Wednesday, July 11, 2007

One year ago tomorrow, Molly was celebrating her 18th birthday in her hot, tiny hospital room at Children's Hospital. She couldn't get out of bed. She was in tremendous pain and heavily medicated. Thanks to her friends and the staff at the hospital, she did get to have a party with just her friends. This year, on July 13, Molly will be swimming for six hours at the Swim-a-poolooza. The money from this event will be used to help others like Molly who want to get back to a more normal lifestyle. There are so many out there that need help. We were blessed by the generosity of this community last year and are looking forward to paying this kindness forward. Stop by the pool and help us make our first fund raiser a huge success. Thank you all for your support of Molly and hopefully, Bloom Again: The Molly Blooom Foundation. Love, health, and happiness to all of you!

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Time is running out. For all those swimmers who plan to swim at the Swim-a-poolooza on Friday, you must get registered. Go to www.mollybloomfoundation.org, click on swim, scroll right and click on register. We need your shirt size, and you will automatically be put into the raffle with one entry. You can get more tickets when you get there. We have some great prizes, restaurant gift certificates, official Olympic gear, a custom bike rack for your car, just to name a few. Anyone can buy raffle tickets!! Denver Bob is fired up to make us all laugh at the half way mark. We are going to have a great time. Skyline pool is at Monaco (Locust) and Jewell, just north of Evans. Parking will be tight and there is no parking on the west side of Locust. There is a Sears on Evans and Monaco with a huge empty lot????
Pool rules: NO GLASS!! No smoking, no nude sunbathing (thank heaven).
See you there.

Friday, June 29, 2007

Molly goes public! Watch channel 4 news on Monday, July 2nd to see Molly's interview with Molly Hughes. This is supposed to be a story about our foundation and the fund raiser "Swim-a-poolooza" on July 13th at Skyline pool, Monaco and Jewel. Last year, friends of Molly organized a swimming marathon to benefit Molly. This year we are trying to raise money for our foundation to help others like Molly, who have been ill or injured, to return to an independent life through sport. We are calling all swimmers to join us again for this cause. If you would like to swim or have a team that would like to swim, go to www.mollybloomfoundation.org for information and registration. This year, Bob and I can actually participate and enjoy this 24 hour event. We are swimming (to use the term loosely for me because I am not a good swimmer) on 2 teams. Everyone is invited to come and join in the festivities. Denver Bob will be making a personal appearance,;we will be raffling off prizes; and in general having a great time. We have met so many others who need help this past year. We were so blessed with so much support all through this trauma, that we would like to pass some of this on to the anonymous souls out there who could use help. If you have a business and would like to donate prizes or supplies for the swimmers, post a comment with your contact information and I will contact you. If you don't want your contact info on the blog, you have the option of selecting that and it will not be posted.
To Marie, Ria, and everyone else who would like to talk to me or Molly, I need your contact information. You can request not to have your comment posted. Brenda, did you get my e-mail? How is Justin? Michaela, swim!!! Call me. Amy, thank you for your comment. We love you and all the staff at Denver Health! Come swim, or just visit.
Denver Bob is infectious!!! You gotta meet him! Craig Pollitt, post a comment with your contact info. Would you like to have a team swim? We want to thank Tony for Molly's ski lessons. He was the best!
Along the way, we have met many patients and parents who have dealt with much more than I could possibly imagine. Molly's situation was and is bad, but there are worse situations out there. Giving a little of your time or money will go a long way to make the world a better place for people facing obstacles to a normal life that most of us can't even fathom. Just getting into a building can be so devastating that most of us would give up. Some parents spend a lifetime taking care of special needs children without a single complaint. Count your blessings. Giving a little goes a long way for those in need. God Bless you all.

Saturday, May 26, 2007

For all of you out there who wants to know who Denver Bob is, now is your chance to meet him in person. In February I wrote about the foundation that Katy and her friends were establishing. We were asked to help and have established the Bloom Again: The Molly Bloom Foundation. We are still in the set up phase, but are ready to start fund raising. Our mission is to help other seriously ill or injured athletes return to a sport. Some of the organizations we plan to support will be the NSCD (National Sports Center for the Disabled), the US Paralympics, The Denver Homebuilders Foundation, just to name a few. Last year the swim-a-thon for Molly was very successful. We are going to make this an annual event, this time for the foundation. The date this year will be Friday, July 13th beginning at 10:00 am through Saturday, July 14th 10:00 am. When things are set up, I will add links here for registration and more information. Mark your calendars. Come meet Denver Bob!

May 13, 2007

Today is the anniversary of Molly's injury. This has been a very difficult week for me. Molly continues to push forward and learn how to do things for herself. For this, we are very grateful. She has such motivation and perserverance. Last year Mother's day was one big blur. This goes out to all the mothers who spent the day in the hospital with us and those who spent that day giving us support. Thank you for your unselfish kindness and compassion. Here's hoping that this Mother's day was very special and wonderful for all of you. My prayers go out to all the moms who may be experiencing what we did last year. I wish all of you good health, joy and abundance. Love to you all.
Bernie

Thursday, February 15, 2007

More than a month has gone by since I have posted. A lot of good things have been going on, but Molly doesn't really want me to tell her story on the world wide internet. I can respect that. For all of those who have been so supporting, I just want to thank you for your continuing aid.
Lindsay, we are in the book if you want to call Molly. Xavier, I loved reading your comment as much as I loved brushing your hair! We miss you guys and hope everything is going well for you in Texas. Your house is still standing.
To all of Molly's friends out there in college land, doesn't look like you will be coming home for the end of February. Yay!
To Tyler and Nikko, God's speed in your recovery. The fact that you are out of the hospital so soon says a lot about your good health and attitudes. Molly was happy to meet you. We are here for you and your families if you need anything. Good luck on your new journeys we call life.
To Janie, you look great in your pictures. I hope you and your mom are doing OK.
Jeannette, Brian, and Chelsey; Molly was thrilled to get a call. Chelsey, you must be ecstatic to finally be able to talk. Wishing you more good news and progress.
Last night I had the good fortune to take Molly to see Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band. She was probably one of about 20 people there under the age of 45. We had a great time. For an old guy, Bob Seger ROCKS!!! It was a nice change of pace to be with Molly in a fun atmosphere instead of one of her numerous appointments.
Katy and some of her friends are in the process of setting up a foundation to assist injured or ill athletes. We still have quite a bit of work to do to get up and running, but there is a web site where merchandise can be purchased to help with funding. Check out http://www.cafepress.com/bloomagain/0
I will give more updates on this as they come. Hope everyone had a beautiful Valentine's Day. Be excellent to each other.

Thursday, January 4, 2007

The Snobs, Freak Street Project, Bop Skizum, The Flobots. These are the bands that played at the Gothic tonight for Liger Jam, the benefit for Molly organized by the musicians and Katy. I didn't think I could have fun ever again, but tonight I thoroughly enjoyed myself for the first time since May 13th. I worked in several music venues in my lifetime, including the Ogden theater. I got to see hundreds of national and international bands in that time, but I never enjoyed a show as much as I did tonight. I had no idea there was so much local talent and to have all that talent in one night is rare. What a great time. If you are into live music, I highly recommend checking out any of these groups. Thank all of you for such a fun evening and for the benefit. Molly had a great time dancing and so did I.
Thank you Katy. I love you. Good night my beautiful girls. Sweet dreams.

Sunday, December 17, 2006

As the holidays come rushing up on us, I find myself at the last minute trying to figure out my shopping list. Who do I give gifts to this year and what to give them? I want to give to so many people this year because of all the generous people who came into our lives and took care of us when we needed it the most. Since my new job of taking care of Molly doesn't pay so great, I can't do the shopping I feed compelled to.

In October we were invited to the Home Builder's Foundation annual luncheon to recognize all of the builders, suppliers, architects, and workers who contributed to the Foundation throughout the year. The HBF completed 53 projects this year retrofitting people's homes to accommodate their special needs. We felt very privileged to be included in this group of recipients. We met several of the families that were taken care of by the HBF, some of whom had extreme needs. Our project was minor compared to some of the others that this foundation takes on. I was struck by the comments made by many of the contractors about their love of this kind of work. These people make Christmas happen all year long. They truly live the giving spirit on a daily basis. I was told by Cindy Hoover, the foundation director, that every year it is basically the same group of people who consistently donate time, supplies, labor, and money. I decided today that the money I planned to spend on gifts for my family this season is going to be donated to the HBF in their names. I can't think of a better way to honor my family and try to pay forward a little of the kindness that was granted us this year. This group gave us a comfortable place to come home to that has allowed Molly to begin returning to a new normal life. They gave her the ability to reclaim her freedom, independence and dignity by making our house accessible. Thank you everyone. If your gifting includes charitable organizations, please consider the Home Builder's Foundation. These donations are tax deductible. You can go to their website at www.hbfdenver.org or call Cindy Hoover at 303-328-2312. Their address is 1400 South Emerson St., Denver, CO 80210.

Here's wishing everybody a safe and happy holiday season. God bless you all!

Friday, December 1, 2006

This is a big "Thank you" to our friend Robin Secher who has organised the Yoga-thon for Molly's Recovery Fund. Robin is a yoga instructor, childhood friend of Bob and his sister Frani, and a huge fan of Molly. Robin is working with Tracy Curtis at the Colorado Athletic Club Monaco to put together a very cool day of yoga, massage, meditation, and shopping on Saturday, December 2, at CAC Monaco (Monaco and Yale) from 10:00am to 1:00pm. We want to thank Colorado Athletic Club for all its support and donations to the benefit. They are donating memberships to the auction as well as free days to check out the club. Thanks Tracy and Jay and Robin!!
I also want to thank you, Cindy, for helping Molly with her swimming. You have been such a rock and a beacon to Molly. I guess that qualifies you as a diamond. You are priceless!
Happy holidays to all! Thank you for your prayers, support, and kindness! Oats, I was not being general and was speaking in specific terms. If the shoe fits??
Put a little love in your hearts and pass it on. It has been coming our way for a while, so thank you.

