Hi To All,
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
Update on Jessica:
On Thursday evening Jessica's sister Katherine arrived safely! She was met at the airport by Dr. Rainbow & her husband Dr. Zavala and their granddaughter Clarissa. Jessica and I are so excited to have her with us. We have been busy catching up on "ALL" that has happened here at the Hospital San Jose Tec. We last saw Katherine back in December and so it was a very emotional reunion for us all! She will be staying with us for a few weeks to help us make the transition out of the hospital.
On that note, Jessica has been running fevers these past few days and so Dr. Febricula (aka Dr. Dillman) the ID doctor, has put her back on an IV antibiotic called avelox for a number of days. Dr. Cantu is away, as he had some personal business to attend to in the states, and so between her fevers and him being away it is looking like our transition out of the hospital will be somewhat delayed!
It has been a couple of crazy days here in the hospital. We remain strong, even in the face of these daily "challenges", because God is ultimately in control, and He alone knows the plans for Jessica and when His timing is correct, the "exit plan" will happen. Please keep praying for Jessica. Pray that the fevers go away and that the tests come back negative. Pray that all will go well in the next week or so and that the transition happens soon and is a smooth one.
In God's love and in His peace,
Sarah Gina (Mom to 3)*
"Walk in all the way that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess!
Deuteronomy 5:33
***To post a comment, Click on comments below***
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Changes!!!
Blessings To All,
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
Jessica had surgery yesterday to implant a Medi-port in her chest for access for medications and continuing treatments here in Monterrey. These mediports or portacaths are used for long term venous access and have a much lower infection risk than other types of catheters. This is such a big step for Jessica and one that she has been looking forward to - as it signals her transitioning from the hospital within the next week or so! We will be staying here in Monterrey for a while to continue treatments with Dr. Cantu. I will keep you all posted, but please keep us all in your daily prayers as we try to take this huge step forward!
Please pray that Jessica remains infection-free and that all the plans go ahead smoothly. Katherine, Jessica's sister, is coming from N.Y. to help us and to spend some time with us as well. We are so looking forward to her coming as we haven't seen her since Christmas! She will be so happy to see the changes that Jessica has made since coming to the Hospital San Jose Tec!
What I have learned as a mother since beginning this journey with Jessica is that God is fully trustworthy. That whatever I entrust to Him, he can take care of better than I can. That nothing under his control can really be out of control, even though it may seem that way at times! That He is able to supply all our needs, to guide us, to start, to stop, to sustain, to correct, and to change things in His time and for His purposes.
In God's love, always
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)*
"May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ."
2 Thessalonians 3:5
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
Jessica had surgery yesterday to implant a Medi-port in her chest for access for medications and continuing treatments here in Monterrey. These mediports or portacaths are used for long term venous access and have a much lower infection risk than other types of catheters. This is such a big step for Jessica and one that she has been looking forward to - as it signals her transitioning from the hospital within the next week or so! We will be staying here in Monterrey for a while to continue treatments with Dr. Cantu. I will keep you all posted, but please keep us all in your daily prayers as we try to take this huge step forward!
Please pray that Jessica remains infection-free and that all the plans go ahead smoothly. Katherine, Jessica's sister, is coming from N.Y. to help us and to spend some time with us as well. We are so looking forward to her coming as we haven't seen her since Christmas! She will be so happy to see the changes that Jessica has made since coming to the Hospital San Jose Tec!
What I have learned as a mother since beginning this journey with Jessica is that God is fully trustworthy. That whatever I entrust to Him, he can take care of better than I can. That nothing under his control can really be out of control, even though it may seem that way at times! That He is able to supply all our needs, to guide us, to start, to stop, to sustain, to correct, and to change things in His time and for His purposes.
In God's love, always
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)*
"May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ."
2 Thessalonians 3:5
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Transitions
Hi everyone,
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
How is everyone? I hope all is well. Sorry I haven't blogged since the "water" problem, but we have been busy trying to formulate Jessica's transition from the hospital sometime this month. As we have been here for awhile now, those plans are not easy and alot of things have to be done and considered, as well as what Jessica still has to accomplish before we can actually transition from the hospital setting. Please pray for Jessica, me, and for Dr. Cantu as we try to make this happen, knowing full well that God is guiding us all and that ultimately His plan is the best. I will keep you all posted, but in the meantime, keep those prayers coming!
I would like to thank Dr. & Mrs. Zavala for showing me the city of Monterrey and for the lovely lunch we had at an Italian restaurant called "Ianilli". We all had different pasta dishes and shared "tiramisu" for dessert!
