Another Visit to ICU

To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

This necklace is dedicated to Jessica's struggle with Lyme Disease and RSD. It was made to honor her commitment to Lyme disease awareness by Lymelinks. I have heard that people are already receiving their necklaces thru the mail and it is beautiful. They feel that it is another way for them to feel "connected" to Jessica from afar. If you would like to support Jessica and her "journey", you can order the necklace by clicking on the link below:

http://www.et...sy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34995115.

Hi everyone,

First, we would like to personally thank everyone who has purchased a necklace or who is going to purchase one. It means so much to our family to have all of your support - more than words can say! Thanks once again to the Mah family from Lymelinks for ALL they are doing to support this project. Also to Cat Charles and Laci Corridor for all their efforts on the lyme disease awareness facebook page as well.

UPDATE ON JESSICA:

I didn't blog yesterday because it was another crazy day for Jessica. Actually, the past few days have been very rough for her. As you know she has gastroparesis and it is now believed that her intestines are slow moving or "asleep" as well. She has been experiencing these increasing symptoms in regards to the intestines for the past weeks. Dr. Cantu called in a GI specialist, Dr. Morales and yesterday, in fact, she had to go down to ICU once again (her 3rd visit down there for this problem since the coma). She had to have another procedure done under proporfol in ICU to aid in the motility of her intestines and to help her to feel better! As you can imagine, another bad night for Jessica and another struggle that she has had to face!

Please keep Jessica in your prayers once again today and thank you for all the continued prayers on her behalf while we are here in Mexico.

May God keep you all in good health,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

Remember this: "He has the whole world in His hands". From the greatest to the least, nothing is beyond the scope of his power and his care. He makes the rain fall, the sun shine, the stars twinkle! He numbers the hairs on our heads and determines the days of our lives. Ultimately, his handiwork will be something to behold!!

"Blessed is he who trusts in the Lord".
Proverbs 16:20

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24,500 Views of Blog! 3,900 Views of YouTube!

To order Jessica's Necklace, Click on Link Below:

http://www.et...sy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34995115.

To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8


Hi to all,

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration! It was strange for me to not be home cooking the turkey. It is such a tradition for me to wake up on Thanksgiving morning and clean the turkey and prepare it for the oven for cooking. This is only the second time since I can remember that I did not cook the turkey. The only other time was when we decided to bring the kids into Manhattan to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for the very first time. We had so much fun watching the floats go by, even if it was cold outside! We then walked from the parade route and had Thanksgiving turkey at the restaurant that overlooks the outdoor skating rink at Rockefeller Center. It was a different way to celebrate the holiday and a memorable one at that! I hope everyone had fun making their memories yesterday. For Jessica and I, we will never forget this Thanksgiving, spent at the Hospital San Jose in Monterrey, Mexico. Life is definitely a "journey"!

We would like to thank Dr. Rainbow for the pumpkin puree for Jessica. She enjoyed having it all day. I would also like to thank Adriana Castillo - a student resident here at the hospital who brought us delicious pumpkin pie from the local H.E.B. It meant alot to us! Also, special thanks to Pastor Long and his wife Sue and others from Union Church here in Monterrey, who brought over a whole thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings for me to share with the other american patient, Justin and his dad Rick. Also, to Barbara who stopped by with goodies as well! Thanks - Muchas Gracias!

UPDATE:
Jessica is still experiencing pain on the right side of her body. She is also experiencing some intestinal issues as well. The hope is to not have to go down to ICU today for another procedure to remedy that issue. She will also be receiving another booster today as well. Thanks to all of you for continued prayers for her healing of the above, as well as continued prayer for the eyesight to return to normal. God bless you all!

With love,
Jessica's Mom

"My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

Blessings to all of our family & friends,

After enduring the bitterness of winter, the early colonists decided to hold a feast, celebrating their survival and giving thanks to God for his protection and provisions throughout the past months. It was a spontaneous celebration of praise. God had turned their hardship and sorrow and pain into gratitude and health and joy!

Today is the day that we thank God for the world that we live in and all of its wonderful creations. We thank him also for his guidance that gives us direction. We thank him also for our daily lives with all of its pleasures, achievements and challenges! And, we also thank him for food, clothing, shelter, our families and friends, our community and our country.

Let us count our blessings today and be grateful for what God has done in our lives!

Today is Thanksgiving. It is the day that we thank God for ALL of our blessings. TODAY I especially thanked God for ALL OF YOU! I thanked God also for Jessica's doctors and nurses. Especially for the team of doctors here in Mexico. Especially for Dr. Cantu (Dr. "Green Shirt"), Dr. Zavala (Dr. "Rainbow"), Dr. Barrientos (Dr. "Luigi"), Dr. Ramos (Dr. "Medusa"), Dr. Cynthia (Dr. Cynthia "Lyme"), Dr. Ramirez (Dr. "Rumolo"), & Dr. Castelleja (Dr. "Fernando-the younger"). We would also like to thank her doctors in the states, especially Dr. Liegner, Dr. Finklestein, Dr. Kirkpatrick, Dr. Bransfield, Dr. Bottino, Dr. David, Dr. Epstein & Dr. Neugarten. This year has been an extraordinary year in so many ways for our family! We would not be here today if it wasn't for all of the love, support, and compassion shown by all of you!

We are humbled by such an outpouring of love for Jessica, our oldest daughter and for the trial she has had to face! For the support given to David, Michelle and Katherine in our absence from all of our family and friends! And, we are comforted by the compassion shown by strangers we have never met, through all of their prayers and kind donations!

So, Today, we wish you all a very Happy & Healthy Thanksgiving! Please know how very grateful and thankful we are to ALL of you for EVERYTHING you have done for us this past year! Together with your love and that of our heavenly Father above, we will be victorious so that one day our Jessica will be well enough to stroll the beaches in Naples and walk the avenues of N.Y. once again! May God bless you all!

In Thanksgiving & Praise,
The Stevens Family
David, Sarah Gina, Jessica, Katherine & Michelle
and our dogs Molly & Chloe too!

Phillipians 1:3-4
'I THANK GOD EVERY TIME I REMEMBER YOU. IN ALL MY PRAYERS FOR ALL OF YOU, I ALWAYS PRAY WITH JOY"!
Phillipians 4: 6
'DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT ANYTHING, BUT IN EVERYTHING, BY PRAYER & PETITION, WITH THANKSGIVING, PRESENT YOUR REQUEST TO GOD".

