Courtney is now on a ventilator mask. There is oxygen flowing into the trachea into Courtney's lungs. You have all seen oxygen masks in use - this is the same thing only feeding into the trachea. The next step is oxygen mask and 'closing off the trachea' in baby steps so that Courtney begins to breathe completely naturally again.
Claudia came to visit today from Bentley. I was standing by Courtney's bed talking to her and she looked straight past me at Claudia. She stared and stared and stared at her face until she couldn't keep her eyes open any more. Her brain may have been injured but her heart is in tact!
She is sleeping comfortably now and rt is very happy with her vital signs. She has her favorite teddy bear in a choke hold!
Dr. Kosloff came in this morning to check on Courtney he yelled in her face to open her eyes. They remained closed. I said 'let me try'. I quietly said 'Courtney, it's Mommy open your eyes' and she did! The doctors told us that survivors say staff talking to them is just noise but family's voices make sense - they can tune in and understand.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Mom's Update Saturday am
It was 3 weeks ago this afternoon that a light in our lives was dimmed and a voice of love and compassion temporarily silenced. It is impossible to express the desolation in our hearts each day as we wake to this painful reality.
But we have hope. Three weeks ago nurses asked if Courtney would want to donate her organs. Today those same nurses speak to Courtney knowing she can hear what they say.
Three weeks ago doctors were fighting to save her life and stop the bleeding and swelling in her brain - today they move methodically, resolving one medical problem after another, all with the goal of getting Courtney to rehab where she will have the greatest chance for a full recovery.
Anyone who works with me can tell you that Courtney will call me several times throughout each day. They can also tell you that I will always answer the call even if it is to say "is everything okay? can I call you back?". She's never to happy about being put off. 'Okay' she'll say 'but don't forget'. As though I could forget. It is her voice that I miss the most.
As I dress to go out somewhere she'll often say 'oh Di - what are you thinking about?!- we need to go back upstairs and find you a new outfit!' My fashion consultant!
And her compassion - the time I lost not one but two cell phones and she was the voice of reason saying 'Di, I think this is God's way of telling you to slow down.'
I think of the times when the girls would all be home from school and that within minutes of them being together I could hear screams of laughter coming from their room. Courtney would say something outrageous that would send Katy and Claudia into fits of laughter. Today I am grateful for having appreciated every one of those moments and I pray for many, many more to come.
I share these thoughts with all of you so that you can know our Courtney a little better and know that the support and prayers we receive each day are sustaining us through this trial that no parent should ever know. Know that we feel your love and compassion.
"May your unfailing love be my comfort according to your promise." ps 119:76
But we have hope. Three weeks ago nurses asked if Courtney would want to donate her organs. Today those same nurses speak to Courtney knowing she can hear what they say.
Three weeks ago doctors were fighting to save her life and stop the bleeding and swelling in her brain - today they move methodically, resolving one medical problem after another, all with the goal of getting Courtney to rehab where she will have the greatest chance for a full recovery.
Anyone who works with me can tell you that Courtney will call me several times throughout each day. They can also tell you that I will always answer the call even if it is to say "is everything okay? can I call you back?". She's never to happy about being put off. 'Okay' she'll say 'but don't forget'. As though I could forget. It is her voice that I miss the most.
As I dress to go out somewhere she'll often say 'oh Di - what are you thinking about?!- we need to go back upstairs and find you a new outfit!' My fashion consultant!
And her compassion - the time I lost not one but two cell phones and she was the voice of reason saying 'Di, I think this is God's way of telling you to slow down.'
I think of the times when the girls would all be home from school and that within minutes of them being together I could hear screams of laughter coming from their room. Courtney would say something outrageous that would send Katy and Claudia into fits of laughter. Today I am grateful for having appreciated every one of those moments and I pray for many, many more to come.
I share these thoughts with all of you so that you can know our Courtney a little better and know that the support and prayers we receive each day are sustaining us through this trial that no parent should ever know. Know that we feel your love and compassion.
"May your unfailing love be my comfort according to your promise." ps 119:76
Mom's Update - did not post properly friday night
Somehow my update from last night did not save.
Courtney had an MRI the night before last which showed the 2 injuries to the brain we already knew about. There was no evidence of overall brain cell damage and that was good news.
She also had an EEG which shows brain wave activity. The neurologist told us that the brain is 'working slowly' - I immediately thought that Courtney's reaction would be 'dut da dah!' -
no kidding! - tell us something we don't know! Then she went on to say they wished the brain were working faster - once again 'dut da dah'!
We know that Courtney's body has been working very hard to heal her lungs and fight infection. Now that she has made good progress with that her body can turn its attention (and we can turn our prayer intentions) to healing her brain.
Courtney also had a 2nd CT scan of the lungs which showed improvement in the right lung - the pocket of air is going away and the result is that she is breathing deeper and easier on her own.
While these 'trips' of Courtney's are nerve racking for us and require a team of rt, nurse and doctor to travel with her, she seems to be tolerating them well.
Courtney had an MRI the night before last which showed the 2 injuries to the brain we already knew about. There was no evidence of overall brain cell damage and that was good news.
She also had an EEG which shows brain wave activity. The neurologist told us that the brain is 'working slowly' - I immediately thought that Courtney's reaction would be 'dut da dah!' -
no kidding! - tell us something we don't know! Then she went on to say they wished the brain were working faster - once again 'dut da dah'!
We know that Courtney's body has been working very hard to heal her lungs and fight infection. Now that she has made good progress with that her body can turn its attention (and we can turn our prayer intentions) to healing her brain.
Courtney also had a 2nd CT scan of the lungs which showed improvement in the right lung - the pocket of air is going away and the result is that she is breathing deeper and easier on her own.
While these 'trips' of Courtney's are nerve racking for us and require a team of rt, nurse and doctor to travel with her, she seems to be tolerating them well.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Mom's Update
Courtney is once again sitting in the chair. Her lungs have improved and the ventilator settings were turned down again. She has been breathing on her own with less and less support each day.
Since the 2nd chest tube was inserted the elasticity of her lungs has improved. Out of a possible rating of 50 Courtney was only at 17 5 days ago. She is now at 37 out of 50 -a big improvement as she continues to be weened from the ventilator.
Courtney received a new medication today for muscle spasms - although this makes her drowsy and we miss her alertness we know that she is much more comfortable.
Once again God continues to answer our prayers and we look forward to her coming off the ventilator soon. We pray that God will provide another miracle healing of her brain so that she may be restored to full health.
Since the 2nd chest tube was inserted the elasticity of her lungs has improved. Out of a possible rating of 50 Courtney was only at 17 5 days ago. She is now at 37 out of 50 -a big improvement as she continues to be weened from the ventilator.
Courtney received a new medication today for muscle spasms - although this makes her drowsy and we miss her alertness we know that she is much more comfortable.
Once again God continues to answer our prayers and we look forward to her coming off the ventilator soon. We pray that God will provide another miracle healing of her brain so that she may be restored to full health.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Mom's Update
Courtney rested comfortably this afternoon and continued breathing well on her own with less support from the ventilator.
Doctors turned off the suction on the chest tube indicating that they believe the air around the lung has decreased. They will do a chest xray in the am to see how the lung looks and then continue monitoring for the next 24 hours before taking action.
Doctors turned off the suction on the chest tube indicating that they believe the air around the lung has decreased. They will do a chest xray in the am to see how the lung looks and then continue monitoring for the next 24 hours before taking action.
Mom's Update
Courtney has been breathing on her own since 6pm last night. Respiratory therapist continue to turn down the amount of support that she is getting from the ventilator.
Doctors removed the first of 2 chest tubes in her right lung today.
The 2nd chest tube - inserted just 2 days ago continues to 'leak air' - meaning that there is still air leaking from Courtney's lung. The amount of air seems to have dissipated today. Doctors have decided to leave things as they are through the weekend then evaluate her situation on Monday. We pray that her lung will have healed significantly during that time so that she can avoid surgery.
Staff will continue to work on wheening Courtney off the ventilator.
Courtney sat up in a special chair today. She did very well with the transition - her blood pressure (which often drops when people sit up for the first time) remained stable and even increased. Her neck was stable and did not require any support which is good considering the fractures. Since she is very short her feet did not touch the floor but the chair has a platform that allowed her to have the sensation of her feet on the floor.
We set the chair facing out the window and she seemed to be taking it all in. Nurse Tracy brought in a great blow up unit that allows us to wash Courtney's hair with lots and lots of water without soaking the bed. I gave her a scalp massage and used her own shampoo and conditioner. She seemed to enjoy it.
Courtney's Auntie Bean came up with the great idea of hanging her cards on the curtain in front of her bed so that she's not just looking at a drab tan curtain. She looks at the cards when she is alert.
These small steps are important. We continue to pray for her right lung to heal itself and for Courtney's lungs to be strong enough so that she no longer requires the ventilator. This is the only thing holding her from transferring to a rehab hospital.
I read this morning that Advent is a time of waiting. Our waiting is excruciating. Your prayers bring us strength to carry on. Thank you.
Doctors removed the first of 2 chest tubes in her right lung today.
The 2nd chest tube - inserted just 2 days ago continues to 'leak air' - meaning that there is still air leaking from Courtney's lung. The amount of air seems to have dissipated today. Doctors have decided to leave things as they are through the weekend then evaluate her situation on Monday. We pray that her lung will have healed significantly during that time so that she can avoid surgery.
Staff will continue to work on wheening Courtney off the ventilator.
Courtney sat up in a special chair today. She did very well with the transition - her blood pressure (which often drops when people sit up for the first time) remained stable and even increased. Her neck was stable and did not require any support which is good considering the fractures. Since she is very short her feet did not touch the floor but the chair has a platform that allowed her to have the sensation of her feet on the floor.
We set the chair facing out the window and she seemed to be taking it all in. Nurse Tracy brought in a great blow up unit that allows us to wash Courtney's hair with lots and lots of water without soaking the bed. I gave her a scalp massage and used her own shampoo and conditioner. She seemed to enjoy it.
Courtney's Auntie Bean came up with the great idea of hanging her cards on the curtain in front of her bed so that she's not just looking at a drab tan curtain. She looks at the cards when she is alert.
These small steps are important. We continue to pray for her right lung to heal itself and for Courtney's lungs to be strong enough so that she no longer requires the ventilator. This is the only thing holding her from transferring to a rehab hospital.
I read this morning that Advent is a time of waiting. Our waiting is excruciating. Your prayers bring us strength to carry on. Thank you.
Mom's Update
Courtney has been breathing on her own through the night. She has been comfortable doing so with the aid of a small amount of pain medication that relaxes her enough to breathe easy.
As hard as all of this nightmare is on our family and friends we can not begin to imagine the horror that Courtney must be experiencing. For an active girl to know that she can not move the way she wants to must be incredibly frustrating. But for Courtney to not be able to express herself with words has to be the most difficult of all her burdens. The pain of lying in a bed for 17 days, tubes and needles in her body, the helplessness of strangers caring for her physically - all of this is the hell to which Courtney awakes multiple times throughout the day.
Each time she is alert we let her know that she was in an accident and that she hurt her head and chest. Because of that, a machine is helping her breathe. We let her know that all of her limbs are working, that she can see and hear. We tell Courtney that her brain is healing and that in time she will be able to speak and do the things she so longs to do.
As her mother I can not express the deep pain and anguish we feel over her suffering. When she becomes upset and sometimes cry we tell her that we know she is suffering but that she is brave and strong. We tell her that everyone here at the hospital loves her so much and is taking great care of her. We also tell her about all of you - your loving prayers and support - the endless cards and emails that lift our spirits.