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Six months ago yesterday Molly went to her senior prom. The next few weeks were so bleak, I can barely remember what transpired a lot of the time. We thought at this point that Molly would still be in the hospital. She is so determined to move forward, that every day she sets a new "normal". It is a little tough sometimes to keep up with the changes. (But, yes, Virginia, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks) I guess what compelled me to write today was to express our gratitude to everyone who got us through the hospital days...friends, family, strangers, doctors, nurses, therapists, social workers, and all the support staff. Molly still gets cards and letters of encouragement from all over. I think Bob and I have begun to see the world in a totally different light. When you listen to the news, the world seems like a very bad place to be, but when you shrink it down to one home, the world is a marvelous place to be. I was always one to count my blessings and now I feel even more blessed. God really did hear all those prayers. Thank you!!

October 31, 2006

Halloween. My little mermaid is out with friends showing off her one good leg. I think back to the first few weeks of this ordeal and remember how time stood still. At times I swore I saw the second hand of the clock moving in reverse. Time has now reached warp drive and the dilithium crystals are under extreme stress. Molly continues to heal and move forward. Each day she astounds me with something new that she is able to do by herself. She has been in the pool several times and is working with coaches who are helping with her strokes and pushing her to work hard. It is so wonderful to see her is the water. I haven't seen her smile this much for a very long time. She has a special sort of freedom in the pool. She can stand without help. What a God send. Molly is looking into taking a class or two in January. I hope that works our for her because she is really ready to fire her driver (me) and move on. She still has a long way to go, but she is motivated to get there!
Once again, I want to thank all of the people who held us up when we needed the support. We have come a long way and only because of all the help we received. God bless all of you!

Saturday October 7, 2006

Another Saturday night. This time, Molly is out with friends. She depends on others to take her out and get around, but she is still with us. She has her moments when the reality of the severity of her injuries hits her. These are the times that take me back to all the questions, anger and anxiety that we faced at the beginning of this trauma. I try to maintain an even keel and forget the reason that we are here, and then I read about how the cop shooter in Aurora will be arraigned
six days after the limo driver. His arraignment will take place 5 months after this trauma on October 12 in Denver. I have always been a firm believer in our justice system. I served on 2 juries in the past, one in which we were sequestered for 2 weeks on a first degree murder trial. I was a staunch defender of our court system until I found out how many criminals are set free because of ridiculous loopholes, backlogged courts, and scumbag lawyers who know how to take advantage of these holes in the system. Arapahoe County could have kept this creepy driver in jail by revoking his probation for child molestation, but judge Marilyn Leonard reduced his bond based on a plea by the stepdaughter he had molested and he is prancing around scott free now. Molly will never prance again. Voters, you can deny judges their seats.
Can you tell that I am having an angry day? I pray that I can get over my anger, sometimes I can and sometimes I have to watch Molly struggling to do ordinary things and getting frustrated. She doesn't quit! She just keeps trying to get back to a semblance of normality so that she can get away from her parents and live her life. She is my hero!
Mr Keller, I have it on good authority that you are waiting to post. I am looking forward to it. I miss you!!
Katy, thank you for being such a good sister! I love you.
Good night ladies! See you in the morning. Love you.

Monday, September 18, 2006

We have been home for 11 days now and are still trying to get things organized and rearranged to accommodate Molly's new "gear". Our house has undergone quite a facelift and is looking pretty good, even though we can't find anything. We will be unpacking for a month. Molly has had a few physical therapy sessions and several doctors visits. She continues to get stronger and better every day. She is still facing a few surgeries down the road, but she gets to decide when those will happen.
On Saturday, we had the opportunity to meet several of the people who have donated materials, time and labor for our house. We are so truly grateful for everything that was (and is still being) done to make the house ready for our homecoming. Without the Home Builders Foundation we would still be standing outside the door trying to figure out how to get Molly into the house. Funny how a person can go through life and never now about organizations that do so much for other people. If you're trying to figure out how to spend that extra cash you have because gas prices have finally dropped, consider the HBF. They do about 50 projects a year for people in Colorado. Thanks everyone!!
Molly should be back in the pool soon. Mallory is helping with a suit. Looking forward to that day!
What a journey! We have only just begun.
Good night my girls. Love you!

Friday, September 8, 2006

At last, at last! We finally got to come home today. The house isn't finished yet, but we can handle what is going on now. What a treat it will be to wake up in the morning with my family here. We don't even have to set an alarm. This is a big huge thanks to the owner, managers and staff at the Marriott Residence Inn who put us up and put up with us these last 2 weeks. We were very comfortable there and want to thank you for accommodating all of our special needs. You made us feel like family. If you are looking for a place to get away for a day or 2, I reccommend you check this place out. Very roomy. And once again, thanks M. H.
5 days short of 4 months. I never thought we would be this far this quickly. Molly is by no means totally healed (not close, really) but she has worked so hard to get her freedom that every day she is able to do one or two things for herself that she couldn't do the day before. She will never be whole again, but she will be able to function. I walked into her room after dinner and she had a glow about her that spoke volumes about how happy she is to be home. What a great feeling to say her room and not mean room # such and such in this or that hospital.
I have been counting my blessings much more these days and it seems like every day it takes a little longer to get the job done. We have been so fortunate to have so many friends and family who have given us so much support and help. I started seeing my existence in a completely different light quite a while ago. I like the direction that look is going.
Katy, thanks for letting us "borrow" your cat. She took away a lot of Molly's lonliness.
Good night my precious children. Sweet dreams. See you in the morning. Love you.

Saturday, September 2, 2006

These past 8 days since we left the hospital have been quite a flurry of activity. Molly does about 2 hours of exercise every day to build up her strength. She is starting to get a pretty good sense of balance, but still has a lot of challenges to face. Her attitude is good and she still has quite a few visitors every day. Thanks, you guys, for coming to keep her company.
Our house is closer each day to being ready for Molly to come home to. The Home Builders Foundation is helping us with the retrofit. This organization is pretty wonderful. They do about 50 to 60 retrofits a year for people with special needs. There are quite a few companies and individuals that donate materials, labor and money to make these projects happen. I will go into more detail about this when I have names of people to thank specifically. In the meantime, if you would like to help others in need, go their website www.hbf denver.org to get information on how you can help.
Our friends have stepped up and done so much work here that I don't recognize my house. God bless all of you. I may have to put all of you on the deed.

Saturday,August 26, 2006

The next phase of our new journey began yesterday when Molly was released from the hospital. We took her home for a few hours to visit the cat and just hang out. We are staying at a hotel until the retrofit is finished (hopefully only a week). We spent so much time in these hospitals that we became very attached to all of the health care providers. Our departure from Children's was pretty tearful but joyous at the same time. Molly's cat was thrilled to see her. She has been keeping the workers company and now she is so ready to keep Molly company.
With Molly's newfound freedom comes new realities. The simple things that she has always done are now major projects that have to be choreographed. We no longer have the nurses and therapists there to assist and spoil us. We are learning about the real world now. It is a little daunting and scary, but Molly has already figured out quite a few things on her own. Moving right along.
We want to thank everyone who is helping with the house and getting it ready for Molly. Everyone has been so generous and we are once again blown away by the kindness of strangers and friends.

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Well, our time warp has done a 180 degree turn and is continuing to speed up. Molly is learning how to do so many things for herself that her transition from the hospital to home should go relatively easy. We still don't know when that will be, but it feels like we are getting so close. We have had so many wonderful people volunteering time and materials to get the house ready for that day and we want to thank all of you for your help. I hope that someday when Molly is back to living her life that I can return the favor or pay it forward. The Home Builders Foundation arranged for a lot of this. I look forward to the day that I can do something for you. We met a family from Wichita, Kansas whose child was in the hospital with Molly. They are back in Kansas now and are facing a similar situation with their house. Is there anyone in Wichita who could help them with a little plumbing and carpentry to get their house accessible? If so, leave me a comment with your contact info so that I can pass it on.
We want to thank Jessica Biel for her generous gesture of a date with a stranger to help Molly. She and her dad took time out of their busy schedules to visit Molly and what a lady! She is the epitome of Colorado Cool. She was very warm, open, charming and down-to-earth. We do raise some great "real" people here. Thank you Jessica and John for your kindness. You have no idea how much that meant to Molly and us.
Jeannette, thanks for Molly's mani/pedi. Hope Chelsey is getting stronger and happier each day. You are in our prayers.
Katy, thanks again for being such a great sister and daughter. I did enjoy our evening together and can't wait for the next one. You make me so proud (and I think you and Molly are as hot as Jessica).
Sweet dreams girls. Shoot for the stars. Love you.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

Three months ago today Molly was getting ready for the prom and having a really great day. You never know what life will throw at you. I have always been a worrier when it came to my children. I was never able to sleep until they came home and if they were late I would imagine that something horrible had happened to them. What do you do when your worst fears are realized? You step back, count your blessings and continue forward. I feel somewhat hipocritical writing this when I am not the one lying in a hospital bed trying to figure out how to do the simplest things. All I can do is be there to offer support and that never feels like enough. How do you make the shocking, searing phantom pains go away? How do you make the pain in her back go away?

Molly is so close to coming home. She will be getting a seating device soon that will help her sit level for short periods. That will be a big step. In the meantime, she is getting pretty good at standing on one leg and balancing herself. She works very hard in her therapy sessions and has made huge progress. She is such a trooper! She still has so far to go, but she has managed to pull herself out of death's grip and is determined to keep pushing on. I can't wait to bring her home!!

