Happy Holidays and Seasons Greetings from Mike and Sherry !

FROM MIKE AND SHERRY! 

IT'S BEEN AWHILE BUT MIKE IS ALIVE AND DOING WELL.  Not too much has changed over the past month so nothing new to report.  However, Mike continues to get stronger, has taken up doing the dishes and seems to be getting more independent every day.  

(BTW this photo was part of a panoramic pic and Mike moved so it's a little distorted, but I liked his smile!  So what if he has 3 thumbs and no fingers.  Could be worse. Right? )   :-)

Happy boy with a grilled cheese sand-which and tomato soup!  It's nice to have him at the table now that his foot can be in the "down" position for more than 30 minutes at a time.  It doesn't feel too good at 30 minutes but he can do it if he must.  When we take trips to the doctor, or to see his dad in the car, he's always in the back seat with the leg propped up on piles of pillows.  It's quite an ordeal getting in and out, but we got that routine down to a science.  He loses his drawers scooting in and gets a wedgie on the way out.  And it's sort a "Driving Miss Daisy" scene straight from the movie.  Happy to report that shower and bedtime rituals are becoming a cinch as well. 

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day with family and friends.  

Thanks to my sister Sandy and hubby Charles, they are amazing cooks!  

 

Someone fell fast asleep after eating Turkey!  This is creeping at it's best! Thanks Britta! 

"Keep laughing everyone - life is too short to not smile every chance you have"

Mike's good buddy (and first friend on the scene at the accident) Mike Ashe called to ask if he could stop by.  Well, that's always a big "YES".  When he showed up he had the whole riding posse' with him.  I have always seen combinations of these guys, but never the entire posse' at once.  A very happy moment for MC. He had a wonderful visit with "the guys".  

Here we have Benny, Dave, Mike, MC, Gary, Steve and JR.  WOW, the whole bunch at one time. 

Good -byes are always the hardest so we just say "see you soon"! 

Little Baby Brayden, MC's new Grandson is already 4 months old in this photos.  It's Mike's favorite photo of him so far, so I thought I'd include it.  Brayden, Mike's daughter Katelyn and son-in law Codi, just arrived in Portland a few hours ago.  Merry Christmas to MC!!!  He's so excited to see this little guy!  

I included this photo of my (Sherry's) Granddaughter Harper, her big sister Addy and Santa. Harper was just not quite sure of this Santa character!  Wanted nothing to do with him.  The severe burns she had on her hands are doing so much better and for now she has avoided surgery.  Finally walking, hands feel better and Life is Good again. 

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here.  Mike had me pull a bunch of my Holiday decor out of storage and toss it around the house.  And that I did!  I have more than enough and I really enjoyed pulling it out of boxes.  Last year I sold my house in Bend and I didn't do Christmas at home.

Mike is here just sitting in the evening Christmas lights.  It's peaceful and quiet and it gives us a time to reflect and have gratitude for all that surrounds us.  The good, the bad and the ugly.  We embrace all of it!  Our advice is that everyone try to do just that. 

I'm going add a Special note about Mike's sweet, sweet Daddy, James Colligan.  This is Jim seated here with Mike on his 89th birthday July 26th, 2013. (just 5 days before Mike's accident and the night before Mike left for his trip)  Today Jim is struggling a bit. He's still with us, but love and prayers go to him, Mike, his brother Pat, Sister Judy and the rest of the family that love him so and are touched with his failing health.  We love you Papa!!! 

Be well... 

Wed' like to say "so much has happened, but alas, we must say we feel as though everyday is Ground Hogs Day".   Hope you get that!  A little bit the same.  Big day this Friday the 27th for MC when he finds out what day the fixator frame will be coming off surgically.  He's READY!!!!  Once the frame is off, Mike will have a boot and will be expected to begin walking on it.  This means the bones in Mike's ankles must be healed.  Otherwise, more weeks with the frame.  Stand by for the next BIG chapter!! 

We would like to say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Have an incredible New Year. 2014 holds promises for all of us!  I'll be back in touch shortly after the 27th when Mike hears news from Dr. G.  

Enjoy your families, take nothing for granted and take every opportunity to see the people you love as often as you can!  Don't forget the " I love yous" ! 

S&M

out for today!

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Thanksgiving Day and So Much to be Thankful For - How about YOU?

Happy Thanksgiving Day Everyone! 

So it's been a couple of weeks since I sent everyone an update.  Today seems appropriate. It's a day of giving thanks and remembering all the blessing we have in our lives.  Mike has been home for 5 weeks and he is 17 weeks post accident. The heeling continues and here's where we are today. 