While we pray for Courtney's healing we also pray that she will know the peace of God in her heart. That God will calm her fears and give her the strength of mind, body and spirit to carry on this fight - a fight that none of us can begin to imagine. As Courtney was growing up she would often be fiercely stubborn. I used to say to her Dad - I don't know when she's going to need that fight and determination but when she does it will serve her well.
We pray that she hears our words of encouragement to keep up the fight and come back into our lives - whole in body, mind and spirit - to once again make us laugh, say the things that need to be said in a blunt unapologetic way, and most of all to be the source of love and joy that she has always been for everyone in her life.
As hard as all of this nightmare is on our family and friends we can not begin to imagine the horror that Courtney must be experiencing. For an active girl to know that she can not move the way she wants to must be incredibly frustrating. But for Courtney to not be able to express herself with words has to be the most difficult of all her burdens. The pain of lying in a bed for 17 days, tubes and needles in her body, the helplessness of strangers caring for her physically - all of this is the hell to which Courtney awakes multiple times throughout the day.
Each time she is alert we let her know that she was in an accident and that she hurt her head and chest. Because of that, a machine is helping her breathe. We let her know that all of her limbs are working, that she can see and hear. We tell Courtney that her brain is healing and that in time she will be able to speak and do the things she so longs to do.
As her mother I can not express the deep pain and anguish we feel over her suffering. When she becomes upset and sometimes cry we tell her that we know she is suffering but that she is brave and strong. We tell her that everyone here at the hospital loves her so much and is taking great care of her. We also tell her about all of you - your loving prayers and support - the endless cards and emails that lift our spirits.
While we pray for Courtney's healing we also pray that she will know the peace of God in her heart. That God will calm her fears and give her the strength of mind, body and spirit to carry on this fight - a fight that none of us can begin to imagine. As Courtney was growing up she would often be fiercely stubborn. I used to say to her Dad - I don't know when she's going to need that fight and determination but when she does it will serve her well.
We pray that she hears our words of encouragement to keep up the fight and come back into our lives - whole in body, mind and spirit - to once again make us laugh, say the things that need to be said in a blunt unapologetic way, and most of all to be the source of love and joy that she has always been for everyone in her life.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Mom's Update
Courtney's lung is still leaking air. Doctors are concerned that the leak should be much less by now. There may be another CT in 1 day or 2. If there is still air around that lung drs will have to operate to repair the damaged lung.
Unless the lung is repaired Courtney will have a difficult time coming off the ventilator.
Although we've been praying for the healing of Courtney's lungs for sometime we believe that God will work his miracles at his pace. As much as we want to avoid surgery we will trust that surgeons will work skillfully to repair Courtney's lungs.
Otherwise Courtney has been breathing on her own all day today. Despite some ocassional pain and discomfort she did wel today but was not as alert because of pain medication.
We received many beautiful cards from CCD classes and other friends and family.
Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. Be on the lookout for information on donating Courtney Bears for children at Hasbro Children's Hospital at Christmas.
Unless the lung is repaired Courtney will have a difficult time coming off the ventilator.
Although we've been praying for the healing of Courtney's lungs for sometime we believe that God will work his miracles at his pace. As much as we want to avoid surgery we will trust that surgeons will work skillfully to repair Courtney's lungs.
Otherwise Courtney has been breathing on her own all day today. Despite some ocassional pain and discomfort she did wel today but was not as alert because of pain medication.
We received many beautiful cards from CCD classes and other friends and family.
Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. Be on the lookout for information on donating Courtney Bears for children at Hasbro Children's Hospital at Christmas.
from Uncle Brian
Well, I got a little silly in my last post and now Ed Aberger is threatening to sue me in federal court for calling him a Yankee criminal. All I can say is ignorance of the law is no defense and being a Yankee fan in Red Sox nation is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.00. (make the check out to Brian D Condon, please). (Craig has been pardoned by President Bush). (You're welcome, Craig. Now you know why I was travelling to Kennybunkport and Camp David every other weekend this summer)
Returning to the real world, I saw Courtney tonight and she looked absolutely angelic as she rested. It was reassuring to see her in such a relaxed state. Diane and Craig continue their "Iron Man and Lady" act as they care for Court. At the risk of upsetting Diane, (not something I would wish on Hillary Clinton) (ok, that's a lie) I'm worried for Diane's general health. Being a man of few (spoken) words, I offered the following to my younger sister before I left tonight, "Eat, rest". Short and sweet. It can't be misconstrued. (((((Diane & Craig)))))
(I'd rather stand between a Hell's Angels motorcycle gang and 20 kegs of beer than to stand between Diane and Courtney. The way I see it, with the Hell's Angels I'd at least have a chance.)
One last thought - just when you think you've crossed the t's and dotted the i's, this happens - Alexandra, my wonderful stepdaughter, made it known tonight that she thought that Craig was my brother and that Diane was my sister-in-law. As these things go, I already think of Craig as my brother so that's not a problem. On the other end, I can't imagine my life, nor would I want to, with Diane not being my younger sister. As such, Diane has always owned a special place in my heart and always will.
Returning to the real world, I saw Courtney tonight and she looked absolutely angelic as she rested. It was reassuring to see her in such a relaxed state. Diane and Craig continue their "Iron Man and Lady" act as they care for Court. At the risk of upsetting Diane, (not something I would wish on Hillary Clinton) (ok, that's a lie) I'm worried for Diane's general health. Being a man of few (spoken) words, I offered the following to my younger sister before I left tonight, "Eat, rest". Short and sweet. It can't be misconstrued. (((((Diane & Craig)))))
(I'd rather stand between a Hell's Angels motorcycle gang and 20 kegs of beer than to stand between Diane and Courtney. The way I see it, with the Hell's Angels I'd at least have a chance.)
One last thought - just when you think you've crossed the t's and dotted the i's, this happens - Alexandra, my wonderful stepdaughter, made it known tonight that she thought that Craig was my brother and that Diane was my sister-in-law. As these things go, I already think of Craig as my brother so that's not a problem. On the other end, I can't imagine my life, nor would I want to, with Diane not being my younger sister. As such, Diane has always owned a special place in my heart and always will.
Mom's Update
Courtney did very well on pressure support on the ventilator yesterday. She was breathing on her own from 9am - 6pm.
Despite the painful procedure of having a new chest tube put in all of her vital signs remained stable and she slept comfortably through the night.
At 6am today the respiratory therapist changed the ventilator setting again back to pressure support. This is all part of the process of wheening Courtney off the ventilator.
At our request, Drs cancelled a medication that Courtney was receiving that we believed were causing adverse side effects such as sweating, tightness and cramping in the jaw, arms and legs. We have seen a relief in those symptoms since the medication was cancelled.
It may seem confusing to you when you read comments like 'Courtney slept well' when she is in a coma. People have asked 'is she awake?' The waking up process is in most cases very slow.
There are times when Courtney is alert - her eyes are open and she follows people as they enter and leave the room. She will listen intently to whomever is talking to her. We have seen what could be a nod from her on occassion and her facial expression will change slightly from time to time.
Courtney's arms and legs and entire body move well. However, her brain is not communicating - comanding the rest of her body. While she can hear us say 'move your leg' or 'touch my hand' she is not able to follow those commands. She also is not yet speaking.
Doctors perform neurological exams on her at least once a day to see what stage of the waking up process she is at. The next stage is following commands and beginning to speak or at least attempt to speak.
We pray every day that we will soon see those signs.
Despite the painful procedure of having a new chest tube put in all of her vital signs remained stable and she slept comfortably through the night.
At 6am today the respiratory therapist changed the ventilator setting again back to pressure support. This is all part of the process of wheening Courtney off the ventilator.
At our request, Drs cancelled a medication that Courtney was receiving that we believed were causing adverse side effects such as sweating, tightness and cramping in the jaw, arms and legs. We have seen a relief in those symptoms since the medication was cancelled.
It may seem confusing to you when you read comments like 'Courtney slept well' when she is in a coma. People have asked 'is she awake?' The waking up process is in most cases very slow.
There are times when Courtney is alert - her eyes are open and she follows people as they enter and leave the room. She will listen intently to whomever is talking to her. We have seen what could be a nod from her on occassion and her facial expression will change slightly from time to time.
Courtney's arms and legs and entire body move well. However, her brain is not communicating - comanding the rest of her body. While she can hear us say 'move your leg' or 'touch my hand' she is not able to follow those commands. She also is not yet speaking.
Doctors perform neurological exams on her at least once a day to see what stage of the waking up process she is at. The next stage is following commands and beginning to speak or at least attempt to speak.
We pray every day that we will soon see those signs.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Followers note
If you were signed up as a follower before our blog technical issues you will need to sign up again.
Mom's Update
Courtney's CT scan shows air around the front of the right lung. Doctors will insert a 2nd chest tube to drain that area of the lung. They are hopeful that this will allow Courtney to breath much easier and make her way off the vent.
The rest of the CT scan results were good - great news! Thank you St. Bernadine!!
Courtney is doing a great job today breathing on her own with only support from the ventilator.
She rested comfortably and continues to be very comfortable with the arm splints that keep her arms from tensing up and having muscle spasms.
Katy and Claudia are back at school studying hard for final exams. It is very courageous of them to leave Courtney. I know Courtney cried when I told her they were leaving but she would be the first to tell them not to let this stand in the way of them successfully finishing out the semester. We are very proud of them.
The rest of the CT scan results were good - great news! Thank you St. Bernadine!!
Courtney is doing a great job today breathing on her own with only support from the ventilator.
She rested comfortably and continues to be very comfortable with the arm splints that keep her arms from tensing up and having muscle spasms.
Katy and Claudia are back at school studying hard for final exams. It is very courageous of them to leave Courtney. I know Courtney cried when I told her they were leaving but she would be the first to tell them not to let this stand in the way of them successfully finishing out the semester. We are very proud of them.
Monday, December 1, 2008
from Uncle Brian
"The Old People Site"
People of all age access this blog and that's great! From time to time, I overhear someone talking to Diane or Craig or I read a comment here on the blog which demonstrates this phenomenon. The Hollingworth family are as inclusive on the blog as they are in daily life. And I'm not one to point fingers, mind you, outside of political discourse and debates about our beloved Red Sox (the Yankee criminals Ed Aberger and Craig Hollingworth being particluar targets), but this blog was set-up for all you "old" people and you know who you are!!
Courtney's sisters, Katy and Claudia set-up this beautiful blogsite with the older folk in mind - you know, people like me (age 47) and you. (as it is, I had to hire an assistant, Mr. Jeeves, to hold a magnifying glass over the keys so I can type on the computer but I keep drooling and coughing on it which makes everything blurry again). To relate to people their age, they also put a page up on Facebook.com. I don't have a problem with this. In fact, I applaud their efforts. Courtney will certainly approve. As Diane puts it, Courtney would casually refer to people her parents age as, "Old people like you, Mom". God bless her little heart! And I mean that more than ever!
But Courtney's directness doesn't end there,,, no, no, no! Some years ago when Katy and Courtney were much younger I paid a visit to Diane and Craig. At the time - as you face their old house on Tallman Avenue from the street - their neighbors to the left were an elderly couple. If my memory serves me, and right now I'm doubtful due to the fact that there's a stranger, named Jeeves, standing behind me holding a dirty magnifying glass who claims I hired him, the weather was warm and the couple were easily in their eighties.
