I was quite upset and saddened to hear of the accident my dear friend Paula was involved in last Wednesday, June 17. Paula is one of the most amazing persons I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. I've always said Paula has more energy in her big toe than I have in my whole body.

This is a woman who never stops and all her energies go into her son and her life's work. What does Paula do? Help people. Her works for 3rd world medical care actually started right here at the Black River Hospital while visiting Treasure Beach twenty odd years ago.

Check out her website to see where this Black River Project has taken her and her work. www.blackriverproject.org The Black River Project collects, organizes, and delivers medicines, medical supplies, equipment, training, and related support services and relief to medically- underserviced and impoverished communities throughout the globe.

Paula was severly injured in this accident and is now in a coma in Rapid City, South Dakota. She was in South Dakota working with the Native Americans of the Lakota Sioux Nation in Pine Ridge Reservation. There she counsels and teaches indigenous families about the twin health threats of alcohol abuse and diabetes in one of the USA’s poorest communities.

She was actually working with a renown diabetes specialist from Jamaica, Dr. Morrison and was in the process of organizing a group from the Lakota Tribe to come to Jamaica and visit with Dr. Morrison. She had a vision of the traditional tribal medicines working along with the modern day medicines.

I could go on and on, but Denis Campbell, a friend and journalist, writes it best. Please read the following article telling you more about our Miss Paula. http://www.ukprogressive.co.uk/an-open-letter-to-president-obama-and-congress-%e2%80%93-help-bring-paula-home/article5393.html

As the article states, we are trying to get Paula home. I and all who have benefitted from Paula's work are asking for your help whether through a donation or even more importantly prayer and positive thoughts. This is one person who has made a very positive impact on Jamaica and the world. Now we have the opportunity to say thank you to her.

I appreciate your time in reading all this and truly appreicate your kind thoughts and prayers.

Paula sitting in her favorite spot in all the world, the buttonwood tree.

Thank you for sharing this, Rebecca. I have shared the wonderful article across my networks, and hope you will be able to share good news about Paula's journey when you can.

Paula is off life support, she is still in a coma we are putting together a "bring Paula home campaign. They discussed it last night on the news Fox 25. check www.bringpaulahome.org (updated link -TBNet) for updates. I am sorry that people have been giving untrue stories of her grasping at a hand or blinking her eyes. I will be flying to South Dakota on Tuesday and will upgrade you on a regular basis.

Paula loves treasure beach and the wonderful people, I will bring her home as soon as I can.

God Bless,

Lillian
lillianmacd@comcast.com

sorry, I screwed up and gave the wrong e-mail I can be reached at "lillianmacd@comcast.net

I look forward to hearing from you.

Lil

I just received this update from Paula's friend Betty who has been with Paula at the hospital for the last week. If you would like to send a message to Paula please send it through Betty at eaclinton@earthlink.net

July 4th Update:
The ceremony held for Paula was hard work, but very encouraging. I know the prayers of Paula’s many supporters are helping her. She’s being included in the prayers of a number of local Sun Dances.
Paula has been on the blow-by machine for nearly two days now. She is a working hard breathing on her own and is getting progressively stronger. Paula is still a bit congested, an after effect of the impact--but as the congestion clears, her breathing will be easier for her. For the first time, I noticed some small movement in her right hand, and her nurse also noticed a little movement before I had arrived.
Paula received some great cards (from Jen, Sam, and a friend from Avon area), and a bunch of emails. I spend about 45 minutes reading them to her. She seemed a little fatigued, so I put off the FB messages until today. We have some music on for her. When the doctor came in for assessment, Paula would not move her feet in response to stimulation. I told the doctor that Paula had been responding to a cold cloth for the past week. The doctor tried, but no response still. I become a little concerned and stated working with her to get her right foot moving. Naturally, when the doctor left, Paula began scrunching her toes and moved her foot from side to side. Go figure! The nursing staff is both pleasant and attentive. Paula is putting much effort into doing the healing needed for the optimum result. She is still opening and closing her eyes when I call her. She probably doesn’t see anything, but were hoping for some changes in the next few days. Paula also found her heart monitor and has been playing around with the wires. I had to hide them a few times when she started tugging on them. It won’t be long before she’ll be driving the nurses crazy.
I’ll be heading back to the hospital this afternoon. If I can find a link for the FOX news report, I’ll send it along. Jen reported today that a handful of donations have come in through the website and will check the Pay Pal account (now up and running) later in the day.
The link for the Fox news report http://www.myfoxboston.com/dpp/news/local/family_hopes_to_bring_woman_in_coma_ba ck_home_070309

Rebecca- was just sent a link about Paula. Real sorry to hear whats happened but if anyone can come out on top, it will be her. What an amazing spirit she is.