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Hola From Mexico!!!

This necklace has been dedicated to Jessica's struggle with Lyme Disease and RSD by Lymelinks Jewelry. It was made to honor her commitment to Lyme Disease Awareness. All proceeds from the sale of the necklace will go to Jessica's Journey Savings Club. It is available now and just in time for Christmas & Holiday gifts! Visit www.lymelinks.etsy.com or just click on the link below. Jessica and the entire Stevens Family would like to thank Brian & Michelle Mah from Lymelinks, who created this necklace, as well as Cat Charles, Laci Corridor, and everyone else that made this necklace possible! May God bless you all!!!

CLICK ON LINK BELOW TO ORDER:

http://www.et...sy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34995115.

Hi to all our family and friends,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

UPDATE ON JESSICA:

First I would personally like to thank everyone that has purchased a necklace in support of Jessica's Journey! We are humbled by your support and we hope that when you wear the necklace it will give you one more way, along with this blog, to feel "connected" to Jessica, all the way from the USA to Monterrey, Mexico. The necklace is beautiful and something that I know she would have picked out on her own. Please wear it in good health!!!

Jessica has been continuing to have terrible pain on the right side of her body. It starts from the head and down the right arm (which still has lesions- but less than before we came here), and then down to the right knee and all the way to her foot. She received another booster yesterday to try to lessen some of that pain. We ask for continued prayers for the healing of this pain; continued prayers for her vision to be restored; and also for God to continue to give her the strength she needs to accomplish all of the "small steps" she still needs to take on this journey to a better life!

Second, Jessica and I, and our entire family would like to wish all of you a "HAPPY THANKSGIVING". This is the time of the year to be thankful for all of the blessings that God has given us. It is the time of the year that we all tend to reflect on the year that is ending and the year that is up ahead. We look at all the things we have done and all that is still to be done. It is in these reflections that we have to always remain thankful in the love from God above that is with us everyday! It is his love that is "reflected" in all of us; and it is with that love that we all go out and do His mighty works. So, today, we THANK all of you for using God's ultimate love and reflecting it upon us especially this year, as well as the past few years! We are forever grateful, forever humbled, and forever thankful for all of YOU!
P.S. Have some turkey, sweet potatoes, stuffing and homemade pumpkin pie for us! Freeze some leftovers for us - we look forward to them when we safely return to the states!

Till tomorrow,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

Praise the Lord, all nations, laud Him, all peoples! For his lovingkindness is great towards us.
Psalm 117: 1-2

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THE NECKLACE IS HERE!!!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8


JESSICA'S NECKLACE IS NOW AVAILABLE!!!

This necklace has been dedicated to Jessica's struggle with Lyme Disease and RSD by Lymelinks Jewelry. It was made to honor her commitment to Lyme Disease Awareness. All proceeds from the sale of the necklace will go to Jessica's Journey Savings Club. It is available now and just in time for Christmas & Holiday gifts! Visit www.lymelinks.etsy.com or just click on the link below. Jessica and the entire Stevens Family would like to thank Brian & Michelle Mah from Lymelinks, who created this necklace, as well as Cat Charles, Laci Corridor, and everyone else that made this necklace possible! May God bless you all!!!

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ORDER:

http://www.et...sy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34995115.

Update on Jessica:

Jessica would like to thank the Mah family for such a generous outpouring of love and for such a wonderful job they have done with the necklace. She would also like to thank Cat Charles for remembering her in this special way and for Laci Corridor and everyone else for all their hard work as well. This is the first time that Lymelinks is "adopting" a patient with all the proceeds going towards helping with Jessica's medical bills through the Jessica's Journey Savings Club.

As you know, we are still in Mexico undergoing treatment for RSD with ketamine. It has been a struggle and their have been setbacks, but we remain hopeful that we can see a miracle unfold for her. Jessica is a fighter. She will continue this journey with her inner strength and faith in God to see her through! But, at the same time, she is constantly strengthened by the love from all of you - and she wants you to know how thankful she is and how appreciative she is to all of you as well! Her battle is a daily one; fought against two foes: RSD and Lyme. The hope is that one day, through research, they will find a cure for both illnesses!!! Let us all pray for that!!!

Pray for Jessica today as she receives another ketamine booster for her pain, especially on the entire right side of her body. Also, pray for her "static vision" to go away, so that she can see normally again! Also, pray for the severe headaches to go away and with that the extreme noise & light sensitivity as well. Pray for increased movements in her legs, so that one day she will be able to walk again!

Remember this: With each new dawn there is delivered to your door a fresh, new package called "today". God has designed each of us in such a way that we can handle only one package at a time...and all the grace we need will be supplied by Him as we live out that day!

"Those who know Your name will put their trust in You, for You, o Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You".
Psalm 9:10

In God's love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

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JESSICA'S NECKLACE!!!

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8






This necklace has been dedicated to Jessica's struggle with Lyme Disease and RSD by Lymelinks Jewelry. It was made to honor her commitment to Lyme Disease Awareness. All proceeds from the sale of the necklace will go to Jessica's Journey Savings Club. It will be available starting at 8:00 PM on November 21st at: www.lymelinks.etsy.com. Jessica and the entire Stevens Family would like to thank Brian & Michelle Mah from Lymelinks, Cat Charles, Laci Corridor, and everyone else that made this necklace possible! May God bless you all!!!


TO ORDER - CLICK ON LINK BELOW:

http://www.et...sy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34995115.

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"The Great Escape"

Happy Saturday to All,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

****************************************************
SPECIAL NEWS ABOUT NECKLACE:
The special necklace that was designed in honor of Jessica is due to be launched tonight! I am still waiting on the links and info so that it can be posted accurately on the blog. As soon as I have the info I will post how the necklace came about with a special note from its creators. The necklace is beautiful and I know that you will all want to have one for your very own. Keep checking back during the day for the updated information and photos!!!