I remember seeing these people at least once. Certainly, they had paid life's dues. They were kind and respectful of others keeping in line with how they were brought up, I assume. They were the quintessential cute, old couple. And so it was, on one warm spring or summer day that young Courtney made her way over to the front steps to confront her elderly neighbors. Normally, one wouldn't use the word "confront" in the same sentence referring to a little girl and an elderly couple but if the shoe fits,,,,.
Not being an eyewitness to the event that day, I rely on Diane's description which goes as follows and I paraphrase:, "Courtney walked over to our elderly neighbors who were sitting on their front steps the other day and said, (as Diane laughs as she does) "You know,,,,,,, you're gonna die soon!" You don't get more direct than that!
We all know that Courtney is going to be a teacher when she recovers. I would LOVE to be a fly on the wall during those parent-teacher conferences as she confronts parents whose children can do no wrong!
God bless the Hollinworth Family!
People of all age access this blog and that's great! From time to time, I overhear someone talking to Diane or Craig or I read a comment here on the blog which demonstrates this phenomenon. The Hollingworth family are as inclusive on the blog as they are in daily life. And I'm not one to point fingers, mind you, outside of political discourse and debates about our beloved Red Sox (the Yankee criminals Ed Aberger and Craig Hollingworth being particluar targets), but this blog was set-up for all you "old" people and you know who you are!!
Courtney's sisters, Katy and Claudia set-up this beautiful blogsite with the older folk in mind - you know, people like me (age 47) and you. (as it is, I had to hire an assistant, Mr. Jeeves, to hold a magnifying glass over the keys so I can type on the computer but I keep drooling and coughing on it which makes everything blurry again). To relate to people their age, they also put a page up on Facebook.com. I don't have a problem with this. In fact, I applaud their efforts. Courtney will certainly approve. As Diane puts it, Courtney would casually refer to people her parents age as, "Old people like you, Mom". God bless her little heart! And I mean that more than ever!
But Courtney's directness doesn't end there,,, no, no, no! Some years ago when Katy and Courtney were much younger I paid a visit to Diane and Craig. At the time - as you face their old house on Tallman Avenue from the street - their neighbors to the left were an elderly couple. If my memory serves me, and right now I'm doubtful due to the fact that there's a stranger, named Jeeves, standing behind me holding a dirty magnifying glass who claims I hired him, the weather was warm and the couple were easily in their eighties.
I remember seeing these people at least once. Certainly, they had paid life's dues. They were kind and respectful of others keeping in line with how they were brought up, I assume. They were the quintessential cute, old couple. And so it was, on one warm spring or summer day that young Courtney made her way over to the front steps to confront her elderly neighbors. Normally, one wouldn't use the word "confront" in the same sentence referring to a little girl and an elderly couple but if the shoe fits,,,,.
Not being an eyewitness to the event that day, I rely on Diane's description which goes as follows and I paraphrase:, "Courtney walked over to our elderly neighbors who were sitting on their front steps the other day and said, (as Diane laughs as she does) "You know,,,,,,, you're gonna die soon!" You don't get more direct than that!
We all know that Courtney is going to be a teacher when she recovers. I would LOVE to be a fly on the wall during those parent-teacher conferences as she confronts parents whose children can do no wrong!
God bless the Hollinworth Family!
Mom's Update
Courtney's travels to the CT scan were smooth tonight. Initial readings show some air around the lung but the full report won't be ready until tomorrow am.
In the meantime Drs have started up the chest tube pump to ensure that any fluid in the lung is being drained.
Courtney did a full 6 hours breathing on her own with little support from the ventilator. That was alot of work and she was quite tired from it all.
She continues to recognize the faces of all the family members who come to her and watches everyone who comes through the door like a hawk! We know that Courtney is typically very observant and so we take this as a good sign that she is fighting through the fog.
Her comfy arm splints really seem to be comfy and will definitely help those awful muscle cramps in her arms.
I received a note today from Nora Mullen who would like to do a teddy bear drive for the children at Hasbro Children's Hospital this Christmas in honor of Courtney. We would love for the children at Hasbro to receive 'Courtney bears'. Nora, please contact us through Claudia's email at gogliaclaudia@yahoo.com and thank you for such a wonderful idea.
Today we received a two very special packages from the cousins of one of Courtney's very good friends, Carey. Sydney and Carley made a bracelet for Courtney. They also helped to make 30 'Courtney' bracelets that our family and friends can wear to remind us to be strong, hopeful and believe our Courtney will continue her miraculous recovery. As Carey said 'this is exactly the kind of thing Courtney would do!' We couldn't agree more - even Courtney's Dad is wearing a bracelet!
Tomorrow will bring news of whether Courtney's lungs are healing or whether she'll need surgery so I hope that you are reading this before you go to bed and that your bedtime prayer will be for positive results!
In the meantime Drs have started up the chest tube pump to ensure that any fluid in the lung is being drained.
Courtney did a full 6 hours breathing on her own with little support from the ventilator. That was alot of work and she was quite tired from it all.
She continues to recognize the faces of all the family members who come to her and watches everyone who comes through the door like a hawk! We know that Courtney is typically very observant and so we take this as a good sign that she is fighting through the fog.
Her comfy arm splints really seem to be comfy and will definitely help those awful muscle cramps in her arms.
I received a note today from Nora Mullen who would like to do a teddy bear drive for the children at Hasbro Children's Hospital this Christmas in honor of Courtney. We would love for the children at Hasbro to receive 'Courtney bears'. Nora, please contact us through Claudia's email at gogliaclaudia@yahoo.com and thank you for such a wonderful idea.
Today we received a two very special packages from the cousins of one of Courtney's very good friends, Carey. Sydney and Carley made a bracelet for Courtney. They also helped to make 30 'Courtney' bracelets that our family and friends can wear to remind us to be strong, hopeful and believe our Courtney will continue her miraculous recovery. As Carey said 'this is exactly the kind of thing Courtney would do!' We couldn't agree more - even Courtney's Dad is wearing a bracelet!
Tomorrow will bring news of whether Courtney's lungs are healing or whether she'll need surgery so I hope that you are reading this before you go to bed and that your bedtime prayer will be for positive results!
Mom's Update
Courtney was fitted with braces today for her arms and hands that allow her muscles and joints to relax. She is resting comfortably today and doing well breathing with little help from the ventilator.
Doctors have decided that they will do a catscan on her lungs today since they believe her lungs should have healed better by now. Her oxygen level is good despite the pneumonia but overall her lungs should be expanding better.
The CT will show if the pneumonia is worse than suspected or if the hole in the right lung requires surgery.
Moving Courtney comes with risks and so there will be a doctor, nurse and respiratory therapist traveling with her today. Please pray for a safe 'journey' to and from the 2nd floor of this building for the CT.
We are fervently praying that she does not need surgery and that God will provide speedy recovery of her lungs so that she can get off the ventilator.
And of course, we are praying that Courtney wakes up soon.
For those who are familiar with and would like to pray along with us we have a very special Christmas novena:
Hail and blessed be the
hour and moment in
which the son of God was
born of the most pure
Virgin Mary, at
midnight, in Bethlehem,
in piercing cold. In that
hour vouchsafe, o my God,
to hear my prayer
and grant my desires,
through the merits of our
savious Jesus Chris, and
of His bless Mother
Amen.
(It is believed that whoever recites the above prayers fifteen times a day from the feast of
St. Andrew Nov. 30th until Christmas will obtain what is asked)
We will let everyone know the results of the CT scan as soon as we can.
Doctors have decided that they will do a catscan on her lungs today since they believe her lungs should have healed better by now. Her oxygen level is good despite the pneumonia but overall her lungs should be expanding better.
The CT will show if the pneumonia is worse than suspected or if the hole in the right lung requires surgery.
Moving Courtney comes with risks and so there will be a doctor, nurse and respiratory therapist traveling with her today. Please pray for a safe 'journey' to and from the 2nd floor of this building for the CT.
We are fervently praying that she does not need surgery and that God will provide speedy recovery of her lungs so that she can get off the ventilator.
And of course, we are praying that Courtney wakes up soon.
For those who are familiar with and would like to pray along with us we have a very special Christmas novena:
Hail and blessed be the
hour and moment in
which the son of God was
born of the most pure
Virgin Mary, at
midnight, in Bethlehem,
in piercing cold. In that
hour vouchsafe, o my God,
to hear my prayer
and grant my desires,
through the merits of our
savious Jesus Chris, and
of His bless Mother
Amen.
(It is believed that whoever recites the above prayers fifteen times a day from the feast of
St. Andrew Nov. 30th until Christmas will obtain what is asked)
We will let everyone know the results of the CT scan as soon as we can.
Mom's Update
We had some technical difficulty with the blog last night. Claudia reposted the messages that she and Katy had put on Facebook so we would have something on the blog.
We will try to recover the original blogpostings later today.
Courtney had a restless evening last night. Her muscles are spasming which causes her pain and discomfort. I will be meeting with Courtney's entire team later today to discuss medications and plans to make her more comfortable.
Courtney is doing the breathing on her own right now and will do that for about 4 hours then she will rest (with the ventilator turned on) for 2 hours then another 4 breathing on her own, etc.
Our prayers are for Courtney's body to relax enough that she is not causing herself further pain through muscle spasms and that her lungs continue to get strong so that she can get off the ventilator and get up in a chair.
We will try to recover the original blogpostings later today.
Courtney had a restless evening last night. Her muscles are spasming which causes her pain and discomfort. I will be meeting with Courtney's entire team later today to discuss medications and plans to make her more comfortable.
Courtney is doing the breathing on her own right now and will do that for about 4 hours then she will rest (with the ventilator turned on) for 2 hours then another 4 breathing on her own, etc.
Our prayers are for Courtney's body to relax enough that she is not causing herself further pain through muscle spasms and that her lungs continue to get strong so that she can get off the ventilator and get up in a chair.
11/28 - Mom's Update
Courtney continues to have a quiet day. Her temperature has held all day.
She is resting comfortably thanks to some pain medication.
Her breathing has been easy all day.
Courtney's xrays show slight improvement in her lungs - but xrays are always a little bit behind what drs and nurses observe clinically. What that means is that her lungs have made more improvement than what the xrays show.
The plan for the weekend is to continue to medicate Courtney so that she is resting and allow her body to repair her badly damaged right lung and recover from the pneumonia.
We hope to have a completely uneventful weekend!
Later tonight we'll put the tv on for Courtney or play a DVD of her favorite show
She is resting comfortably thanks to some pain medication.
Her breathing has been easy all day.
Courtney's xrays show slight improvement in her lungs - but xrays are always a little bit behind what drs and nurses observe clinically. What that means is that her lungs have made more improvement than what the xrays show.
The plan for the weekend is to continue to medicate Courtney so that she is resting and allow her body to repair her badly damaged right lung and recover from the pneumonia.
We hope to have a completely uneventful weekend!
Later tonight we'll put the tv on for Courtney or play a DVD of her favorite show
11/28 - Mom's Update
Courtney made it through yesterday without spiking a fever. Thank God!
The nurses kept her sedated and although we don't see her beautiful eyes as much when she's sedated, her breathing is much slower and relaxed.
This rest time is so important to Courtney. Her white count was down today and her lungs sound a tiny bit better than before.
These baby steps are great progress.
Thanks to Nurse Bonnie for the idea to put the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade on.
Courtney watched it with one eye and her heart rate increased (in a good way) when the marching band and singers were performing.
She briefly watched Regis and Kelly this morning but wasn't to impressed.