Wednesday, August 9, 2006

Molly continues to heal and make progress with her physical therapy. Each new thing that she can do seems to present a whole new set of challenges that need to be addressed. In the beginning, time stood still and now it seems that we are making up for that by time racing away from us. It doesn't feel like there are enough minutes in an hour to get done what needs to be taken care of.
I can't really say too much else right now, because it feels like I am speaking for Molly and I can't do that.
Today, I will be working on modifying some clothes for Molly. That should be interesting!
Once again, thanks to everyone who has been keeping all of us standing. Your support has been immeasurable. I look forward to the day that we can have a party for all of you and get a chance to feed you for a change!

Friday, August 5, 2006

They have been keeping Molly very busy at Children's. She continues to make progress every day, but not without sacrifices. Her wound still has a lot of healing to do, but she is getting stronger all the time. No time frame on when she will be able to come home, but I don't anticipate that happening very soon. Her spirits are good and her sense on humor is back with a vengence. She was talking on the phone with a friend yesterday who asked her what she had planned for today and she replied, "I'm planning to lie around in bed all day." Now that was funny(and a little sad.)
In about 10 days most of her friends will be off to college. That's when things will get a little harder. Up until now, she has had visitors every day and they have been a great distraction for her. She should be joining them. Hopefully by next year, if everything goes well, she will.
Gotta get back there. Love you Molly, Katy, and Bob.

Tuesday, August 1, 2006

To those of you out there who are offering to help with the house, thank you so much. I will contact you soon when things get a little better organized. My sister is right about the extreme makeover. We don't need anything extreme. We have an adequate, humble little house in a quiet neighborhood and we do love our home. Our retrofit won't be that extensive, but we will be looking for help. Unless somebody knows how to put in an elevator to the basement??? Just a thought and a joke.
Molly has been working very hard in therapy and is getting pretty good with her balance. She makes good progress every day, but still has a long way to go. We had a little set back with her wound today, but is won't stop the progress, just slow it a little. She has the spirit and drive of a pioneer woman who traveled across country in a covered wagon to live in the God forsaken prairie and survive! Maybe she already did that in a former life and she just knows what it takes to keep going. I learn something new from her every day.
To all of Molly's friends, thank you for hanging in there and coming so often to see her. You don't know how much it helps her spirits. To the families who have been taking such good care of the rest of us by being there and feeding us, God Bless you all!
To Katy and Molly, have fun girls. May the angels watch over while you sleep. Love you!

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Another weekend in the hospital. I have to say this because lately our time seems to have no meaning. This is my way of keeping track and focused. It is very easy to get disoriented and I'm not even the patient. Every day seems to present a new challenge. New pains, different symptoms to deal with. These seem so minor to what Molly had to deal with 12 weeks ago. But, they are still setbacks. Molly is still healing and getting a little stronger each day. Her spirits, for the most part are good, but she has her moments and those are the times that I want to trade places with her and take away her pain. We are so thankful that she didn't have a head injury, but the medication is causing it's own set of problems.
We are starting to work on the house now. We have discovered that we won't have to totally remodel everything, but there is plenty that we have to do. Does anybody want to help us bust up some concrete and haul it away? I guess I will get to get some aggression out after all. Picture this old lady on her knees with a chisel and hammer chipping away at the driveway because a couple of swings of the sledge hammer just wore her out. LOL.
To Jane, Mark, Chelsey, and Ashley...Hang in there and keep up the good fight. I talk to Molly about you guys every day. She sends her love and prayers for a speedy and complete recovery for all of you. Someday we will have a party for all of you. God Bless.

Friday, July 28, 2006

Yesterday was a little scary. Molly woke with a fever and sick to her stomach. We are so afraid of infections because we have seen the damage they can do. She had a rough morning, then bounced back in the afternoon. Thank heaven.
Today she made up for lost time with the therapists. She was able to get off her bed without help and onto the walker. She was able to sit in the wheelchair for a while. She is not allowed to sit for more than a few minutes at a time. She is working hard and building stamina and regaining her muscles. We get closer to home every day.
Good night, ladies. Sweet dreams. Love you!

Wednesday, July 27, 2006

Where do I start? I have been putting on a happy face for so long now, I don't know how to be honest. Molly has been putting on a happy face for me for a while as well. Is this how you get through the shit that life throws at you? What I really want to do is drive my truck through someone's house and hope I do some damage. All you readers think that we are handling all of this with such grace and dignity. Bob is. Molly is (and I think that is partly drugs and partly shock and partly Bob's dna) but this angry, crazy old lady wants to extract justice. I never will, and for that, the limo driver should thank his short lived lucky stars. "Vengence is mine, saith the Lord." And that is one biblical phrase that I truely believe in. All the good spins that I have put on this blog are partly for Molly and partly for us, so that we can keep a positive attitude and help foster a good healing environment. The truth is that Molly has sustained an extremely horrible trauma that she will spend the rest of her life coping with. And it is all because this idiot driver thought he was too cool to consider safety first. Go ahead, Stanley, and claim that you checked your sideview mirror before you tore away from the curb. If you did, then you would have seen an open door with Molly getting into the car. That would make what you did intentional. You have completely screwed up a life, and from your past record, this isn't the first time. For once in your life, be a man and own up to your mistake. Maybe someone will take pity on you. Satan, perhaps?

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Lots of big steps today. Molly was moved off the Clinitron bed onto an air bed which will make it easier to get off of it. The down side to that is that she will have to deal with sore muscles, which is already becoming an issue. She is now off all of her IV's. That is huge. She continues to heal and she is making big strides with physical therapy. She still has quite a way to go before she will be released, but each day we are one day closer.
Christine, the teen rec therapist, had a smoothie party for her and lots of people showed up and stayed late. That was fun! Thank you Christine! I am so happy that Molly's friends are hanging in there with her. Most of them will be off to school in a few weeks and we will miss them tremendously.
Mallory, how is the show coming? It doesn't look like we will be able to get out to see it and I am sorry for that. Somebody go see the Wiz at the Space Theater for me and tell me all about it.
Peggy, Molly loves the quilt. Thank you.
Marci, you have made all of this so much easier for everyone. We owe you so much.
Katy, thanks for the night off. You are such a good sister. Have a beautiful day! Love you.

Monday July 24, 2006

Every time I start to get down and think about how bad Molly's injuries are, someone comes from out of nowhere to remind me that she still has a full life ahead of her with a lot of time and work. Thank you Mary, Christina, Martha, Mallory, and all the other life victims who have so graciously given their time and help to us and to Molly. I am convinced that there is some divine intervention at work here taking us down a path I never even imagined existed. I just pray that we remain on this path. I don't think it is a coincidence that the East High mascot is an Angel. Today was a good day.
Molly sat in a chair today and worked on balance. She just seems to get it. She still has miles to go, but she is a trooper. She spent over an hour outside this afternoon hoping it would rain on her. It didn't. When was the last time you wished you could feel raindrops on your face? The little things we take for granted can be so huge when you have been denied them for so long. Stopping to smell the flowers has always been important to me, but that expression has taken on a whole new meaning.
Tomorrow the Teen Recreation Therapist is planning a smoothie party for Molly and her friends. Children's Hospital has kept Molly very busy, entertained, and happy. What a cool place! They should have children's activities for all the grownups in all the hospitals. We are so glad she is here now. Every new step of this nightmare has been a positive one. Once again, I want to thank everyone at Denver Health, Presbyterian/St. Lukes, and now Children's for taking such good care of Molly and us as well. Bless all of you (especially you Sally B).
Denver Bob: Stephanie (Molly's night nurse) from Children's will be in your neck of the woods for 2 weeks. She thinks you are great. I told her to look you up to say "Hi!".
Katy and Molly, sweet dreams my precious girls. Bob, I love you.

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Today was another good day. Molly stood and worked on her balance for quite a while. We took her outside to the courtyard and spent about 30 minutes in the summer air. Molly had quite a few visitors today, including Cecily from Phoebe Hair Apparent. She is the stylist who did Molly's hair for the prom and she came today to give Molly a cut. Cecily, you are tremendous, generous, and wonderful. If anyone is looking for a stylist, call her!! She did a great job on Molly. Thank you so much
At some point next week, Molly may be moved onto a different bed that hopefully will allow her to get up on her own after some practice and time. Right now, she has to be helped off this bed. When she is able to get up herself, she will start to rapidly improve. Go, baby, go!
Katy, I love tht you come to see Molly often. It helps her moods and confidence.
Good night princesses. We love you to pieces.

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Today was a good day. Molly seems to have gained back all her strength and then some. She walked across her room and back 2 times. She is struggling with the reality of all this, but she is determined not to let that slow her down. One of her surgeons from Denver Health was on rotation at Children's tonight and he stopped by. He was amazed at how well she is healing. Molly had a few friends in for dinner tonight, so Bob and I got to go have a bite with friends for a little while. These breaks feel good, but I still feel guilty whenever we do anything normal. I find myself wondering if and when Molly will ever get to do anything remotely normal again. I don't think I will really be able to relax and enjoy myself until I see her doing regular things out of that hospital room. It's going to be quite a while.
Tomorrow one of the mom's we met along the way is bringing her daughter to meet and visit with Molly. Her daughter has leukemia and was in treatment. She is out now and we thought they should get together. To all the kids we have met along the way, Janie, Mark, Chelsey, Ashley, and to Molly, Good night. Sweet dreams. Tomorrow will be a better day. Love you!

