in just the last few weeks! After the session, Michele and I headed back to her room to get our sunglasses before going outside. Tracey came over for a surprise visit, so the three of us headed outside to soak in some sun. Michele took her sunglasses out of her case and put them on herself! The three of us were out there 'til 11, and then Michele got to bed at 11:15, got some Tylenol with C at 11:30 (said her head was hurting) and I put her boots on shortly after. She's looking really good, and the two of us made a secret agreement that she'd be walking by the end of November. She said she thought she could do it by then . . . I have no doubt!
Friday
Without a doubt, Michele is on a completely new track. When I walked in at 2:55 today, I pointed at the clock and she pointed at the clock with a huge smile. It's Dr. Phil time! Before I turned on the show I reminded her of our "walk by the end of November" goal. She smiled and nodded her head. I reminded her how much her muscles had atrophied, so we decided to put together a workout plan for my visit. During each commercial of Dr. Phil and more than half of Oprah, we did leg exercises. Not much at a time, just 5 sets on each leg each time, but she did it! She would lift each leg and touch my hand with her foot. (See the picture of her workout move, attached). She is much stronger with her left leg than she is with her right. Then, I had her bend her knee and straighten her leg as she pushed her foot against my hand. She's got a lot of strength. She's also got a very strong will, so with this goal in mind, I know she's going to work hard.
Kenzie called and she talked to her on speaker, and Mom called and she spoke to her by holding the phone up to her own ear. She said very clear words to both of her callers. Mid-Oprah, Donna (RN) came in to change out Michele's food. Donna was getting ready to leave and Michele looked over at her and said something to her. I said, "Donna, Michele wanted to tell you something." Michele started waving her hands and making lots of noises. I was getting ready for the frustrating game of trying to figure out what she wanted but that didn't happen. Donna asked her if she wanted Tylenol, and Michele shook her head no. I asked her if she was in pain, and she shook her head no. She was pointing to her mouth and I said, "Oh, is it time for your nebulizer treatment?" She said yes! It was a great accomplishment for us to figure this out so quickly. Donna told Michele that she could have more than 2 treatments per day if she wanted to . . . good to know.
There was a portable toilet in the room but Michele said she hadn't used it. Perhaps they are getting ready to start working with that. I had Michele try and work the remote . . . she pushed channel 5 with the greatest of ease (that's The Price is Right and Dr. Phil!!) Funny!
When I was getting ready to leave I asked her if she knew if John was coming tonight. She shrugged her shoulder so I decided to call him and put him on speaker. As soon as he started talking, she got a huge smile on her face. He asked her if she wanted him to bring her earrings to wear so her holes wouldn't close up. She said, loud and clear, "no". I said she'd be home soon enough and she could wear all of her jewelry. JI left shortly after 5 and she wanted to listen to her music.
She is going home for the day on Sunday again. If you are coming by next week and want to drop off some bagged candy, the Manor is having trick-or-treating for kids, and the residents are giving out the candy. You can just leave a bag or two at the front desk.
Love,
C
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