Also, we would like to thank Cindel, Adriana, Alex, Nancy and Claudia for visiting us. They are Barbara's family and they were here with their grandma Blanca, who had fallen and had to have hip surgery. They brought us DVD movies to watch and magazines to read, as well as delicious Mexican pasta made with a delicious spicy cilantro sauce. Cindel also drew a beautiful picture for Jessica using "pointulism"- it is amazing and we will treasure it forever!
I will say again - we have really met a lot of wonderful people here in Monterrey and they have become our very dear friends. Monterrey is a beautiful city, rich in tradition, culture, and people.
Jessica and I would also like to express our deepest sympathy to Blair Webber, a former coma patient that we met recently while he was here for boosters. His Dad Douglas passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Blair, his Mom, his siblings, and his family during this difficult time.
Also, Fern Kwantes is back from Canada for her boosters. This time her husband Theo is with her and it is good to see them both here on the 8th floor of Hospital San Jose Tec. May the boosters bring her relief from the pain as they do for Jessica!
*************
Here is an important video to watch - in honor of the month of May being Lyme Disease Awareness Month.
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
How is everyone? I hope all is well. Sorry I haven't blogged since the "water" problem, but we have been busy trying to formulate Jessica's transition from the hospital sometime this month. As we have been here for awhile now, those plans are not easy and alot of things have to be done and considered, as well as what Jessica still has to accomplish before we can actually transition from the hospital setting. Please pray for Jessica, me, and for Dr. Cantu as we try to make this happen, knowing full well that God is guiding us all and that ultimately His plan is the best. I will keep you all posted, but in the meantime, keep those prayers coming!
I would like to thank Dr. & Mrs. Zavala for showing me the city of Monterrey and for the lovely lunch we had at an Italian restaurant called "Ianilli". We all had different pasta dishes and shared "tiramisu" for dessert!
Also, we would like to thank Cindel, Adriana, Alex, Nancy and Claudia for visiting us. They are Barbara's family and they were here with their grandma Blanca, who had fallen and had to have hip surgery. They brought us DVD movies to watch and magazines to read, as well as delicious Mexican pasta made with a delicious spicy cilantro sauce. Cindel also drew a beautiful picture for Jessica using "pointulism"- it is amazing and we will treasure it forever!
I will say again - we have really met a lot of wonderful people here in Monterrey and they have become our very dear friends. Monterrey is a beautiful city, rich in tradition, culture, and people.
Jessica and I would also like to express our deepest sympathy to Blair Webber, a former coma patient that we met recently while he was here for boosters. His Dad Douglas passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Blair, his Mom, his siblings, and his family during this difficult time.
Also, Fern Kwantes is back from Canada for her boosters. This time her husband Theo is with her and it is good to see them both here on the 8th floor of Hospital San Jose Tec. May the boosters bring her relief from the pain as they do for Jessica!
*************
Here is an important video to watch - in honor of the month of May being Lyme Disease Awareness Month.
The Dr. Oz Show- Avoid This Bite: Lyme Disease
Do you know what to do? Learn proper tick removal technique and Lyme disease prevention....
1.Lyme disease is the most prevalent vector-borne disease in the USA and is prevalent worldwide. A patient's county of residence does not accurately reflect his or her Lyme disease risk because people travel, pets travel, and ticks travel. This creates a dynamic situation with many opportunities for exposure to Lyme disease for each individual.
2.Lyme disease is a clinical diagnosis. The disease is caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria (spirochete) called Borrelia burgdorferi. The Lyme spirochete can cause infection of multiple organs and produce a wide range of symptoms.
3.Fewer than 50% of patients recall a tick bite. In some studies this number is as low as 15% in culture-proven infection with the Lyme spirochete.
4.Fewer than 50% recall any rash. Although the erythema migrans (EM) or “bull’s-eye” rash is considered classic, it is not the most common dermatologic manifestation of early Lyme. Atypical forms of this rash are seen far more commonly. Absence of the rash does not mean you do not have a tick-borne infection.
5. Lyme disease is under-reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveillance criteria for Lyme disease were devised to track cases for epidemiologic purposes and were never intended to be used as diagnostic criteria. It is estimated the actual number of annual Lyme cases may be 6-12 times higher than reported.
6. Lyme disease is frequently misdiagnosed. Lyme disease has been called the great imitator and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of rheumatologic and neurologic conditions, as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and any difficult-to-diagnose multi-system illness.
7. Laboratory testing for Lyme disease is unreliable. A person may test negative but still have the disease. The ELISA screening test misses 35% of culture proven Lyme disease (only 65% sensitivity) and is unacceptable as the first step of a two-step screening protocol. By definition, a screening test should have at least 95% sensitivity.