I saw this at the end of the link and know you would be in touch with her close friends and family. Maybe she can get home now?

I quote:

Hello,
My name is Gene Bishop. I am a Logistics Specialist with Angel Medflight Worldwide Air Ambulance Services(www.angelmedflight.com) We would like to contact someone close to Paula, as we think we may be able to help her get home to her friends and loved ones. Please call (877) 264-3570 at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for your time.

Regards,

Gene Bishop

Here is another update on Paula's condition. The pay pal account is now working at www.bringpaulahome.org (updated link -TBNet)

Update – July 5th
It’s just about midnight (July 4th) and the fireworks are making their final flashes. I’m still in Paula’s room and haven’t yet been forcibly evicted. That may happen soon, though, so I’ll try to get my thought together quickly.
Paula taking some steps back to us, yet she still fades out sometimes. Tonight I told her that there was no place she could go that I couldn’t go after her. She smiled. She hasn’t regained consciousness yet, but we believe we get through to her. Her breathing is much better—she’s on 30% oxygen only, a negligible amount. As soon as her congestion clears, she will have much more strength for healing. Her respiration therapist said the lungs sounded good, so just clearing out the passageways needs to happen. We had many emails messages and FB entries to read. I also used my labtop to play the FOX News report—at least most of it.

I’m at the hospital again. (It’s Sunday now.) Pearl Means is here and has commented on how much improvement Paula has made in the last week (when Pearl saw her last). Paula is still working on her lung functioning, and the coughing jags are far less frequent and distressful than they have been for the last week. I didn’t get any email mail messages for her today, so we didn’t have our usual reading session. I’m sure that cards and email messages will arrive shortly.

We’re at the point where Paula is really ready for her trip back to Boston and when rehab would be the most beneficial for her. So if you have a network for resources to make that happen, now is the time.

Betty

Paula, I too am extremely grieved to hear of your mishap. You and I met in Boston, and I worked with you briefly... a truly remarkable woman. I wished I could have been of more support to you, but other commitments had me bogged down at the time. Then we lost touch. So very sorry.

With your spirit, you'll be up and about soon. Here's a poem:

Magic Wand

I wish I had a magic wand
To make it go away;
I'd wave my scepter over you
Until you were okay.

I'd think good thoughts; I'd send you love;
I'd transmit healing vibes;
My wand and I would surely beat
Whatever the doc prescribes.

But there is no magic scepter, so
I cannot cast a spell;
Just know you're often in my thoughts,
And I hope you'll soon be well!

By Joanna Fuchs

Thanks Glasceta. I've sent your message to Paula via Betty.

Thanks to all of you who have been sending the messages to Paula, made donations, and most importantly have been remembering Paula in your thoughts and prayers. Please keep them coming as we are taking a journey on a long road.

The residents of Treasure Beach are saddened to hear of the serious accident in which Paula was involved and the serious injuries sustained. We are praying that the good Lord will see her through this dark period and bring her back to good health soon. To her son and family, be strong and be of good courage. You are all in our prayers.

Rebecca, I can't get the bringpaulahome.com link to open. I'd like to send it around to my friends who could contribute, but can't get through. Also, has anyone contacted Gene Bishop? Are his services less expensive and a more viable option for getting Paula home?

Thanks.
S.

The correct link is http://www.bringpaulahome.org
Its been corrected above.

Thanks for all your help with this.

-TBNet

Thanks, Rebecca. I posted the link on my blog and emailed it out to my friends and coworkers. I hope some of my friends are able to help.

The last I heard was someone was trying to contact Gene Bishop. I will let you know if/when I hear more information.

Thanks!

The following is the latest update from Paula's friend Betty. Please keep those emails coming as it is really helping Paula.

July 8th – Paula is breathing better and appears more calm and rested, even though she had a busy day. She was given another test to measure progress—I’m not certain when it will be read. She had some new visitors today, a couple from Australia who left her a toy koala bear, a friend from Boston who traveled from Jamaica, and a woman from Oglala who worked with her. We read a half a dozen cards and at least as many email messages. In addition to her regular visits by a respiration tech, Paula was also visited by a speech therapist who said how important verbal contact and reading email messages was. In the evening, Scott Means visited with Paula.

