Saturday, May 10, 2008
Fundraiser
I have opened an account for Preston at Wells Fargo. This account is a fund in the name of Preston Maurer Donation fund. Right now the hope is to help Preston replace his computer and cell phone so that he can feel more connected. Anyone who would like to help Preston this way is welcome to do so. I am hoping to get a paypal connected to this site set up soon. For now you can go to any Wells Fargo bank and tell them you would like to deposit into the Preston Maurer Donation Fund account.
Latest Update
Here is another update from Steph and Todd.
**************************************
Dear Friends and Family:
Thank you all for your interest in Preston’s progress and your concern for his welfare. It’s time for an update.
The last time I wrote, Preston was on the Acute Therapy floor uncertain how long his stay there might be. Estimates were as long as two weeks. In reality it was four days. We moved him to the Downey Rehabilitation Center of the Barrow Neurological Institute late yesterday. Today was his first full day at the center. (Barrow is attached to St. Joseph’s Hospital) Together we decided to stay here for rehab, partly because Barrow is one of the best rehabilitation facilities in the world, but also because during this intense rehabilitation period he will gain the skills, knowledge and strength he needs to be functionally independent… The very skills he would need to return home in his current condition.
We’re told Preston might expect to be here four to six weeks. Our team of therapists, his doctor and caseworker, will meet early next week to discuss his situation and make better estimates. Preston has made significant progress in this short time. But make no mistake. This is hard, at times extremely hard, a thousand little details hard. Which is why we appreciate your thoughts and prayers so much.
We’ve had a couple tough days since the last update, marked by pain, nausea, long sleepless nights… more pain. And though today first appeared that it might be another day of struggling, as the day came to a peaceful end, we realized it was a high water mark since leaving Critical Care.
It started early with our Occupational Therapist, Janet, waking us and introducing herself. She dressed Preston for the day and oriented us on what to expect. We met our Recreational Therapist and spent time with our Physical Therapist, Barbara. With some assistance Preston maneuvered into a wheel chair for the first time. He spent a couple hours in the gym stretching and lifting weights along with maybe a dozen other spinal injury patients. And with the help of Robert, our tech, Preston had his first shower since the incident. (Yes it was much needed and left him two shades lighter and squeaky clean.)
I’m extremely impressed with the staff here. From the doctors to the technicians, I want to tell you a little more about them, especially, Robert, but that will come in another letter.
Today I want to tell you about Luis, a former patient.
He stopped by this afternoon to visit and we were fortunate enough to spend some time with him. Luis had worked as a fireman, a police officer and most recently, a federal agent. One day, during in a high-speed pursuit of a criminal, his vehicle rolled 6 times, during which his neck was broken just below the base of his skull. Though he survived the accident it left him completely paralyzed. He could not eat. He could not breath. He could not move. He actually died 4 times. (His rehab nurse was with him today and she affectionately refers to Luis as her “train wreck.”)
He’s been out of rehab for 7 months now. He is in a wheel chair, but has movement in his arms and upper torso (I guess the eating and breathing on his own part goes without saying.) Though his physical recovery is nothing less than miraculous, it is his spirit and energy that inspired everyone who listened to him share his experiences and thoughts. A man of obvious faith and determination his message was of hope and promise. The room seemed to vibrate on some unseen frequency. And it appeared to me that Preston and his roommate were tuned to that very frequency. They were totally engaged, mesmerized by his message and, I think, inspired. I know I was. Thank you, Luis, for being part of the best day yet.
More later.
Todd, Stephanie & Family
**************************************
Dear Friends and Family:
Thank you all for your interest in Preston’s progress and your concern for his welfare. It’s time for an update.
The last time I wrote, Preston was on the Acute Therapy floor uncertain how long his stay there might be. Estimates were as long as two weeks. In reality it was four days. We moved him to the Downey Rehabilitation Center of the Barrow Neurological Institute late yesterday. Today was his first full day at the center. (Barrow is attached to St. Joseph’s Hospital) Together we decided to stay here for rehab, partly because Barrow is one of the best rehabilitation facilities in the world, but also because during this intense rehabilitation period he will gain the skills, knowledge and strength he needs to be functionally independent… The very skills he would need to return home in his current condition.
We’re told Preston might expect to be here four to six weeks. Our team of therapists, his doctor and caseworker, will meet early next week to discuss his situation and make better estimates. Preston has made significant progress in this short time. But make no mistake. This is hard, at times extremely hard, a thousand little details hard. Which is why we appreciate your thoughts and prayers so much.
We’ve had a couple tough days since the last update, marked by pain, nausea, long sleepless nights… more pain. And though today first appeared that it might be another day of struggling, as the day came to a peaceful end, we realized it was a high water mark since leaving Critical Care.