7.There are 5 subspecies of Borrelia burgdorferi, over 100 strains in the US, and 300 strains worldwide. This diversity is thought to contribute to the antigenic variability of the spirochete and its ability to evade the immune system and antibiotic therapy, leading to chronic infection.
8.Testing for other tick-borne infections should be performed. The presence of co-infection with Babesia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Bartonella organisms points to probable infection with the Lyme spirochete as well. If these coinfections are left untreated, their continued presence increases morbidity and prevents successful treatment of Lyme disease.
9.There has never been a study demonstrating that 30 days of antibiotic treatment cures Lyme disease. However there is a plethora of documentation in the US and European medical literature demonstrating by histology and culture techniques that short courses of antibiotic treatment may fail to eradicate the Lyme spirochete.
10. Perform frequent tick-checks- and don't forget to check your pets too! Avoid tick-infested areas- such as leaf litter under trees. Wear light colored clothing so you can easily spot ticks and be sure to use DEET on skin and treat clothing with spray containing permethrin.
Disclaimer: The foregoing information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace or supersede patient care by a healthcare provider. If an individual suspects the presence of a tick-borne illness, that individual should consult a healthcare provider who is familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne diseases.
In God's Love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)*
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
2.Lyme disease is a clinical diagnosis. The disease is caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria (spirochete) called Borrelia burgdorferi. The Lyme spirochete can cause infection of multiple organs and produce a wide range of symptoms.
3.Fewer than 50% of patients recall a tick bite. In some studies this number is as low as 15% in culture-proven infection with the Lyme spirochete.
4.Fewer than 50% recall any rash. Although the erythema migrans (EM) or “bull’s-eye” rash is considered classic, it is not the most common dermatologic manifestation of early Lyme. Atypical forms of this rash are seen far more commonly. Absence of the rash does not mean you do not have a tick-borne infection.
5. Lyme disease is under-reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveillance criteria for Lyme disease were devised to track cases for epidemiologic purposes and were never intended to be used as diagnostic criteria. It is estimated the actual number of annual Lyme cases may be 6-12 times higher than reported.
6. Lyme disease is frequently misdiagnosed. Lyme disease has been called the great imitator and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of rheumatologic and neurologic conditions, as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and any difficult-to-diagnose multi-system illness.
7. Laboratory testing for Lyme disease is unreliable. A person may test negative but still have the disease. The ELISA screening test misses 35% of culture proven Lyme disease (only 65% sensitivity) and is unacceptable as the first step of a two-step screening protocol. By definition, a screening test should have at least 95% sensitivity.
7.There are 5 subspecies of Borrelia burgdorferi, over 100 strains in the US, and 300 strains worldwide. This diversity is thought to contribute to the antigenic variability of the spirochete and its ability to evade the immune system and antibiotic therapy, leading to chronic infection.
8.Testing for other tick-borne infections should be performed. The presence of co-infection with Babesia, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Bartonella organisms points to probable infection with the Lyme spirochete as well. If these coinfections are left untreated, their continued presence increases morbidity and prevents successful treatment of Lyme disease.
9.There has never been a study demonstrating that 30 days of antibiotic treatment cures Lyme disease. However there is a plethora of documentation in the US and European medical literature demonstrating by histology and culture techniques that short courses of antibiotic treatment may fail to eradicate the Lyme spirochete.
10. Perform frequent tick-checks- and don't forget to check your pets too! Avoid tick-infested areas- such as leaf litter under trees. Wear light colored clothing so you can easily spot ticks and be sure to use DEET on skin and treat clothing with spray containing permethrin.
Disclaimer: The foregoing information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace or supersede patient care by a healthcare provider. If an individual suspects the presence of a tick-borne illness, that individual should consult a healthcare provider who is familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne diseases.
In God's Love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)*
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
Friday, May 14, 2010
FUNNY STORY
Hi to All,
Don't know where to begin with this story - but here goes:
There have been so many things that have happened since we have been here. So much so that I am seriously thinking about writing a book about it all. The title of the book will be called: "It's A Long Story, BUT......." and each chapter will begin with a new "BUT".......
CHAPTER 13 - BUT what else can happen????
Today I was having problems with the toilet in the bathroom. So I went to the cleaning lady on the floor to get her "ayudo" (help). So she comes in and proceeds to use a tool to fix it and the next thing I know is that I start to hear water gushing!!!! With that, I start to see my slippers, sneakers, and sandals flying out from the bathroom door - one by one!!! As I approach the bathroom, to see what was going on, it was like a geyser coming out of the toilet and water --- ALOT of water --- is starting to flow out of the bathroom and into the hallway and all over the room!!!
My first thought is --- Oh No! --- My second thought is --- We are not moving out of this room! My third thought is --- What else can possibly happen???