(Can't say I blame her)
She is relatively comfortable today, still sedated as she continues to heal.
She was awake for about 30 minutes this morning controlling her breathing before she started breathing rapidly. Another baby step.
We await the results of this am's chest xray to see how her lungs are healing.
We hope that her right lung will be much better by Monday.
Courtney is wearing my sneakers today so her feet remain flexible. The 'astronaut' boots the hospital uses are so heavy and Courtney works very hard to wrestle her feet out of them. Sneakers are much more natural to her.
Because she is more relaxed under sedation her mouth was relaxed and we saw her teeth and tongue. Everyone is trying to get her to open her mouth and stick out her tongue!
Thanks for the Thanksgiving texts, emails, and good wishes. As always we appreciate your thoughts and prayers and ask you to keep them coming!
Courtney will be able to make further progress once her lungs have healed more.
Finally, thanks to Bob the respiratory therapist who explained the ventilator in detail to us and what improvements they are looking for Courtney to make. It's so reassuring to understand the myriad equipment surrounding her bed.
The nurses kept her sedated and although we don't see her beautiful eyes as much when she's sedated, her breathing is much slower and relaxed.
This rest time is so important to Courtney. Her white count was down today and her lungs sound a tiny bit better than before.
These baby steps are great progress.
Thanks to Nurse Bonnie for the idea to put the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade on.
Courtney watched it with one eye and her heart rate increased (in a good way) when the marching band and singers were performing.
She briefly watched Regis and Kelly this morning but wasn't to impressed.
(Can't say I blame her)
She is relatively comfortable today, still sedated as she continues to heal.
She was awake for about 30 minutes this morning controlling her breathing before she started breathing rapidly. Another baby step.
We await the results of this am's chest xray to see how her lungs are healing.
We hope that her right lung will be much better by Monday.
Courtney is wearing my sneakers today so her feet remain flexible. The 'astronaut' boots the hospital uses are so heavy and Courtney works very hard to wrestle her feet out of them. Sneakers are much more natural to her.
Because she is more relaxed under sedation her mouth was relaxed and we saw her teeth and tongue. Everyone is trying to get her to open her mouth and stick out her tongue!
Thanks for the Thanksgiving texts, emails, and good wishes. As always we appreciate your thoughts and prayers and ask you to keep them coming!
Courtney will be able to make further progress once her lungs have healed more.
Finally, thanks to Bob the respiratory therapist who explained the ventilator in detail to us and what improvements they are looking for Courtney to make. It's so reassuring to understand the myriad equipment surrounding her bed.
11/27 - from Uncle Brian
For those who don't know me, I am one of Diane's older brothers. I am closest to Diane in age as she is one year younger than me. Craig suggested that I write on Courtney's website and I am honored, to say the least, to participate.
Though the atmosphere clearly wasn't joyful today, we did have Thanksgiving dinner at the hospital as a family and we are thankful for the time we had together. Thanks to Helene for securing the private dining room at RIH, Sean for the idea, Chris for cooking an awesome turkey and Kevin for his contribution to the menu. It's my understanding that school children sing folk songs praising Kevin's cooking prowess with special regard paid to his gravies. He is LEGEND. Beth and I provided a 4-layer chocolate cake from Gregg's restaurant and Linda and Bill and Yolie also brought great desserts including fudge, an apple pie, a pumpkin pie, and these little itsy-bitsy flavorful muffin type treats which were fantastic. Everyone contributed to the effort today making it a truly family event.
Craig, Diane, Katy and Claudia have displayed great courage in the face of this horrific nightmare. They've responded to extreme adversity with grace, humility, patience and love. Frankly, I don't know how they do it. I can't imagine the magnitude and intensity of their pain as they continue to coach Courtney in her recovery while dealing with everything else. If you're looking for heroes and role models, you can find them in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit on the fifth floor at R.I. Hospital.
I'm sure I speak for all my brothers (4) and my sister, Linda, and our extended family when I say thank you for all your prayers and support. Please continue to pray for our precious Courtney, her Mom and Dad and her sisters. In these times of economic uncertainty, the ROI of praying for Courtney is very high!
Though the atmosphere clearly wasn't joyful today, we did have Thanksgiving dinner at the hospital as a family and we are thankful for the time we had together. Thanks to Helene for securing the private dining room at RIH, Sean for the idea, Chris for cooking an awesome turkey and Kevin for his contribution to the menu. It's my understanding that school children sing folk songs praising Kevin's cooking prowess with special regard paid to his gravies. He is LEGEND. Beth and I provided a 4-layer chocolate cake from Gregg's restaurant and Linda and Bill and Yolie also brought great desserts including fudge, an apple pie, a pumpkin pie, and these little itsy-bitsy flavorful muffin type treats which were fantastic. Everyone contributed to the effort today making it a truly family event.
Craig, Diane, Katy and Claudia have displayed great courage in the face of this horrific nightmare. They've responded to extreme adversity with grace, humility, patience and love. Frankly, I don't know how they do it. I can't imagine the magnitude and intensity of their pain as they continue to coach Courtney in her recovery while dealing with everything else. If you're looking for heroes and role models, you can find them in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit on the fifth floor at R.I. Hospital.
I'm sure I speak for all my brothers (4) and my sister, Linda, and our extended family when I say thank you for all your prayers and support. Please continue to pray for our precious Courtney, her Mom and Dad and her sisters. In these times of economic uncertainty, the ROI of praying for Courtney is very high!
11/27 - Dad's Update
Hi,
I haven't posted to the blog in a few days as I have been too distraught or busy with Courtney to post. It seems that the 12 days have passed with a blur and endless cycle of sitting by Courtney's bedside, praying or napping in the waiting room chair.
We have been witness to the testimony of devout Faith, Family and Friendship. We are truly humbled at the level of love and compassion from Courtney's friends, URI Students, Courtney's former teachers and coaches at LaSalle Academy. A co-worker sent us a very moving letter. In this letter she included a picture of twenty five or so young Army solders in a "prayer circle" in Iraq praying for our daughter's health. One of the soldiers is her son. One cannot imagine the anxiety that these soldiers and their parents go through on a daily basis and yet these brave men took the time to ask God for the restoration of Courtney's health. Thank-you to the members of the US Army 1st Calvery who prayed for Courtney.
Many people have heard stories about Courtney from either myself, Diane, our daughters or friends. The Monday evening after Courtney's accident one of Courtney's former teachers at LaSalle stopped by at 9:00PM to offer his prayers and support, he also brought a card for her that he had taken a moment to create. We would like everyone to take a few minutes to read the text of his card. The words are both comforting and inspiring.
A Prayerful Reflection for Courtney Hollingworth
Pencil abruptly taken off the paper, head shoots back, while your shoulder length hair slightly sways....Ummmm....Mr. Carty (huh)...This may be a dumb question...but...
Courtney, never has anyone asked more relevant, thoughtful, intelligent questions than you. This is your gift; you serve as the voice of your peers. The questions that drift through all our minds, the questions that most are never willing to ask. The questions that at first glance appear simple or trivial, but in the end are the questions that lead us to the truth.
You have always had the gift to uncover the truth. Watching you in awe as you considered the world around you. Someone who values the gift of friendship, and made mornings exciting as she surrounded herself with loving friends chatting about the nuances of life. Someone who knows how to love, a hopeless romantic often teary eyed at her locker because she wears her heart on her sleeve, a vulnerability that few in our world ever encounter but those who do love with the fullness of their hearts.
While speaking to your father on Monday night a man so clearly driven by the intense love of his daughter I was practically moved to tears when I discovered your dedicated involvement to the Presidential candidate of your choice. I always knew that you careful reflection would lead you to act as a force for change in our world.
I am so very proud of you, and so very confident that you of all people are carefully and reflectively fighting your way back to your family, to your friends, and to the ones that love you the most.
I haven't posted to the blog in a few days as I have been too distraught or busy with Courtney to post. It seems that the 12 days have passed with a blur and endless cycle of sitting by Courtney's bedside, praying or napping in the waiting room chair.
We have been witness to the testimony of devout Faith, Family and Friendship. We are truly humbled at the level of love and compassion from Courtney's friends, URI Students, Courtney's former teachers and coaches at LaSalle Academy. A co-worker sent us a very moving letter. In this letter she included a picture of twenty five or so young Army solders in a "prayer circle" in Iraq praying for our daughter's health. One of the soldiers is her son. One cannot imagine the anxiety that these soldiers and their parents go through on a daily basis and yet these brave men took the time to ask God for the restoration of Courtney's health. Thank-you to the members of the US Army 1st Calvery who prayed for Courtney.
Many people have heard stories about Courtney from either myself, Diane, our daughters or friends. The Monday evening after Courtney's accident one of Courtney's former teachers at LaSalle stopped by at 9:00PM to offer his prayers and support, he also brought a card for her that he had taken a moment to create. We would like everyone to take a few minutes to read the text of his card. The words are both comforting and inspiring.
A Prayerful Reflection for Courtney Hollingworth
Pencil abruptly taken off the paper, head shoots back, while your shoulder length hair slightly sways....Ummmm....Mr. Carty (huh)...This may be a dumb question...but...
Courtney, never has anyone asked more relevant, thoughtful, intelligent questions than you. This is your gift; you serve as the voice of your peers. The questions that drift through all our minds, the questions that most are never willing to ask. The questions that at first glance appear simple or trivial, but in the end are the questions that lead us to the truth.
You have always had the gift to uncover the truth. Watching you in awe as you considered the world around you. Someone who values the gift of friendship, and made mornings exciting as she surrounded herself with loving friends chatting about the nuances of life. Someone who knows how to love, a hopeless romantic often teary eyed at her locker because she wears her heart on her sleeve, a vulnerability that few in our world ever encounter but those who do love with the fullness of their hearts.
While speaking to your father on Monday night a man so clearly driven by the intense love of his daughter I was practically moved to tears when I discovered your dedicated involvement to the Presidential candidate of your choice. I always knew that you careful reflection would lead you to act as a force for change in our world.
I am so very proud of you, and so very confident that you of all people are carefully and reflectively fighting your way back to your family, to your friends, and to the ones that love you the most.
11/27 - We are Thankful
Courtney had a quiet evening last night despite a very high respiratory rate. Respiratory therapist Paul came to the rescue this morning by adjusting her ventilator settings. This is allowing her to breath easier.
Courtney's blood pressure was high throughout yesterday and last evening which is a sign that her brain is waking up.
Her white count remains high this morning as she is still fighting the pneumonia. Hopefully today will be the day the antibiotics start working on eliminating this infection and her lung will heal.
Thanksgiving:
We are thankful for fire, rescue and police who responded to the scene of Courtney's accident and worked swiftly to remove her from the wreckage and get her to the hospital.
We are thankful for the staff at South County Hospital who got Courtney breathing again and quickly transferred her to RIH.
We are thankful for the nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists at RIH who have from the very minute she arrived, worked to save Courtney. They have cared for her with such skill and compassion it overwhelms our hearts.
We are thankful for the cleaning staff who daily stand for a brief moment to pray over Courtney and whose eyes filled with tears the first day she opened her eyes as they said "we love you Courtney."
We are thankful for friends and family who have, day after day, sat with us, consoled us through heart wrenching moments of indescribable pain and fear.
We are thankful to other friends, former teachers and supporters who have reached out to us and are praying for Courtney. Their support has lifted us and carried us through these trying days.
