UPDATES
October 2003 Update
Marla had surgery on October 3 at Presbyterian-St. Luke’s to correct the nerve damage in her right eye, which she cannot move to the right past center. This creates double vision unless her left eye is patched, or obstructed with tape on her glasses. The surgery involved moving muscles from above and below her eye to the outside. In addition, Botox was injected into the muscle on the left inside of her eye to relax it. Hopefully, this will result in her ability to move her eye and not see double. There is a 2-3 month adjustment period, during which the brain re-learns and re-establishes the correct neural messaging to cause the eye to move as intended. During this time, Marla’s right eye may wander without much control, and we hope this will not interfere with her therapies.
We’re happy to report that the surgery went without major complications. Mary and Leo were concerned the day of the surgery because Marla was experiencing another of her severe headaches. Fortunately, the proper medication alleviated the headache, and the procedure was able to move forward. Although Marla can’t see very well at this time, it is hoped that the surgery will, after time, serve to improve her vision. At the moment, she needs a helping hand walking and going up and down stairs, since it is hard for her to navigate with her impaired vision.
Marla enjoyed a weekend visit to Glenwood Springs on September 5th and 6th, and her grandparents, Howard and Mary came for a visit. They had a pleasant visit and enjoyed spending time with their grand-daughter.
On September 13th, Mark participated in the Pike’s Peak Challenge, the annual fund-raiser for the Brain Injury Association of Colorado. Although the weather was cold and snowy for most of the ascent, all of the hikers were in good spirits, as the event supports a fantastic cause. The Brain Injury Association of Colorado’s mission is to improve the quality of life for survivors of brain injury and their families, and to support programs that prevent brain injury. This year’s honorary chair-person was Picabo Street, the Olympic medalist in downhill skiing, and Mark and the other finishers got to meet her as they crossed finish at the summit!
Thanks for checking in on Marla’s progress! We encourage you to stop in the Messages section to say hi, and also to visit the Photo Gallery for recent pictures! Warmest greetings to all.