So now, the cleaning lady is calling for back up help! I proceed to tell her to shut off the water main valve - ALL IN SPANISH. She then proceeds to get a broom - not a mop - and is "sweeping" the water into the drain in the floor! Now, mind you, this is not a major catastrophe, and in comparison to everything else, just a minor inconvenience - but, I was just not prepared for God to show me his humorous side today!
Well now the whole 8thfloor of the Hospital San Jose Tec has heard what is going on and Erika, Jessica's nurse, peeks in from outside the door to ask me - in Spanish - if there is anything she can "offer" me in the way of help or whatever. This was my response:
"Erika - Yes - you can help me by arranging for a one-way ticket to a faraway place with a lovely beach. When I get there I will need a handsome waiter to serve me margaritas and shots of tequila - and while he is at it - chocolate covered strawberries and grapes fed to me, one by one, that sounds great too! So, Erika, can you do THAT for me?"
Her response: No, Sorry! My response: Then I guess you can't help me....
With that, Dr. Cantu arrives and is wondering what is going on in Room 845. As he put it: "What mess have the two of you gotten into today???" And moments later, a man comes to the door with a big noisy machine to suck up all the water in the carpet. Loud Noise --- not a good thing!
Well - all's well - that ends well.
We are still in our room. My shoes are drying out. The fan is on to dry out the room. The cleaning lady is no where to be found. Erika still can't help me. Jessica can't make up her mind whether to laugh or cry. Dr. Cantu is gone and is probably still shaking his head....and.... all I want is a margarita - served by a "hottie" waiter on a beach...3 strawberries dipped in chocolate and a bunch of grapes....but served one by one, please..................
Love to All, from one "WET" Mom,
Sarah Gina xoxo
Laughter is sometimes good medicine!
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
50,000 VIEWS OF THE BLOG!!!
Hi everyone,
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
I hope that all the Moms out there had a beautiful day! For me, it was my first time out of the hospital and in a restaurant!
Dr. Rainbow and her lovely family picked me up from the hospital and we all went out to "La Catarina" - here in Monterrey.
The food was delicious and all the Moms were serenaded by strolling Mariachi singers during lunch. I had red snapper with tomatoes, onions & olives, served with rice and a delicious salad. For dessert we all shared churros and a cake made with elote (corn). A fun time was had by all and I was honored to accept their invitation to lunch and enjoy their company.
Dr. & Mrs. Zavala and their family have come to mean so much to Jessica and I, they are "family" to us and have helped us in so many ways! God has certainly provided for us while here in Mexico and blessed us with so many wonderful people and we are so thankful to Him!
I would also like to especially thank Dr. Cantu for arranging to give Jessica her booster at that time, so that I could leave the hospital with a "clear head" knowing that he was with her! That was truly a special gift that I will treasure always!
Update on Jessica:
Jessica has been having low-grade fevers, but all cultures have come back negative, so for now she is infection-free for the first time in a long time! Dr. Febricula (aka Dillman) is going to keep her on an oral antibiotic prophylactic for now. She continues taking her small steps needed to hopefully transition out of the hospital one day. We are both so encouraged at how far she has come here in Monterrey. We are ever so mindful of that and we praise God for Dr. Cantu and all that he has done and continues to do for her. Please keep praying for all these steps to continue in a forward motion. Also, please pray for Elana who leaves to go back home after her series of boosters. Pray also for all of the patients we have met here that struggle every day with RSD. They have come to mean so much to us!
On a special note - we would like to congratulate Shannon Stocker and her husband Greg on the birth of their 2nd baby tonight. The baby's name is Tye and he is the 2nd "ketamine coma baby" born to the Stocker family. He joins his sister Cassidy. Shannon is featured in the same Fox News TV report that Jessica was in back in August and can be seen on YouTube at the above link. It is the hope of our family, as well as all the families that undergo the coma treatment, to realize the same "fullness" of life one day!
Congratulations and may God bless the Stocker Family!!!
As I have said so many times on this journey --- God ultimately has a plan for all of us and I believe and trust in the fact that He is a good God and His plan is for us to have life and have it abundantly. That is the HOPE that we have in Him. Let us count our blessings today and praise His holy name!
WATCH THIS VIDEO: BLESSED BE THE NAME:
In God's Love,
Sarah Gina*
xoxoxo
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
I hope that all the Moms out there had a beautiful day! For me, it was my first time out of the hospital and in a restaurant!
Dr. Rainbow and her lovely family picked me up from the hospital and we all went out to "La Catarina" - here in Monterrey.