Update on Jessica:
Jessica received another booster yesterday to try and alleviate the right side pain that is still plaguing her. The nerve block that she received two days ago initially worked to reduce one aspect of the pain, but it did not last very long. She describes the pain as burning, shooting, stabbing pain. We ask for continued prayers for relief from that pain as well as for her vision to return - as she is still experiencing the "static vision" that began almost two months ago. It is like watching a TV that is experiencing difficulty and is all thick "static". And the color of this static is green - lime green - of all colors!!! It has made her road here difficult to say the least, as I'm sure you can only imagine! It is an unexpected obstacle that she has had to face and deal with and it is very distressing to her! For Jessica it is horrible and it needs to go away! Thank you for your continued prayers for her eyesight to return!

Devon's Great Escape:
On a happier note, Jessica's fellow "coma buddy" Devon successfully left the hospital yesterday to return to Connecticut. I say successfully because it isn't the first time she has tried to leave the Hospital San Jose! Here is the story of Devon - aka "Escape Girl":

Just a little background info: When you first go into the ketamine coma you are in the ICU initially for the 5-6 days you are in the coma and then you remain in ICU for the following 4-5 days for monitoring before you are released from ICU to the 8th floor.
While Devon was in the ICU post the coma, the doctors thought that something may be wrong with her brain because she initially was unresponsive for the first few days upon emerging from the coma. She didn't speak, blink or move. Tests were performed and no answer could be found for why this was happening to her. It wasn't until her release from ICU and onto the 8th floor, did the answers unfold. You see, Devon is called "Escape Girl" because she is the first coma patient that tried to "escape" from the hospital and, as she later confided to Jessica - the "escape plan" was devised in those 3 days down in ICU. Devon says that if she did indeed have any type of brain injury, it was only because the ICU nurse braided her hair too tightly, as they tend to do to all female coma patients! The reason she wasn't speaking , she says, was because she was planning her "escape" during that time and she didn't want anyone to know her plan. So, on one of the very first nights on the 8th floor, while her Mom Cathy was fast asleep on the couch in her room, (exhausted after being awake for five days straight while Devon was in the coma) she decided that it was now or never, so Devon escaped!!! She carefully disconnected herself from all her IV's, tucked the catheter bag into her pajama bottoms, slipped thru the crack of the cranked hospital bed, by lifting the head and feet as high as they could go, took off her hospital gown for a more normal top that she retrieved from her suitcase on the floor, and proceeded to the service elevator; even eluding detection from the nurses by going down a different hallway!!! You see, she just wanted to go back to the hotel - where she knew her Aunt Tracy and twin sister Caroline were staying --- she wanted "out"!

She managed to make it down 8 floors, past the PB lobby, and ultimately, from sheer exhaustion and the detection of a security guard, landed of all places right in front of the chapel that is located in the hospital and she was stopped right there! She initially lied to the security guard by saying she was her twin sister Caroline who was visiting her sick mother in the hospital and did not need any help. It was the catheter bag sticking out of her pants that ultimately gave her away. (Also - its a long story - but Nancy, who was here helping me with Jessica at the time - was called down by security because they thought she was one of Devon's family members and it was Nancy who revealed to them that this indeed was Devon, a coma patient, and that wheelchair assistance was needed as soon as possible and with that Devon was whisked back to the 8th floor)

When Devon was finally returned back to her room on the 8th floor, Jessica and I could hear the commotion and activity that was going on outside of her room. It was on that day, after we found out what happened, that Devon became "Escape Girl" and a legend in her own right! Jessica wanted to become escape girl! She wanted to be able to try to "escape" as well, even though in Jessica's case, she knew her legs could never bring her there, as she has been unable to walk for the past few years! Nevertheless, she was named "Escape Girl" that night and the name stayed with her for the rest of her stay here in the hospital! I also presented her with her "ketamine coma Escape bear" - fully decorated with black & white stripes - and her "prisoner" number 845843 - to signify the two rooms she occupied while here in the hospital. (that's another story for another day) I know that her family at home will get a kick out of her bear - to say the least - and that it will always remind her of her journey as well.

So, today, we wish Devon (aka "Escape Girl") "godspeed" in her "new normal" life because, as I have said before, you cannot go thru something like this and think that your life will be the same. It will be what I term a "new normal" in that you have to realize where you have come in your journey to wellness, but, at the same time you have to respect where you have been, and what you have been through, to realize where you are at! I hope that makes sense.........Hope to see you soon Devon in the "states" and we wish you and your Mom Cathy (who, by the way, became very special to me as we shared a time here that we will never forget) all the best! Have fun reconnecting with your Dad, sisters Caroline and Nicole and your whole extended family as well, including your cats Chloe, Ollie & Annie!
We wish you well and pray for God's protection over you!

From Mexico, with love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

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23,000 Views of Blog!!! 3,500 Views of YouTube!!!

Hi to all,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

SPECIAL NEWS: I have heard that the necklace is due to be launched this Saturday - Nov. 21st!!! As soon as I have all the info and links I will post them on the blog!!! Keep looking for the updates, as I know from the blog comments that you are all eager to see how beautiful it really is and to purchase one for your very own!!! I will post it as soon as possible so keep looking for the updates!!!

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

SPECIAL THANKS TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One of my youngest daughter Michelle's best friends is Genevieve Klatt. They are in the 8th grade at Garden City Middle School. Both of her parents, Wayne & Renee Klatt, have been very kind to David & Michelle in my absence.

Wayne Klatt approached my husband and asked if it was OK for him to run a fund raiser at his office on Wall St. in New York City. David said yes and thanked him for organizing such a kind gesture on Jessica's behalf.

Words cannot express our gratitude to Wayne and the employees at CREDIT SUISSE EQUITY DEPARTMENT.
They held the fund raiser on Nov. 13th and this past Wednesday, the Klatt's gave my husband David the proceeds. They raised $19,250 for Jessica's Journey!!! Amazing - simply amazing!!! God bless the Klatt Family and all the employees at his office!!!

There aren't enough words to express our gratitude --- they just don't seem to be enough! But, I will say, that our hopes will be to one day bring Jessica back home - "healed" - to start her "new" life. It is then that the "ultimate thank-you" will be said to ALL of you --- because it is with all of your kindness, love, prayers, and GENEROSITY --- that have made this all possible for her!!!