Most of all we are thankful that God has answered our prayers thus far. He spared Courtney's life that Saturday night and has saved her so many times over the past 12 days. God has opened the eyes of the staff here to see things they would not otherwise have seen. He has stirred their hearts and given them the fervant desire to work together to save our Courtney.
Lastly, we are thankful to Courtney, our fighter, who has endured such pain and suffering. We know that she hears us and feels your love and prayers. We pray that God will give her strength of mind, body and soul to recover fully. We pray that God will touch her heart so that she may always know the power of His love and all the love you have poured out to her.
Courtney's blood pressure was high throughout yesterday and last evening which is a sign that her brain is waking up.
Her white count remains high this morning as she is still fighting the pneumonia. Hopefully today will be the day the antibiotics start working on eliminating this infection and her lung will heal.
Thanksgiving:
We are thankful for fire, rescue and police who responded to the scene of Courtney's accident and worked swiftly to remove her from the wreckage and get her to the hospital.
We are thankful for the staff at South County Hospital who got Courtney breathing again and quickly transferred her to RIH.
We are thankful for the nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists at RIH who have from the very minute she arrived, worked to save Courtney. They have cared for her with such skill and compassion it overwhelms our hearts.
We are thankful for the cleaning staff who daily stand for a brief moment to pray over Courtney and whose eyes filled with tears the first day she opened her eyes as they said "we love you Courtney."
We are thankful for friends and family who have, day after day, sat with us, consoled us through heart wrenching moments of indescribable pain and fear.
We are thankful to other friends, former teachers and supporters who have reached out to us and are praying for Courtney. Their support has lifted us and carried us through these trying days.
Most of all we are thankful that God has answered our prayers thus far. He spared Courtney's life that Saturday night and has saved her so many times over the past 12 days. God has opened the eyes of the staff here to see things they would not otherwise have seen. He has stirred their hearts and given them the fervant desire to work together to save our Courtney.
Lastly, we are thankful to Courtney, our fighter, who has endured such pain and suffering. We know that she hears us and feels your love and prayers. We pray that God will give her strength of mind, body and soul to recover fully. We pray that God will touch her heart so that she may always know the power of His love and all the love you have poured out to her.
11/26 - Claudia's Update
Although we had a false scare around 6:00 tonight, Courtney is definitely fighting her way to full consciousness.
She's on two types of antibiotics to help battle the pnuemia. And to further fight this battle, Aunti Debbie found the patron saint of lungs, Saint Bernardine of Siena. So we've made sure to pray for St. Bernardine's hand in healing Courtney's lungs.
Please continue to spread the word about Courtney. Thank you for all of your prayers!
She's on two types of antibiotics to help battle the pnuemia. And to further fight this battle, Aunti Debbie found the patron saint of lungs, Saint Bernardine of Siena. So we've made sure to pray for St. Bernardine's hand in healing Courtney's lungs.
Please continue to spread the word about Courtney. Thank you for all of your prayers!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
11/26 - Mom's Update
Courtney is having a much quieter day today. She has had her eyes opened quite a bit today.
Cultures show a different bacteria in her lungs that will hopefully react to the new course of antibiotics.
When physical therapist came in to stretch her out today her blood pressure and heart rate actually went down! She really seems to enjoy moving around - not a surprise.
We are trying to stretch out her limbs as much as possible. She still has great strength and flexbility which is a blessing.
Her fevers have been under control today. Her breathing is still unpredictable and attempts to turn the ventilator off were not successful. They will try again tomorrow.
We are very grateful to have put yesterday behind us and for the small steps Courtney has made.
We know there will be rough days ahead and we can not tell you all enough how much your emails, cards, letters, thoughts and prayers have helped keep us strong.
Cultures show a different bacteria in her lungs that will hopefully react to the new course of antibiotics.
When physical therapist came in to stretch her out today her blood pressure and heart rate actually went down! She really seems to enjoy moving around - not a surprise.
We are trying to stretch out her limbs as much as possible. She still has great strength and flexbility which is a blessing.
Her fevers have been under control today. Her breathing is still unpredictable and attempts to turn the ventilator off were not successful. They will try again tomorrow.
We are very grateful to have put yesterday behind us and for the small steps Courtney has made.
We know there will be rough days ahead and we can not tell you all enough how much your emails, cards, letters, thoughts and prayers have helped keep us strong.
11/26 - Mom's Update
Yesterday was a bad ride on the "Courtney Coaster".
As Craig said, we knew it would be a roller coaster, we just didn't know it would be this heart wrenching.
Courtney had fevers all day, including one that spiked in front of my eyes from 101.5 to 105 in less than 10 minutes.
Nurse Bonnie took care of everything and Courtney's fever came down quickly. She continued to have more fevers and breathing problems throughout the day.
Doctors had difficulties and quite a scare during one procedure and called it off because of some bleeding. They performed a bronchioscope(?) to culture her lungs and take a look at everything.
Courtney was able to get her feeding tube in her stomach so there are no longer any tubes in her throat. This should make Courtney much more comfortable.
Courtney continues to have pneumonia and trouble regulating her heart rate.
Doctors have changed her antibiotic and are now giving her a combination of 2 antibiotics.
As I am writing this she is receiving the first of 2 pints of blood because her blood count dropped last night.
The fevers and rapid heart rates could very likely be due to the brain waking up. She often becomes agitated which is most likely because she's realizing she's not moving around, talking, etc the way she normally can.
We frequently reassure Courtney that all her 'parts' are working and that she has big bruises on her lungs and a 'bump' on her head (understatement of the century) that will heal.
We encourage her to be patient while her body heals and let her know she won't need help breathing forever and won't feel this way forever.
Every day is a balancing act for the staff here and for us emotionally. Courtney has so much work to do to get better and we all have alot of work to do to support her. She really put the staff and us through our paces yesterday.
To date Courtney has received 10 pints of blood so the next time you see the sign for a blood drive or see the blood bus please think of Courtney and consider donating if you can.
We will try to post another update during the day so you'll know how today is going.
As Craig said, we knew it would be a roller coaster, we just didn't know it would be this heart wrenching.
Courtney had fevers all day, including one that spiked in front of my eyes from 101.5 to 105 in less than 10 minutes.
Nurse Bonnie took care of everything and Courtney's fever came down quickly. She continued to have more fevers and breathing problems throughout the day.
Doctors had difficulties and quite a scare during one procedure and called it off because of some bleeding. They performed a bronchioscope(?) to culture her lungs and take a look at everything.
Courtney was able to get her feeding tube in her stomach so there are no longer any tubes in her throat. This should make Courtney much more comfortable.
Courtney continues to have pneumonia and trouble regulating her heart rate.
Doctors have changed her antibiotic and are now giving her a combination of 2 antibiotics.
As I am writing this she is receiving the first of 2 pints of blood because her blood count dropped last night.
The fevers and rapid heart rates could very likely be due to the brain waking up. She often becomes agitated which is most likely because she's realizing she's not moving around, talking, etc the way she normally can.
We frequently reassure Courtney that all her 'parts' are working and that she has big bruises on her lungs and a 'bump' on her head (understatement of the century) that will heal.
We encourage her to be patient while her body heals and let her know she won't need help breathing forever and won't feel this way forever.
Every day is a balancing act for the staff here and for us emotionally. Courtney has so much work to do to get better and we all have alot of work to do to support her. She really put the staff and us through our paces yesterday.
To date Courtney has received 10 pints of blood so the next time you see the sign for a blood drive or see the blood bus please think of Courtney and consider donating if you can.
We will try to post another update during the day so you'll know how today is going.
11/25 - Mom's Update
Courtney had a long day yesterday with several episodes of fevers and agitation.
When she becomes agitated her heart rate increases which makes turning down the ventilator impossible.
It is not clear to doctors why her heart rate increases without any identifiable stimulation.
Her fevers may be due to the infection or could be a function of the damage to her brain.
Either way these are challenges, along with her right lung problems need to be overcome before Courtney can be removed from the ventilator. The respiratory therapists still have the ventilator controlling the rate of breathing because of this. Courtney needs to be able to regulate her breathing on her own.
Once she is off the respirator she can get out of bed which will help with the waking up process.
In the meantime Courtney's room is filling up with cards from so many people.
We appreciate everyone's support more than you could ever know.
As the days and weeks pass we hope and pray that you will stay with us on this journey since it is going to be a very long road for our Courtney.
When she becomes agitated her heart rate increases which makes turning down the ventilator impossible.
It is not clear to doctors why her heart rate increases without any identifiable stimulation.
Her fevers may be due to the infection or could be a function of the damage to her brain.
Either way these are challenges, along with her right lung problems need to be overcome before Courtney can be removed from the ventilator. The respiratory therapists still have the ventilator controlling the rate of breathing because of this. Courtney needs to be able to regulate her breathing on her own.
Once she is off the respirator she can get out of bed which will help with the waking up process.
In the meantime Courtney's room is filling up with cards from so many people.
We appreciate everyone's support more than you could ever know.
As the days and weeks pass we hope and pray that you will stay with us on this journey since it is going to be a very long road for our Courtney.
11/24 - Minor Setback
Courtney had to have the right chest tube reinserted this morning. Her lung was leaking air and she was missing about every 4th breath, that is why she was having trouble coming off the ventilator. Courtney was awake again this morning and moving around quite a bit. Her Dr.'s agree she is ready for physical and occupational therapy.
She can still come off the ventilator even with the chest tube in. Dr.'s will give it about 4 or 5 days to heal and believe that lung was punctured by her broken rib.
Please pray that Courtney's lung will heal in the next several days so that she will not have to have surgery.
While this is a minor setback, surgery would be a bigger setback with additional risks. We need your prayers to get Courtney over this hurdle so she can continue to make progress.
Thank you for all your prayers and support.
She can still come off the ventilator even with the chest tube in. Dr.'s will give it about 4 or 5 days to heal and believe that lung was punctured by her broken rib.
Please pray that Courtney's lung will heal in the next several days so that she will not have to have surgery.
While this is a minor setback, surgery would be a bigger setback with additional risks. We need your prayers to get Courtney over this hurdle so she can continue to make progress.
Thank you for all your prayers and support.
11/23 - Katy's Update
Today I told Courtney: "If you are feeling tired I would just like to inform you that you have been asleep for one week and one day so its time to wakey wakey cornflakey."
Well I guess that (and you know, the millions of prayers for her) worked!!
Courtney is a bright, funny person and she never fails to make me laugh (or to make fun of me) and I promised her she can boss me around all she wants when she really wakes up and starts trying to talk. When I think about that I smile because its been over a week since she talked last and she talks allllll the time so she will have a lot to say :)
Thank you thank you thank you for all of the prayers and thoughts that have been sent Courtney's way, and for everyone who has been thinking of my parents. Your love and concern overwhelms them and keeps them going.
Claudia and I have been doing this thing we call a "double whammy" where we both kiss her cheeks at the same time really loudly. I say "innnncominnnnggg!!" and then we kiss her. I cant wait to hear what she thinks about THAT hahaha :)
Love,
Katy
Well I guess that (and you know, the millions of prayers for her) worked!!
Courtney is a bright, funny person and she never fails to make me laugh (or to make fun of me) and I promised her she can boss me around all she wants when she really wakes up and starts trying to talk. When I think about that I smile because its been over a week since she talked last and she talks allllll the time so she will have a lot to say :)
Thank you thank you thank you for all of the prayers and thoughts that have been sent Courtney's way, and for everyone who has been thinking of my parents. Your love and concern overwhelms them and keeps them going.