Friday, July 21, 2006

Today was a good day and a hard day. We had a pow wow in Molly's room with all of her doctors, therapists, nurses and a seating specialist. They looked at Molly's wound to assess her progress and see if she can be fitted for a seating device. The good part is that Molly is still healing well. The hard part was realling looking at her wound again and seeing how much damage was done. Everytime I start to feel at peace with this, I have reminders of how bad this really is and my anger gets the best of me. Does anybody have any concrete they need busted up or a big tree that could be chopped down? All I have to do is walk through the halls of this hopital and my anger recedes. There are so many families that we have met in the last 2 + months whose situations are just as tragic, if not more than Molly's. My heart breaks for all of these families. The day Molly leaves here will ge a great day. Looks like we will be here for a while still.
We all want to thank everyone for being so kind and helpful to us throughout this ordeal. All of the support you have given us is truly a blessing.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Molly recovered from her set back today. She wasn't able to eat for a couple of days, so she was weak. This afternoon when the therapists came in, they were just going to let her rest, but she insisted on getting up. She wasn't able to walk, but she stood with the walker and exercised her leg for about 10 minutes. When I look at her, I feel like I am looking at a giant. Her determination takes my breath away.
Once again, our thanks go out to Demitri Leenatali, his sister, his mother, and all the other band members who worked so hard to put Mollypalooza together. Thank you Jessica Biel. Thanks to Rock Island for hosting the event. Who knew that a bunch of kids could raise so much money? I wish I could have been there for the festivities. Watching the news coverage was fun. You guys rock! (In more ways than one)

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

All my life I thought I was somebody special. I was blessed with gifts that I took for granted. I never had to work at anything. School was easy, my social life was easy, my life was handed to me on a platter. I was taught a work ethic by my mother and I always "worked" at all my jobs. I always gave 110% to my bosses. I always had it made. I never worked on myself. Molly is teaching me how to be a real person, even though I always thought I always was. I am not even close. But she is teaching me how to get there. She is so at peace with things it is scary. Maybe it is because she is still a child at heart. They seem to be able to accept things and just move on. That is what she seems to be doing. The older I get, the farther away I get from my childhood views on things, which is truly sad. Too bad we have to become jaded as we age. I have been given a chance to redeem myself by looking at life through my child's eyes. Thank you.
Demitri, you are the bomb!!! And you mom is truly an Angel. I am so glad Molly got to go to East High School. The best fraternity/sorrority in the world.
Kathy Callum, keep up the good work for East. I know you can.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Molly continues to heal, but the hard part is just starting. We had a couple of scary issues yesterday that turned out to be minor set backs. She continues to amaze all the therapists with her strength and determination. She wants to get well enough to come home and move on with her life. She walked around her room with a walker yesterday with very little help. Go Baby!
It sounds like Mollypalooza is turning into a very big deal. This started out as a few high school bands that wanted to do a benefit and has become international news. It almost feels like a little snowball rolling downhill that is on the verge of starting an avalanche. Is that good or bad? Time will tell.
During the course of Molly's recovery, we have met so many parents whose children are suffering from diseases or injuries more severe than Molly's. Not to diminish what she has to deal with for the rest of her life, but I feel like I wish I could help all of these kids and their parents. Maybe someday, there will be a way for me to do that. Those of you who are praying, remember the other children. Thank you.
PHAMALy is a company of theater people with disabilities; actors, writers, stage hands, costume designers, etc. Mallory Nelson is part of this troupe. They have a production of the Wiz now showing at the Space Theater at the DCPA through July 30th. For information, call 303-893-4100 or go to PHAMALY.org.
Rebecca, Wichita is a long way from here. I miss you. Give Janie a kiss for me.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Another weekend in the hospital. For all of those people who have had to deal with a loved one in the hospital for an extended period of time, my heart and prayers go out to you. For the most part, hospitals run on a Monday thru Friday schedule. The weekends get very lonely. The staff is smaller, the cafeteria closes early, the doctors are on call. It is not a good idea to be sick on the weekend.
Every day, Molly faces a new challenge. Her wounds are still a long way from healed, but despite the pain, she gets up and works hard at getting her life back. I don't think I would have the courage to do what she does. She is my inspiration. I love you Molly.

Friday, July 14, 2006

For the first time in two months Molly got to go outside today for a few minutes. She was able to get into a wheel chair and we took her out to the courtyard. You tend to take the smallest things for granted. Just sitting in a chair for 10 minutes was very painful, but she didn't complain and was happy to get out of her prison for a short while. If my only view of the world for two months was a ceiling, I would be a raving lunatic by now. This was way bigger than a baby step!!
To all of my coworkers in Littleton, I am sorry we couldn't be there yesterday.
We want to thank all of you for the hard work and love you poured into this affair for Molly. Ralph, you look good on TV. So do you Sandy. I love all of you so much. Gotta get back to the room to see what's in store for today (SAT). God Bless.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

I don't exactly know how Molly felt about celebrating her 18th birthday confined to a bed, but we had a lot to be thankful for. Molly is still with us. We heard that she had a good party. We were kicked out. No grownups after 6:30. Molly is really starting to establish her independence. As a parent, it is so hard to let go of your children. You want to be there every minute to protect them, but you know they have to make their own way. With Molly, it is even harder because I feel that I have that much more to protect her from. She is so determined to get out of the hospital, that today she stood with the walker without help for quite a while. I am in awe of her power.
I feel funny about promoting fund raisers for Molly, but I have been asked to let you know about Mollypalooza. 3 bands from East High (hope I got that right) will be entertaining students and parents on Tues. July 18th at Rock Island at 15th and Wazee starting at 7:00pm. They are auctioning a date with Jessica Biel (Cosmpolitan cover girl) and Josh Mangial (Mr. eye candy 2006) along with other great prizes. Check out www.dosomethingthatmatters.com. $10.00 at the door and all ages welcome. Thanks you guys for doing this. Molly is touched and we are overwhelmed.
I will never cease to be amazed by the community (local and worldwide) support. Thank all of you.
Good night my grown up girls. Sweet dreams. I love you.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Tomorrow Molly will spend her 18th birthday in the hospital. Two days ago this seemed like such a bleak prospect. Her physical therapy wasn't going as well as expected and she was getting very depressed about that. Then, Mallory and her mom came by to show Molly Mallory's leveling seat. The first physical evidence of the future for Molly. In a way, it was a little unsettling. But they opened the door for what was coming next. Then Jen, Molly's favorite nurse showed up with lots of cool stuff for Molly's birthday, including a hot outfit from Victoria's Secret. Molly has been wearing clothes for 2 days now and that makes her feel so much better. The teen activities coordinator at the hospital brought in a ceramic bowl and glazes to give Molly something to do and she was thrilled. She worked on that for hours. Her dexterity has returned.
Today, Mary from Vail came to visit. Mary has a hemipelvectomy as well. She is a physical therapist and not shy about anything. She went into great detail about the good and bad aspects of this type of wound. She told Molly that this was always going to suck, but it was her choice to make her life what it will be. She told her that Molly will be able to lead a normal life but it would take work. Molly is no stranger to hard work. Thank you Mallory, thank you Mary. You have given Molly a real perspective and that will help her so much.
So far, our experience with Children's has been really good. The nurses have gone out of their way to learn all about Molly and her needs, which they don't see very often. We thank you for that.
Becky and Janie, good luck and God's speed. Lots of people are praying for you as well. Please keep in touch. We have met so many people in these hospitals who have illnesses as tragic as Molly's that no one knows about. Every night I pray for them and count our blessings.
Katy is staying with Molly tonight. I hope you sing each other to sleep and complain about your stupid parents. Hugs and kisses. Sweet dreams. See you in the morning. Love you both.

Sunday, July 9, 2006

Another Saturday night in the hospital. 8 weeks ago Molly died a couple of times. She had to be resucitated (sp?) more than once during the first surgery. Today she is alive, healing, and trying to figure out how to get through the pain long enough to put her life back together. We will be doing a lot of crying and yelling. Because she has some scary bacteria, she is still confined to her room for a while. But, she actually got to put on clothes for the first time yesterday. I think that helped raise her spirits a little. She is pretty down. We made a connection yesterday that we never had before. I think she trusts me a little more. Girls and their moms. I was 18 when I finally realized that my mom was the best and that she actually knew stuff. I am so glad that I figured that out relatively early in my life. When I grow up I want to be just like my mom and Molly and Katy.

Friday, July 7, 2006

Molly was transferred from Pres./St. Lukes to the rehab center at Children's Hospital today. This is the 3rd move since the incident which cost her leg and pelvis. This was the least traumatic move so far. Her recovery has been phenomenal. We never expected her to move this fast. We know that this will be the hardest phase of all so far. She seems ready to tackle the challenges that await her. She constantly amazes me with her courage and strength. Maybe it has been all the prayers, good vibes, physical support from friends and family, divine intervention, or just her will to survive. Maybe it's all of these things combined. For Bob, Katy, and me, it has been all of these, that we know.
The move to Children's feels good. The staff made us all feel very comfortable immediately. Molly seems to be right at home here. Her spirits are good.
We want to thank everyone at Presbyterian/St. Lukes for the outstanding care and treatment that Molly received there. They did an excellent job of getting her healed and ready for this next step. We are indebted to so many people in the health care industry, from Denver Health, to PSL, to Children's. We are also so grateful to everyone who has given their time, effort, love and money to help with Molly's recovery. THIS CITY ROCKS!!
Good night my sweet girls. Here are one hundred kisses to put you to sleep. Love you.

Thursday, July 6, 2006

Today was a HUGE day for Molly. The physical therapists helped her walk out of her room on a walker and back. Paul Bunyon better run to keep up. She is determined to get going with her life. The PT told Molly that he has had football players who didn't work as hard as she has this week. They should take up swimming, the pansies.
Molly will be at Children's Hosp. on her birthday, so for those who want to send cards, the address is: 1056 East 19th Ave., Denver, CO 80218. We will let you know when she moves and when she can have visitors as soon as we know.
We are hearing about numerous people and businesses that are sponsoring fund raisers for Molly. To everyone, thank you for your help. We want Molly to get back to as normal a life as is possible and this will be very helpful. To my coworkers at Littleton Transportation, thank you for planning Molly's day. On July 14 in the evening, the drivers and support staff is having a bar-b-que fund raiser at the Elks Lodge in downtown Littleton. There will be a band, food, and fun. Thank all of you! Molly says "Hi"!

