We as a family appreciate the many offers of help and concern expressed on behalf of LaRee during this difficult time. As LaRee will be unable to work for an unknown period of time and due to multiple requests we have decided to set up a bank account on behalf of our dear LaRee. Please note that she is unable to enjoy any floral arrangements due to her current condition and recent tracheotomy procedure. Though we deeply appreciate the outpouring of kindness on her behalf.
In the days to follow the family will be posting information regarding an account that will be set up on behalf of LaRee. These funds will be treated with the utmost care and respect and used to assist LaRee in her medical expenses and any necessities needed. Also we ask for your continued prayers on her behalf and want to express our deepest gratitude for the many friends, ward members, associates, co-workers and even strangers who have prayed for her recovery.
Sincerely,
LaRee's Family
Monday, September 29, 2008
Update #5
Their is a book available called "Bed #10" it is a women's account who had GBS. It is fascinating and is really helping our family to understand exactly what LaRee is experiencing right now. Caroline one of LaRee’s friends told me that she has been trying to buy the book “Bed #10” for the last couple of days. She discovered that the reason it takes so long to get a copy of it is because it is required reading for the nursing/medical program. Since it is the beginning of the school year there has been a rush on these books. We think it is great that this is mandatory reading for the nursing program! Our family was introduced to the book by Bonnie Forbes a friend of Christians (LaRee's sister in law) the story of how this book came into Christians hands in the very hour that it was needed is simply a miracle and divinely inspired. If you can get your hands on it, we recommend reading it as it will help all of LaRee's friends and family better support her through all of this.
On another note:
This last Sunday was a BIG day for all of us. The fact that LaRee could move her head ever so slightly at all after only 9 days is a testimony to the power of so many prayers and much fasting—thank you for uniting with us. The nurse did caution us that these are very small improvements and that LaRee is still in what is considered to be critical condition—but we told the nurse we were willing to celebrate any movement we can get! The exciting thing was that now that she has her eyes open again (off and on) we can actually communicate with her again!
We were able to talk to LaRee and explain what is going on to her—that she has a syndrome and that she will overcome it. Bonnie Forbes who sent us the book Bed number 10 told us- we need to be very clear with LaRee about what is going on so she will not be worried that she is paralyzed permanently. Bonnie also asked us to remind everyone that LaRee is fully aware of everything—only her muscles are temporarily impaired presently but her mental capacity is fully functioning…and that she can hear everything so we as a family all have to remember to include her in every conversation! Since LaRee probably has more questions than any of us about her own condition we are trying hard to make sure she knows that she is expected to return to health.
On another note:
This last Sunday was a BIG day for all of us. The fact that LaRee could move her head ever so slightly at all after only 9 days is a testimony to the power of so many prayers and much fasting—thank you for uniting with us. The nurse did caution us that these are very small improvements and that LaRee is still in what is considered to be critical condition—but we told the nurse we were willing to celebrate any movement we can get! The exciting thing was that now that she has her eyes open again (off and on) we can actually communicate with her again!
We were able to talk to LaRee and explain what is going on to her—that she has a syndrome and that she will overcome it. Bonnie Forbes who sent us the book Bed number 10 told us- we need to be very clear with LaRee about what is going on so she will not be worried that she is paralyzed permanently. Bonnie also asked us to remind everyone that LaRee is fully aware of everything—only her muscles are temporarily impaired presently but her mental capacity is fully functioning…and that she can hear everything so we as a family all have to remember to include her in every conversation! Since LaRee probably has more questions than any of us about her own condition we are trying hard to make sure she knows that she is expected to return to health.
Update #4
LAREE MINI UPDATE:
Just wanted to let you know that LaRee was actually responding to her name today (September 28) which is another small sign of progress. We the family also want to let everyone know that we have started a weekly family fast that began last week and will continue to do so. We as a family would invite all who would like to join with us in fasting and prayer to observe each Sunday as an official fast day for LaRee. We know that LaRee will benefit as we unite together in fasting and prayer and it appears from the last 24-hours we are being blessed in her behalf already.
Just wanted to let you know that LaRee was actually responding to her name today (September 28) which is another small sign of progress. We the family also want to let everyone know that we have started a weekly family fast that began last week and will continue to do so. We as a family would invite all who would like to join with us in fasting and prayer to observe each Sunday as an official fast day for LaRee. We know that LaRee will benefit as we unite together in fasting and prayer and it appears from the last 24-hours we are being blessed in her behalf already.
Update #3
The family has decided from Day one to stay with LaRee around the clock so that she may be comforted continually by her loved ones. This has been a wonderful and humbling experience for us and we are so grateful for the opportunity to be by her side. It is known that with GBS a patient still maintains proper brain function unless (they have been sedated) so as time passes with LaRee she has become very aware of her circumstances. Since she cannot speak to us we have made it a point to constantly be with her and communicate to her what is going on. LaRee is expected to recover to a large extent if not fully over a period of time and we want to make sure she understands that.