It started early with our Occupational Therapist, Janet, waking us and introducing herself. She dressed Preston for the day and oriented us on what to expect. We met our Recreational Therapist and spent time with our Physical Therapist, Barbara. With some assistance Preston maneuvered into a wheel chair for the first time. He spent a couple hours in the gym stretching and lifting weights along with maybe a dozen other spinal injury patients. And with the help of Robert, our tech, Preston had his first shower since the incident. (Yes it was much needed and left him two shades lighter and squeaky clean.)
I’m extremely impressed with the staff here. From the doctors to the technicians, I want to tell you a little more about them, especially, Robert, but that will come in another letter.
Today I want to tell you about Luis, a former patient.
He stopped by this afternoon to visit and we were fortunate enough to spend some time with him. Luis had worked as a fireman, a police officer and most recently, a federal agent. One day, during in a high-speed pursuit of a criminal, his vehicle rolled 6 times, during which his neck was broken just below the base of his skull. Though he survived the accident it left him completely paralyzed. He could not eat. He could not breath. He could not move. He actually died 4 times. (His rehab nurse was with him today and she affectionately refers to Luis as her “train wreck.”)
He’s been out of rehab for 7 months now. He is in a wheel chair, but has movement in his arms and upper torso (I guess the eating and breathing on his own part goes without saying.) Though his physical recovery is nothing less than miraculous, it is his spirit and energy that inspired everyone who listened to him share his experiences and thoughts. A man of obvious faith and determination his message was of hope and promise. The room seemed to vibrate on some unseen frequency. And it appeared to me that Preston and his roommate were tuned to that very frequency. They were totally engaged, mesmerized by his message and, I think, inspired. I know I was. Thank you, Luis, for being part of the best day yet.
More later.
Todd, Stephanie & Family
Friday, May 9, 2008
How to use this blog
I hope this post will help. For some of you this is common knowledge for others it is not.
1. Visit the blog
2. Make comments
To make comments: at the bottom of the post it lists the author the date and time, then it says 0 comments. Click on comments. A pop-up will appear, there you make your comments. It will ask for word verification ( that is to keep computer generated spam out). It will ask you to sign in (it's free to set up a google or blogger account I have not received extra junk mail after doing this). Next publish comment, now it will show up on the blog and where it said 0 comments it will now say 1 comment or 2 etc. and Preston can click on it and read your message.
1. Visit the blog
2. Make comments
To make comments: at the bottom of the post it lists the author the date and time, then it says 0 comments. Click on comments. A pop-up will appear, there you make your comments. It will ask for word verification ( that is to keep computer generated spam out). It will ask you to sign in (it's free to set up a google or blogger account I have not received extra junk mail after doing this). Next publish comment, now it will show up on the blog and where it said 0 comments it will now say 1 comment or 2 etc. and Preston can click on it and read your message.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Good Direction
Here is another update email from Todd
****************************
Dear Friends and Family:
The outpouring of love and support has been humbling to say the least. Thank you. We feel incredibly blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives. We can literally feel your thoughts and prayers. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. (Don’t stop.)
Here’s an update: My original note was written about 36 hours after the incident: it is now Tuesday, May 6. Preston is making what we feel is excellent progress. He has been moved from Critical Care to his own room on the Acute Therapy floor. He begins Physical and Occupational Therapy today. There is still a significant amount of pain, but it’s being managed well. When he is awake he is lucid, conversational and very upbeat. And he maintains a cute sense of humor. I can’t express how proud I am of him. He has demonstrated superb character throughout this ordeal.
Though his official prognosis is still paralysis from the waist down, his mind is in the right place. Preston is determined to work hard and get back on his feet. (That attitude alone will ensure success, regardless...) And we are 100 percent behind him, as I know all of you are. Thank you. Many of you have shared inspiring stories of people you know that have overcome incredible odds. Thank you. Most all of you have expressed your own belief in miracles and the power of the mind to heal the body. Again, thank you. As I see it, Preston has a lot going for him… faith, the right attitude and so many friends and family all of one mind and heart. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. (Don’t stop.)
Now the real works begins. We made it through the initial crisis; we now turn down the arduous road of therapy and then onto rehab. We are not certain how long he will be in Acute Therapy, some have said maybe two weeks. Then he moves to Rehab. Again, we’re uncertain for how long, as it depends on progress.
My family is incredible, quickly adapting to this new (and temporary) normal and preparing for the next phase of normal that will surely come, but always pulling together on this incredible, albeit inconceivable, journey. I am so proud of them.
Best to all of you,
Todd and Stephanie & Family
PS. I can’t say much about the crime investigation, (some have asked) but know that the Avondale police department is pursuing it; and they are determined to apprehend the perpetrators. They have been very compassionate and a pleasure to work with.