With much love and appreciation,
The Stevens' Family

Update on Jessica:

Jessica and I have been in Monterrey for 3 months now and oh what a journey it has been! I remember when we first arrived here. Not only did we have "packed" with us all the supplies that we thought we would need, but also, more importantly, we "packed" with us the hopes and dreams of what could be.

For Jessica, she "packed" with her the hope of a life free of unbearable pain and the ultimate healing of her body from all sicknesses! The hope of one day being able to have a "normal" life again in a body that was "whole" again! We both knew, as well as her doctors, that the road ahead would be tough! That a body like hers that has been sick for so long would take time and that she had a big "fight" ahead of her. That Jessica and her journey to wellness would be fought on a day to day basis - just as she has from the beginning of her illness that began almost four years ago.

For me, as her Mom, I have had to take this day to day journey with her as well. This is not to say that her Dad and her two sisters have not endured this path with her as well, because they too have had to struggle along with her, but ultimately, when a child is ill, there really is one person that they want - and that is their Mom. For a child, they feel that Mommy will make it "all better" - as only a Mom can! Try as you might, there are times that even a Mom can't answer that call---that ultimately, we are ALL, in the hands of our Father above!

So today, I ask for continued prayers for Jessica. For her to continue this journey with the strength, conviction, and perseverance she has shown from the beginning! That God will continue to hold her in the palms of his hands and give her the peace that passeth all understanding to endure the road ahead. I also ask you to pray for the doctors here in Mexico, especially Dr. Cantu, who, day in and day out, help to guide her recovery, as only they can, with their wisdom, knowledge and expertise!

Jessica and I have seen the progress she has made since we have been here. Has it been easy? No. Are there hurdles and challenges still ahead? Yes. But, we have seen the miracles that can happen. We will not stop until we see that miracle unfold for her as well! She has been through alot and deserves that and even more! May God bless you and keep you and may his face shine upon you and give you peace!


In God's love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will direct your paths".
Proverbs 3:5-6

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Special News @ Necklace!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

SPECIAL NEWS: I have heard that the necklace is due to be launched this Saturday - Nov. 21st!!! As soon as I have all the info and links I will post them on the blog!!! Keep looking for the updates, as I know from the blog comments that you are all eager to see how beautiful it really is and to purchase one for your very own!!! I will post it as soon as possible so keep looking for the updates!!!

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

Update on Jessica:

Please pray for Jessica today. She is still experiencing the increased pain in the right leg. Dr. "Green Shirt" (aka Dr. Cantu) is going to try a nerve block today during her ketamine booster to see if that helps with the pain. She is a fighter, as you all know. Let's pray that it works and that that is indeed the problem with the leg.

Also, Dr. Rainbow loved the "ketamine doctor bear" that I presented to her on her birthday yesterday. It was a "special" birthday for her and for us as well! Jessica and I can't thank her enough for all she does for us!

Also, special thanks go out to ALL OF YOU!!! It means so much to Jessica and I and our entire family for all of your prayers, all of your comments, all of your donations, but more importantly, for all of YOUR LOVE that we feel each and every day - even all the way here in Monterrey, Mexico!!! GRACIAS!!!

Till tomorrow,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

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Happy Birthday Dr. Rainbow!!!

Hola From Mexico,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

Update on Jessica:
Jessica is continuing with the ketamine boosters that are necessary to reinforce the original coma and aid in controlling the RSD pain. The left leg is still doing far better than the right in terms of overall pain and movement. In fact, she can know shake this leg and touch it without feeling pain. She has been experiencing somewhat more severe pain in the right leg from the knee down to the foot. This, as many of you know, is the site of the original tick bite she received, and where all of her problems began with Lyme disease and subsequent RSD. Please pray for Jessica and her continued healing!

Special Birthday Wishes To Our Dear Dr. "Rainbow":

Today is a special day for our dear Dr. Rainbow (aka Dr. Zavala) - it's her birthday!!! Here is a special message for her:

It was two months ago today that she arrived on the 8th floor and became a part of the "team" for the RSD coma patients here at the Hospital San Jose Tec of Monterrey. But, for Jessica and I, she has become so much more! For Jessica, she is like her "grandmother"; bringing her homemade custards and little trinkets to brighten up her day! But, more than that, she brings with her a heart full of love, a spirit full of joy, and a "rainbow" full of hope, from the moment she arrives each day and gently taps on our door, takes off her shoes, and steps inside with her beautiful smile, prayers and unbelievable stories!!!

For me, she is a constant source of comfort, with her wisdom, her encouragement, and "all" of her special prayers. She has made my Jessica feel safe and loved, and, as a parent, I could not be more thankful for her!

So, today, we will be presenting her with her very own "ketamine coma bear". Hers is the 7th one I have made since being here and I will say it is the biggest and the best - as it should be for Jessica's special angel, her "grandmother!"

Dr. Rainbow, this is our wish for you today:

May God give you......
For every storm a "rainbow",
For every tear a smile.
For every care a promise,
and a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
a faithful friend to share.
For every sigh a sweet song ,
And an answer to each and every prayer!

Feliz Cumpleanos Dr. Rainbow! We love you!

In God's love. always,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

Genesis 9:12-16
"And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant...I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth...Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember my everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth".

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Jessica - Steps Into the "Ring"

Hi to all,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

Update on Jessica:

Jessica did receive a booster yesterday and we continue to see the increased movements in the left leg! The right leg, not as much, but we are hopeful that, in time, that leg will respond more and more. In a few days we will have been here 3 months (on the 20th) and I thought I would, at that time, do an update on the "questions & answers" format, as I did at the 2 month interval.

Please pray for Jessica today. In my prayers this morning at 4 AM, I came up with this analogy for her:

Imagine Jessica is a "prized fighter" and she is stepping into the ring for the fight of her life. In that ring are her two opponents( not one but two) those being RSD and Lyme. This is the fight of her life! How many rounds will she have to face and how many can she endure? Will she emerge victorious, will she be crowned a "champion?".........
I know, as only A Mom can know, that Jessica is a fighter! She faces that "ring" everyday! She faces each new "round" of challenges and struggles that are put in front of her with inner strength, courage and perseverance! The "ropes" that surround her and hold her up in the "ring" are those of her ultimate healer - our Lord, our God! She WILL be victorious, she will stare her two opponents - RSD and Lyme - right in the face --- she will last all the "rounds" that are necessary. And ultimately, she will be crowned a "champion" for enduring the ultimate "fight" of her life and her prize will be that of "healing!"