This morning we went to Mike's Dad's house to return all the rugs and towels we laundered yesterday.  Jim is out of town visiting his brother and so we did a little house cleaning for him while he was a way.  It's quite a trek from the car, but a wonderful sunny day and a little exercise is just what the doctor ordered. ( I really don't know what takes him so long )  :-) 

Mike seems to have found a new favorite spot in the living room.  With the sunshine pouring in, book in hand he seems to be in his element.  "The Foot" is elevated and he couldn't ask for much more other than a little food and drink from time to time.  It's nice to see him reading!! 

So now let's back up 9 days ago.  Mike was in to see Dr. Frome due to a small blood like pocket on his lower leg that burst. ( any concern needs to be addressed)  While in with Dr. F. and Just Craig, Dr. Gellman also stuck his head in.  Now that's when you can usually get some real answers because all heads are on deck.  However it was still pretty much a hurry up and wait situation.  

Dr. Frome did say she was very happy with how the flap is healing.  She also admitted that it was not her most attractive flap.  She then assured us that she really does know her business very well despite the look of the flap.  She also talked about the timing of the debulking that will need to happen.  Most likely within the next 6-12 months.  Right now Mike's foot will not even fit in a orthopedic boot.  He will eventually have to have a special boot made just for him.  We thought that might be the case. 

BTW this is the first and only time Mike has been on his tummy since July.  It was a weird experience for him, but the only way Dr. F. could get a good look at the bottom of his foot. 

The next visit a couple of days later was to Dr. Phisner - the Heart Doctor.  Dr. P checked MC out and it appears his heart is still pounding away.  :-)   he eliminated one of his drugs and sent him on his way for the next 6 months. 

MC and "The Foot" taking a break with makeshift props. 

The 2 week check with Dr. Gellman was just yesterday.  Here's MC waiting for some good news to come his way after just have x-rays taken.  Fingers are crossed for some sort of Frame removal date. 

Mike is defiantly Mr. Optimist when it comes to his foot. 

Dr. Gellman doing some contemplating, but the bottom line is this.  The bones in the ankle that were broken have not quite healed.  Once the frame is OFF he wants Mike walking on the foot so that it will maintain it's new position. (the position the strut tightening has created over the past 6 weeks)  Since Mike can't walk yet, with unhealed bones, and the flap is not quite ready - the word on the street is that MC has another 4-6 weeks before he may be ready for removal.  We'll know more at the end of December.  S I G H.........   MC left the office with a sadness.  He is so DONE with this beast of a frame.  

After a few errands and even a little Mexican Food out, MC and I stopped at the grocery store.  Oh wow, first time in a store in months and they had a fun cart for him.  Yes he ran into a few things, but for the most part, bounced about the store dropping items in his cute little basket as he waved at the other electric chair riders.  It's as if they had their own little communication going - and back up BEEPS.  You'd think it was a semi backing up.  It was cute and he loved being there - I could tell. 

So thankful for the Ballard Family

Here are some photos of Mike's oldest daughter Katelyn, her hubby Codi and their 3 month old son (MC's first Grandchild) Brayden.  They live in Colorado Springs, CO and will be here for about 2 weeks during the holidays.  Mike is only slightly excited about their visit.  OH BOY - he's counting the days. 

So Thankful for Madison and Zach

Madison is Mike's younger daughter and she has an extra special (super serious) BF and that would be Zach.  We are so happy that Zach is in her life.  Here are some photos of Maddie most recent "good times" It looks like she has much to be thankful for with the addition of Brayden, some fun trips she was able to take and for all the healthy family she has.  Not to mention that her daddy is doing well. 

S & M out for today - please come by for a visit - Mike and I would love to see you!!!

503-778-0190  just give MC a quick call or text. 

PS:  Please email Sherry your MC Angel T-Shirt if you bought one.  I am still complying them.  Once I have them gathered up, I will create something fun with them for all to see.   

Email to: contactme@mycoachsherry.com

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The Month of Thanksgiving! So Much to be Thankful For

Hello all, 3 weeks at home, but who's counting?  (15 weeks 2 days post accident) 

Here's Mikey at his last a appointment - 3 weeks post hospital stay.  This appointment was with Dr. Gellman again.  He gave us another prescription of adjustments to do on the struts that will take us to the next 2 week appointment. He said all was looking very good and was very pleased with how the foot is coming into a favorable position. 

Mike has kept himself busy with sleeping in, watching TV, stretching, Doctor appointments and visiting with all the incredibly wonderful friends that have taken the time to stop in and see him.  I can't tell you how much he enjoys that. 

Before I get into the photos below I would like to share a link that Dave McKinney put together that depicts the photos of Mike's trip to Utah (just before the accident) with his motorcycle buddies.  It's only 3 minutes long, set to music and very enjoyable.  Thanks Dave!    Dave's photo compilation of the Utah trip

Mike is stretching his toes.  Something he needs to do everyday so that his toes don't atrophy in an unfavorable position. (curled in)  

I'm very excited about the position of "The Foot"  The bones are Healing!!