Claudia and I have been doing this thing we call a "double whammy" where we both kiss her cheeks at the same time really loudly. I say "innnncominnnnggg!!" and then we kiss her. I cant wait to hear what she thinks about THAT hahaha :)
Love,
Katy
11/23 - Mom & Dad's Update
We had good news today as Courtney opened her eyes quite a bit. They were not opened all the way but enough for her to see us and for us to see that she recognized us!
She responded to some of our commands and was very active moving around grabbing our hands and moving her legs.
We know that the waking up process is not necessarily a straight line so she will have periods of sleepiness and periods of waking. Overall her progress today was very very good.
In the coming days staff here will look for Courtney to continue to become more awake - respond to more commands, move more, etc.
Courtney is still fighting pneumonia in both lungs and every day in the hospital is a day at risk for catching other bugs. We need your prayers to protect Courtney from anything that could slow her progress.
Although Courtney will be here in the ICU for a long time we have already begun discussing rehab. We find that unbelievable because this week has been ...- we just don't have the words to describe it. Ideally Courtney will eventually go from ICU to rehab. If she does not have to go to a floor within the hospital her risk for catching another bug will be reduced.
We thank God for sparing Courtney's life last Saturday and for protecting her and healing her thus far. We are confident that God will continue to bless Courtney in her recovery and that he will restore her to full health.
We believe your prayers have made this possible and humbly ask that you continue to pray for her along her very long road.
She responded to some of our commands and was very active moving around grabbing our hands and moving her legs.
We know that the waking up process is not necessarily a straight line so she will have periods of sleepiness and periods of waking. Overall her progress today was very very good.
In the coming days staff here will look for Courtney to continue to become more awake - respond to more commands, move more, etc.
Courtney is still fighting pneumonia in both lungs and every day in the hospital is a day at risk for catching other bugs. We need your prayers to protect Courtney from anything that could slow her progress.
Although Courtney will be here in the ICU for a long time we have already begun discussing rehab. We find that unbelievable because this week has been ...- we just don't have the words to describe it. Ideally Courtney will eventually go from ICU to rehab. If she does not have to go to a floor within the hospital her risk for catching another bug will be reduced.
We thank God for sparing Courtney's life last Saturday and for protecting her and healing her thus far. We are confident that God will continue to bless Courtney in her recovery and that he will restore her to full health.
We believe your prayers have made this possible and humbly ask that you continue to pray for her along her very long road.
11/23 - Mom's Update
It is Sunday morning and Courtney has been very active this morning. She is pilling at tubes and hands that are working on her.
She is very close to folowing commands like 'lift yor knee". Although her eyes are not open she does follow voices when her eye lids are lifted. We and the nurses believe she is very close to opening her eyes. The waking up process can be quick or slow taking time for the patient to open eyes follow voices. begin to speak. etc.
Tomorrow Courtney will start therapy where staff will do things to help wake her up like having her hold the toothbrush while someone brushes her teeth.
The more things Courtney does that stimulate memory of normal activities the faster she will come out of her fog.
One of the nurses suggested we get a cell phone for her!!!
I am so grateful to the staff here who have let me participate in her care. I know Courtney would want me to help.
We are telling Courtney she needs to wake up so she can start telling everyone what to do. We know that once she becomes truly aware she will be motivated to get going!
Your prayers are working and yet she has a long way to go. Let"s keep praying her back to us so that "our joy may be complete".
She is very close to folowing commands like 'lift yor knee". Although her eyes are not open she does follow voices when her eye lids are lifted. We and the nurses believe she is very close to opening her eyes. The waking up process can be quick or slow taking time for the patient to open eyes follow voices. begin to speak. etc.
Tomorrow Courtney will start therapy where staff will do things to help wake her up like having her hold the toothbrush while someone brushes her teeth.
The more things Courtney does that stimulate memory of normal activities the faster she will come out of her fog.
One of the nurses suggested we get a cell phone for her!!!
I am so grateful to the staff here who have let me participate in her care. I know Courtney would want me to help.
We are telling Courtney she needs to wake up so she can start telling everyone what to do. We know that once she becomes truly aware she will be motivated to get going!
Your prayers are working and yet she has a long way to go. Let"s keep praying her back to us so that "our joy may be complete".
11/22 - Claudia's Update
Starting from the first day that the Hollingworth's opened up their arms to me without question, my relationship with Katy and Courtney grew from friends to the unbreakable bond of sisters. From there Katy, Courtney and I have built so many memories over the past years living together.
That Saturday night violently shook and turned our world upside down. Katy and I described that night walking through the elevator doors into the waiting room as if someone knocked the wind out of us, like having our heart torn from us without consent.
It's hard reflecting on the first night, but we've found it necessary in order to stay positive. Courtney has come so far. Everyday yields progress. And although there are still moments when our emotions consume us, we know that our Court is coming home. And it's our collective faith in Courtney's recovery that will carry us to the upcoming days when she wakes up.
Who knew that our little, spunky and sometimes pain-in-the-butt Courtney would have such an impact on so many people. I can't begin to articulate how grateful we are towards the endless out pour of love and support from family, friends and strangers. For now, all I can say is Thank you.
That Saturday night violently shook and turned our world upside down. Katy and I described that night walking through the elevator doors into the waiting room as if someone knocked the wind out of us, like having our heart torn from us without consent.
It's hard reflecting on the first night, but we've found it necessary in order to stay positive. Courtney has come so far. Everyday yields progress. And although there are still moments when our emotions consume us, we know that our Court is coming home. And it's our collective faith in Courtney's recovery that will carry us to the upcoming days when she wakes up.
Who knew that our little, spunky and sometimes pain-in-the-butt Courtney would have such an impact on so many people. I can't begin to articulate how grateful we are towards the endless out pour of love and support from family, friends and strangers. For now, all I can say is Thank you.
11/22 - Mom & Dad's Update
Today was a good day for Courtney. She had the right chest tube and the brain tube removed.
Nurses lowered the amount of pain killer/sedative they give Courtney by 20mg. That will serve to make her more awake. They did not change the settings on the ventilator.
She responded to our voices today, squeezing our hands.
She moved her hands and legs around quite a bit. It seems to us and the nurses that she is so close to coming out of her fog.
We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and support of family, friends and complete strangers. The prayers that have been offered, phone calls, emails, texts, facebook messages, comments on this blog and numerous other acts of kindness are amazing.
Courtney has brought so many people to prayer and moved people to acts of kindness extended not just to our family but to those who have supported us daily since last Saturday.
One week ago today God gave us the first miracle - that Courtney survived this devastating crash. The second miracle is that her lungs survived.
We now ask you to pray for the next miracle - that Courtney wake from this trauma so that she can begin her road to a full and complete recovery.
Thank you.
Nurses lowered the amount of pain killer/sedative they give Courtney by 20mg. That will serve to make her more awake. They did not change the settings on the ventilator.
She responded to our voices today, squeezing our hands.
She moved her hands and legs around quite a bit. It seems to us and the nurses that she is so close to coming out of her fog.
We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and support of family, friends and complete strangers. The prayers that have been offered, phone calls, emails, texts, facebook messages, comments on this blog and numerous other acts of kindness are amazing.
Courtney has brought so many people to prayer and moved people to acts of kindness extended not just to our family but to those who have supported us daily since last Saturday.
One week ago today God gave us the first miracle - that Courtney survived this devastating crash. The second miracle is that her lungs survived.
We now ask you to pray for the next miracle - that Courtney wake from this trauma so that she can begin her road to a full and complete recovery.
Thank you.
11/22 - Mom's Update
Courtney had a tough night with fevers and higher than ideal pressures in her brain.
The fever broke this morning and with quieting down the noise she calmed down and her pressures went down and have stayed down. As I write this neurology docs are removing the tube from her brain.
They removed the right chest tube this morning.
Later in the day doctors and nurses will begin turning down the ventilator to see how she breathes again on her own.
The staff strain was identified and her antibiotics have been changed. She has a weaker strain of pneumonia than originally suspected so the change in treatment should bring good results. We pray those good results come fast.
Despite the fevers, pnuemonia and infection Courtney was much more active this morning.
She was digging her heels into the bed and moving her arms around alot.
Most importantly many of her movements were purposeful. She took the pulseox monitor off her finger three times. The first time she just played with it until it fell off. The next two times she wrapped her fingers around the cord and pulled it off.
Nurses put boots on her feet that go on and off for 2 hours at a time. They look like boots people wear on an inversion table or astronaut boots. They are very heavy but they will keep her feet flexible for when she's up and around.
We are focused on getting rid of the pneumonia and getting Courtney to wake up. Please pray for Courtney to recover from this infection, be protected from further infection and for Courtney to wake up and come back to us.
Thank you.
The fever broke this morning and with quieting down the noise she calmed down and her pressures went down and have stayed down. As I write this neurology docs are removing the tube from her brain.
They removed the right chest tube this morning.
Later in the day doctors and nurses will begin turning down the ventilator to see how she breathes again on her own.
The staff strain was identified and her antibiotics have been changed. She has a weaker strain of pneumonia than originally suspected so the change in treatment should bring good results. We pray those good results come fast.
Despite the fevers, pnuemonia and infection Courtney was much more active this morning.
She was digging her heels into the bed and moving her arms around alot.
Most importantly many of her movements were purposeful. She took the pulseox monitor off her finger three times. The first time she just played with it until it fell off. The next two times she wrapped her fingers around the cord and pulled it off.
Nurses put boots on her feet that go on and off for 2 hours at a time. They look like boots people wear on an inversion table or astronaut boots. They are very heavy but they will keep her feet flexible for when she's up and around.
We are focused on getting rid of the pneumonia and getting Courtney to wake up. Please pray for Courtney to recover from this infection, be protected from further infection and for Courtney to wake up and come back to us.
Thank you.
11/21 - Mom's Update
Courtney's traecheostomy went well today. They turned the suction off the right chest tube.
That chest tube should hopefully come out tomorrow.
The pressure in her brain was to high to remove the drain tube. They will try again tomorrow.
The big issues now are getting past the pnuemonia and waking up.
We need a massive amount of prayers being sent toward heaven to get Courtney to wake up.
She has hope - lots of hope - but there are no guarantees.
That's why we desparately need your prayers along with everyone you know and everyone you talk to.
So many people have seen the signs "please pray for Courtney" and are reading the blog.
That's a wonderful gift. We appreciate your prayers. Please, Please, please keep them coming.
That chest tube should hopefully come out tomorrow.
The pressure in her brain was to high to remove the drain tube. They will try again tomorrow.
The big issues now are getting past the pnuemonia and waking up.
We need a massive amount of prayers being sent toward heaven to get Courtney to wake up.
She has hope - lots of hope - but there are no guarantees.
That's why we desparately need your prayers along with everyone you know and everyone you talk to.
So many people have seen the signs "please pray for Courtney" and are reading the blog.
That's a wonderful gift. We appreciate your prayers. Please, Please, please keep them coming.
11/21 - Mom's Update
Courtney had a quiet night. Her tracheostomy will be at 10am and this afternoon they will remove the drain tube.
We will post later today to let everyone know how things go.
Thanks to a friend for sharing this prayer:
Lord, in this time of need strengthen me. You are my strength and my shield.
You are my refuse and strength, a very present help in trouble.
I know father, that your eyes go to and from throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts long for you.
The body grows weary but my hope is in you to renew my strength.
I do not fear for you are with me. I am not dismayed or overwhelmed for you are my God.
I know you will strengthen me and help me that you will uphold me with your righteous hand.
Even as the shadows of illness cover me I feel the comfort of your strength.
