Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Abby update - January 30

It sounds like Abby had a wild time at therapy today. Gordon came hope reporting that she took her OT on a wheelbarrow ride through the hospital hallways. (In order to appreciate this, you need to know that her OT, Bob, is actually a para-Olympic cyclist who has the leg muscles and bulk befitting his bronze medal win in the Sydney games! And, evidently, he also loaded the wheelbarrow with a heavy water container as well!). It sounds like it was a great workout, with some rather exciting moments (the hallway has a sloping ramp area). I wish I had a picture for you and me to see!

But, there is other good news as well. The electromyogram in Abby's biofeedback session today showed that she is using about twice as many different muscles as she was during last week's assessment. We also feel that she's getting some good treatment for the tightness in her neck--a PT student who is doing a rotation there is actually very good with those neck muscles.

And, finally, I just have to let Mrs. Bird know that we had a great violin practice this evening. Abby tackled one of the Bach minuets tonight, and did a great job. I told her that, at this rate, by next month she'd be playing in Book 2, and then she suggested that she'd be in Book 3 the month after that. Watch out Bach Double Concerto!

If only we all could be motivated to work as hard as she...Abby does inspire us, doesn't she...?
Love,
Abby's family

Monday, January 29, 2007

Abby update - January 29

Another day--another indulgent meal with good friends...We enjoyed barbecue and good music this evening with the Scotts and Zellers, new friends that God brought to Abby and to us through the accident. The Salt Lick barbecue was great, but, in my mind, the highlight of the evening was the musical performance by the Scotts' young son and daughter (well, she mostly just smiled...). Abby's sociable nature shows itself at times like these--she's quite comfortable with guests here and always finds something to tell them about (usually concerning horses or dogs!).

Our day of therapy went well. Speaking of horses, Abby's OT loves to set up real-life simulations, such as carrying buckets full of stuff over outdoor terrain--she'll truly be ready to have her horse again soon! The PT, like I, was noting how much progress Abby has made physically in the past week, and, though we're eager to see faster improvement in the memory and cognitive area, we do see some good steps forward--Abby's much better at keeping track of days and dates, at remembering some events of the day (she remembered that her good friend Taylor stopped by today), and tonight she read to me instead of vice-versa. We're happy to report that the later commute to therapy today went very well--Now I'm just sorry for all those other people who actually try to drive in Austin between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m....

Please just continue to pray that those improvements continue to come--we know God is working through all of you...
Love,
Abby's family

Sunday, January 28, 2007

Abby update - January 28

Today, for the first time since her accident, Abby was back in the teen Sunday School class at church (and Gordon and I were back playing on the worship team). It was nice to be back to the "old routine," but it's also nice to know that, even though Abby's routine isn't really the same for her yet, her youth pastor and fellow teens at church are sensitive to caring about and watching out for her during these stages. Sometimes I know it's difficult for others, especially young people, to know how to respond when someone is different, but Gordon and I have been so impressed with the friends who have continued to talk with her, play with her, and just be by her side. They have been and continue to be an important part of the healing process, and I know they bring Abby joy.

We had a wonderful afternoon of eating and visiting with friends as well (with a visit to Home Depot thrown in, where Gordon had a great time). We played some soccer and basketball with the Johnsons during the afternoon sunshine. Abby's getting better and better at basketball--she was really moving her feet well on defense today, and she's reached one of the goals she set for herself: She can now make a basket using a regulation basketball and a regulation goal. Her strength has come a long way.

I had really intended to ask Abby to write tonight's blog, but she was pooped by the time we got home this evening, so maybe I'll have her write the post another evening this week...That should keep you reading...!

Thanks for reading this far with us,
Lee Ann & the Linams

Saturday, January 27, 2007

Abby update - January 27

Sorry, no photo today. I didn't think that Abby dusting, helping pick up ice storm tree limbs, or doing homework would be that interesting as photo subjects, but it is good to report that she's doing those things! I did add a photo of Abby and Paquita on January 22, the day Paquita came home from staying with the Volinskys and their big bird up the hill...

Our other main activity today was watching Frank's basketball games. Let's just say that Gordon's boys are learning "character" this season. They just couldn't pull out a win in either game, but they all sure really play hard and have a good attitude. Abby did put in a little basketball practice today as well, along with Frank and Taylor S. It was good to visit with Taylor and Tracy Schaede...

Well, tomorrow we're going to try to make it to Sunday School and music team practice in New Braunfels--No more leisurely Sunday mornings, so I'd better get to bed!