Wednesday, July 5, 2006

Physically, Molly gets stronger each day. She stood 3 times with the physical therapists yesterday. She still has a long way to go, but she has come so far already. She gets tired and needs to nap often. If you come to visit, please ask if she is ready for visitors. They keep her busy during the day.
We will find out soon when Molly will be ready to be transferred to rehab. They don't want to reinjure her, so we need to be patient at this point. That is the hard part.

Monday, July 3, 2006

Molly has had a string of good days. She becomes more lucid every day and is sooooo ready to move forward. Today she stood again with the physical therapists. She stood twice and the second time, she was doing it all on her own for about a minute and a half. She was so excited and happy about that.
We didn't get to see Glendale's fireworks last night because we just didn't have the right angle from her window. We may get to see some on Tuesday. In case you were wondering, this is for me more than Molly. I have always loved fireworks. What great entertainment for free!
Last night Molly had a good time with a few of her friends that stayed late. She gets tired so easliy, that she has been kicking people out of her room. But it was fun to see her responding just like Molly.
The fireman who was at the prom came to see Molly today. It was good to meet him. He stayed for quite a while and visited with Molly. He was awed by her courage and strength at the scene.
Between Jack and Steve (the fireman) they kept Molly alive. We owe you two everything. Thank you.
Enjoy the holiday and be safe. Kiss the kids often.

Friday, June 30, 2006

Today was a good day. We toured the rehab floor at Children's Hospital and we are very excited about Molly moving there when she is more healed. Molly's 18th birthday is in the middle of July and we will let you know where to send cards as she may be moving soon.
The firemen who rode in the ambulance with Molly came to see her yesterday. Molly doesn't remember much of the ride, but she did remember talking to them. Thanks for coming in guys. We will see you again. Katie H and Ainslee were there and were thrilled when one of them recognized them from TV. They were going teenage girl gaga over the "hotties" after they left and Molly was just chuckling about that.
Molly is more herself every day because they are cutting down on her meds. Last night she cried and told me she just wants to get the ---- out of there and go home. She misses her cat! Sad to see her cry, but great that she has come this far! And yes to the person who has the pups. Molly has had a few canine visitors and she likes that very much.
Mr. Keller, I hope we get to see you one of these days. Your comments have been priceless and made me smile on the days when everything seemed to bleak. I need a refresher course with the gloves.
Does someone at East have video of graduation? Lisa P? When Molly gets home, I am sure she will want to see that. It won't be long.
This is another thank you to all the swimmers who have helped with Molly's recovery fund. To all the organizers, swimmers, coaches, lifeguards; thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You have no idea how much this means to us. Just when you think the world has become such a horrible place, peoples' true nature shines through and gives you hope for a better future.
We want to wish everyone a safe and fun 4th of July. This is a time when families get together and have a great time. Hug your children lots! We will try to see fireworks from Molly's window.

Thursday, June 29, 2006

I read a comment by someone who wants to know if we should have a Molly's law. Fact is, the Department of Transportation has pretty strict laws already. I know this because I am a professional driver. This was just one incident of a driver who didn't keep safety first in mind. You can't legislate against carelessness or stupidity.
Alex and Shambrea, you can come after 7:00. I can't guarantee that Molly will be awake. The Simpsons DVDs were perfect. Thank you.
Molly's doctors are changing her meds, taking her off the IVs and putting on patches, which will make her a little spacey for a while. Another step along the progress highway. She wants so badly to just get the hell out of the hospital. She will work hard to do just that!
We have no timelines for all of this, but I feel that Molly will be coming home way sooner than I ever thought. As soon as I say that, there will be more roadblocks to change that. We just try to take one day at a time, and a good day is a great day. Today was a good day.
Thanks Melissa! We love you.
Good night my beautiful girls. Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite. Love you.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Several good days in a row. Molly had a fun day because she got to order anything she wanted to eat. She had several visitors and Maggie made her laugh. It is good to see Molly behaving more like her old self. She is still heavily medicated, but every now and then, the real Molly shines through. She continues to heal well and the docs are pleased. It won't be long before she is off her IVs and the trach tube can come out. Progress with a capital P.
We received a box in the mail from Ken Caryl Swim Club today. The Ken Caryl invitational was last weekend and the sold hearts, fish, and butterflies to hang on the fence for Molly. They mailed all the cards to us. Thank you! Molly swam at the invitational at least 5 or 6 times and she always looked forward to it. And thanks to the girls who did the Bling for Bloom. All of this support is going to be so helpful. Molly will have big bills forever. We really appreciate everything everyone has done to help her.
Katy, Molly really had fun with you and Hannah last night. You allowed us to recharge our batteries. We needed that. Thanks!
Good night my lovelies. May the angles watch over you as you sleep. Love you.

Tuesday, June 27. 2006

Thanks for all the tips about phantom pain. I checked out quite a few of the web sites, talked to all of Molly's doctors, talked to Molly, and did some planning on my own. The MONSTER is in tune to a lot of ideas about how to deal with this pain. Thanks to everyone everywhere who is praying for and keeping Molly in their thoughts. You have held us up more times than you can imagine. You will keep Molly strong during these next phases of her recovery. Bless all of you!
Today was a good day. Her surgeon said that the flap is healing, the skin graft is taking, her temp is normal, and things are good! Today was a good day! Katy is staying with Molly tonight, so a little sisterly bonding will be great. No goofy mom or dad to moon over her and worry about every little sound. Thank you Katy. We love you so much!
My neice, Sarah, leaves us great comments. She works at Singing Hills Landscaping Company. Her boss is taking care of our yard for us. Thanks guys.
We also want to thank, again, the metro swim league and Denver Parks and Rec for having the Molly practices for her recovery fund. This city has become a small community and we are so grateful. We are truly blessed.
Lindsy, come on Wednesday. Molly is ready to see you.
Goodnight my sweet princesses. Have a great slumber party. We love you to peices.

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Monday was quiet. Molly slept alot. She needs visitors to keep her awake and active. She is struggling with phantom pains that make her cry. Does anybody have any advice on this matter? She continues to heal and the doctors are pleased with her progress. We are not far away from going to rehab. One step closer to home!
Dr. Roach from Denver Health came by to visit yesterday. Good to see you Jon. Tell everyone at DH we said "Hi!"
Molly met my neices father-in-law from Illinois yesterday. He told her that everyone in Illinois is praying for her and it made her cry that people that far away knew about her. I told her that people all over the world were praying for her. She wanted to know why and I told her because she was the healing MONSTER! She liked that.

Sunday, June 25, 2006 pm

Today Molly had a slew of visitors all at the same time. She handled herself like the world's best hostess. She continues to amaze me with her strength. She must get that from Bob. If I ever grow up, I want to be just like Molly and just like Katy. I am so in awe of my children. They are towers of power, and I always thought I was pretty cool. Not even close.
Jeanne Lee wanted me to post this: The metro swim league and Denver Parks and Rec are doing a fund raiser for Molly with their practices this week. To get all the info, go to www.ancientangels.com and look for the link on the left. Molly swam for Cook Park for 1 year, Virginia Vale for 7 or 8 years, Tops for 1 year, the Aquawolves for 5 years, and East High for 4 years. She likes swimming. According to all the doctors and nurses at Denver Health, that is probably what saved her life.
It looks like her surgery so far has been successful. Another week and she will be in the clear. She will be going to rehab next. She may be coming home way sooner than I ever imagined. Don't want to jinx anything, so I will remain pessimistic.
Goodnight my sweet girls. God Bless! Sweet dreams! Love you.

Sunday, June 25, 2006

Another Saturday night in the hospital. Molly should be out dancing with her friends. She will probably never get to do that again. She should be lifeguarding at Congress park. She will never get to do that again. I try so hard to accept this and keep moving forward, but when I look at the damage that has been done to her, I can't help but think that this didn't have to happen. Accidents happen. This was preventable. Molly is so medicated that I don't think she can fully grasp the situation. She is so calm about this, I want to scream for her. Why am I the only one who seems to be so angry about this? I know that anger is counterproductive, but it just creeps in. The driver gets to spend Saturday nights with his family. Molly is confined to a prison that she will never fully escape.
Molly has been stable since her surgery. She is up for visitors. Her nurse last night, Jen, is young at heart, was a swimmer, and can relate to Molly so well. We had a girl fest. Thank you Jen!

Friday am, June 23, 2006

Yesterday was a quiet day for all of us. Molly slept a lot and we read to her most of the day. She is recuperating from her surgery. She asked a few questions about the nature of her injury and what they did during the surgery. She seemed to be calm about everything. I am starting to drive her crazy and I don't know how not to. If I were stuck in a bed and couldn't do much for myself, I am sure I would get tired of my caretakers as well. We both need a new perspective. It is hard for a mother to have outsiders tell you how to deal with your own children, but I guess that is what it will take. I think Molly will be up for a few visitors today, but call first.
Each day presents a new challenge. Sometimes I feel that the days get harder instead of easier. I read back over the blogs yesterday and realized that we will never have days as hard as the first 2 weeks. We were never sure if Molly was going to survive or not. Those days seemed endless. Time stood still. But now, we are closer to seeing a light at the end of the tunnel and it feels much better. Molly continues to amaze us with her fortitude. She will triumph!