During the early morning hours of September 25 we got GREAT NEWS as Dan (LaRee's brother) walked back into LaRee’s room from being out in the hallway and talking to the nurse. Dan said when he looked at LaRee (who still had the gauze pad’s on her eyes) he thought he saw a small movement underneath the gauze…so he removed the pads and then her eyes opened! Dan quickly but gently placed her glasses on and then actually made clear eye contact with her…it was obvious that she was looking at him.
Only family members and a few close friends are allowed to visit at this time due to the fact that LaRee is still in a life-support situation…and needs rest to get better. Considering that LaRee had 5 baby showers when Chloe was born and is loved by the masses, this is a very wise decision! Caroline (Larees friend) joyously reported that LaRee had opened her eyes again during the day September 27.
Having LaRee open her eyes is wonderful but we want to make it very clear to all of you that this represents only a very small improvement—and we need to remember that LaRee is still in critical condition.
This is our update for now. Thank you for your concern, love and prayers.
We know through all of this that our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ continue to shower blessings down upon our family and we are simply awe of this experience and all it is teaching us. We faithfully acknowledge that all things can work to the good and are a part of our Heavenly Father’s plan for our spiritual growth.
Love to all of you, LaRee's Family
During the early morning hours of September 25 we got GREAT NEWS as Dan (LaRee's brother) walked back into LaRee’s room from being out in the hallway and talking to the nurse. Dan said when he looked at LaRee (who still had the gauze pad’s on her eyes) he thought he saw a small movement underneath the gauze…so he removed the pads and then her eyes opened! Dan quickly but gently placed her glasses on and then actually made clear eye contact with her…it was obvious that she was looking at him.
Only family members and a few close friends are allowed to visit at this time due to the fact that LaRee is still in a life-support situation…and needs rest to get better. Considering that LaRee had 5 baby showers when Chloe was born and is loved by the masses, this is a very wise decision! Caroline (Larees friend) joyously reported that LaRee had opened her eyes again during the day September 27.
Having LaRee open her eyes is wonderful but we want to make it very clear to all of you that this represents only a very small improvement—and we need to remember that LaRee is still in critical condition.
This is our update for now. Thank you for your concern, love and prayers.
We know through all of this that our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ continue to shower blessings down upon our family and we are simply awe of this experience and all it is teaching us. We faithfully acknowledge that all things can work to the good and are a part of our Heavenly Father’s plan for our spiritual growth.
Love to all of you, LaRee's Family
Update #2
Good Info (Update below)
We are planning on starting a journal/log to track information and to compile daily entries and keeping cards and correspondence we gather. Our hope is that we can create something beautiful to give to LaRee when this journey is over so LaRee can make some sense of the events surrounding her illness and hopefully gain healing from understanding not only information we place in this volume but also providing a physical demonstration of the outpouring of love and support which may aid her to heal faster.
If you want to send a card or letter we have decided that it is best to send it to a local family member so we can ensure it gets to her! Send it to the address below
C/O Fricke
12413 68th Avenue S.E.
Snohomish, Washington. 98296
PLEASE NOTE: It is not possible for LaRee to receive calls at this time or visits from anyone other than a family members – right now it is family only in the ICU L - we can assure you she will need many visits and your sweet support when she can breathe on her own and is sent to recover in the rehabilitation center or at home – she loves all her friends dearly and appreciates your love and concern.
A Guillain-Barre Foundation does exist—a place where we may individually be able to get information as far as resources and support for LaRee or questions and information for ourselves when needed. We did not find a local chapter but did find a national one – see link below.
http://www.gbs-cidp.org/index.html#
GBS/CIDP Foundation International The Holly Building104 1/2 Forrest Avenue Narberth, PA 19072Voice: 610-667-0131 - Fax: 610-667-7036Toll Free: 1-866-224-3301Email: info@gbs-cidp.org
Dear Family & Friends,
LAREE UPDATE #2:
LaRee had a tracheotomy performed on Thursday to replace the respirator (breathing tube going down her throat) that had been in place since last Saturday. Aunt Margo who was watching over her during the day on Thursday said she felt this was a better option for LaRee as she now could rest more peacefully without the ventilation tube.
For the past 4 days we have been unable to communicate with LaRee in any way…she was having the gamma globulin treatments but never opened her eyes as she had done in the past. We were told during the period of the gamma globulin treatments that there was a medication being administered for pain as well as sedation. Now that the gamma treatments are over, the doctors are backing off of the sedation medication to see if we can get any response from LaRee to indicate those treatments are working.
We are planning on starting a journal/log to track information and to compile daily entries and keeping cards and correspondence we gather. Our hope is that we can create something beautiful to give to LaRee when this journey is over so LaRee can make some sense of the events surrounding her illness and hopefully gain healing from understanding not only information we place in this volume but also providing a physical demonstration of the outpouring of love and support which may aid her to heal faster.
If you want to send a card or letter we have decided that it is best to send it to a local family member so we can ensure it gets to her! Send it to the address below
C/O Fricke
12413 68th Avenue S.E.