Love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby, & Frank

Friday, January 26, 2007

Abby update - January 26

I thought you’d enjoy seeing a photo from Abby’s big news of the day. She had a great time riding Merlin at the A.W.A.R.E. riding therapy center in San Marcos! It was great to see her on a horse and she did really well! After a few times around the arena, they allowed her to trot and even to ride some portions without a lead rope on him. Another teenage girl (who has ridden there for 11 years) and Abby had lessons at the same time, so they had the two girls ride through an obstacle course, play “Red light, green light,” do some horseback exercises, and then even had a practice equitation class. At the end Abby even dismounted on her own. Merlin is a wonderful horse for her, and I think this is going to be wonderful therapy for her!

Abby also had a good day at therapy at St. David's. The occupational and physical therapists today were really working on her balance and core strength (two items that horseback riding will also help). She bounced on a trampoline, threw heavy balls, carried buckets, did yoga, rode a stationary bike, balanced on a teeter board, and practiced swinging her hands while walking. As I look back, she's come a long way in one week. Her walking is much more smooth and natural now, and her balance is much better (a week ago she had trouble standing on one foot--no problem now!). She also did a very good job remembering and comprehending some reading today (She's reading our friend Andy Sansom's book, Scout the Christmas Dog.)

In addition to her three regular therapies, she also had pool therapy today (horseback riding and swimming in one day--sounds like summer camp!). She's able to swim using crawl, breast, and back-stroke, although she still needs some work making the strokes strong and efficient. I really like getting in the pool at St. David's too!

Anyway, as you can imagine, we're looking forward to a little rest this weekend. Abby will be glad to let Frank, who has a basketball double-header on Saturday, take center stage for a couple of days...Let the weekend begin!

Love,
-the Linams

P.S. Now that I'm getting things organized on my computer, I'll try to slip a few more pictures in--perhaps even some from earlier in Abby's recovery.

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Abby update - January 25

Abby saw a few "substitute" therapists yesterday and today at St. David's, but even that was a blessing. It's nice to have the continuity of primary therapists (and we really like the ones we have), but each additional therapist brings some additional expertise to Abby's treatment. (And Abby seems to enjoy meeting the new people as well.) Some of these "new" therapists have really focused on loosening Abby's shoulders and neck and on engaging the muscles in her right leg (the "weak" leg).

After a week of "trying out" St. David's, we're happy we made the decision to participate in their program. By next week Abby should have a pretty set schedule--St. David's on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (they've scheduled our start times for 10 a.m., so maybe we can miss most of the traffic--hurray!); Wimberley ISD teacher on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons; and, the new addition, riding therapy, on Friday afternoons. (Frank's schedule is a little different, as, with help from Gordon and friends, he won't have to go to Austin every day.) Wednesday is our day to rest at home, have a field trip, or at least take a break in the routine. Saturday is Wimberley day (chores, basketball games for Frank, violin group lessons, family time), and Sunday is church! So, anyway, now you know where to look for us if you need to find us!

However, when the sun finally blesses us, as it did today, you might just find us tweaking those plans and slipping out for a little R&R (or at least an extra-long lunch!)...there are many facets of recovery, I think!
Blessing to you,
Lee Ann & family

Wednesday, January 24, 2007

Abby update - January 24

We've decided that we love the therapy program at St. David's, but we hate Austin traffic! This morning's commute in the rain was a test of patience and reaction time. Thankfully, we made it unscathed, though late. Maybe we can beg them to let us have a later start time, since we're driving in from the "country..."

Once we got there it was worth it. Abby's OT worked with her on some fine motor skills assessment and then on what I thought was a pretty good challenge--tossing tennis balls back and forth between each other simultaneously (I'm not sure I'd be very good at it!). Her PT for today has an orthopedic background, so we were glad to hear that she worked on the tightness in Abby's neck. And the Speech Therapist continued to work on reading, memory, and math. Meanwhile, Frank and I worked on schoolwork and work-work in the waiting area, where we met more family members full of encouragement.

Since we were finished by noon, the kids and I took some time to run some errands in Austin (including eating our way through the sample tables at Central Market--one of their favorite activities!). We arrived home just ahead of Abby's teacher from Wimberley Junior High. More math and grammar--Abby's pretty strong on her grammar and her math is improving every day. Then piano practice and a little bit of homework after supper, a game of Mancala, and bed! Whew! We should have hit the energy supplement aisle at Central Market!

But, thanks to all of you, we've got the energy and support to make it (just the thought of that gift lasagna leftover in the fridge kept me going today), so thanks again for all you've done...
-the Linams

Tuesday, January 23, 2007

Abby update - January 23

Just a quick note tonight--with the discipline of (nearly) daily trips to St. David's, I've got to get more discipline in my bedtimes...!

Gordon took Abby to therapy at St. David's today, while Frank and I did work and homeschool. He said they had another productive day, including a biofeedback session. Biofeedback at St. David's utilizes an electromyogram--a computer assessment of muscle-firing activity to assess which messages are getting from the brain to the muscles. This resource (which is not available at many hospitals) will let the therapists see which muscles or muscle areas Abby is not using and design therapy to target those areas.