****************************************
Preston sounds like he is moving in the right direction no matter the outcome or hard road.
Also I spoke with Steph today and she said that it might be good for us to direct our prayers to asking the Lord to bless Preston with a therapist that he can connect with. Someone that will motivate him when it feels too hard to keep trying.
****************************
Dear Friends and Family:
The outpouring of love and support has been humbling to say the least. Thank you. We feel incredibly blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives. We can literally feel your thoughts and prayers. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. (Don’t stop.)
Here’s an update: My original note was written about 36 hours after the incident: it is now Tuesday, May 6. Preston is making what we feel is excellent progress. He has been moved from Critical Care to his own room on the Acute Therapy floor. He begins Physical and Occupational Therapy today. There is still a significant amount of pain, but it’s being managed well. When he is awake he is lucid, conversational and very upbeat. And he maintains a cute sense of humor. I can’t express how proud I am of him. He has demonstrated superb character throughout this ordeal.
Though his official prognosis is still paralysis from the waist down, his mind is in the right place. Preston is determined to work hard and get back on his feet. (That attitude alone will ensure success, regardless...) And we are 100 percent behind him, as I know all of you are. Thank you. Many of you have shared inspiring stories of people you know that have overcome incredible odds. Thank you. Most all of you have expressed your own belief in miracles and the power of the mind to heal the body. Again, thank you. As I see it, Preston has a lot going for him… faith, the right attitude and so many friends and family all of one mind and heart. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. (Don’t stop.)
Now the real works begins. We made it through the initial crisis; we now turn down the arduous road of therapy and then onto rehab. We are not certain how long he will be in Acute Therapy, some have said maybe two weeks. Then he moves to Rehab. Again, we’re uncertain for how long, as it depends on progress.
My family is incredible, quickly adapting to this new (and temporary) normal and preparing for the next phase of normal that will surely come, but always pulling together on this incredible, albeit inconceivable, journey. I am so proud of them.
Best to all of you,
Todd and Stephanie & Family
PS. I can’t say much about the crime investigation, (some have asked) but know that the Avondale police department is pursuing it; and they are determined to apprehend the perpetrators. They have been very compassionate and a pleasure to work with.
****************************************
Preston sounds like he is moving in the right direction no matter the outcome or hard road.
Also I spoke with Steph today and she said that it might be good for us to direct our prayers to asking the Lord to bless Preston with a therapist that he can connect with. Someone that will motivate him when it feels too hard to keep trying.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Where we were, where we are now
This is a copy of an email sent by Todd:
*******************************
May 2, 2008
Dear friends and family,
By now many of you have heard somewhat of the misfortune that has befallen our family. For those of you who have not, I will recount the events of the last couple of days. For those of you who have heard, this will help fill in some of the holes.
Some details remain sketchy, as Preston has only had short periods of lucidity, due to the pain medication he is currently taking. As of this writing this is what I know.
Thursday night, Preston, our 22-year-old son, was helping a friend move in Avondale, AZ (He has been living near Phoenix for the past 8 months while attending school.). He needed to log onto the Internet but was having difficulty getting a signal, so he asked if he could borrow his friend's long board to run back to his apartment where he knew he could connect.
While on his way back, a car with two or three men in it passed by slowly then turned around and stopped near him. Preston thought they needed directions so he stopped skating and approached the car. One of the individuals got out brandishing a gun and ordered Preston to give him the bag he was carrying. Preston complied. He then demanded his cell phone. Preston said, What cell phone??He demanded it again. At this point someone in the car said something and the assailant turned toward the voice. Preston saw a moment of opportunity and quickly swung the long board he was still holding, like a baseball bat and hit the assailant on the side of his head. Preston immediately lunged, knocking him to the ground and began wrestling the gun from his hand. At this point he heard gunfire, and felt the searing pain of the bullet. Apparently one of the other men in the car also had a gun and shot Preston in the back. All three men then fled the scene in the vehicle, leaving Preston on the side of the road.
A neighbor, who also happens to be a fireman, heard the shot, called 911, came to Preston's
aide, and held him until the emergency vehicles arrived.
The bullet entered Preston's back, hit his spine and traveled up and along the spinal column and came to rest near his lung, causing severe damage to multiple vertebrae and his spinal cord. At this time he has neither feeling in nor ability to move his legs. Notwithstanding the severity of the injury to the spine, it is not necessarily life threatening, No other significant injury occurred to any organs, and blood loss was minimal. No surgery is planned at this time. Any attempt to remove the bullet would simply cause additional risk and accomplish nothing.
Preston is now in critical care at St Joseph Hospital in Phoenix. He rests well while medicated, but experiences severe pain when the medication wears off. We expect him to be here for a few more days after which he will move to another room and start physical therapy, which could continue for weeks. The doctors are of the opinion that he will remain paralyzed from the waist down.