July 9th – Sorry I didn’t realize that it been so long since I sent out an update. Between misplacing the power cord to my labtop and not getting a signal in Box Elder, I’m a bit behind. It’s been a busy couple of days. Last night we were back at in sweat lodge again in (and have one more to do Thursday or Friday night). Today I went to Hot Springs once again to find some more paperwork, collect a few needed items, and get everything handled at Paula’s house. While I was out of town, Paula’s friend Lillian sat with her. She told me that Paula was more active than yesterday and that her eyes followed the nurse as she walked through the room. When Darlene and I returned to Rapid and went to the hospital, Paula moved her right hand (the hand that previously not moving). She grabbed Darlene’s hand. She held on tightly while Darlene talked to her. We asked her to move her feet and she made small movements with both feet. Paula is looking very strong now and certainly receptive to the kind of rehab that will get her up and running. We remain optimistic about her recovery.

I understand from Jennifer, who had been working on getting the transfer approved and arranging the logistics and funding, that a bed had been approved at Mass General Hospital. A few more details still have to be worked on to complete the transfer procedure. Jennifer is hoping for a transfer by the end of the week. Meanwhile, donations of close to $8,000 have been made through the website (www.bringpaulahome.org). This is about half of what is expected for the cost of the medflight. We are hoping that other donations will come in quickly so that we can get the transfer completed as soon as the hospital approvals are completed.

I received a phone call from a very happy friend of Paula's last night telling me she is coming home tomorrow!!

The following update from Betty will tell you more. Thanks to all of you who contributed in cash or kind allowing this to happen!

Evening – July 9th Hoping you all have the latest on the transfer to Boston—Paula will be flying back early Saturday a.m. (8:00 a.m., I believe). Big thanks to Jennifer, Greg, and all the others who worked hard on getting this accomplished. I understand we are very close to raising the funds needed to pay for the transfer, so if you know anyone who’s been meaning to donate and just didn’t get around to it, tell them now is the time.
Paula did manage to pull out her feeding tube. After some back and forth about what to do, the hospital decided to forgo the tube and let Boston handle the issue when she arrives on Saturday. They just give her some electrolytes through her remaining tubes. We did a lot of reading today. Paula had cards from Judy, Terry, Libby, many emails, and Face Book Postings. Lillian read some interesting articles from the Rapid paper. Paula also had more visitors today: Maggie from Cascade Falls told Paula about the horses on her ranch, and Michelle Means, Emily, baby, and doting father, visited and shared a few recent stories that Paula participated in/witnessed. Paula did have more eye movement today, and when we asked her if she wanted to see the baby, Paula strained to see and fully opened her eyes. She did not respond with her left hand the way she had done the night before, however. Although we see some progress every day, it is sometimes uneven. It’s almost 11:00 p.m. (Rapid City time), the sky is full of lightening and a hard rain is falling. We’ve been listening to quite a medley of music, much to the amusement of the staff,-Bob Marley, Crazy Horse Singers, Cachao, Joplin, Porcupine Singers, now Curtis Mayfield. I’ll probably be here for another hour, but want to get this off before it gets too late—only one more Rapid Regional update to go. Paula is resting peacefully now.

It looks like Paula will be taking the med flight back to Boston tomorrow (Saturday) and will be admitted to Mass General!!

Here is the Twitter Link with frequent updates:

http://twitter.com/bringpaulahome

Wishing Paula safe travels and a speedy recovery upon her return "home".

:-) Meredith

I've never had the honor to meet Paula but from reading these posts she sounds definately like someone I would love to meet and that she is obviously a very strong person. This is good news and I wish her and her family/friends all the best

My thoughts are will Paula today wishing her health and strength in what is going to be a very strenuous day for her.

Safe travels Paula and thanks to all who made this day possible.

Just received this update from Betty.

July 11 –

Paula has arrived in Boston and is on route to the Mass General Hospital. We will let you know the details as soon as they are available. Paula was more present when I was with her yesterday at the hospital—not quite fully conscious, but close. We talked about her transfer and how much better she would get now that her lung was nearly healed. We made a lot of eye contact and she did move her hand and feet when I asked, all signs normal to coma recovery and indications that she is approaching full awareness. I am confident that she will improve more quickly with rehab and with her stronger physical reserve.

Big thanks to Jennifer who was faced yesterday with a litany of charges and uncovered expenses. As late as early evening last night, she was told that transport wouldn’t happen—somehow she made it all come together. Thanks to the people here and in Boston who were helpful in getting things moving. Thanks as well to all of you who sent messages, visited at the hospital, sent emails, made phone calls, said
prayers and arranged ceremonies, and sent donations.