On the cognitive side, Abby is doing lots of reading, both for her speech therapist and her home-bound schoolteacher (as well as the things we were already reading for fun). It's a good thing she likes to read!

Otherwise, we're just like everyone else in Texas right now--trying to stay warm and dry! May you as well...
-the Linams

Monday, January 22, 2007

Abby update - January 22


Sorry, it's Mom again. I know you all enjoyed hearing from Abby yesterday. We'll definitely do some of that each week, but, at this point in time, it still takes her a little while to do the composing and typing. I'm still constantly amazed at what's in her memory, however--her fingers still remember the location of all the keys on the keyboard (as well as all the keys on the piano--her practice this evening was great!).

Abby had a check-up with Dr. Leonard, her rehab doctor at Warm Springs, today, and we had a great time going through the halls, visiting all the staff we could find. We also enjoyed having lunch with her three primary therapists, and, by the way, Marissa, Becky, and Kim, she does still remember your names (with a little prompting--we won't tell you what memorable features we mention for each of you--ha! ha!).

Gordon and I were both struck with the same feeling today--that when we first anticipated going to Warm Springs Rehab Hospital it was with uncertain feelings--it seemed like we were taking our daughter to an "institution." When we look at it now we see it as a place of so much warmth and caring and healing and good memories as a family. It's definitely the caring staff that define Warm Springs (and not that depressing color scheme!!).

Finally, I just thought that in closing, I need to tell you about one of those little improvements that just almost slips by unnoticed. Remember when I told you about sending Abby into the bathroom four times to change into her pajamas? This evening she told me that she was going to get ready for bed, and, the next thing I know she showed up with her PJs on, her teeth brushed, and her faced washed. The really hilarious thing was she opened up her mouth wide and breathed into my face before I asked anything--she decided that she'd beat me to the inevitable question...some days she really makes me laugh...

May you find the laughter in your days as well,
Abby's family

P.S. Just thought I'd add this photo, as Paquita came home today after visiting the Volinskys during our time away and transition home. Paquita, who is usually notoriously obnoxious to Abby, seemed really glad to see her (and us) again!

Sunday, January 21, 2007

Abby update - January 21

Hi! This is Abby talking. Today I went to church and everyone was happy to see me! We ate at Taco Bell and then went to Franks bball game. After that I saw my friend Megan. She is doing great! When we got home we practiced softball, and Arby and I did agility!

Now I am going to bed. Good night!!!!!

Saturday, January 20, 2007

Abby update - January 20

Today's big news was that Abby attended her first violin lesson since the accident! She participated in some of Paula Bird's group classes for beginning students. I couldn't help but have some mixed emotions--after all, last September Abby was in Paula's most advanced group--but Abby helps me get the right perspective. She seemed so glad to be there and in general seems very proud that she can still play her violin. In addition, the simple motor skills that Paula asks of these beginning students are so good for Abby's recovery at this point. Thanks to everyone in Wildflower Suzuki Studio who has been pulling for Abby. *And here's a word of advice for you advanced students: It was always hard to keep practicing the early songs in the Suzuki repertoire when so much time needed to be spent on the newer, more difficult ones, but now I'm so glad that Abby committed those early songs to memory and kept practicing them. Because the memories were strong in her brain, her fingers, hands, and arms now have the chance to rebuild their capabilities.

Speaking of what the brain can do, one of the patients that we met at St. David's on Friday indirectly gave us some reassurance that we were in the right place. He suffered a stroke in 2005 soon after running the Chicago Marathon and has fought his way back to being able to run a 5K race in 2006; however, I was most impressed with his insights regarding cognitive therapy and recovery. He expressed a lot of confidence in the speech therapist he has worked with at St. David's--the same one that Abby will be seeing. Once again, the personal stories of struggle and triumph are the greatest encouragement for us.

God bless you all,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

Friday, January 19, 2007

Abby update - January 19

I'm writing early tonight, because I don't think that either Abby or I will be awake for too many more hours...

We had a busy, but rewarding, day at St. David's Rehab program today. Abby met with the physical, speech, and occupational therapists for an initial evaluation and then even got to do an additional hour of pool therapy. I was very impressed with the knowledge, approach, and capabilities of the therapists there. We also met some nice patients and families along the way, and, though none of them are young like Abby, I think that Abby will feel comfortable with the staff and program as long as we are around. And it certainly will be intense! She was pooped on her way home this afternoon and then did another hour of schoolwork with Mrs. Ruiz from Wimberley ISD. Perhaps we'll tweak the schedule as we find out how much is the right amount for Abby's stamina now, but, for the moment, we're scheduled to do therapy there four days per week.

And--thanks for praying--we made it through the Austin traffic okay!