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Today is the first day of summer, the longest day of the year. This may have been the longest day of Molly's life. Her surgery lasted 6 hours. When she woke up, she was in excrutiating pain, both physically and emotionally. I think the reality of all this has finally taken hold. With this huge step forward, comes several steps back. She won't be able to sit up for many days, which means she won't be able to take in anything but ice chips. She can't move her right arm or her leg for a while. She has had to endure so much to get to this point, and now this surgery feels almost barbaric. I know that this is the big step to recovery, but it feels like adding insult to injury. Molly needs to stay quiet for a while, but she will probably want to see people. Please call first. Mallory, I think Molly could use a good dose of you about now. I hear you are planning to come Friday. Thank you.
Molly has finally let us start reading her cards to her. She seems to enjoy them. Keep those cards coming. Thanks for keeping Molly in your hearts and prayers.
I just noticed that there is a link on Molly's Page to all the video produced by Channel 4 for the fund raisers. A lot of people wanted copies of the swim-a-thon. Check out the links. Thank you Molly H.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

It's amazing. Ask and ye shall receive. Molly has had several good days in a row. No fever, her healing continues, she stood with a walker today. It is painful to watch, but everything physical that she does makes her mind that much clearer and stronger. What a kid!
Tomorrow is the big day. If this flap gets rejected, they will only have one more chance to do this again, so we are praying that nothing goes wrong with this surgery or her recovery. It will be a long one, so visitors are discouraged. She will probably be sedated most of the day. Call Thursday to see how she is feeling about company.
It's hard to believe that just a week ago, the picture remained so bleak and scary. Molly still has so much to go through, but we are elated by how much progress she has made in 8 days. Leah, your pictures are great. Soon, we hope to have a link on this page to all of the video that Molly Hughes did for and about Molly.
We are sending our love to everyone who has supported us throughout this ordeal. How are you kids doing? Anyone need any help? If there is anything we can do, please let us know. My friend is still offering counseling help. If it helps you just to talk to Molly, if you can't come in, call her.

Monday, June 18, 2006

This morning Molly had her final wound vac change. Everything looks good for closing her wound on Wednesday. She did just come out of surgery, so she may be pretty tired today. Please call first if you plan to visit today.
I forgot to mention Denver Athletic for providing all of the t-shirts for the swim-a-thon. Thank you for such a generous gesture. I also want to thank Skyline Acres for the use of the pool and the members for giving up a day for us. If I have left out anybody or any business that contributed, please, someone tell me.
Molly is pretty aware of all of the community support. Someday, this will all register with her and I hope it speeds her recovery. Once again, our thanks to all.

Midday Sunday, June 19

Just to let you guys know, Molly has her phone here now. Call, if she doesn't answer, leave a message.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

5 weeks. Every Saturday marks an anniversary we would like to forget. This particular Saturday, however was filled with hope, happiness, promise, and a little sadness. The day we dreaded for so long at last came today. I explained in great detail to Molly about her wound and what she has to face. She already understood most of it, but not the severity of the trauma. She seems to be taking it in stride for the moment. Her biggest concern today was that we spend too much time with her and she would like a break from us during the day. I constantly have to reming myself that she is a teenager. Today, she reminded us. Every day she gets a little stronger physically and emotionally. Her progress has gone from baby steps to Paul Bunyon steps in the last couple of days. We are praying that there won't be a major setback at this point.
We just watched Molly Hughes story about the swim-a-thon. I wish you could have seen Molly's face. She was really happy and choked up. Molly H. you are one classy dame!! Thank you so much.
Bob, Katy, Molly and I want to thank everyone who participated in the swim-a-thon. All the swimmers, volunteer life guards and pool staff, the organizers, and everyone who worked so hard to make this a huge success. We were told that Einstein Bagels brought breakfast, Chipotle brought lunch and Brothers Bar-B-Que brought dinner. King Soopers provided gator aid and water, among other things. If I left anyone out, please let me know so that I may thank them as well. I don't think I can remember anything like this in the 40 years that I have lived in Denver. I hope you all understand just how important all of this support has been to our family in terms of helping us hold together and dedicate our time to Molly. There are no words to adequately express our gratitude. We love you all so much!!
Martha, Molly saw you on TV. She is ready to meet you!
I truly believe that all the prayers, good vibes, well wishes, and chants have worked to keep our girl alive and kicking. Thank you all!

Friday, June 16, 2006

Dear Molly,
This one is just for you. Today, over 60 kids and adults are swimming around the clock to help raise money for your future. Some of them don't even know you. Some of them love you to pieces. This is a testament to who you have become. You are truly an old soul. You have always understood things way beyond your years. I hope that you can understand and cope with this tragedy as well as you have handled other traumas in your life. You seem to already be conveying that to us, although I don't know how much is real and how much is medication. But when you told Bob and I today that we didn't need to treat you like a baby, you made my heart soar. My Molly is back! My heart breaks when I think about how much more you have to endure, not only in the near future, but for the rest of your life. You may never understand this, but we get so much strength from you. You seem to have already gone beyond all the pain and are ready to move ahead. We will always be here for you when the struggle gets to be too much. You can take a break anytime. I will feed you ice chips until my fingers turn blue and fall off if that's what it takes to make you whole again. And your Dad and sister will do the same. We love you as much as life itself.
Sleep well little angel. See you in the morning. Love you.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

Today felt like a good day for Molly and a day of fear for Bob and me. The physical therapists had Molly bearing weight on her leg and she looked like she was very happy about that. Channel 4 aired an interview with the 3 other girls from the East 400 free relay team that swam at state with Molly as the fourth. They are Team Dominate the Mullet for the swim-a-thon. They all came to Molly's room to watch themselves on TV. Molly actually smiled a lot during the piece. To us, it was very disturbing that this even has to be. Sometimes, it is tough to wrap your mind around "there's no going back." But, we want to thank Molly Hughes for the nice piece she did. We hope we can get some video of the swim-a-thon for Molly to watch when she is ready. She is trying so hard to be strong and I don't know if she really feels that, or if she is just reacting to all the encouragement she gets daily. I wish she could tell us.
Laurie Shook, a former South High science teacher and amputee came to see Molly today to give her some hope for skiing again. Thank you Laurie. Martha, we will call when we feel the time is right. Thanks for blogging on and keep the encouraging words flowing.
Once again, we want to thank Dave, D. Ray, Cindy, Karen, and everyone else who helped organize the swim-a-thon. We hope it is a huge success and tons of fun! Katy, as always, we love you very much. You make Molly happy.
Good night sweet girls. Love you. See you in the morning.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Last night I spent the night in Molly's room. She didn't sleep most of the night. She was in pain and who knows what kind of dreams she has. She can't tell me. I came home to shower and go back, but Catherine showed up with our clean laundry. As I was putting the clothes away, I came upon Molly's favorite pants, socks and underwear. She will never wear these things again. She has no place to put underwear on to. Her muscles have atrophied from lying in a bed for a month. She can barely lift her arms, she can't lift her leg, her skin is peeling off, and she can't talk. She will never be able to wear her favorite pants again.
Somewhere out there is a limo driver walking around free because the step daughter that he molested begged a judge to reduce his bond and the judge did! I want to know why charges haven't been filed yet. What is taking so long? Mr. district attorney, there is a 17 year old girl lying in a hospital bed whose life has been ripped apart, literally and she needs some justice. I want some answers. How about a phone call to at least let us know if you even plan to file any charges??????

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Today was another day for progress. Molly seems a little stronger than yesterday, and she worked very hard with the therapists. Her fever did spike today, which always scares us. These infections keep coming. She hasn't been able to talk to us since Friday, and we are concerned that she has things she wants to say to us but can't. I guess there will be a time for everything. Waiting is hard.
Cindy O"Neil thinks there are enough swimmers signed up, but for those of you who might be interested, there are still packets available on her porch at 2045 Fairfax. If you intend to swim, she needs the registration forms returned by Thursday morning. Michaela, swim.
Molly's mentor and coach, Jimmy came to see her today. He lifted her spirits so much. Molly modeled herself after him. No red meat, no alcohol, no tobacco, no poisons in the body. Jimmy is one of those grownups with a lot of influence on young people. Fortunately, he was an excellent influence on Molly. For that we are thankful.
Good night my pretty girls. Dream of flying. We love you.

Monday, June 12, 2006

Well, the good news day we have waited so long for was here today. Molly' temperature has stayed low for quite a while. She is still fighting infections, but it looks like she is making slight improvements. The physical therapists gave her a pretty good workout and she seemed to like moving around in spite of the pain. We are hoping she gets her voice back tomorrow. Katy is staying with her tonight and I think she likes the break from her embarrassing parents. We always told our kids that our job as parents was to embarrass them.
Sandy and Alia, write the letter, please. Kesley, your letters are coming in spite of the zip code. Molly loves them. Michaela, swim!
I can't tell all of you enough times how very important everyone has been to us with your support. It has been a month now, and it feels like an eternity. This is just the beginning. We are hoping that you can hang in there with us for a while longer. Thank you!
Good night my princesses. Sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite. I love you.

Sunday, June 11, 2006

We want to let everyone know how good it is to read your comments on this blog. It helps give us the strength and determination to face another day, or sometimes another hour. We keep waiting for a good news day, and I guess Saturday was one. Her surgery went well and she didn't spike a fever. She is fighting so hard to get well. She tires very easily, which is a sign of how hard she is trying. This girl is not a slacker! She makes me feel lame. Even in the fog of all the heavy duty pain medication she is on, she is still able to make a joke now and then. Katy tends to bring out the best in her. She lights up when her sister is in the room.
Lynn, I look forward to the day when Abby gets back because Molly really wants to see her. She is very happy that she is taking care of herself. Saying "I love you" every day is a good thing.
Max and Linda, the beruk was perfect. Thank you.
Mom, thanks for giving us to tools to deal. I love you.

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Sorry there was no post yesterday, I just couldn't put a good spin on anything. Molly's infections were getting worse and they keep finding more internal injuries. Today has been somewhat better. Her temperature is down and she seems to be a little better. When they said there would be hills and valleys, I didn't understand that they meant there would be valleys and crevices. We are still waiting for a hill. I thought this would be easier by now, but it gets harder every day. If feels like we are watching our child slip away. She can't talk now because the passamear(?) valve was making it too hard for her to breathe. Another step back. Molly had another surgery today and has been resting, but she is usually ready to see visitors.
Cindy O'Neil has asked me to let you swimmers know that the registration packets are available on her porch at 2045 Fairfax St. Molly is really touched by the enthusiasm over the swim-a-thon. Thanks to everybody who is planning, participating, and pledging. We are so grateful.