This is a great view of what "The Foot" looked like 2 weeks ago and just 2 days ago.  It's very obvious that the first photo his ankle is not nearly as close to a right angle as the second photo.  This is really good news. ( 2 more weeks should be the all it takes get things into a good walking position)  We are still not sure on the removal date.  Sounds like it may be within the next month or two.  We need to hear what Dr. Frome has to say. 

"The Foot"

Some might not think it looks all that good, but it really is doing as well as expected. 

(yes it is big and huge and looks like something is wrong - it's ok) 

Here is a look at the bottom of Mike's foot.  I include this because this IS the reality of what is going on.  We have come a long ways, but we have a long ways to go.  Mike's foot is not smooth and healed just yet. There is no actual heel area.  Just a slab of flesh that he will have to learn to walk on.  I know you'll stay tuned for those updates. :-)

GUESS WHAT?

The "MC's Angel" shirts arrived.  Zach Miller ( Mike's daughter, Maddie's BF) had his 26th birthday, so we had them up from Salem for dinner.  Good opportunity for all of us to sport our MC shirts.  If you have an MC shirt, send me a photo and I'll post it here on the blog.  It will be fun to see all the photos that come in. 125 shirts were sold. 

Here we are pointing at the Angel wings and ribbon.  Love the shirts and it will be fun wearing them. 

(Maddie, Zach, Sherry and Britta) 

This morning Mike decided to do a few leg lifts in bed.  "The Foot" weighs about 10 lbs and feels like even more when you put it out at the end of your leg.  This is great exercise for Mike.  His morning routine is getting easier and he is finding that he can do more and more for himself.  Getting a pant leg over his foot is probably the toughest.  Showering is another challenging part of the day, but that too is getting a little easier and becoming more of a routine.  I also think the pain is becoming more manageable with fewer & fewer drugs. 

This last photo is a personal celebration photo. 

My sweet little granddaughter Harper, severely burned the palms and fingers of both hands about 5 weeks ago when she stood up by using the glass front of a pellet stove.  After weeks of wound care, a near surgery,  her bandages are off, she turned 1, just 2 weeks ago.  We all have so much to be thankful for.  

There are so many reasons that it's important to be careful and it's usually because it can effect others - perhaps forever.  Never intentional, but it can touch another's life when we don't pay close attention.  Much love to sweet Baby Harper! 

S & M out for tonight - please come by for a visit - Mike and I would love to see you!!!

503-778-0190  just give MC a quick call or text. 

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MC's Weekly Update - Home For 2 Weeks

Hello everyone - I know it's been a week, but I have to say most days are the same and there is not too much to report. This part of the recovery stage is a hurry up and wait situation.   Mike has had many wonderful visitors stop by.  I know personally that he has really enjoyed each and every one of you that has taken the time to stop in.  

 Mike's biggest fan is defiantly Kidderz who won't leave his lap unless he scoots her off when he heads to the potty.  

 Yesterday we had a big outing as we ventured off to see Dr. Gellman and then a visit to the Trauma Clinic.

While waiting for Dr. G. there was another young man named Brandon.  He and MC shared a similar story.  

1. Both boys are seeing Dr. Gellman
2. Both had a motorcycle accident mid-summer
3. Both were riding Soft Tail Harley Bikes
4. Both were hit at no fault of their own
5. Both were hit in the left side due to a driver turn into them
6. Both had a broken femur and crushed ankle foot
7. Both had a de-gloving of the foot
8. Both had a flap placed on the foot ( his was only 2"x2" (size difference)
9. Both had skin grafts and both had Ilizoth frame for 12 weeks +

Weird, but I guess not too weird since they were both at Dr. Gellman's office.  Geeez people - look out for bikers always be careful when turning LEFT in an intersection! 

Mike's wire running through his shin had some sort of infection and was causing him quite a bit of pain over the past several days.  Dr. G. decided it may not be necessary to keep that wire in his shin.  So quickly and swiftly he loosened the nuts and bolts on each end and pulled that wire out in about a nano-second.  Mike felt almost instant relief and some pain subsiding.  Well, that's a relief.  And off we went to the Trauma Clinic across campus. 

Not looking so happy, we waited quite awhile for one of the PA's or MA's or ? to come in and visit with Mike.  The Nurse that checked us in said "Holy %$@#, what happened to you and what is that?" when she saw Mike's foot. Nice!!! 

Back home, my parents were preparing us a wonderful dinner.  Dad prepared baby back pork ribs and Mom had a yummy salad and fresh apple crisp.  A little glass of vino, great conversation and it was a very lovely time.  They had not been able to come in and see Mike prior to this so it was a much welcomed visit.   Timing is everything and they arrived much sooner than we did.  Glad the door was left open! 