Now, for some dinner, a DVD, and bed...everyone's idea of a big Friday night, right?
Blessings,
-the Linams

Thursday, January 18, 2007

Abby update - January 18

We had another quiet day at home today, but a nice evening out tonight. We noticed that Ray Wylie Hubbard was playing at Susannah's Kitchen (a concert series at the local Methodist Church) and wanted to take the opportunity to go listen as a family, tell him thank you, and let Abby meet him. He was very gracious in saying he was glad to be a part of the Taylor and Abby benefit, autographed a CD for Frank during intermission, and then, when we asked him about the chords in one particular song, he took Frank aside and gave him a quick blues guitar lesson! Wimberley is full of wonderful people.

There were several more of those wonderful people who gave Abby hugs tonight as well. It's very touching that nearly everywhere we go we meet someone who's been praying for Abby. I'm so thankful for those prayers and that she can repay them with a smile and a "hi."

And now, to bed. Things have finally thawed out around here, so tomorrow morning early we head to therapy at St. David's Hospital. Prayers for Austin drivers would be appreciated...

More later...
Abby's family

Wednesday, January 17, 2007

Abby update - January 17

Just a quick post, as I think everyone else is asleep, and I almost am...

We enjoyed another day at home together in the Wimberley Wintery Wonderland. Today ice had replaced our sleet-snow, and Frank and Abby had great fun cracking 1/2" ice sheets off the vehicles and licking 18" icicles (thankfully, icicles don't act the same as the frost on the metal ice trays that my grandmother used to have--ouch!). Therapy was cancelled again today, so we didn't get to be a part of the dozens of motor vehicle accidents in Austin, but Gordon and Abby did exercises and games this morning, and Abby and I drove into San Marcos this afternoon for a pediatrician appointment.

I do have to close with a praise. After writing last night about Abby's memory problems, I made the mistake of staying up to read online information about the persistence of cognitive effects from head injuries (never do this at night if you are facing any medical concerns--I should know this...), thus ruining a perfectly good night for sleeping. Today Abby still had some of the same issues, of course, but this evening when I picked up the chapter book I have been reading to her, she told me the name of the book and its main characters. Patience and persistence (and faith)--I should know these things by now...if only I could remember...

Thanks for your prayers,
Lee Ann & snoozing family

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Abby update - January 16

With Central Texas roads iced over, we did home-grown therapy again this morning (our start at St. David's is now delayed until Friday), but this afternoon I put the list of exercises away, and we all went outside and played in the white stuff for awhile. Abby threw a few snow/sleetballs, while Frank prepared an arsenal for later excursions. Then Abby enjoyed a visit from Taylor Schaede. Abby enjoys being with me, Gordon, and Frank, but there's nothing like hanging out with a friend your own age...I'm so thankful for all Abby's friends who have continued to encourage her and do things with her.

Abby's a little smoother in her walking and other physical activities each day (it even seems like the stiffness in her neck is lessening), but she still struggles so much with memory issues. She is such a joy to be around (we are so thankful that her sweet and light-hearted disposition has not changed), but it's difficult for her to even recall any events of the day--a limitation that would make new schoolwork very difficult. Her therapists have given us some activities to help build memory function, but we would certainly welcome your prayers for this need specifically.

So, you see, we still need you--all our friends and prayer warriors. Thanks for being there!
-the Linams

Monday, January 15, 2007

Abby update - January 15

Well, the cold and ice delayed our start of therapy at St. David's today, so we just had to do therapy, Linam-style. Abby did some weight-training and stretching with the arms, some therapy ball and stair work on the legs, some violin practice and letter-writing for the hands, played some computer and card games for cognition and memory, made a volcano and some rolls (not at the same time!) just for fun, and then helped with some chores because they needed to be done. Pretty busy for a "day off," huh? Abby will be glad for the chance to get to St. David's "intensive" program and rest--ha! ha! (We did take time out for a movie together as a family tonight...)

Maybe we'll do snow-therapy tomorrow (!)...Until then, wishing you much warmth...
Love,
-the Linams

Sunday, January 14, 2007

Abby update - January 14

We were able to wrap up this week with one more "in-person" thank you to a another group that reached out to us following Abby's accident. We were happy to be able to join Cypress Creek Church this morning for a wonderful worship service. Cypress Creek as a congregation supported the repair project on our home, so we were glad for the chance to worship together with them. Pastor Rob's message was that we can trust God, and once again Abby (and we) said "Amen..."

You all have provided so much to us through this period of our lives. I can honestly say that we have learned to trust God to give us what we need, and many times those things came tangibly or intangibly through you, our friends. Sometimes what we needed was a card or word of encouragement, sometimes what we needed was a hug, sometimes what we needed was a meal and fellowship, sometimes what we needed was a laugh, sometimes what we needed was help with our animals or our home, sometimes what we needed was a break for Frank, sometimes we needed something practical like a pen or postage stamps,..., and those things were always there.

