One Year...

It was on this date last year when we last heard Ashley speak to us. We had no idea what laid ahead following that call at 4:30 am. Her speech was labored, she complained she could not sleep and had a tingling sensation in her arms and hands. While we were anxious and quite concerned we assumed she was just exhausted from her trip out to Virginia and was dealing with some insomnia. We thought she would go into the emergency room and they would determine she just needed something to help her sleep for a few hours and then she would return to enjoying her trip. Of course it did not turn out that way.

We don’t know what caused Ashley’s demyelization. What we do know is that Ashley fights everyday to recover. Her ability to maintain a positive attitude a year later boarders on miraculous. While we hoped and prayed that Ashley would be walking and talking at this point we are thankful for the Ashley we have today.

She is making continuous strides. Ashley can communicate to us with her arm to indicate a yes answer. She is able to support her weight when standing. She comprehends conversations. Her long-term and short-term memory is strong. She responds to requests with movements immediately. She looks to the person speaking to her. She smiles and laughs significantly more than she shows sadness.

Most importantly she has the motivation to continue to make improvements. We all know that she will reach many more milestones.

Ashley could not have done this all on her own. We cannot begin to thank everyone that has played a major role in her recovery. Quite frankly we don’t even know the majority of the people that are supporting and praying for Ashley. She has lived her faith based life in a manor that has drawn admiration and respect. Her giving and caring attitude has now been transformed into receiving love and care.

On behalf of Ashley, Thank you and God bless you!