Amen
We will post later today to let everyone know how things go.
Thanks to a friend for sharing this prayer:
Lord, in this time of need strengthen me. You are my strength and my shield.
You are my refuse and strength, a very present help in trouble.
I know father, that your eyes go to and from throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts long for you.
The body grows weary but my hope is in you to renew my strength.
I do not fear for you are with me. I am not dismayed or overwhelmed for you are my God.
I know you will strengthen me and help me that you will uphold me with your righteous hand.
Even as the shadows of illness cover me I feel the comfort of your strength.
Amen
11/20 - Mom & Dad's Update
Hi,
Doctors were very busy today with Courtney all of which is good news..first one of the chest tubes was removed from Courtney's left lung and x-rays several hours later showed the lung remained inflated. Her lungs have suffered a massive shock and the quicker they can recover the better the news.
The pressure in Courtney's brain continues to fall and is close to a normal range so hopefully they will remove a special pressure drain tube tomorrow. This is good news because we need to have the pressure as normal as possible to keep any disruption to her brain at a minimum.
Tomorrow the Dr's are going to giver her a tracheostomy. This procedure will allow the ventilator to be connected without her needing a tube in her mouth. This will preserve the vocal chords and lesson the number of infection ports.
The plan for sometime next week is for a special feeding tube(called a PEG) to be inserted into her stomach as long as she continues to improve.
Please continue to pray for Courtney and her recovery. We are grateful beyond words for all of the support that she is receiving.
Thank-you,
Craig & Diane
Doctors were very busy today with Courtney all of which is good news..first one of the chest tubes was removed from Courtney's left lung and x-rays several hours later showed the lung remained inflated. Her lungs have suffered a massive shock and the quicker they can recover the better the news.
The pressure in Courtney's brain continues to fall and is close to a normal range so hopefully they will remove a special pressure drain tube tomorrow. This is good news because we need to have the pressure as normal as possible to keep any disruption to her brain at a minimum.
Tomorrow the Dr's are going to giver her a tracheostomy. This procedure will allow the ventilator to be connected without her needing a tube in her mouth. This will preserve the vocal chords and lesson the number of infection ports.
The plan for sometime next week is for a special feeding tube(called a PEG) to be inserted into her stomach as long as she continues to improve.
Please continue to pray for Courtney and her recovery. We are grateful beyond words for all of the support that she is receiving.
Thank-you,
Craig & Diane
11/20 - Mom's Update
The doctors are taking the chest tube out of Courtney's left lung this afternoon.
They have turned off the 'brain drain'. If the cranial fluid pressure in her brain stays in normal ranges they can remove the tube from her brain tomorrow.
Also tomorrow, Drs will perform a tracheostomy on Courtney. This will allow them to remove the breathing tube from her mouth. It is safer for Courtney from an infection standpoint. Her vocal chords will also be healthier for having this tube removed - and we all know how important talking is to Courtney!
We continue to pray that all these things go well over the next 24 hours and she makes further progress.
They have turned off the 'brain drain'. If the cranial fluid pressure in her brain stays in normal ranges they can remove the tube from her brain tomorrow.
Also tomorrow, Drs will perform a tracheostomy on Courtney. This will allow them to remove the breathing tube from her mouth. It is safer for Courtney from an infection standpoint. Her vocal chords will also be healthier for having this tube removed - and we all know how important talking is to Courtney!
We continue to pray that all these things go well over the next 24 hours and she makes further progress.
11/20 - Mom's Update
Courtney has double pneumonia. She has been given antibiotics for this. She had some difficulty maintaining healthy oxygen levels during 'turning' (when the nurses turn her to stimulate circulation on the back side of her body).
Please pray for a quick recovery from pneumonia.
Days 3-5 are peak swelling days in the brain and peak days for the impact of the severe lung injuries. Today is day 5.
Please also pray that today will be a day for Courtney to transition out of peak swelling/bruising and toward further recovery.
Please pray for a quick recovery from pneumonia.
Days 3-5 are peak swelling days in the brain and peak days for the impact of the severe lung injuries. Today is day 5.
Please also pray that today will be a day for Courtney to transition out of peak swelling/bruising and toward further recovery.
11/19 - Dad's Update
Hi,
This morning the Dr's reduced dosage of Fentanyl to observe how Courtney responded for her neurological exam. Courtney again displayed good reflexive reactions. We are taking this as a sign that her recovery is taking place although we need to be clear to everyone that this process will take months.
The Dr's explained to us this morning that they cannot predict what the outcome of her recovery will be or what we can expect. We are clearly relying beyond the realm of science and into the world of faith. We have been moved to tears by many of the phone calls and emails that have been sent to us supporting our Courtney
Please continue to pray for her continued complete recovery.
Craig
This morning the Dr's reduced dosage of Fentanyl to observe how Courtney responded for her neurological exam. Courtney again displayed good reflexive reactions. We are taking this as a sign that her recovery is taking place although we need to be clear to everyone that this process will take months.
The Dr's explained to us this morning that they cannot predict what the outcome of her recovery will be or what we can expect. We are clearly relying beyond the realm of science and into the world of faith. We have been moved to tears by many of the phone calls and emails that have been sent to us supporting our Courtney
Please continue to pray for her continued complete recovery.
Craig
11/19 - Courtney's Journal
As a family, we decided to that Courtney should have a journal filled with thoughts of love, as well as day to day updates about her recovery.
When visiting the hospital, please make sure to write in the journal so that she knows who visited and what day/time you visited. This will also provide a make shift log of visitors each day. *The journal will be floating around in the waiting room of the 5th floor.
Thank you.
11/19 - Visiting Courtney
First, Katy and I want to thank you for all of your support and prayers. They mean a lot. Please do continue to pray.
I just wanted to make a public statement that we are drastically cutting down the number of people that can see Courtney.
Everyone is welcome to stop by to drop off cards, notes, write in her journal and/or visit the family. However, due to the Courtney's immediate condition, we want to make sure that she has every possible chance to recover. *Please avoid visiting if you might have a cold or anything else that might be contagious.
By having fewer visitors means she'll be less agitated, more rested and more likely to have better odds at recovering.
Again, please do continue to keep her in your prayers.
I just wanted to make a public statement that we are drastically cutting down the number of people that can see Courtney.
Everyone is welcome to stop by to drop off cards, notes, write in her journal and/or visit the family. However, due to the Courtney's immediate condition, we want to make sure that she has every possible chance to recover. *Please avoid visiting if you might have a cold or anything else that might be contagious.
By having fewer visitors means she'll be less agitated, more rested and more likely to have better odds at recovering.
Again, please do continue to keep her in your prayers.
11/19 - Mom's Update
Courtney is somewhat more alert today. She is moving her arms and legs around more. She is squeezing fingers and pulled on my and twice today. The first when I told her she probably felt yucky from all the pocking and prodding and the second when I talked to her about her sisters.
She had a bronchioscope this morning to check for pneumonia. There are signs of pneumonia so Drs started her on antibiotics today.
She is still doing most of the breathing on her own but is getting a big more assistance because she's breathing a little too fast. She seems to want to take over the ventilator - just like the bossy Courtney we know her to be!
Fr. Tom from PC came by this am to give blessings. Many more visits from family and friends in the waiting room. Many, many emails and messages of support and prayers.
Thank you to all.
She had a bronchioscope this morning to check for pneumonia. There are signs of pneumonia so Drs started her on antibiotics today.
She is still doing most of the breathing on her own but is getting a big more assistance because she's breathing a little too fast. She seems to want to take over the ventilator - just like the bossy Courtney we know her to be!
Fr. Tom from PC came by this am to give blessings. Many more visits from family and friends in the waiting room. Many, many emails and messages of support and prayers.
Thank you to all.
11/19 - Dad's Update
Hi,
Diane and I want to Thank everyone who is continuing to pray for Courtney and our Family.
A quick reminder that there will be a Mass at Providence College tonight at 9:00 PM. We selected this time so that the URI/RIC/Brown/PC/JWU, etc students could be able to attend and share their prayers in a community of support
I am not really sure where to begin this post nor where to end. Diane and I have spent the last days/nights sort of camped out in the waiting room here on the 5th floor of the hospital or in Courtney's room. We have been cat napping in two chairs pushed together in a make shift bed. Yesterday the RIH staff was able to place us in a room at the Ronald McDonald house on the edge of the hospital campus. We are grateful to have this accommodations made available to us.
This morning I drove down to Green Hill to do some washing and get a change of clothes. On my way back to Providence there was something that I felt compelled to do and that was to retrieve Courtney's case of music Cd's from her car. Sounds like something easy to do. It wasn't There was also something within me that needed to be where Courtney was when she was last healthy and whole. It sounds a bit morbid to think that way but as a Dad you sometimes need to make order out of the chaos.
My first reaction at the sight of the car was as though someone had magically taken a sword to my legs and cut them out from under me. The damage to the car is so complete I could not believe that my daughter actually lived through that heap of carnage in front of me. God is clearly looking over her.
The owner of Certified Towing ,Richard Zuercher later drove the 20 miles (one way)or so to the hospital to deliver the CD case. A random act of kindness by a stranger, one Dad to another, brought together by the bond of fatherhood.
It is a little before 1 AM EST and Courtney is resting. She is running a fever and the staff has sent out the cultures to the lab. Infections and pneumonia are a real concern for Us right now. The nurses and Dr's are keeping a close eye on Courtney. You can see that even in her state of unconsciousness that she is developing a rapport with the caregivers. They continue to treat her with compassion, love, and dignity, the hallmarks of a great hospital.
Please continue to pray for Courtney. her sisters Katy and Claudia, my wife Diane and the staff at RIH
Craig
Diane and I want to Thank everyone who is continuing to pray for Courtney and our Family.
A quick reminder that there will be a Mass at Providence College tonight at 9:00 PM. We selected this time so that the URI/RIC/Brown/PC/JWU, etc students could be able to attend and share their prayers in a community of support
I am not really sure where to begin this post nor where to end. Diane and I have spent the last days/nights sort of camped out in the waiting room here on the 5th floor of the hospital or in Courtney's room. We have been cat napping in two chairs pushed together in a make shift bed. Yesterday the RIH staff was able to place us in a room at the Ronald McDonald house on the edge of the hospital campus. We are grateful to have this accommodations made available to us.
This morning I drove down to Green Hill to do some washing and get a change of clothes. On my way back to Providence there was something that I felt compelled to do and that was to retrieve Courtney's case of music Cd's from her car. Sounds like something easy to do. It wasn't There was also something within me that needed to be where Courtney was when she was last healthy and whole. It sounds a bit morbid to think that way but as a Dad you sometimes need to make order out of the chaos.
My first reaction at the sight of the car was as though someone had magically taken a sword to my legs and cut them out from under me. The damage to the car is so complete I could not believe that my daughter actually lived through that heap of carnage in front of me. God is clearly looking over her.
The owner of Certified Towing ,Richard Zuercher later drove the 20 miles (one way)or so to the hospital to deliver the CD case. A random act of kindness by a stranger, one Dad to another, brought together by the bond of fatherhood.
It is a little before 1 AM EST and Courtney is resting. She is running a fever and the staff has sent out the cultures to the lab. Infections and pneumonia are a real concern for Us right now. The nurses and Dr's are keeping a close eye on Courtney. You can see that even in her state of unconsciousness that she is developing a rapport with the caregivers. They continue to treat her with compassion, love, and dignity, the hallmarks of a great hospital.