Many of you also have been so generous with monetary gifts, and we appreciate your heart. We have been fortunate to find that our insurance coverage is actually very good, and we have not yet encountered staggering medical bills. In the short term, your giving has helped us to pay co-pays, pay for our rooms at Ronald McDonald House, buy some therapeutic equipment and supplies, sign up for riding therapy, etc. In the long run it is possible that we will need to provide some type of ongoing therapy or assistance for Abby that insurance will not cover, so we have set aside many of the gifts in a special fund. If we need it for Abby, it will be there, but if we don't, then we hope to find some way in which to reach out to others with the surplus. We'll let Abby help us decide how to do that--perhaps supporting therapy or assistance animals in some way, as they have been such an important part of her recovery. Thank you for your generosity--we just want you to know that we respect your intentions and hope to honor them in our decisions.

And we pray that God will give us your eyes of generosity as we see needs in the future...thank you.
Abby & family

Saturday, January 13, 2007

Abby update - January 13

I just want to start this update with a thanks to all of you that are reading. We all attended Frank's Little Dribbler basketball games today as a family. While the outcome of the games was not as we might have wanted (the Ballers got "outscored" twice, in Aggie-talk), we received so many encouraging good wishes from folks who were glad to see Abby back home in Wimberley, some of whom only knew us from the blog. We really appreciate all the kids that are Abby's age who stopped by or sat by her to encourage her, but thanks to everyone for reading, praying, and caring. By this time next year we're planning for Abby to be back on the basketball court.

We made another special stop on our way home from the games. We had learned that the EMS team who helped Abby and Taylor on October 3 were on duty today, so we went by the EMS station on our way home. The more we learn about the events of that day and about Abby's condition at the scene, the more we know that God worked miracles through many people to even have her here with us today, much less to have hope of basketball again one day. One of the paramedics reported that she had to sort through a covering of blankets and pillows to reach Abby to begin their life-saving work. Thank you, Wimberley EMS and all the people who blanketed Abby and Taylor that evening on Flite Acres Road, both literally and figuratively. We know that seeing kids like Abby and Taylor walking and talking is the biggest reward for EMS, but, boy, are we going to bake those folks a big batch of cookies!

Blankets of love to all of you tonight--
-the Linams

Friday, January 12, 2007

Abby update - January 12

It was another day of mixed blessings in this recovery saga today. Today Abby had her last sessions (at least for awhile) with her home health speech therapist and physical therapist. Once again, we've been blessed by professionals who put their whole heart into their work and relationships, and then we have to say "so long...," but such is the nature of recovery. Though both these ladies have done a great job with Abby at home (both her memory and her walking have improved a lot under their guidance), they also gave us a lot of confidence that our opportunities at St. David's (starting Monday) will be good for Abby.

Abby also had school with her home-bound teacher this afternoon, but we made time for some fun "applied" therapy today as well. Abby and Frank helped plant a portion of our yard with wildflower seeds, then Abby attended a Bingo Night with the Vests tonight. (Good thing our recreation therapist at Warm Springs got her reintroduced to bingo!--Thanks Laura!) Abby didn't win any money, but she did have a lot of fun and reportedly kept the Vests laughing as well...

I think Abby's teaching me a new motto: "Life, it's the best therapy, so live it!" We're thankful that we have this chance...
Love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

Abby update - January 12

It was another day of mixed blessings in this recovery saga today. Today Abby had her last sessions (at least for awhile) with her home health speech therapist and physical therapist. Once again, we've been blessed by professionals who put their whole heart into their work and relationships, and then we have to say "so long...," but such is the nature of recovery. Though both these ladies have done a great job with Abby at home (both her memory and her walking have improved a lot under their guidance), they also gave us a lot of confidence that our opportunities at St. David's (starting Monday) will be good for Abby.

Abby also had school with her home-bound teacher this afternoon, but we made time for some fun "applied" therapy today as well. Abby and Frank helped plant a portion of our yard with wildflower seeds, then Abby attended a Bingo Night with the Vests tonight. (Good thing our recreation therapist at Warm Springs got her reintroduced to bingo!--Thanks Laura!) Abby didn't win any money, but she did have a lot of fun and reportedly kept the Vests laughing as well...

I think Abby's teaching me a new motto: "Life, it's the best therapy, so live it!" We're thankful that we have this chance...
Love,
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

Thursday, January 11, 2007

Abby update - January 11

Everyone please note the new and improved blog update time! Abby is downstairs helping Gordon get supper ready, so I'm going to do my post and then go to bed when everyone else does!