   

Here is Mom and Dad (Dave and Karen Haring) enjoying some relaxing time with us after dinner. My friend Cindie from Albany / Bend came by too.  She was over for the night.  She got along well with Mom and Dad and it turned out they have quite a bit in common within the horse world.  Fun! 

So here is Cindie and "THE FOOT"  Funny how the FOOT seems to jump into so many photos.  :-)

 

Had to include this photo of Kidderz on Mike's lap.  I think that was directed at anyone that might try to remove her from him.  She get quite verbal when you interrupt her as well.  Sort of funny but - NOT! 

The night was not yet over - Mom and Dad headed home and Christopher Locatell stopped in.  He is just recovering from his own Surgery just a week ago.  Moving as slow as he was, he still came by to see Mike.  That was so nice of him.  (Just don't bother the cat) 

And finally, MC dozed off and happily left the world behind him.  Cindie and I chatted most of the night away and then I got MC up and out of his comfy chair and off to bed.  It takes a bit to get him horizontal on the second floor, but once he's there he's a happy camper and it feels good to be able to actually get much needed sleep.  Sleep is good for healing and with that wire gone, he is feeling much better. 

S&M out - the Oregon Game is underway just now and Mike will be watching that while I work away from my laptop.  Have a nice evening everyone - big hugs and thanks for all the continued prayer and warm thoughts. 

P.S.   Today my Nephew, Jarod Shockley come by and volunteer to pick up remaining leaves.  Not only that but he attacked the front yard, all the beds and hauled aways ALL the bags of leaves.  He was here for hours.  Thanks Jarod - you are a blessing to both of us!!!  

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One Week at Home, One Outing, One Doctor Appointment & One group of Friends Tonight

Hello Everyone,  It's been a fast week.  I think it feels like 2 days, but it's been 7.  Not exactly sure what Mike feels about it but we do know we are getting into a bit of a routine. 

Things are getting easier.  We even had a wonderful kid named Nick come over and rake the leaves up again and a neighbor who unplugged the rain gutters.  So much for me getting all the garbage out to the road on time...  I know, I know, the night before is a good idea. 

I celebrated my 53rd birthday a few nights ago and Mike's Dad, Daughter Madison and BF Zach joined in for a family pic.  

Panoramic shot of the entire room.  Fun evening & it was great to celebrate w/ family at home.  

Birthday hugs! 

So the big question is:  

How is Mike doing and how is the "FOOT" doing?  Here' a photo of the latest progress of the flap and how things are looking. 

The Left side- 

Believe it or not - things look OK and are healing up just fine. 

The Right side -

Yes things look BIG and BULKY and they are, but we are hoping all of this will calm down and shrink to a much more manageable size. 

The Bottom of his foot.  Yes, once again it all looks just fine. 

Really? We are working with it. (wound changes) 

FAKE IT TILL YOU MAKE IT!  :-) 

On a Sunny October afternoon we headed out to Carlton to Cana's Feast Winery to pick up a much overdue club shipment.  Needless to say, we picked up the 2 bottles and canceled the membership.  Not much need for it now, but we will miss heading out there.  The views are spectacular. 

We had our one week post-hospital appointment with Dr. Gellman today.  He had an Intern with him today and between the two of them they tweaked the struts and worked their magic.  We return in 2 more weeks.  

Dr. Gellman said he thinks the Frame will remain on for 2-3 more months.  The healing process feels like a forever process!  Patients is key! 

Working their magic! 

Bones are healing!

Some of the struts had to be replaced, tightened and adjusted - we are good for 2 more weeks of tweaking!

Just Craig popped into the appointment and put some Silver Nitrate on Mike's open wound that the skin graft never took to.  It should turn black and finally begin to start healing.  

It was good to see Just Craig.  He liked how things were looking.  However.... It is super important for Mike to get his foot UP above his heart and KEEP it there for a big part of the day!  This will aid in the healing / swelling of the foot.  We aren't that excited about the way it looks, but we are optimistic about the future.   The bottom line is - the foot is THERE and that is reason to celebrate. 

Tonight Mike's friends Serge, Clay and Rich came over for dinner, vino and some much needed reminiscing.  Earlier in the day John Ralston and his wife (I wasn't here so I don't know her name and a certain someone struggles with names, but I won't mention who)  came by too. 

Mike has had some busy days - this is a good thing, but we do need to focus on keeping his foot up and resting.  Also into the mix of the day is stretching and strengthening exercises.  Doing the stairs and even the shower routine today seemed easier.  We can only hope.  

We appreciate and love everyone out there for all the support and warm thoughts that keep coming our way.  Counting our blessings everyday!  That's what keeps us going...  

Love and hugs, S&M from Summer Lake

PS - the updates won't be quite as often - but know that you are thought of very often and we would love to see you and hear from you! 

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