Thanks for all your continued prayers and comments for Jessica and may God bless you all with courage and strength today!

From Mexico, with love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom - always)


"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize!
I Corinthians 9:24-27

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Muchas Gracias!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

SPECIAL THANKS to all the following women of "Team Jessica" who have helped with the Naples, Florida Fund Raising Events. Jessica and our entire family want you all to know how thankful we are for "ALL" you have done!

Joanne Hartman,Karin Daniels,Nancy Frye, Jeri Kiersted,Jodi Lepp,Summer Araque, Katy-Special Deliverez(organized Tropical Smoothie),Nita Kasan,Elayna Fernandez, Brandy Hazel and Mom,Taresa Spiroff,Molly Spiroff,Debbie Reeder,Starr Mier,Jamey Jennings,Joann Frazier,Tammy Sindledecker, Valorie Morris,Char Lancaster,Kelley Nellius, Leandra Harrison,Donna Carty,Barbara Schiering( Singer at Fred's Fundraiser),Kathy Newton--and her team at Fred's Diner,Linda Keutmann,Tammy Miloro,Ali O'Connor, Marina Ushakova,Jan Ruxton,Kristen Goodman,Lauren Carlysle,Kelly Salmons, Danica Stenberg,Mary Jo Wojciechowski, Suzan Berg,Shari Longo, Carol Biron, and Julie Scerbo.

UPDATE ON JESSICA:

Jessica will be receiving another ketamine booster today to help to alleviate her pain. The problems she was experiencing with her intestinal motility are somewhat less, thank God, but still exist. She did not have to go down to ICU yesterday so we are thankful for that. Please pray for today to be a better day for her.

The following quote is from a book called:"Lord Teach Me Wisdom" by Carole Mayhall:

"We are to do what our example, Christ, did on Earth. He kept looking at the goal, not the going. He was seeing the prize, not the process; the treasure, not the trial; the joy, not the journey. And we must do the same!

All our love, Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)

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Over 3,100 Views of YouTube!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

We hope this day finds you all well.

You know, how in life, we all can have one of those "days" - well, yesterday was just that here at the Hospital San Jose Tec for the 3 coma patients from the USA!

First, Jessica - Today is probably going to start with another visit to ICU for a procedure to aid in some intestinal problems that she is experiencing. Yesterday she tried the two things which could help - but to no avail! I will keep you all posted!
Then, Justin (Ice-Pop Boy) - He had one of those days where his pain could not be relieved, even after the booster, and so that caused him considerable anguish.
Then, Devon (Escape Girl) - She was supposed to leave early this morning and return back home to Connecticut, but experienced some problems through the night, so her "escape" will have to wait for another day! Please pray for these patients as well as all patients in hospitals across the world - To Have a Better Day!

On a lighter note - since Devon was due to leave the hospital today - I had made an ice-cream cake for her going away party. Yes - I made an ice-cream cake in the hospital! Well, I asked one of the nurses to please put it in the congelador (freezer) till later. When the cake was retreived later last night - it was melted! They apparently thought it was a regular cake and put it in the refrigerador (refrigerator)! Oh, well, we all had a good laugh about this - even with the "crazy" day we all had here!

Just another day at the Hospital San Jose Tec de Monterrey!!!

I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. Phillipians 4:11

All my love,
Jessica's Mom

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Special Message From Pastor!

Hi to family & friends,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fund raising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!


Today is Veteran's Day in the USA. It is a day that we honor all military veterans who fought for our country in the pursuit of world peace. Let us honor and remember all those that we know today who have served their country so valiantly and let us be thankful for their service which has given us the right to live in a free country!

Update on Jessica:

It has been a pleasure to have Pastor Browning from NY here with us these past few days. We will miss him when he leaves us tomorrow. It has been comforting to have his special prayers said for Jessica. We have prayed together for her ultimate healing from all sicknesses. We prayed for her RSD pain to improve with each continued ketamine booster. We prayed for her eyesight to be restored back to normal and for the static vision to go away. We prayed for the lesions to stay away. We also prayed for her headaches and light and noise sensitivity that have plagued her for so long, to also go away. While praying, we also thanked God for the continued improvements in regards to the movements in her legs - the "small steps" as Dr. "Green Shirt" (aka Dr. Cantu) - always reminds her that are s0 vital to her overall success here in Mexico. And, we prayed for the other two patients from the USA that are still here - Justin and Devon (who will hopefully be leaving the hospital this Friday).


Here is a message from Pastor Browning:

I will always treasure these three days I was able to spend with Jessica (and Gina) here in Mexico. Jessica has clearly established herself as the most beloved patient at Hospital San Jose. She is truly one of a kind, and her remarkable personality and resilient faith continue to draw people in. I have met a steady stream of wonderful people who constantly go above and beyond to help Jessica (and Gina and I, by the way) including her team of doctors, nurses, a pastor from Monterrey, and some American families up here on the 8th floor. Special thanks to Dr. Zavala (aka Dr. "Rainbow") who showed me the beautiful sights of Monterrey! They join with the rest of us back in the States in wishing and praying that God would give her the healing and comfort that she needs.

Jessica has made a great deal of progress since I last saw her in July. I pray that Jessica's healing would continue and that she would find comfort in some of my favorite Bible verses, Romans 8:38-39, and the wonderful reality that there is nothing in this world that can separate us from Jesus Christ and his never ending love.

I have met and ministered to many people over the years. Being down here, I realize once again that Gina Stevens is so singularly exceptional. She is the living epitome of motherly devotion, love, patience and what it means to be Christ-like. She is an inspiration and role model for the rest of us. Please continue to pray for God's presence and strength in Gina's life as she cares for Jessica.

Pastor Jeff Browning

Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

In God's Love,
Sarah Gina(Jessica's Mom)

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Messages From NY

Hola,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fundraising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

Pastor Browning from N.Y. officially arrived to the Hospital San Jose Tec de Monterrey at 11:00 AM yesterday. It is so good to see him again. He brought with him some of the items that I requested from home as well as some surprises. I would like to thank Linda Wardley for the book entitled "Stories for the Heart" by Alice Gray. I will enjoy reading it while here in the hospital! Also, thank you to Cindy Scavelli for the beautiful gift she sent as well! Also, thank you Pastor for bringing me a new NIV study bible and for the special message inside!