The food was delicious and all the Moms were serenaded by strolling Mariachi singers during lunch. I had red snapper with tomatoes, onions & olives, served with rice and a delicious salad. For dessert we all shared churros and a cake made with elote (corn). A fun time was had by all and I was honored to accept their invitation to lunch and enjoy their company.
Dr. & Mrs. Zavala and their family have come to mean so much to Jessica and I, they are "family" to us and have helped us in so many ways! God has certainly provided for us while here in Mexico and blessed us with so many wonderful people and we are so thankful to Him!
I would also like to especially thank Dr. Cantu for arranging to give Jessica her booster at that time, so that I could leave the hospital with a "clear head" knowing that he was with her! That was truly a special gift that I will treasure always!
Update on Jessica:
Jessica has been having low-grade fevers, but all cultures have come back negative, so for now she is infection-free for the first time in a long time! Dr. Febricula (aka Dillman) is going to keep her on an oral antibiotic prophylactic for now. She continues taking her small steps needed to hopefully transition out of the hospital one day. We are both so encouraged at how far she has come here in Monterrey. We are ever so mindful of that and we praise God for Dr. Cantu and all that he has done and continues to do for her. Please keep praying for all these steps to continue in a forward motion. Also, please pray for Elana who leaves to go back home after her series of boosters. Pray also for all of the patients we have met here that struggle every day with RSD. They have come to mean so much to us!
On a special note - we would like to congratulate Shannon Stocker and her husband Greg on the birth of their 2nd baby tonight. The baby's name is Tye and he is the 2nd "ketamine coma baby" born to the Stocker family. He joins his sister Cassidy. Shannon is featured in the same Fox News TV report that Jessica was in back in August and can be seen on YouTube at the above link. It is the hope of our family, as well as all the families that undergo the coma treatment, to realize the same "fullness" of life one day!
Congratulations and may God bless the Stocker Family!!!
As I have said so many times on this journey --- God ultimately has a plan for all of us and I believe and trust in the fact that He is a good God and His plan is for us to have life and have it abundantly. That is the HOPE that we have in Him. Let us count our blessings today and praise His holy name!
WATCH THIS VIDEO: BLESSED BE THE NAME:
In God's Love,
Sarah Gina*
xoxoxo
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
Sunday, May 9, 2010
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL!!!
ME & MY DAUGHTERS-1998
A Special Message For All The Moms,
Don't ever stop loving the people that surround you each and everyday that have changed your life tremendously and have given you the strength to hold on. Don't ever think you can't tell them how much they mean to you and if it wasn't for them, you don't know where you would be. Because, one day, they could be gone, and you didn't get to tell them how much they changed you as a person, or how much of an impact they had in your life. Don't ever miss the chance to tell them thank you and how much you love them.
What is a Mother?
What is a Mother?-
She's someone who shares
In all of your problems,
Your joys and your cares-
She's someone who shares
In all of your problems,
Your joys and your cares-
Someone who gives you
Right from the start
The warmth and the loves
Of her motherly heart * * *
Someone who's loyal
And helpful and dear
And seems to grow more so
As year follows year * * *
Life is much brighter And happier, too
Because there are Mothers-
Mothers like you.
I couldn't let Mother's Day go by without thanking ALL of the special women in our lives: mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, daughters, friends, strangers - all of you that have come to mean so much to us these past years. It goes without saying that we would not be here if not for ALL of you! Your prayers, your love, your compassion, your strength --- all of these things have been what has sustained us during this journey and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Our wish and prayer for you today is to have a day filled with all of the above and may all the memories you make today - be only "sweet and cherished ones". God bless you one and all!
And a special thank you with love to my Mom in Marco Island, Fl. who is 86 years young and still going strong - and still the best mother, chef, and friend that a daughter could have ever hoped or prayed for. Thank you for giving life to me "Mamasita". All that I am, and ever hope to be, I owe to you. I LOVE YOU!!!
Also, I want to praise God and thank him for blessing my husband and I with our three beautiful daughters - Jessica, Katherine, & Michelle. It has been an honor and a privilege to be their Mother. The sweetest sound that you can ever hear is the word "MOM".......
PLEASE WATCH THE FOLLOWING VIDEO - A SPECIAL GIFT TO ALL MOTHERS: HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!
With love and praise,
Sarah Gina (Mom to Jessica, Katherine & Michelle)***
***To Post A Comment, Click on Comments Below***
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Cinco De Mayo
Hi everyone,
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
Update on Jessica:
Yesterday we said goodbye to Blair and his friend George. I presented him with his "coma bear". This is the 18th bear I have made since here. I think he was very touched by it. He named it "FED"- which was actually his nickname before he got ill with RSD. (FED stood for Fun-Every-Day) The hope for all patients that suffer with RSD is to one day be able to have "fun" again!