Thursday, June 8, 2006

Molly survived another surgery. There have been so many and we are just beginning. She continues to fight infections. That is the big worry now. For those of you asking about her injuries, I am not ready to go there yet. She does have internal injuries that are complicating everything. However, her spirits today so far are good. She is in ICU for a while and will be moved back to her room when they are comfortable that she is ready to go. She is allowed 2 visitors at a time in the ICU. Maggie, we are ready for a repeat performance. Gotta get back up there. We love you guys! Thanks for getting us through each day.

Wednesday, June 7, 2006

For Molly's friends, she has her voice! She has learned to talk with the device on her trach tube and she is so thrilled. She is weak, but eager to see people. She will be in surgery again late this afternoon, so she will be out of touch tonight. Visiting hours are 9 - 9 at the hospital, but we are asking that 7:00 pm be the lastest to visit. We are all exhausted by then.
For the media, once again, we ask that you respect our privacy. We are just ordinary parents who must deal with an extraordinary situation. We aren't the first and we won't be the last. All of our energy right now is devoted to making sure that Molly is safe and well. We don't know what her prognosis is, and the doctors aren't making any promises. Everyday, she deals with life threatening infections. We are hoping that she won't spend the rest of her life in a hospital bed.
To everyone at Denver Health, we are so grateful for saving Molly's life. Everything about her treatment and care there was beyond reproach and amazingly stellar. The doctors, nurses, and support staff treated us all with the utmost dignity and respect, and for that we are thankful. We appreciate the way in which you facilitated her move to Presbyterian/St. Lukes. We miss all of you and we love you to pieces. Molly says "Hi!".

Monday, June 5, 2006

BIG NEWS! Today, Dr. Moore, Molly's surgeon decided she was stable enough to be moved to Presbyterian/St. Lukes tomorrow so that they can begin the next phase of her recovery. We weren't expecting this for weeks. Her physical condition is improving, but her mental state deteriorates each hour. I was so afraid of this. She doesn't want to talk about it to anyone. I guess she must be in denial. Understandable. I wish I could just wrap my arms around her and hold her like a baby and let her cry until she can't cry anymore. She has so many tubes and wires coming out of her, I can't even hug her. As painful as this is to watch your child go through this, I know it must be 100 times more painful for her. I hate this. This sucks so bad! But, I have to keep reminding myself that you can't go back. The only way to go is forward.
Bob and I are really torn about this move. This was our choice, but we are very sad to be leaving Denver Health. ALL of the doctors, nurses, and staff here are so amazingly good at what they do. They beat the odds and kept our Molly alive and on her way to recovery. Thank you all.
Good night, my precious children. Love you to peices. See you tomorrow.

Monday afternoon, June 4,2006

Molly will be transferred to Presbyterian/St. Lukes sometime today. This is another indication that she continues to improve and she in moving into a new phase of her recovery.

Sunday, June 4.2006

Today Molly had a good physical day, but I don't think she knew that. She is so down, and she remembers the trauma. She won't try to talk because she is too depressed. Somehow, in my head, I thought that if she could ask questions, we could help her through this a little better. We have no idea what we are doing. Thanks, Deb for coming in. Mallory and her parents came in today and that was the only time Molly wasn't silently crying. I know this is going to be one of the harder things for her to deal with, and there will be a lot of trying periods along this rocky road. One day at a time. Hopefully, only one crisis at a time.
Det. Green, you have a very nice family. Thank your kids for the cards. They are too cool. And to our friends the lemonade vendors, this gesture touched me so much. I know that one day Molly will realize how extraordinary this is.
I hope that Molly will feel like visitors tomorrow. The only way to know is just to show up. It has to help her a little. Katy, you always make Molly feel special, like no one else can.
Good night my beautiful girls. May your dreams make you smile. Love you.

Saturday, June 3, 2006

Today started out so scary. Molly had two procedures done, which is hospitalese for surgery without anesthesia, which left her in the ozone. She couldn't focus, didn't know who was whom, couldn't raise her arms. We were afraid we were losing her emotionally, because she was crying. Once the sedatives wore off, though, she was very lucid and was working hard doing her exercises and trying to talk. What a soldier! I am learning so much from her. She has shown us what it means to face a challenge and not quit. She truly is super Molly. The doctors are finding sources of infection and trying to eliminate them. She seems to get a little stronger, physically every day, but we are so worried about her emotional state. For the first time since this gruesome tragedy, Bob and I split up so that we could stay with her around the clock. This was a very hard day.
To my cousin Kayle and all the wonderful people in Borrego Springs, CA, thank you for the prayer quilt. When Molly is ready, the significance of this will strike her and give her hope to continue her struggle. Actually, that goes for all of the kindnesses that everyone has bestowed upon us from everywhere. We have shopping bags full of cards and letters. I came home to a stack of cards, letters, notes, and receipts from Chris at Colorado State Bank from donations to Molly's recovery fund. As I have gotten older, I have become somewhat cinical. I feel completely humbled by all the love and support that has come our way. Thank all of you!!
Katy, once again, you made our day. Thank you.
Good night my amazing family. I love you. See you in the morning.

Friday, june 2, 2006

Our upheavel from the SICU to Peadiatric ICU has turned out to be a very good, positive move. It is quiet, calm and very friendly here. The staff is wonderful. Molly had a very busy day and it looks like she has made more improvements. Whenever we get good news, it is usually accompanied with bad. More surgeries. More pain. She cried a lot today. No parent ever wants to see their child cry, especially not for this reason. We will find a way to help her through this the best way we can.
Katy, Molly is really happy when you are here. You are her idol.
Good night to all the babies everywhere. May the angels watch over you while you sleep. Love you.

Thursday June 1, 2006

It's just one surprise after another. Today, Molly was suddenly moved out of the SICU into the Pediatric intensive care unit. After almost 3 weeks in the SICU, we have developed a weird sense of belonging and rapport with the doctors and nurses. We are happy that she was well enough to move, but somewhat unready to face yet another change. It is very quiet over here and Molly is scared to be in a different room. We will probably stay with her tonight to keep her calm. She has so much to be terrified of. Truthfully, we are pretty scared ourselves. It's like someone just took away our security blanket.
Visiting hours here are 10 to 6. (Actually, those are the hours that we are allowing for visitors.) The waiting room is TINY. Be prepared if you come up to be really quiet and only 2 in the room at a time. We kinda got spoiled is the SICU.
Our precious daughters, we love you. Sweet dreams. Love you.

Wednesday, may 31, 2006

Today started out sad. Molly was awake this morning and nodded that she remembered our discussion from yesterday. We shed tears together. The rest of the day was wild and crazy. The respitory therapist changed her trach tube so that she will be able to talk to us in a few days. The doctors say her wound is healing nicely. Her temperature spiked as we were leaving, so we stayed to help cool her down. Today was a very good day. She still has a long way to go before she leaves the ICU, but she is making progress and we are so grateful to have our little angel still with us.
I feel bad that we haven't had time to write thank you notes to all the people who have been so kind to us through all of this. So many family and friends have given so much time and money to help us that I just want you all to know that you have saved us from despair and exhaustion and allowed us to be dedicated to Molly. Thank you!! All the help around the house, the food, the gift certificates for food, and the visits to the hospital have been invaluable. I guess it really does take a village to raise a child.
Some of you are wanting to know about the swim-a-thon. We hope to have a link on this page for registration by the end of this week.
To all of Molly's friends, she is getting close to the time when we will be able to start reading all of the cards, notes, poems, and stories that you have written for her. We hope this will keep her spirits up during this tough period. All of your love has kept her heart beating.
Good night my darling girls. Pleasant dreams. We love you.

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

Since the day of this tragedy, I have been very intuitive. I knew 5 minutes before the phone call that something was wrong. I have convinced Bob that I might even be phsycic. I should learn to start trusting myself and just go with my instincts. I have felt for quite a few days that Molly knew that her leg was gone. Today, with the urging of Lori her "nurse in shining armor", we told Molly about her injuries. I don't know how much she will remember of what was said, but the next time won't be quite so gut wrenching. The day she cries is the day I know that the true healing will begin. My heart goes out to every parent, spouse, friend or relative who has ever had to be in this position.
Today the doctor ordered the ventilator out of Molly's room. She is breathing all on her own now, but still has the trach tube in for more surgeries. She should be able to talk to us in a couple of days. Her fever broke for a while and that was great.
Today was a good day. Katy, we love you so much. We are so glad you were there with us. Marci and Jimmy, thank you.
Good night my sweet girls and God bless! Love you.

Monday, 29,2006

Molly took a giant step forward today and one small step back. She was able to breathe on her own for most of the day, but she is fighting yet another infection. She was awake alot and even smiled a couple of times. I am amazed at how brave she is. She must be in so much pain, confusion, and terror, yet she still can smile. I wish I could read her mind, so that I could know what she is trying to tell us. Hopefully, she will be able to talk soon.
We read the comments in the morning before we leave the hospital and a common theme seems to be how strong we are. We aren't any different than any other parent would be in this situation. We are just doing what we know we need to do for Molly. However, all the support we have gotten from friends, family, and strangers is what keeps us standing. Please keep sending all your beautiful messages. We are leaning on all of you. Thank you!
Katy, he's a keeper. Good night girls. Sleep tight. Love you.

Sunday, May 28, 2006

Molly had a quiet day today and it is good to see her rest. She is still fighting infections, but her fever wasn't quite as high today. We are planning our strategy on when and how to tell her, but it all depends on her. She is improving and I am afraid the news will set her back so much. This day may not come for weeks, or it may come tomorrow. Each day as the reality of all this sets in, I get a little weaker and a lot angrier. I am hoping that tomorrow I will have regained some of my initial fortitude and can handle things a little better. Bob was the rock today. And Katy was the lifeline. Thank you Katy. We love you and Molly more than life. Good night, my girls, and sweet dreams.

