Well folks some big news to report. We had a successful fundraiser in Santa Cruz last weekend. Over 250 people (sold out crowd) showed up to see the “3 Women” DVD, and bid on items in the accompanying silent auction. Many people contributed to this event in different ways, to many to acknowledge all. But several people need to be mentioned who were key. Jane Driscoll, Jackie Nunez, Barb Roetger, and Laura Bowly. These gals did the bulk of the work, finding auctions sponsors, creating and posting marketing materials, venue space, AV equipment, etc. Also thanks to Kim Powell (of Blue Water Adventures) for hosting a sea kayak trip earlier in the day, of which all proceeds went to Kelley. Our estimated “take” from the event was about $10,600.
But the best thing about the event is that I met Marjorie. Marjorie was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis a little over a year ago. She is walking today. With the help of canes,but walking. Her story is remarkable. She was told by the doctors she had very little chance of walking again (1 in 13,000) and probably wouldn’t even live very long. She initially was more disabled then Kelley, as her arms and speech were also affected. The key to her success was initiated by a visit to an acupuncturist is San Jose, Dr. Zhu, Dr. Zhu told her after her first visit that she would be able to walk again if she was willing to work hard over the next 6 months. Which she did, and her recovery has been amazing and she is still working at it.
Dr. Zhu specializes in neurological disorders, and is at the cutting edge. After listening to Marjorie’s story it became obvious that Kelley needed to see him. I told Kelley about it on Sunday, she called and made an appointment on Monday, and had her first treatment (3 hours) today. I don’t know that much, but talked to them a little bit this evening. Barb and Jackie came up from Santa Cruz to be with Kelley and just help listen and absorb the information. Then after, Barb gave Kelley a massage and cranial sacral treatment. Evidently the results were encouraging, and Dr. Zhu is recommending that Kelley work with him 3 to 5 days a week 3 hours a day, for 3 months to start. I believe he was encouraged by what he was able to assess and stimulate regarding Kelley’s current function and her obvious ability to work her ass off.
Obviously there are a lot of details to work out, but this is the most hope I have felt for a long time. Kelley will need to be able to move down to the San Jose area for at least a few days a week for the next 3 months at least. If anyone reading this blog has any connections as far as possible accommodations please email me at rivgu@aol.com. Obviously needs to be wheel chair accessible. Also would like to develop a support network of folks that can help Kelley get around, get food, just spend time with her when she in the area. If you would like to be part of the San Jose network again please email.
I can’t tell you how good this has been for Kelley. She has been so ready for someone to believe and tell her that she can get better (and not just her friends, but a medical professional). Dr. Zhu has been the first professional to offer that opinion to her, as he did to Marjorie, and Kelley is ready to go. Will keep you posted, as things progress, I believe she is staying down in the area to see him tomorrow as well. Later then, Sue
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