Jessica is trying every day to continue to accomplish the small steps she needs to take. We are going to try to see if we can get her to sit up better by using a medication for the orthostatic hypertension. She is currently able to watch TV - albeit for short spans of time, at low volume, and only if it is in English (which limits the programs available to watch) and no commercials that flash in and out. She has been running a low-grade fever and so Dr. "Febricula" (aka Dr. Dillman) is running cultures to make sure all is OK and too rule out infections.
Also, last night Jessica's Dad and sister Michelle went to see Jessica's doctor, Dr. Liegner, give an informative discussion on Lyme disease treatment and prevention in Great Neck, N.Y. It was good for them to see him again and to tell him about how Jessica is doing. He is a very special man to us and we are here today because of all he has done for Jessica.
Because May is designated as Lyme Disease Awareness month, and it is something that Jessica is very passionate about, please watch the following video:
In God's Love,
Sarah Gina
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
To Order Jessica's Journey Necklace, Click On Link :
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41687962
To view Jessica on Fox TV, Click on Link Below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW_vstm0bS8
To view New Vemma Product Video, Click on Link Below:
http://bonusbiz.vemma.com/v.asp?IDNum=A4FAA92D%2D2723%2D425D%2DB822%2DF6E131A6817A&CO_LA=US_EN
(Sales of Vemma Products also help Jessica's Journey-for more info contact Nancy @ (419)350-9058)
What exactly is Cinco de Mayo?
Literally translated from the Spanish as the fifth of May, the day marks the victory at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, over the French, who were trying to take over the country. The smaller, less-equipped Mexican army scored a surprise win as French troops invaded during the Mexican-French War. Ultimately, the Mexicans lost that war, and the French ruled, for a time. The big holiday in Mexico is actually Mexican Independence Day, commemorated on September 16. Yes, we agree, Cinco de Mayo is catchier and a lot easier to remember—even though it's not as important.
Update on Jessica:
Yesterday we said goodbye to Blair and his friend George. I presented him with his "coma bear". This is the 18th bear I have made since here. I think he was very touched by it. He named it "FED"- which was actually his nickname before he got ill with RSD. (FED stood for Fun-Every-Day) The hope for all patients that suffer with RSD is to one day be able to have "fun" again!
Jessica is trying every day to continue to accomplish the small steps she needs to take. We are going to try to see if we can get her to sit up better by using a medication for the orthostatic hypertension. She is currently able to watch TV - albeit for short spans of time, at low volume, and only if it is in English (which limits the programs available to watch) and no commercials that flash in and out. She has been running a low-grade fever and so Dr. "Febricula" (aka Dr. Dillman) is running cultures to make sure all is OK and too rule out infections.
Also, last night Jessica's Dad and sister Michelle went to see Jessica's doctor, Dr. Liegner, give an informative discussion on Lyme disease treatment and prevention in Great Neck, N.Y. It was good for them to see him again and to tell him about how Jessica is doing. He is a very special man to us and we are here today because of all he has done for Jessica.
Because May is designated as Lyme Disease Awareness month, and it is something that Jessica is very passionate about, please watch the following video:
In God's Love,
Sarah Gina
***To Post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
Monday, May 3, 2010
Remembering My Brother Charlie!
Charlie & me~ 1963
Hi To All,
I could not let today go by without remembering my brother Charlie. You see, today, May 3rd, would have been his 50th birthday!
My brother Charlie passed away in 2000, at the age of 40, after a long battle with Hodgkin's disease. Charlie and I were only 16 months apart and so we grew up like "twins". (see picture above) Charlie was such a special person. He had such a "funny" way about him. He was the "life" of the party. In fact, he was the type of person you would want at your party, because you were guaranteed that the party would be an overwhelming success!
There are so many wonderful memories I have of him. We were four siblings growing up. There were my two brothers - Charlie & Vinnie; and me and my sister Carol. I can remember the time when we were little, growing up in Brooklyn, N.Y. My Mom & Dad had purchased a brand new car. I think it was a blue Chevy. We wanted to go with my Dad to pick it up, but instead we both had to watch from our apartment window as he drove up with it --- you see, we both had the "mumps" and so we had to stay at home! Even there, we were like "twins", always getting sick together and always getting in trouble together too! Like the time I inadvertently caught his finger in the gate outside, because we decided to have some fun and use the swinging gate as a "ride"!
And when, he was diagnosed at the age of 31 with Hodgkin's, I knew that if anyone was going to be his "match" it would be me --- I just knew! And so, when all the siblings were tested to see who would be his "match" - it was me --- I was a perfect match --- the kind the doctors said you only find in actual "twins". For Charlie though, his healing was not to be here on Earth, but up above in heaven. And it is there that we will one day meet again!