Snohomish, Washington. 98296
PLEASE NOTE: It is not possible for LaRee to receive calls at this time or visits from anyone other than a family members – right now it is family only in the ICU L - we can assure you she will need many visits and your sweet support when she can breathe on her own and is sent to recover in the rehabilitation center or at home – she loves all her friends dearly and appreciates your love and concern.
A Guillain-Barre Foundation does exist—a place where we may individually be able to get information as far as resources and support for LaRee or questions and information for ourselves when needed. We did not find a local chapter but did find a national one – see link below.
http://www.gbs-cidp.org/index.html#
GBS/CIDP Foundation International The Holly Building104 1/2 Forrest Avenue Narberth, PA 19072Voice: 610-667-0131 - Fax: 610-667-7036Toll Free: 1-866-224-3301Email: info@gbs-cidp.org
Dear Family & Friends,
LAREE UPDATE #2:
LaRee had a tracheotomy performed on Thursday to replace the respirator (breathing tube going down her throat) that had been in place since last Saturday. Aunt Margo who was watching over her during the day on Thursday said she felt this was a better option for LaRee as she now could rest more peacefully without the ventilation tube.
For the past 4 days we have been unable to communicate with LaRee in any way…she was having the gamma globulin treatments but never opened her eyes as she had done in the past. We were told during the period of the gamma globulin treatments that there was a medication being administered for pain as well as sedation. Now that the gamma treatments are over, the doctors are backing off of the sedation medication to see if we can get any response from LaRee to indicate those treatments are working.
Update #1
Dear Family & Friends,
It has been a real whirlwind as you know when our lives turned upside down on September 18, 2008 and our sweet LaRee was hospitalized. Since that time many have wanted an update as we know you are all worried and concerned. We decided to start this blog to communicate regular updates to everyone so we can all share information and unite in prayer, faith and our love with all of you and in behalf of Laree.
UPDATE:
LaRee was diagnosed with a rare disorder called Guillain-Barre Syndrome the morning of September 19. Surprisingly due to the rare occurrence of this Syndrome (1-2 out of every 100,000 / only 4,000 cases per year in the US), there is a lot of helpful information about this on the internet and some pretty good videos on You Tube which explain what this syndrome is. The main thing we can report is that it causes total-body paralysis rapidly. LaRee experienced her first signs of it (numbness in the hands and feet last Wednesday and was placed upon life support by Saturday) in it’s 2nd stage (because it has stages it is called a syndrome). LaRee has received a gamma globulin treatment for the last 5 days and now that course is over we are in a holding pattern—waiting to see if the treatment administered will take effect. The nurse advised us because LaRee’s condition is so acute, she may not show signs of improvement for some time (up to 7 days). We all need to be patient. The kind nurses also advised us last night that they are doing all they can to take care of LaRee and to ensure she does not develop any new or secondary problems. We were also told that in a few days they will have to perform a tracheotomy (the normal protocol) if LaRee is not breathing on her own. There was a rumor that Laree was in a drug-induced coma and this is not true at all – in fact now that the gamma treatment is over they have backed off the drug they were giving her that will likely cause her to forget the last 5 days of anything that happened which we feel is a good thing…now we need her to respond! Any reaction from her of an eye-blink or a toe curl will be cause to celebrate!
It has been a real whirlwind as you know when our lives turned upside down on September 18, 2008 and our sweet LaRee was hospitalized. Since that time many have wanted an update as we know you are all worried and concerned. We decided to start this blog to communicate regular updates to everyone so we can all share information and unite in prayer, faith and our love with all of you and in behalf of Laree.
UPDATE:
LaRee was diagnosed with a rare disorder called Guillain-Barre Syndrome the morning of September 19. Surprisingly due to the rare occurrence of this Syndrome (1-2 out of every 100,000 / only 4,000 cases per year in the US), there is a lot of helpful information about this on the internet and some pretty good videos on You Tube which explain what this syndrome is. The main thing we can report is that it causes total-body paralysis rapidly. LaRee experienced her first signs of it (numbness in the hands and feet last Wednesday and was placed upon life support by Saturday) in it’s 2nd stage (because it has stages it is called a syndrome). LaRee has received a gamma globulin treatment for the last 5 days and now that course is over we are in a holding pattern—waiting to see if the treatment administered will take effect. The nurse advised us because LaRee’s condition is so acute, she may not show signs of improvement for some time (up to 7 days). We all need to be patient. The kind nurses also advised us last night that they are doing all they can to take care of LaRee and to ensure she does not develop any new or secondary problems. We were also told that in a few days they will have to perform a tracheotomy (the normal protocol) if LaRee is not breathing on her own. There was a rumor that Laree was in a drug-induced coma and this is not true at all – in fact now that the gamma treatment is over they have backed off the drug they were giving her that will likely cause her to forget the last 5 days of anything that happened which we feel is a good thing…now we need her to respond! Any reaction from her of an eye-blink or a toe curl will be cause to celebrate!
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