Also, a BIG shout-out of thanks to Jean Eschmann & Jen Gibbons who teach a 7th grade all-boys CCD class at St. Anne's Church in Garden City. Through my dear friend Angel, they were able to send some special handmade cards to Jessica, via the Pastor. This class said the rosary with special prayers for Jessica's healing and I read them to her. We were both very touched by them. Special thanks to the following boys: Ryan, Patrick, Connor, Lucas, Joe, Will, Chris and little Henry for a job well done! Thank you also for sending the actual rosary beads you prayed with! Jessica has them in a special place in her bed and she will pray with them every day!!!

Update on Jessica:

Jessica is still not feeling that great, but the good news is that so far she doesn't need the blood transfusion yet. We are waiting for Dr. Cantu to see what the plan is for today and whether or not she can receive another booster today. She still continues with the slight movement in the right leg and the better movements in the left leg. Please pray for her to feel much better than the past few days! We are thankful that Pastor Browning is here to offer his prayers as well - what a gift from God to have him visit here in Mexico! Today he has planned to run some errands for me by taking a mexican "green taxi" to the local H.E.B. Hope he remembers how to speak spanish from his wife Amber, who is a spanish teacher back home!


From Mexico with love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)


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Michelle Helps Jessica!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fundraising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase Lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!


A Message from Jessica's Dad in N.Y.:

For those of you who don't know, Michelle Stevens (Jessica's sister), Genevieve Klatt and Erin Giacini designed and made over 200 (Hope for Jessica) bracelets Wednesday night and sold them at the Garden City Middle School during lunch break on Thursday and Friday. Of course it would not have been possible to do this without the kindness and approval of Dr. Osroff Principal, Ms. Lee and Mr. Marr Asst. Principals and Ms. Weiner our favorite Guidance Counselor. And, of course a big shout out to Renee Klatt who purchased all the supplies and has opened her heart and home to Michelle.

Now, is everyone sitting down - because the amount raised by Michelle, Genevieve and Erin is staggering. The grand total collected in two days of selling bracelets to 6,7 and 8th graders totaled a whopping $1,195.00 !!!

This money will be sent to Carol Biron in Florida and added to the Jessica's Journey Savings Club account.

On behalf of my family and Jessica, I would like to thank all those involved.

Michelle, Your love for your sister is boundless. And, Gen, and Erin, I couldn't ask for Michelle to have more loyal friends.

David Stevens (Jessica's Dad)

P.S. We are still waiting for the amount that was also collected from the faculty who participated in "Dress Down Day". I will let you know as soon as we find out from Ms. Weiner.
What a tremendous outpouring of support - THANK YOU ALL!
***********
UPDATE: Just found out that the faculty raised $720.00!!! WOW!! Thank You All Once Again for All your efforts!!!
***********

Update on Jessica:
The past 2 days have been rough for Jessica. She has not been feeling well and so further blood tests were drawn to see if her red blood counts have gotten any better. If they are still very low, Dr. Cantu said he will have to give her another blood transfusion today. This would be the second one she has had to receive since we have been here in Mexico. Jessica says that because of this, she is now going to be "part-Mexican"!!!

Please pray for Jessica and the other american coma patients as well - Devon & Justin.

By the way, Devon will most likely be leaving the hospital this week so I presented her with her ketamine coma bear. This is the 4th bear I have made so far. Hers is called "Escape Bear" because of her trying to escape from the hospital in the beginning of her stay on the 8th floor. I will save that story for the day she finally does leave or "escape"!

"The mind of man plans his way, but, the Lord directs his steps". Proverbs 16:9

All our love,
Jessica's Mom

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Pastor Browning from NY Arrives!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fundraising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special necklace that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds from the sales of this item will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! It was made in honor of Jessica and her efforts to increase lyme disease awareness, something that Jessica has been very passionate about since she has been battling that disease for the past four years as well! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about and how and when it will become available!!!

Update on Jessica:
Jessica received a different dosing of her booster with the hopes that it may do something to "reset" her vision problems that have been plaguing her since @ mid-September. We did see improvement in the moving of her right leg, in that the toes move more freely and also, greater movement in the upper right thigh and slight movement in the right knee as well!! For this, we are so hopeful, as this was the sight of the initial infection (Lyme disease) and subsequent re-triggering of RSD in that leg and then full body. There wasn't any improvement in the vision but we still remain hopeful that, in time, this will be restored, as we know God intends it to be! Please pray for Jessica and continued healing of all of her body!

Today our Pastor from The Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in Garden City, N.Y., Pastor Jeff Browning is traveling to Monterrey, Mexico to come to see Jessica and I!!! We are really looking forward to seeing him again. We last saw him back in July before leaving from N.Y. to go to see Dr. Kirkpatrick in Florida and then ultimately here to see Dr. Cantu in Mexico. It has certainly been a long journey!

Pastor Browning has been the Pastor of our church for the past two years. Before that he served as the

Associate Pastor while Pastor Bill Harmon was the Pastor. You see the church has always played an integral part in our lives and has always been there for us in the past. I had been very close with Pastor Harmon before he left, as he had gotten me through the passing of my brother Charlie and then the many years of sickness and operations involving my husband David and Crohn's disease and then Jessica with Lyme disease and all of its complications! When Pastor Harmon was called to serve at another church in Williamsburg, Va. I was so upset as I didn't know how or if anyone else could fill his shoes; he was that special to me! Then, somehow, as the good Lord always does, Pastor Browning became the one that I leaned on and

ultimately it has been him and his congregation that has gotten us thru this battle with Jessica. Through it all, if you didn't realize it before, God does provide for all of your needs and in his perfect timing. So we welcome Pastor Browning with open arms to Mexico today!

I also look forward to introducing him to Pastor Long, the Pastor of Union Church, here in Monterrey. I was introduced to him through our special angel - Dr. Rainbow! He, along with his congregation, have been so helpful and supportive to me since I have been here, more than words can say - and, as I said before - God has fulfilled and met our needs even here at the Hospital San Jose Tec! (For example, just yesterday, Pastor Long stopped by with homemade lasagna for me - enough to be shared with the other two families from the USA as well - amazing how the good Lord works!)