So, today, May 3rd, I want to wish a Happy 50th Birthday to my special brother Charlie, up in heaven. Thanks for watching over me from up above!
Love always, your "twin"
Sarah xoxo
***To post A Comment, CLICK on Comments Below***
I could not let today go by without remembering my brother Charlie. You see, today, May 3rd, would have been his 50th birthday!
My brother Charlie passed away in 2000, at the age of 40, after a long battle with Hodgkin's disease. Charlie and I were only 16 months apart and so we grew up like "twins". (see picture above) Charlie was such a special person. He had such a "funny" way about him. He was the "life" of the party. In fact, he was the type of person you would want at your party, because you were guaranteed that the party would be an overwhelming success!
There are so many wonderful memories I have of him. We were four siblings growing up. There were my two brothers - Charlie & Vinnie; and me and my sister Carol. I can remember the time when we were little, growing up in Brooklyn, N.Y. My Mom & Dad had purchased a brand new car. I think it was a blue Chevy. We wanted to go with my Dad to pick it up, but instead we both had to watch from our apartment window as he drove up with it --- you see, we both had the "mumps" and so we had to stay at home! Even there, we were like "twins", always getting sick together and always getting in trouble together too! Like the time I inadvertently caught his finger in the gate outside, because we decided to have some fun and use the swinging gate as a "ride"!
And when, he was diagnosed at the age of 31 with Hodgkin's, I knew that if anyone was going to be his "match" it would be me --- I just knew! And so, when all the siblings were tested to see who would be his "match" - it was me --- I was a perfect match --- the kind the doctors said you only find in actual "twins". For Charlie though, his healing was not to be here on Earth, but up above in heaven. And it is there that we will one day meet again!
So, today, May 3rd, I want to wish a Happy 50th Birthday to my special brother Charlie, up in heaven. Thanks for watching over me from up above!
Love always, your "twin"
Sarah xoxo
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Saturday, May 1, 2010
48,000 Views Of Blog!!!
Hi To All,
The Month of May is designated as Lyme Disease Awareness Month. This is something that Jessica has been very passionate about. In the beginning of her illness, she created a facebook group dedicated to lyme disease awareness and prevention. This group currently has over 10,000 members! In honor of her commitment to this cause, this month I will be posting different information about lyme disease with each blog post. It is our hope and prayer that with this knowledge, no one need to suffer the devastating effects of lyme disease and its co-infections. May God bless all those who suffer daily with this illness and also bless the doctors who treat them.
Lyme Disease Fact #1:
Lyme disease is transmitted by the bite of a tick, and the disease is prevalent across the United States and throughout the world. Ticks know no borders and respect no boundaries. A patient's county of residence does not accurately reflect his or her Lyme disease risk because people travel, pets travel, and ticks travel. This creates a dynamic situation with many opportunities for exposure to Lyme disease for each individual.
Please visit the following website for more facts and info:
http://www.ilads.org/lyme_disease/about_lyme.html
Update on Jessica:
I'm sorry I haven't posted in a number of days. Jessica had not been feeling well this past week and so changes had to be made in her intrathecal pump medications. It seems that whenever changes have to be made, her body's sympathetic system goes haywire and it then causes a cascade of events to occur. This morning she seems to be on an upswing, so thank God for that. Yesterday Devon & Cathy left to go back home to Connecticut. We also got to meet Blair Webber and his friend George. Blair is a former coma patient from Canada who is back for boosters as well. What a nice man - who has also gone through so much in fighting RSD. He also has lesions on his arm, just like Jessica. He came to our room last night to meet Jessica and he was so encouraged to see how her ulcers were healed, with only the scars left behind visible under the skin. His hope is that the ketamine will help to heal his lesions as well and help to alleviate some of his pain. Please pray for Jessica & Blair and let us praise God always for his amazing love & grace.
Please watch this video - THE PRAYER by Celine Dion & Josh Groban
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEMBR4b9Dng&NR=1
In God's love,
Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)*
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you!"
Psalms 32:8
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Jessica's Journey to Getting Her Life Back
By Sarah Gina (Jessica's Mom)
As we begin this journey toward renewed health we would like to express our sincere heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Dr. Anthony Kirkpatrick and all the work he has done and continues to do in order to bring patients like my daughter Jessica back to a more meaningful life and restored from this devastating illness. Also, special thanks to Dr. Fernando Cantu and his team of doctors in Mexico for taking on a difficult case like my daughters, Words cannot express the renewed sense of hope that we have that one day, our Jessica, can regain her life that has been taken away from her – God Bless you all!