It was another day of formal and home-grown therapy again today. We had a visit from the speech therapist and school teacher, plus we squeezed in a walk, some weight-lifting, some swimming, and a trip to the school for Abby to take photos with her class. We really like the approach the teacher from Wimberley ISD is taking--starting with the basics to assess what's easy for Abby and then rebuilding where that is needed.

And we finally made a decision about therapy. We've decided to try the St. David's program at least for a few weeks. We spoke to them about tailoring the program for Abby's age, and they provided us with some reassurances about that capability. We are looking at the St. David's experience as yet another phase--first, inpatient rehab at Warm Springs; second, home therapy to help us make the adjustment to returning home; third, intensive day program at St. David's to try to meet some physical and cognitive goals; with our next goal as getting back to school with supplementary therapy as we need it. I think another deciding factor was that we've had a little time now to rest as a family, so we feel up to the challenge of committing to a schedule that will require the discipline of a day program (we're planning on four days/week). All this is supposed to begin on Monday (assuming all the insurance hoops are overcome.) Thanks to all of you who prayed with us on this--we feel good about the decision, and Abby's looking forward to getting back to a therapy gym.

Well, I think that dinner is ready, so I'm signing off at the unheard-of hour of 6:20!

Love to all,
-the LInams

Wednesday, January 10, 2007

Abby update - January 10

Today was another day full of emotion and reconnections for us. Frank, Abby, & I dropped by Hill Country Christian School to say hi to her classmates and to attend the Wednesday chapel service. It was a very special reunion for us--there's nothing like the love of a small Christan school. Abby seemed so at home there and so happy to be among her friends, and I was touched by the emotions of her fellow students, as well as the teachers.

Then, just to add to the emotions of the day, we all attended the Wimberley 4-H meeting this evening. Abby took her place at the officers' table in the front, and, again, we felt so welcomed as a family. Being in these familiar places among familiar faces is going to help bring healing to Abby, we are sure.

Which brings us to the big decision. Which we have not yet made. We've queried many of the therapists and doctors we've gotten to know and respect, and the score is: Day program - 3 therapists; Home therapy - one doctor, one therapist; Day program with reservations - 2 therapists. Aaaagh! Our next step might be to try a "trial" day at the day program and see what we think.

In the meantime, Abby continues to do well. Did I mention that she walks up the stairs now without any assistance from anyone? (She's been doing that over a week, but I think I failed to mention it.) Last night she took a shower completely on her own, and this afternoon she jumped on the trampoline with me holding her hands.

Finally, a praise and a prayer request as we close. Priscilla, the 18-month-old friend at Warm Springs, got to go home to El Paso just after New Years, and we heard that she's doing well, with lots of improvements. At the 4-H meeting, however, we heard that a sweet 4-H friend, Megan Azopardi, who does dog training and other events with us, was hurt in a horseback riding accident 10 days ago. She is going to have to return to the hospital this week to have surgery to repair some facial fractures. Please keep Megan and her family in your prayers.

Thanks for praying us all through all these times...
Lee Ann, Gordon, & family

Tuesday, January 09, 2007

Abby update - January 9

First of all, a BIG Happy Birthday to Abby's Uncle Greg (and Kayla's dad, of course). With the energy required for a new daughter, we think Uncle Greg had better start counting backwards this year!!!

Abby's big news today was a trip to Austin. Our primary purpose was to check out the rehab program at St. David's Hospital, but the highlight was a stop by Children's Hospital PICU and the Ronald McDonald House to let Abby meet some of the people who helped her and us through those first few weeks after the accident. It was a wonderful feeling to have Abby walk into ICU this time and say "hi" to some of the nurses and other staff who cared for her so well there. We will never forget the dedication and care of the ICU nurses--Abby doesn't remember them from her time there, but we will never stop telling her about them. And then we timed our visit to the Ronald McDonald House to "happen to" coincide with the arrival of lunch there. We were pleased to introduce Abby, have some lunch (including some of Mary's famous Tuesday homemade cake), and leave them with an inscribed cloth that will be part of a welcoming mural when the new Ronald McDonald House is built.

And then on to St. David's. Our visit there still left us a little uncertain about our best option for ongoing therapy. Many of our therapists have recommended making the switch to a "day program" (a program where the patient spends a large part of each day at a therapy location, receiving several hours of sequential, complementary therapy), especially if that allows us to significantly increase the total number hours of therapy, but one of our concerns about the St. David's program (aside from the commute) is that it is an adult program. We want to make sure that, in addition to its focus on neurological rehabilitation, it can also focus on the issues that are most relevant for Abby and that she feels comfortable and encouraged in her surroundings. We wish that a day program for children with head injuries existed in Central Texas, but apparently it simply doesn't. We'll try to talk to a few more therapist and doctor friends tomorrow, and then just pray that once again God puts us in the right spot...