So today - Sunday - "Church day" --- give thanks to all the wonderful Pastors, Priests, Brothers, Sisters, Nuns, Clergy, etc. that have been there for you as well!

In God's love, always,
Sarah Gina
(Jessica's Mom)

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Special Prayers for Her Eyes!

Hola from Monterrey,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

***There is going to be a special fundraising item that is going to be announced very soon. It involves a special item that was designed especially for Jessica and all the proceeds will be donated to Jessica's Journey Savings Club! I have seen it and it is beautiful! As soon as I have all the info and links, I will blog this SPECIAL NEWS and how it all came about!!!

SPECIAL PRAYERS NEEDED:
Today will be a short blog as Dr. Cantu is coming early today to try a procedure to see if we can help restore Jessica's vision. We ask for all of your special prayers today. First, for God to put Jessica's vision back to normal. Second, for God to guide Dr. Cantu today; and third, for a miracle to happen today! Dr. Rainbow will also be here for Jessica today, as she is everyday (except for Sundays). Thanks again and I will keep you all posted!!!

Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you.
Exodus 23:25

In God's love,
Jessica's Mom

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20,000 VIEWS OF BLOG --- AMAZING!!!

Hi to all,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

What an amazing thing - over 20,000 Views of the Blog of Jessica's Journey!!! Thank you all for all of your continued concern and prayers for Jessica and this unbelievable quest to having a "normal" life again! We thank all of our family, friends, and even strangers, who have followed this blog since I began writing back in mid-August. As I sit here in her room, at Hospital San Jose Tec in Monterrey, Mexico, I can look out of the window and see the lights of the houses and buildings of Monterrey and the beautiful majestic mountains that surround this place. We have been in Mexico now for 2 1/2 months (75 days) and we thank all of you "bloggers" that continue to take this journey - Jessica's Journey - with us each and every day!!!
Thank you for all of your support and for all the comments you leave for us on the blog - they really mean a lot to us and Jessica looks forward to my reading them to her everyday - so keep them coming!!! We as a family feel the love and support from all over the world. Currently there are also almost 2,500 Views of YouTube as well - that's amazing as well - so thank you all!!!

Special Shout-Out to the Teachers at the Garden City Middle School who are having a "Dress Down Day" today to help raise funds for Jessica's Journey Savings Club! The teachers were so touched by my daughter Michelle and her friends who made and sold bracelets yesterday at school for Jessica, so they decided to help out in this way as well! Yesterday, they sold out of all the bracelets they made (100!) and so they had to make more last night to have to sell for today as well! To everyone at Garden City Middle School - THANKS - You Guys Rock and Jessica says thank-you as well!!!

Update on Jessica:
Jessica received another ketamine booster yesterday. These boosters are essential in order to reinforce the original treatment that was done in the initial coma and also they aid in continuing to alleviate the burning pain that is associated with RSD. In Jessica's case, the boosters not only help with pain but also help to keep some of the lesions from resurfacing on her right arm and leg. The other two patients from the USA - Devon from Connecticut and Justin from Pennsylvania - received their boosters as well. Please pray for these young people and all the people around the world who suffer daily with their own private illnesses!

"For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, and says to you, "Do not fear, I will help you". Isaiah 41:13

All our love,
Jessica's Mom

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A Funny Story!

Hi to all,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

FUNDRAISER TONIGHT:
Thur - Nov. 5th - 5PM
@ Uno's
Vanderbilt Beach Rd. & Airport Rd.
Naples, Fl.
"Bling" Happy Hour - Sip & Shop"
Special Drink to be Served:
"MONTERREY VERVE SUNSET"

Call Nancy @ cell-(419)350-9058 for Details
*******************************
ALSO: There is some exciting news about a very special fundraising item that is due to be launched really soon! As soon as I have all the correct information, I will blog it to all of you. So keep looking for this "Special News!"
********************************
UPDATE ON JESSICA:
Jessica and I had a scare in our old room which I thought I would share with you all. The night before we were set to move out of room 844, I was standing at the sink and all of a sudden I felt something fall onto my shoulder. As I looked down to the floor I saw a giant bug scurrying on the floor! It was black and green and BIG and I knew I had to corner it quickly or there would be no sleeping in that room that night! Jessica heard me and asked what was going on? I told her I was trying to find the bug that had fallen out of the air conditioning vent. She started to scream! You see, she does not like anything to do with bugs anymore after being bit by the tick at camp that summer of 2003 and I can't blame her for this fear at all! (Ticks and the infections they can give you, such as Lyme disease, babesiosis, bartonella, etc., to name a few, are no laughing matter - we know this all too well - unfortunately!) I was able to get the wastebasket and capture the bug underneath the rim. With Jessica screaming I proceeded to run quickly to the nurses station to get some help! As I approached the desk I saw one man and about 6 nurses standing there. In my panic to get help fast, I said the following to them in spanish: "Necesito un hombre muy grande para ayudarme --- tengo un "cucharita" en mi cuarto"!!! They ALL began to laugh? They all, in unison, said: "Un "cucharita" o un "cucaracha"???? Apparently --- I had asked for help in getting a "Teaspoon" out of our room, instead of a "BUG"!!! I guess my spanish is not very good in panic situations! With that - 3 nurses ran to the room, and, with Jessica still screaming, they unleashed the bug from under the wastebasket, and the rest is history!!!
Just another day in the Hospital San Jose Tec de Monterrey!

Jessica will most likely receive a booster today, depending on her blood counts. Her left side of her body seems to be doing better than the right side, so we hope she can get the added relief that only boosters can give her! Please pray for Jessica to have some added pain relief today. Also, please pray for Devon who is still here, and Justin, who returned last night for some added treatments here in Mexico.

Special thanks go out to Nancy and Team Jessica for the successful fundraising event at Tropical Smoothie Cafe last night and thank you to all who attended! I understand that they enjoyed great smoothies and wraps, all for a great cause - to help our Jessica and our family as well! We really have such great friends - our new "extended family" and we are truly blessed and honored to call them our "friends". God is truly a good and awesome God in that he always provides our needs!