Jessica’s Story
Once an A+ student who loved school, was involved in many extracurricular activities, played varsity tennis, lacrosse and gymnastics and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, our daughter Jessica has spent the last 3 years incapacitated, paralyzed, unable to sit or walk and eat. She spends her days confined to a hospital bed, wearing sunglasses and noise-canceling headphones, due to severe light and sound sensitivity.
Jessica and her sisters, 2 mos. before becoming illThe pain she feels is indescribable and all attempted treatments have not even come close to relieving her suffering.
She has seen many doctors, undergone numerous painful tests and procedures, has been prescribed various medications, and has been hospitalized frequently including being intubated and on a ventilator. She is severely debilitated and currently is only 92 pounds. This is certainly no life for a 21 year old young woman!
Jessica is suffering from neurologic Lyme disease and Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), a severely debilitating and painful neuromuscular disorder. She suffers daily with constant sharp, stabbing, tingling and burning pain; throughout her body; severe headaches; paralysis; intense muscle spasms; gastroparesis; seizures; twisting of her limbs (dystonia); sensitivity to any touch (allodynia); extreme sensitivity to lights and sounds; excessive sweating; swelling; fevers; softening of bones; decreased hair growth; redness and discoloration of the limbs; and painful skin ulcers. The pain is constant and unrelenting, but despite her suffering, her faith in God remains and she still has hope for her future.
Jessica's painful skin lesionsJessica's journey began in 1999, when she was only 11 years old. She became very ill with Mono and was bed bound for 3 months. She subsequently developed RSD (stage 1) of the lower right leg. She received early intervention and returned to playing sports and enjoying her life.
Jessica, age 15, at summer campFour years later, in 2003, while away at a sleep-away camp, she developed a rash behind her right knee, coincidentally in the same leg that previously had RSD!
At the time, the camps nurse & doctor told her that it was “duck rash” – a rash from swimming in the lake with duck feces. However, Jessica was able to obtain photos from camp from another camper which shows the classic “bulls-eye” rash from Lyme disease! It wasn’t until much later and only after developing symptoms and becoming very ill, was the diagnosis of Lyme disease and Babesiosis (another tick-borne infection) made.
Most people (and doctors!) have no idea how serious Lyme disease can become and no clue how to properly diagnose it. Unfortunately, if she would have been promptly diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease, the RSD would not have been triggered and she would not be suffering.
July 2003, Jessica's Lyme disease rashDuring these past three years and with the pain becoming more intense and unbearable she has been seeing Dr. Finkelstein for pain management. He has even made house calls to spare her the pain of coming by ambulance to his office. Jessica has been treated with multiple pain medications, at the highest possible doses, as well as an implanted dilaudid pain pump, which delivers potent medication straight into her spine. Many doctors have told us that with the amount of medications Jessica was taking would be enough to “kill a horse”—yet they had little to no effect on her. If it wasn’t for Dr. Finkelstein trying to alleviate her constant, severe, unrelenting pain, I don’t know how she would have managed. He is very special to us as well.
Recently Jessica was transported by air ambulance to Tampa, Florida to see Dr. Anthony Kirkpatrick, a world renowned RSD expert. Dr. Kirkpatrick told us that Jessica is one of the most debilitated patients he has ever seen.
Jessica getting into the air-ambulance to go see Dr. KirkpatrickUpon his testing and because Jessica's condition is so severe, Dr. Kirkpatrick is recommending the only treatment available that can possibly help relieve her suffering, and afford her some semblance of a “normal” life - the Ketamine Coma Procedure - a clinical trial that is being conducted in Monterrey, Mexico.
During this procedure Jessica will be put into a coma , with the hope that her nerves, brain and spinal cord will “reset” -so that her nervous system sends the correct signals to her brain.
Yes, this is a radical, scary treatment, however, for Jessica, "scary" is thinking that she could spend the rest of her life in this condition, unable to walk, eat, or take care of herself. Since all reasonable treatments have failed to help her, we feel we must try everything possible to help Jessica regain her life.
We understand that due to Jessica’s fragile condition, there is a high risk associated with this procedure. We are also aware that other patients with severe RSD like Jessica's have had success.
Jessica’s goal is to one day become a doctor. Our hope is that with this study she can have that chance. As her Mom, I know that she will be a great doctor because when a patient presents in her office and says “Doctor, I am in pain and words cannot express how bad it is” – my daughter –Dr. Jessica– will be able to say - :I know how you feel, I’ve been there too. So, take a seat and let me tell you a story”….
We are so thankful and feel so blessed to have been led to Dr. Kirkpatrick.
God is good and with his help guiding Dr. Cantu and Dr. Kirkpatrick, our hope is for Jessica to be able to return to us whole again and pain-free!