One source of confidence today was Abby's first visit from her new teacher at Wimberley Junior High. We think we and Abby are going to really like Mrs. Ruiz! One thing continues to be certain--we're not in this alone, by any means...
-Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby & Frank

Monday, January 08, 2007

Abby update - January 8

Well, Gordon was the one taking the difficult step forward today. He went back to work for the first time since the accident on October 3. He said his co-workers really went out of their way to ease the transition back for him--we'll see how long it is before they stop spoiling him!! We have truly valued the chance to be together as a family through these several months--I know we needed the strength and reassurance that we could give to each other, as well as the opportunity to be there for both Abby and Frank. We've all been very grateful for the way that Texas Parks and Wildlife has treated us.

Abby did her fair share of steps today as well--walking with me in the beautiful sunshine this morning and then with our physical therapist outside again in the afternoon. The PTs all agree that Hoots Holler and our rugged acreage offer some unique and wonderful opportunities for physical therapy, but they've also asked us to consider another treatment option. The owner of the company providing our "at-home" services thinks that Abby might greatly benefit from an intensive "day program" at St. David's Hospital in Austin. It would mean a daily commute for us to Austin, where Abby would get 4-5 hours of therapy a day. The two choices (home therapy vs. day program) seem to offer quite divergent advantages in our view--a choice between a very comforting and familiar environment and schedule versus maximizing therapy hours and resources. Tomorrow we will visit the program at St. David's, and we would appreciate your prayers about the choice we will be making. As a scientist, I wish the definitive research paper existed on what would be the best choice for us, but, as with all things biological, there are divergent findings and much individual variation, so we may just have to go with our "gut..."

Abby will also get her first visit from the Wimberley ISD teacher assigned to her tomorrow (and a speech therapist visit), so it will be a busy day. So, we'd better all get our rest...

Thank you for your prayers--
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby, & Frank

Sunday, January 07, 2007

Abby update - January 7

We enjoyed a couple of wonderful worship services with Abby today. First, at our own church, where Abby opted to sit with Mom & Dad "near" the teens. She's happy to be back among our church family and her friends there, but she definitely has a strengthened attachment to me and Gordon since the accident. I can only imagine how the world still seems a little confusing and overwhelming to her at times, so I'm glad to treasure these moments when she still wants us near--believing that, all too soon, she's be back to her nearly-teen independent phase!

This evening we all attended a wonderful music and worship program that was a fund-raiser for a mission effort at a hospital in Mozambique sponsored by San Marcos United Methodist Church and Wesley United Methodist Church in Austin. It was quite the diverse experience--with a touch of gospel, jazz, and bagpipes (!), but what really touched me were the images they showed of mothers and children there. I felt an empathy for the heartache of mothers with sick children and sadness to know that so many of them may fail to find hope. If you're looking for a wonderful way to help change a small piece of the world, take a look at http://www.fumcsm.org/missions.asp. (It has not yet been updated from 2006, but a trip is planned again in 2007 to build housing for visiting doctors.)

But, my dear daughter will be looking for me in the morning, and Gordon heads back to the world of work, so I'd best be off to bed now...
Love,
-the Linams

Saturday, January 06, 2007

Abby update - January 6

Despite some pretty discouraging weather, we had an encouraging day today. Formal therapy was set aside in favor of "practical" therapy, such as baking cookies, sweeping, dusting, etc...I don't know about Abby, but I felt like it was a workout, anyway!

In the end we were rewarded with great warmth and friendship on this cold, drizzly day. During our open house Abby received many hugs from friends that represent the entire spectrum of folks that have helped us make it through this ordeal--Wimberley friends, school friends, sports friends, library friends, church friends, work friends, college friends, horned lizard friends (there's a new category for you!), and maybe some friends that defy categorization...! One of the greatest rewards for us was to hear folks who haven't seen Abby in awhile tell us what a miraculous improvement they see in her (sometimes those of us who are too close need to gain that perspective).

And, oh yes, I must say for the benefit of our "Extreme Makeover--Home Edition" friends, that there was much, much ooohing and ahhhing over our house. I think you'll be getting some calls to see if the "Amazing 5-day Makeover" is now available commercially! Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this epiphany of God's love for us.

And now, as our friend, Juanita, would say, "Good night, Irene..."
Much love,
-the Linams

Friday, January 05, 2007

Abby update - January 5

We all stayed busy today--Abby with two therapy sessions, a play-date, and a mini-violin lesson; the Oldmixons with more wonderful touches on our house; Gordon and Stephen O'Neil with vacating the "POD"; Frank with home-school and POD assistance; and me with dog duties (cleaning up after them and taking poor itchy Amigo to the vet). But it will be worth it when we celebrate and relax with many of you tomorrow afternoon!