P.S. Marga, please give me a call if you can.
Bernie

Saturday, May 27, 2006

This may have been the best day and the hardest day yet. Molly's fever broke, her vitals were good and she rested well. However, there was a sadness about her that only a parent would pick up on. I feel in my heart, that at some level, she knows how badly she was injured. All this time we have been afraid that we would lose her. She has been in a life and death struggle for a while. Our second worst fear is how to tell her about her injury and when to. She tried to talk to me several times today, but with the trach tube, she can't talk. I am so afraid that her strength will wane when she hears the news. This is the hard part. I don't think we are ready. I wish there was a manuel for something like this. I feel terrible that I wasn't dancing circles around myself all day because of how well she was. She still has such a long way to go.
We have been zombies all day, but all the support and love from everyone out there is keeping us going. Thank all of you for helping us get this far.
Molly, I know that someday you will read this. I hope it will help you heal. And I promise you that your new leg will have a really cool, long scar above your knee.
My sweet children, Katy and Molly, good night and good dreams. Love you.

Friday, May 26, 2006

Today's post is coming a little early. Molly had surgery again today and the news was good. We came home while she is resting and will return tonight to sit with her. Another major hurdle jumped. There will be more to come, but we just take them one at a time and hope for the best. This has been a good day so far.
To Rod Anderson, thank you for your post. We agree 100% with your assessment of the doctors, nurses, and support staff at Denver Health. Molly couldn't be in a better place right now. They are so professional, kind, gentle, and understanding. What more could you ask? They give even more than anyone could ask, and they do it with such grace and dignity.
To everyone out there following Molly's progress, all of your positive energy has filled us with so much love and strength. Please keep the good vibes flowing.
To Katy, we are so proud of you and love your dearly. Molly couldn't have a better sister. Keep youself strong, because it feels like she will really need you soon. We love you!
Now get out there and commit random acts of kindness!

Thursday, May 25, 2006

Today was a good day. Molly's surgery went better than we had hoped. She managed to fight off her fever for a good part of the day. She was awake in and out all day through her pain meds. It was so encouraging to see her win this battle today. She has many more to fight before she wins this war, but I feel that she has the strength to get there. Mallory, Mallory, Mallory!!! You and your mom, Cindy, saved our sanity. You took away so much of the fear of the future; you reenergized Bob and I so that we can keep looking forward.
Mallory was in a very bad car accident about 9 years ago and suffered a similar injury to Molly's. Actually, it sounds like Mallory's injuries were worse. Mallory has learned to adjust to life and she seems like she has a beautiful spirit and a joi de vie. I couldn't stop talking about her. It turns out that two of Molly's friends who came to see her today swam with Mallory at Congress Park. Maggie said you made her feel foolish for not wanting to get in the water and you showed up all the kids. You go, Mallory! I know that you will be instrumental in helping Molly through a very rough time.
Howie, the Napoleon Dynamite talking doll is perfect! Thanks.
This is a message to all of Molly's classmates who have been traumatized by this accident, I am very concerned about you. A friend of mine who specializes in teens in trauma, and is certified in EMDR, which is a very effective treatment method, has offered her services to anyone who needs help. Contact Bob or me and we will put you in touch with her.
To the firefighter, Steve Schulze, who, we just recently discovered, was on the scene and assisted Jack, we owe you a huge debt of gratitude. You and Jack saved our angel, Molly.
Katy, we love you, get rested, get well.
Good night and God Bless.

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Today felt like an eternity. Molly struggled with a high temperature all day. She was scheduled for surgery and that was canceled again because of new emergencies coming in. Each time they bump her back I can't help but think about another family who will be going through the misery that we are and I shed a tear for them. God has granted us another day with Molly.
The phone call at 9:00 pm from the hospital struck fear in our hearts, but our fear immediately was replaced with relief. Molly was going into the OR. This time the news was good and the doctors were pleased with her progress. One little victory at a time. I suspect tomorrow will be another fever day. That is scary.
Paul, you left your red dress here. Come and get it. Thanks for the laugh. Laughter IS the best medicine.
To all of our relatives posting their comments, this means the world to us. To all of Molly's friends, thank you for your support. She will probably not be allowed visitors on Thurs., but if you come by, please leave a little note in her journal. These will be your voices when she is recouperating and you will be away at school.
To the staff and faculty at East, I can't begin to tell you how much your kind words and deeds have meant to us and they are a testament to Molly's character. Mrs. Callum, you have a lot to be proud of. Thank you.
To all the kind strangers offering advice, you don't know how much your words help us gather the strength to keep going.
Rodger, you keep Bob laughing with your daily stories. Dana, your chicken salad was devine.
Sarah, you rock!!! Michael, I want to know more about your energy healing technique.
Katy, keep hanging in there with us. We need you. Good night, all you Angels. Sleep tight.

Tuesday, May 23,2006

Today was not a good day. We have run into a few complications that have set back Molly's progress. We were warned this would happen, we just weren't prepared for the devastating effect it would have on how we are coping. Our strength just evaporated today. Now I understand what people must go through who have had similar experiences, sitting at a loved ones bedside praying for a glimmer of hope and finding none. My heart breaks for all of you. All of the anger I have been keeping at bay just resurfaced with a vengence. I don't understand how a professional driver who is responsible for passengers can pull away from a curb at a high rate of speed without looking in his side view mirror. There is no way he did that, or he would have seen a line of kids and an open door. Let me introduce myself. My name is Bernadine. I drive a school bus. I just don't get it.
We feel so helpless. If anyone out there has any advice for us at to what we should be saying to Molly as she lies in the intensive care ward full of IVs, breathing machines, monitors, and drugs, I would be very grateful.

Monday May 22, 2006

It is 5:30 am Tuesday morning. We have just returned from the hospital, where we waited almost 18 hours for Molly to be taken into surgery. She is out now and resting. Thank you Lisa for finding a room for us to rest. Thank you Sally for being Sally. Everyday there is at least one person who just has the right thing to say at the right time. This time it was beautiful Regina in the cafeteria, who, after telling me that her grandsons had helped at the car wash, came around the counter and wrapped me in a big wonderful fleshy embrace and began to pray. At one point she asked God to help Molly know that a leg does not make a human being.
Today Molly made eye contact with all of us. We had a few moments. She made me laugh with a facial gesture that she always made as a little girl and she even smiled once. Somehow, I feel that Molly is going to be the one who knows what really constitutes a human being and we will learn from her.
Katy, we love you and will be as strong for you as we are for Molly. Trust us.
Sleep well my children. Tonight the Angels are watching over you.

Sunday May 21, 2006

Molly's cap, gown, and tassle hung in her hospital room today as her class held its graduation ceremonies. We had our own quiet ceremony and wished we could have been there because we are so extremely proud of all that our Angel Molly has accomplished, not only in these last 8 days, but in all the days that have led up to this. Molly has always been an "A" student who was and is well liked by her teachers for her beautiful spirit, strong sense of individuality, and crazy sense of humor.
Molly rested today after a hard day yesterday. She is still stable, and that's a good day.
So many people have asked how they can help us, so, it is with reluctance that we address this subject, but the friends who established this fund want us to post the address. The fund was set up to help pay for Molly's recovery expenses. This is going to be a very long and extensive process due to the nature of her wound.

Molly Bloom Recovery Fund
care of Colorado State Bank & Trust
1600 Broadway
Denver, CO 80202

Once again, thanks to all the people who have held us up and kept us going. We would never have made it this far without you.

Good night, Molly. Sweet dreams. We love you.

Saturday, May 20, 2006

One week ago Molly had probably one of the best days ever. She spent the day with her friends having her nails done, getting her "do", shopping for her accessories, getting ready for the Senior Prom. She asked me to shop with her and help her with her makeup. She insisted we come to the barbeque that the kids were having and all the other parents were coming to. Before she left to meet the limo, she ran back and hugged me, kissed me and said "Love ya, mom!" and went flying off to catch up with her friends. The kids told me she danced all night. It was one of my best days with her as well.
All day long I have been thinking about all the other parents who have been in similar situations. I would hear the stories on the news and my heart would break for them. I would try to imagine how I would feel in their shoes. I never really came close. I am beginning to understand how people with devastating tragedies find that inner strength to overcome such situations. We are learning. We couldn't have come this far without all of the support we have received from our families, friends, doctors, nurses, and strangers. Just a "thank you" to the Shriner in Longmont who called to offer help, the man who came to the hospital with names and numbers of support groups, the teacher who called to share her experience with me and wants to help Molly adjust.
We can't express our gratitude enough to everyone who has been there in person, in the mail, on the phone, and on this site.
Congratulations East Class of 2006! Reach for the stars and don't let go.

Friday, May 19,2006

Today was a good day and a bad day. We had a major stride forward and a few setbacks. Molly continues to demonstrate her strength to us. Her condition remains critical but stable. Keep sending the love. We truly believe it helps.
We would like to acknowledge Jim Remley and Josh Schauer, Engine Co. #3, the firemen who rode in the ambulance with Molly. They came to see her today and told us how alert she was in the ride. These two gentlemen kept her talking and took care of her along with the paramedics. You guys had one hard night. Thank you for coming to see her.
The East Lacrosse team is playing in the state championship game on Saturday, May 20, at 5:00?? at Invesco Field at Mile High. GO EAST! We want to thank the team for dedicating the semifinal game to Molly by wearing her initials on their helmets. The team signed a poster for Molly, and it is in her room for her to see when she awakens. Get out and support the team tomorrow.
Once again we are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support for Molly. Thanks to the Virginia Village Texaco for the car wash they are sponsoring on Saturday. We also want to extend our gratitude to the Phoebe Hair Apparent Salon in Cherry Creek for their generous offer on behalf of Molly's recovery fund. Her hair looked fabulous, by the way. I will get you pictures when I can. Please tell me the name of her stylist.
A message to our parent, sisters, aunts, uncles, neices, nephews, cousins and other kin; thank you for your kind words, thoughts, and deeds. We love you.