Please continue to pray for Courtney. her sisters Katy and Claudia, my wife Diane and the staff at RIH
Craig
11/18 - Mom's Update about the Staff
Nurse Sylvia and Robin, RT is taking care of Courtney tonight.
Thanks to nurses: Debbie; Tamara; Lisa; Cordy; Marge; Morgan (I hope I haven't forgotten anyone)
Plus the RTs - especially Denise, we know your heart breaks everytime you look at Courtney; thank you for your care and love.
To doctors;
Park who inserted the tube in Courtney's brain (we understand you wear a cape with an S on it)
Kozloff and Heffernan; and Clinton Morrison - no one yells at Courtney better than you.
Dr. Simmons and Daniel and all others who are not mentioned here.
Thank you for taking great care; the time to explain; waiting for our questions.
Thank you to the social work department and Ronald McDonald house who have given us a room where we can shower and rest for a few hours.
Thank you to LSA, PC, Catholic U, Fr. Kenney, Fr. Ron, all the communities of faith across the country who are praying for Courtney.
What can you do?
Feel free to come to the waiting room on the 5th floor if you are feeling well and no one in your house is sick. Pray, send cards, donate to Ronald McDonald House or the Brain Injury Association of RI.
Thanks to nurses: Debbie; Tamara; Lisa; Cordy; Marge; Morgan (I hope I haven't forgotten anyone)
Plus the RTs - especially Denise, we know your heart breaks everytime you look at Courtney; thank you for your care and love.
To doctors;
Park who inserted the tube in Courtney's brain (we understand you wear a cape with an S on it)
Kozloff and Heffernan; and Clinton Morrison - no one yells at Courtney better than you.
Dr. Simmons and Daniel and all others who are not mentioned here.
Thank you for taking great care; the time to explain; waiting for our questions.
Thank you to the social work department and Ronald McDonald house who have given us a room where we can shower and rest for a few hours.
Thank you to LSA, PC, Catholic U, Fr. Kenney, Fr. Ron, all the communities of faith across the country who are praying for Courtney.
What can you do?
Feel free to come to the waiting room on the 5th floor if you are feeling well and no one in your house is sick. Pray, send cards, donate to Ronald McDonald House or the Brain Injury Association of RI.
11/18 - Claudia's Update
Courtney is doing great. There were many things that happened today, for now, I'm just going to address the major highlights of the day.
First off, Dad went to go see Courtney's car. He tried looking for her CD case, but wasn't able to find it. He told one of the employees about it, and the man promised to call if he found it. In the afternoon, the employee drove 45 minutes to the hospital to give it to dad in person. It just goes to show how Courtney's story has touched so many people-family, friends and strangers.
Around 4:00pm today, Courtney initiated breathing on her own. She will continue to be on the respirator; however, now she can work towards breathing without the assistance of the it. This was about an hour or so after Father Kenny of LaSalle stopped by to give Courtney a blessing. Specifically, there was a short blessing for healthy lungs.
The funny part was the reaction after mom forgot to tell dad, Aunti Been and Mrs. Aberger the good news. "Oh, I forgot. She's breathing on her own." Dad later joked, "Oh yeah, don't forget to let me know when she's ordering dinner."
Mom and Dad will post later in the evening. I just wanted to say, thank you for all of your prayers...they're working. <3
First off, Dad went to go see Courtney's car. He tried looking for her CD case, but wasn't able to find it. He told one of the employees about it, and the man promised to call if he found it. In the afternoon, the employee drove 45 minutes to the hospital to give it to dad in person. It just goes to show how Courtney's story has touched so many people-family, friends and strangers.
Around 4:00pm today, Courtney initiated breathing on her own. She will continue to be on the respirator; however, now she can work towards breathing without the assistance of the it. This was about an hour or so after Father Kenny of LaSalle stopped by to give Courtney a blessing. Specifically, there was a short blessing for healthy lungs.
The funny part was the reaction after mom forgot to tell dad, Aunti Been and Mrs. Aberger the good news. "Oh, I forgot. She's breathing on her own." Dad later joked, "Oh yeah, don't forget to let me know when she's ordering dinner."
Mom and Dad will post later in the evening. I just wanted to say, thank you for all of your prayers...they're working. <3
11/18 - Mom's Update
There will be a mass said Wednesday at 9pm for Courtney at Providence College.
Dr's reconfigured a previous ct scan to look at the ear bone on the right. It is broken and confirmed what we suspected, that she most likely has hearing damage to that side. It could be temporary or permanent. The nerves that control facial expressions on the right could be affected. Both relatively minor things compared to brain function.
We are still waiting to learn whether the right chest tube will need to be replaced.
Otherwise everything is the same and we're hoping to go to support mode on the ventilator later today to see how many breaths Courtney can take each minute on her own.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support.
Dr's reconfigured a previous ct scan to look at the ear bone on the right. It is broken and confirmed what we suspected, that she most likely has hearing damage to that side. It could be temporary or permanent. The nerves that control facial expressions on the right could be affected. Both relatively minor things compared to brain function.
We are still waiting to learn whether the right chest tube will need to be replaced.
Otherwise everything is the same and we're hoping to go to support mode on the ventilator later today to see how many breaths Courtney can take each minute on her own.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support.
11/18 - Mom's Update
This blog is set up for, as Courtney would say, 'old people like you Mom'.
So for the old people like us, we're figuring out how to add comments, etc.
Now anyone should be able to add comments which is how you send thoughts and prayers to Courtney.
Courtney had a restful night. She has a slight fever so the nurse took blood to see if she has an infection. Today the staff will change the ventilator to 'support' mode to see how many breaths Courtney can take each minute on her own.
In the meantime she is working hard at repairing her body.
Thank you again for your prayers, thoughts, texts, facebook postings, cards and visits.
Please continue to pray for Courtney's full recovery.
So for the old people like us, we're figuring out how to add comments, etc.
Now anyone should be able to add comments which is how you send thoughts and prayers to Courtney.
Courtney had a restful night. She has a slight fever so the nurse took blood to see if she has an infection. Today the staff will change the ventilator to 'support' mode to see how many breaths Courtney can take each minute on her own.
In the meantime she is working hard at repairing her body.
Thank you again for your prayers, thoughts, texts, facebook postings, cards and visits.
Please continue to pray for Courtney's full recovery.
11/17 - Dad's Update
Hi,
My wife and are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and prayers that all of you have sent us. It is very comforting to know that we are not alone on this journey.
We have heard from friends and family all across the US including Hawaii and even from Europe(Thanks Marie).
During the day today the Rhode Island Hospital Staff again worked with Courtney as though she were of their own. The Doctors, nursing staff are beyond world class, quite simply they are amazing. We also know that the skills these gifted people have is derived from the presence of God in their own personal lives. Please include the staff at Rhode Island Hospital in your prayers.
The Trauma Physicians have told us that the next fews days will provide us with the tell tail signs the path that leads to her healing. We are living not by the day, but by the minute and the hour.
Courtney's healing from this accident will not be swift nor easy as she is very, very ill. We cannot accomplish her recovery without your continued prayers and support. Diane and I are truly blessed to be surrounded by such love and support.
We look forward to the challenges ahead neither with trepidation nor fear but with love in our hearts and the healing presence of God in our lives.
Please continue to Pray for Courtney in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Thanks,
Craig
My wife and are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and prayers that all of you have sent us. It is very comforting to know that we are not alone on this journey.
We have heard from friends and family all across the US including Hawaii and even from Europe(Thanks Marie).
During the day today the Rhode Island Hospital Staff again worked with Courtney as though she were of their own. The Doctors, nursing staff are beyond world class, quite simply they are amazing. We also know that the skills these gifted people have is derived from the presence of God in their own personal lives. Please include the staff at Rhode Island Hospital in your prayers.
The Trauma Physicians have told us that the next fews days will provide us with the tell tail signs the path that leads to her healing. We are living not by the day, but by the minute and the hour.
Courtney's healing from this accident will not be swift nor easy as she is very, very ill. We cannot accomplish her recovery without your continued prayers and support. Diane and I are truly blessed to be surrounded by such love and support.
We look forward to the challenges ahead neither with trepidation nor fear but with love in our hearts and the healing presence of God in our lives.
Please continue to Pray for Courtney in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Thanks,
Craig
11/16 - Mom's Update
Courtney has taken some breaths above what the ventilator is doing for her. Although the ventilator is doing most of the work this is a good sign. She continues to respond to stimulus including our voices. Courtney's maternal grandmother's name was Rita. She did a project on St. Rita some years ago. There was a prayer she found as part of that project that Auntie Debbie located:
Dear Rita, model wife and widow, you yourself suffered in a long illness showing patience out of love for God. Teach us to pray as you did. Many invoke you for help, full of confidence in your intercession. Deign to come now to our adi for the relief and cure of Courtney. To God, all things are possible; may this healing give glory to the Lord. Amen
Please continue to pray for Courtney's healing.
Dear Rita, model wife and widow, you yourself suffered in a long illness showing patience out of love for God. Teach us to pray as you did. Many invoke you for help, full of confidence in your intercession. Deign to come now to our adi for the relief and cure of Courtney. To God, all things are possible; may this healing give glory to the Lord. Amen
Please continue to pray for Courtney's healing.
11/16 - Mom's Update
Thanks to all of you who have reached out to offer prayers and support. Courtney had so many visitors last night and today that you filled the waiting room. The cards, notes and pictures are already filling the walls in her room and will bring her joy when she wakes up.She feels your love and support and it will help pull her through.Please continue to pray for Courtney. She has a long road. We' ll post daily.
11/16 - Katy's Update
Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers, they have been working.The doctor says that the pressure in her brain is going way down, which is exactly what we wanted to hear :)Her friends from the Obama campaign came by with a card, we've put it right next to her pictures. Claudia and I taped pictures all around her bed so when she opens her eyes she'll be able to see lots of smiling faces. The nurses have moved her into a kind of sitting up position in bed and have taken off her neck brace. She looks so much better.
Claudia and I have been taking turns reading to her from Cosmo and Time Magazine.
11/16 - Family Update
Today, Courtney opened her eyes for a short time. First in the morning and later in the afternoon. We could all tell that she was freaked about where she was, she had an incredibly tense/tight grip on each of our hands. In the afternoon, she made attempts to move her left leg and both arms.Father Kenny, from LSA, stopped by to visit and pray with us. It seemed as if she recognized our voices because her heartbeat increased. Of the highlights today, Courtney's body was able to stabilize her blood pressure without the help of meds.
Thanks to Auntie Been and Catherine, Courtney has been listening to Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz all day.
Road to Recovery
Hey Everyone,This is from Katy and Claudia.
Our sister Courtney was involved in a very bad car accident yesterday, Saturday November 15. She was driving North down RT 108 when we think she must have lost control of her car and crossed the double yellow into oncoming traffic. Right now she is in the ICU at Rhode Island Hospital. She has broken ribs 1 and 2, and her shoulder. She has a fractured skull and small fractures in her lower spine and her lungs collapsed. She sustained injuries to her brain. This info is NOT meant to freak anyone out, its just to let you know what is going on. *She is being treated by the best doctors and right now they are telling us that she can heal from everything*, but the swelling in her brain needs to go down. We made this group so that you can remember her in your thoughts and prayers, and leave her get well messages.
We all love and adore Courtney, she is so funny and smart and strong and we cant wait for her to get better.
We want to say that we are so grateful for the outpouring of support our family has already recieved. We will keep praying and hope you will too.
Hospital address:
593 Eddy Street
Providence, RI 02902
ICU Floor 5, Room 108
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