We are looking forward to the chance to see many of you. We had considered waiting until the house was more completely finished or perhaps until Abby was closer back to her old self, but both those things are works in progress, and we don't want to wait until then to thank you or welcome you into our home. Please don't feel you should bring anything except yourself. We have so much, figuratively and literally (our freezer runneth over!). If you want to bring food to share with others at the open house, that's fine, but not necessary. Gordon says if you want to bring a paint brush or hammer...just kidding!!! ;-)

We do have one prayer request. We are still weighing some input from therapists about the most appropriate schedule and setting for Abby's ongoing therapy. Please pray that we will have guidance for the right decision about that.

Until tomorrow...when we'll welcome all of you here in body or in spirit, at least...
-the Linams

Thursday, January 04, 2007

Abby update - January 4

Today was a good day for Abby. Her memory seemed to show some improvement during her speech therapy session, and she did some good training work with Arby during our morning walk. She also played several other beginning violin songs by memory, but she did complain to me at one point today that her fingers wouldn't do what she was telling them--sometimes her way of saying things just cracks me up!

Today also would have been my father's 75th birthday. Our family still misses him, and, thinking of him among the events of the last few months have made me realize how much we need to let people know we treasure them. Today I received several emails from people telling me how they are still praying for Abby. Thank you--Though I may not know all of you well (or at all!) I treasure all of you that are praying. Then, this evening, we received a visit and a wonderful dinner from some of the neighbors who were immediately at the scene when Taylor and Abby were hit--people whom we didn't know before, but who probably saved Abby's life. His testimony about the Spirit of God at the scene will be something that Gordon and I will, like Mary in the Bible, keep and treasure in our hearts.

So, tell someone you treasure them today, because you still have the chance today...
Love,
-the Linams

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

Abby update - January 3

We had another quiet day of home repair and "everything's a therapy lesson." We've been trying to help Abby compensate for her memory issues by having her keep a "Day-Timer" type calendar (i.e. If it's Wednesday at 9, it must be time for a walk...). Between her memory work and Frank's homeschooling, I feel like I spend most of my day making lists!

There are so many moments when I long for Abby to not face these physical and cognitive struggles, but today I have felt blessed. Each time I walk in the room where Abby is, I hear a cheerful "Hi Mom!" There were so many long days when Gordon and I longed to hear those words, and now they come all the time. And of course, there were days before the accident when cheerful "Hi Mom"s were not that frequent from a 12-year-old. If we have to pass through some of these learning stages again, then I want to savor them and express my gratitude to God for giving us such a joyful treasure in our daughter and for not allowing that to be taken away.

So, I hope you can stop by this Saturday and get a cheerful "Hi" for yourself. Directions to our house are now posted in the margin.

Until then...
Lee Ann, Gordon, Abby, & Frank

Tuesday, January 02, 2007

Abby update - January 2

Not too much new to report today, other than Abby had a wonderful violin practice! So many fine motor tasks and cognitive tasks are still difficult, but she is able to play several of her early violin songs by memory (and violin requires pretty good fine motor skills!). She often even corrects her tuning when the pitch is slightly off and shows good recognition of major versus minor keys, etc. It's pretty amazing to me that such complex skills are so readily accessible and makes me want to further investigate how her music could be used in her recovery therapy.

As far as the more "gross" motor skills, we put in some basketball practice today. Abby was able to dribble the ball more than 30 times with her right hand (while walking even!) and is also pretty adept with her left hand. She's getting better at many things with her left hand, although she still is hesitant to volunteer it to do many things. The muscles in that arm were severely contracted, but, thanks to her bionic dyna-splint, she now has full extension in that arm, and we've put the splint away. I know she's sleeping better at night without that thing on!

Speaking of sleeping better, I intend to go try that now. Frank was up last night with an upset stomach, and consequently we were up too. He's thankfully much better now, but I'm dragging a little...

Sweet dreams,
-the Linams

Monday, January 01, 2007

Abby update - January 1

Today we started the New Year out much like "old times"--Abby helped scramble eggs for breakfast, we took a walk on Hoots Holler and threw the softball, Abby put away dishes and and read a book, we went to see a movie (The Nativity) with friends this afternoon, and then Abby helped get dinner ready and did some exercises before bed. It was familiar, yet different--Abby knows these are the rhythms of her life, but each task is so much more complicated and difficult as well. For example, I sent her back into the bathroom four times this evening to put on her pajamas--the good news is she's very adept at getting dressed and undressed; the bad news is she forgets why she went into the bathroom--such is the nature of recovery from head injury (and the reason I have just finished typing out a reminder list for the bathroom wall)...but we are so much farther than we were...

Just a reminder for you as well--we would love to have you drop by this Saturday afternoon between 2 and 5 for an open house. We'd love to have you anytime, but there will be refreshments if you come on Saturday afternoon! The directions to our home can be found below on the December 29/30 post.

Reminder to self--earlier bedtime!!!

Cheers,
Abby & the gang