We feel and appreciate your prayers. And ask for your continued faith and prayers on Preston's behalf. Though we must prepare for the worst-case scenario, we know miracles can happen. Indeed we expect them to happen. When those miracles will manifest and what form they take is yet to be seen, but we know and believe the hand of the Lord is watching over him and the entire family.
Messages of love and encouragement to Preston are welcome and very much appreciated, weather by email or traditional mail. I will make sure Preston receives them. Calls are also welcome. When Preston is alert he can talk on the phone so please feel free to call. Such notes and calls have a definite healing effect; we have witnessed it first hand since arriving with his brothers and sister. And we want to maintain a positive environment for him as he heals.
We appreciate so much the many acts of kindness and service we have received and ask that the Lord's blessings be with you. Thank you again. I'll send another update in a few days.
An update on Preston since I wrote the the story: He has been moved from Critical Care to his own room. He will start therapy today. He is demonstrating superb character right now. I'm very proud of him.
***************************
I will update this blog as soon as I receive more updates. I didn't want to put any contact info on this blog as it is a public one so if you want to get the number to call Preston please email me at emily@bccdev.com and I will contact you with that information.
*******************************
May 2, 2008
Dear friends and family,
By now many of you have heard somewhat of the misfortune that has befallen our family. For those of you who have not, I will recount the events of the last couple of days. For those of you who have heard, this will help fill in some of the holes.
Some details remain sketchy, as Preston has only had short periods of lucidity, due to the pain medication he is currently taking. As of this writing this is what I know.
Thursday night, Preston, our 22-year-old son, was helping a friend move in Avondale, AZ (He has been living near Phoenix for the past 8 months while attending school.). He needed to log onto the Internet but was having difficulty getting a signal, so he asked if he could borrow his friend's long board to run back to his apartment where he knew he could connect.
While on his way back, a car with two or three men in it passed by slowly then turned around and stopped near him. Preston thought they needed directions so he stopped skating and approached the car. One of the individuals got out brandishing a gun and ordered Preston to give him the bag he was carrying. Preston complied. He then demanded his cell phone. Preston said, What cell phone??He demanded it again. At this point someone in the car said something and the assailant turned toward the voice. Preston saw a moment of opportunity and quickly swung the long board he was still holding, like a baseball bat and hit the assailant on the side of his head. Preston immediately lunged, knocking him to the ground and began wrestling the gun from his hand. At this point he heard gunfire, and felt the searing pain of the bullet. Apparently one of the other men in the car also had a gun and shot Preston in the back. All three men then fled the scene in the vehicle, leaving Preston on the side of the road.
A neighbor, who also happens to be a fireman, heard the shot, called 911, came to Preston's
aide, and held him until the emergency vehicles arrived.
The bullet entered Preston's back, hit his spine and traveled up and along the spinal column and came to rest near his lung, causing severe damage to multiple vertebrae and his spinal cord. At this time he has neither feeling in nor ability to move his legs. Notwithstanding the severity of the injury to the spine, it is not necessarily life threatening, No other significant injury occurred to any organs, and blood loss was minimal. No surgery is planned at this time. Any attempt to remove the bullet would simply cause additional risk and accomplish nothing.
Preston is now in critical care at St Joseph Hospital in Phoenix. He rests well while medicated, but experiences severe pain when the medication wears off. We expect him to be here for a few more days after which he will move to another room and start physical therapy, which could continue for weeks. The doctors are of the opinion that he will remain paralyzed from the waist down.
We feel and appreciate your prayers. And ask for your continued faith and prayers on Preston's behalf. Though we must prepare for the worst-case scenario, we know miracles can happen. Indeed we expect them to happen. When those miracles will manifest and what form they take is yet to be seen, but we know and believe the hand of the Lord is watching over him and the entire family.
Messages of love and encouragement to Preston are welcome and very much appreciated, weather by email or traditional mail. I will make sure Preston receives them. Calls are also welcome. When Preston is alert he can talk on the phone so please feel free to call. Such notes and calls have a definite healing effect; we have witnessed it first hand since arriving with his brothers and sister. And we want to maintain a positive environment for him as he heals.
We appreciate so much the many acts of kindness and service we have received and ask that the Lord's blessings be with you. Thank you again. I'll send another update in a few days.
An update on Preston since I wrote the the story: He has been moved from Critical Care to his own room. He will start therapy today. He is demonstrating superb character right now. I'm very proud of him.
***************************
I will update this blog as soon as I receive more updates. I didn't want to put any contact info on this blog as it is a public one so if you want to get the number to call Preston please email me at emily@bccdev.com and I will contact you with that information.
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