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, and who have been called according to his purpose". Romans 8:28

In God's love,
Jessica's Mom

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We Moved to Room 845!

Hola,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

Fundraiser Today:
Wed. - Nov. 4th - 4-9 PM
@ Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Pineridge Rd. & Airport Rd.
Naples, Fl.
"Great Food for a Great Cause"
Call Nancy @ cell-(419)350-9058 for Details

Update on Jessica:

Yesterday was moving day! I spent the good portion of the afternoon moving all of our "stuff" from Room 844 to Room 845. We have been having some problems with noisy air conditioning vents in that room and when the room next door became available, I asked the nursing supervisor if we could move. You see, Jessica is still experiencing the extreme noise sensitivity and still needs to wear the noise-cancelling headphones. Although we have been able to eliminate the ear plugs she was also wearing under them, she can still hear sounds very loudly. For example, she can hear the music playing at the nurses station at night - this is down two long hallways from our room! Also, she could hear Dr. Cantu coming, from far away, when he recently had a cold and was coughing - she would say: "Here comes Dr. Green Shirt - I know that cough!" And, by the way, this was through his mask!
Cathy Emmanuel, Devon's mom, helped me move and let me tell you - it was not an easy task! You don't realize how much "stuff" you can accumulate in only 2 1/2 months that we have been here! So, we are now officially in Room 845!

I would also like to thank a special visitor who came to the room Monday afternoon - Brother Angel. He is well known to Dr. "Rainbow" and her husband Dr. Zavala. He is a Franciscan Monk and he had heard thru them about Jessica's "special" case and wanted to visit with her, pray for her, and get to know her a little better. He came with our sweet Dr. Rainbow and he spoke pretty good English, although he didn't think so! He is also a very accomplished cartoon artist and has promised to draw her a cartoon and bring it with him on his next visit. He said some prayers for Jessica, including special ones for her eyes, and he then asked Jessica to pray for him as well! He said he believes that those who are ill have a special calling as well! Brother Angel hopes to become a priest in his order in the next 2 years. We look forward to his next visit real soon!

"This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us".
I John 5:14

All our love,
Jessica's Mom

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Ketamine Booster #11 & Update!

Hi to all our family & friends,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

FUNDRAISER TOMORROW:
Wed. - Nov. 4th - 4-9 PM
@ Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Pineridge Rd. & Airport Rd.
Naples, Fl.
"Great Food for a Great Cause"
Call Nancy @ cell-(419)350-9058 for Details

ALSO: There is some exciting news about a very special fundraising item that is due to be launched really soon! As soon as I have all the correct information, I will blog it to all of you. So keep looking for this "Special News!"

UPDATE ON JESSICA:

Jessica is doing well post the mini-surgery to replace her central line catheter. She received another ketamine booster and we continue to see the small improvements in the movements of the left leg. Every day she works on the leg to try and move it more. As she says: "In my brain the leg is moving off the bed", but in reality it isn't quite doing that yet. These continued boosters are the "ticket" to the improvement of these movements! Her right leg only moves the toes and slight twitching of the upper right thigh - but we are happy with any type of movement in that leg as it is the original site of the tick bite and subsequent Lyme disease infection. It is in the right leg where the RSD was first triggered by the infection.
Also, Jessica's bloodwork revealed a very low red blood cell count and it is possible she may require another blood transfusion while here in Mexico! Dr. Cantu would like to wait a day or so to see if the counts go up on their own so she won't need another one. Please pray for that to happen, and that she won't require the transfusion.

We hope this day finds you all well. I am constantly amazed each day with my daughter Jessica. She is a fighter. She is determined to be well again! To walk one day again! For her vision to be restored back to normal, so that one day she can be the doctor she wants to be! We ask God to answer all the prayers that are said on her behalf in so many different parts of the world. We know God's timing is perfect, but we respectfully pray for God to "speed it up a bit!!!"

All our love from Mexico,
Sarah Gina & Jessica

"All things you ask in prayer, Believing, you will receive!" Matthew 21:22

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19,000 VIEWS OF BLOG!

Hi everyone,

TO VIEW JESSICA ON FOX TV - CLICK ON LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8

Yesterday was Halloween and yes, I did put on my "coma patient costume" and I begged Jessica to wear her green shirt so that I wouldn't look like a fool all by myself. I had a sign on my costume that read: "Llame al medico Cantu - Subito!" which translated said: "Call Dr. Cantu - Quickly!" You see, he is a real hit here with all the nurses (and Moms as well) because he is handsome and very easy to look at! We all had a good laugh about it!

Jessica unfortunately had a problem with her central catheter, in that it infiltrated and wasn't working properly, so she had to be brought down quickly for a mini-surgery to remove that catheter and have another one implanted on the other side of her chest. I guess her Halloween had more "trick" than "treat"! Thank God Dr. Cantu and Dr. Rainbow were both here at the time it happened! God worked that out just right. Never a dull moment when you are in a hospital with Jessica! Today she will be receiving another ketamine booster to help with her recovery. Dr. "Green Shirt" is also going to be doing an MRI this coming week on Jessica's brain to see what may be going on with her headaches and possibly vision problems. Thanks for all your continued prayers!

I also gave Dr. Cynthia "Lyme" her coma patient bear that I made for her. Hers is a lime-green colored bear because she has a great interest and has also done her thesis work on Lyme disease and is very interested in the RSD/Lyme component of Jessica's illness. It is very cute and she loved it. One day, as soon as Jessica is able to see, I know she will be able to publish the photos on the blog for all to see!


Upcoming Fundraisers in Naples, Fl.:
Wed. - Nov. 4th - 4-9 PM
@ Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Pineridge Rd. & Airport Rd.
Naples, Fl.
"Great Food for a Great Cause"
Also:
Thur - Nov. 5th - 5PM
@ Uno's
Vanderbilt Beach Rd. & Airport Rd.
Naples, Fl.
"Bling" Happy Hour - Sip & Shop"
Special Drink to be Served:
"MONTERREY VERVE SUNSET"

Call Nancy @ cell-(419)350-9058 for Details

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ALSO: There is some exciting news about a very special fundraising item that is due to be launched really soon! As soon as I have all the correct information, I will blog it to all of you. So keep looking for this "Special News!"
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With love,
Jessica's Mom

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