UPDATES
July 2003 Update
Marla’s summer has gotten off to a great start, with many visits from family and friends, her 30th birthday, a couple of weddings, hiking, and more! Be sure to drop in the Photo Gallery to see updates from Marla’s recent activities.
Marla continues to improve in her physical endurance, while her speech progresses on a somewhat slower pace. Marla’s workouts on the stairmaster, stationary bicycle, and treadmill, have prepared her to go on several hikes! Meanwhile, Mary and Leo’s diligent home therapy on her shoulder and hand continue to reap rewards in increased flexibility in Marla’s injured right arm. Marla underwent surgery at Swedish Hospital in Englewood on Thursday June 26th, on her left ear, to repair damage to the small bones suffered in the accident. Some cartilage was removed from her outer ear to provide tissue for the repair. The procedure was a success, although Marla endured a great deal of pain after recovery from severe headaches. She ended up staying overnight, and the headaches continued through Friday. Finally Friday evening, Mary, coordinating with Marla’s doctors, found a medication that helped relieve Marla’s headaches. She slept well Friday evening, and awoke Saturday feeling much better. It is hoped that the repair will help to improve Marla’s hearing and comprehension. It will likely be some time, after healing has occurred, before the benefits are evident.
During the month of June, Marla enjoyed seeing many friends and family members. Her good friends from high school, Keelie Gaddis and Tiffany Vanderschaaf, both came to visit at Marla’s home in Northglenn, Keelie all the way from Louisiana! June 14-15th, Marla’s grandparents, Howard and Mary Williams from Montrose, and her Aunt Margaret from Los Angeles, visited her, Mary and Leo, in Glenwood Springs. It was a very enjoyable family weekend, as Howard, Mary, and Margaret had not seen Marla since visiting her at St. Anthony’s immediately after her accident. They were all awe-struck at her progress.
That same weekend, Marla enjoyed attending the wedding of Michael Flood, a good friend from high school. Many good friends were in attendance, and all were very excited to see Marla out and about, and impressed at her tenacity, strength, and hard work. Some commented that an angel had been in their presence.
Marla celebrated her 30th birthday in style with friends in Northglenn, in the sun at poolside! She enjoyed cake, ice cream, and laughter with close friends from Glacier Peak and beyond, as her friends and family marked this milestone with all the more to be thankful for.
As a birthday surprise, Jean and Peggy, Marla’s original PT and OT from Craig hospital, took her out for a hike on Marshall Mesa, near Boulder. Marla really enjoyed the views, the dogs (of course) and the wildflowers, including Sego lilies (Mary’s favorite). Marla continues to impress with her endurance and strength, as she covered over 3 miles around the trail loop!
Marla participated in the wedding of her close friend Missy Soriano on June 28th, as a bridesmaid. Marla was honored to be a witness to this special occasion, and Missy was joyful that Marla was able to participate in such an awesome event, amongst much laughter and tears.