This is my last South Dakota update. I leave for Boston tomorrow.

Julie and Werner just sent me this link of when they along with Paula and her son Tyler brought in medical supplies to Southfield clinic. This was approximately 15 years ago and shows their journey from picking up the supplies in Kingston and bringing them to Southfield.

Thanks so much for this Julie and Werner!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eoijj1Wq7Pk

Hi Everyone,

Paula and I flew home yesterday morning, I promised that I would be sure to have her hair combed properly and I'd be sure to put her red lipstick on, she gave me a full tooth smile. I also asked her if she would rather we take over the plane and go to Jamaica and she smiled again.

She was awake throughout the trip, less than three hours, but due to the sedation she was on she fell soundly asleep when I told her that we were about to land.

The ambulance was greeted at the hospital by Tyler, with a beautiful vase of fresh flowers and her former husband chuck. Chuck said that she smiled brightly when she saw Tyler and himself. She then fell back to sleep. In addition to Tyler and Chuck, July was there, she is Ginny's sister and will be spending much time this week caring for her during the day. I will be filling in as needed as I am walking distance to the hospital, or should I say limping distance.

The coordination of this home coming was a total group event with our forever friend Jennifer at the helm and Betty at the hospital giving updates, anyone would have been proud. Hats off to these extraordinary women and their undying dedication to Paula.

When Paula is up to it I have a chilled bottle of Dom Pernion with her name on it.

Wishing everyone the best,

Lillian

This is such an amazing story. I never had the honour of meeting Paula, but it is clear she is an outstanding human being in every sense of the word. Was Gene Bishop able to be of assistance in getting Paula back to Boston? Please keep us apprised so we may know of Paula's progress and tell us if there is any way any of us can be of assistance by sending a small cheque, or a card which could be read to her or anything else. Please provide full details on mailing addresses, etc.

She is an incredible woman. I spoke with someone who spent a great deal of time with Paula yesterday. She explained that Paula is still in a coma and although will open her eyes, she is not conscious. We are hoping to get a better idea of her condition from the tests which will be performed this week.

To find out more information, how you can help and where to send cards, check www.bringpaulahome.org

Thank you so very much for your concern.

Rebecca,

I am not sure who you are speaking to, but Paula is responsive and reactive. In a Coma, people do not respond to stimuli, in a vegitative state they respond to pain reactively.

Paul responds to both and is very expressive with her eyes, meaning that on directive she will follow commands, follow my finger, left to right, as well as smacking her lips to be sure that her lipstick was applied appropriatly.

Lil

Rebecca,

I am not sure who you are speaking to, but Paula is responsive and reactive. In a Coma, people do not respond to stimuli, in a vegitative state they respond to pain reactively.

Paul responds to both and is very expressive with her eyes, meaning that on directive she will follow commands, follow my finger, left to right, as well as smacking her lips to be sure that her lipstick was applied appropriatly.

Lil

That is good news Lillian.

WONDERFUL NEWS!
if anyone can fully recover, it would be .. Paula!

A fund raiser will be held for Paula on Friday, August 7th, 2009 @ the Paradise Rock Club on Commonwealth Ave. in Boston, over by Boston University. The Website to purchase tickets is www.thedise.com <http://www.thedise.com/> or you can purchase tickets at the door. The cost is $25.00US.

The band playing is O-Positive, a Boston based band. Paula's brother in law Alan is in it as are all here close friends. Should be a great event!

Please pass this information on to anyone who may be interested.

Hi Everyone,

Today Paula had her feeding tube put in her belly. She is not able to take food orally due to the trach. Once it is removed, she may be able to speak, but not converse. She went from coma to vegetative in record times, thus we all feel very positive.

The next step is working on regaining speech and stronger motor movements, this will take time, but I will keep you posted to the best of my ability. Betty is still monitoring her closely and Jen and her husband are gently providing stimuli. The next road is a long one, however due to her success thus far, her prognosis is good, but timely.

I am sure that all of your prayers are part of her positive progression.

Rebecca has all of the sites to ask questions, donate funds, and deliver all of your good wishes.

I read all of treasure beach daily to her, so keep it coming.

She loves you all deeply.

Lillian

note: edited for typos.
-TBNet

This is the link to the latest article written by Denis Campbell.

http://www.ukprogressive.co.uk/paula-is-home/article5499.html

I heard from a friend Paula is now in the Spaulding Rehab Hospital in Boston and is making progress every day.

Thanks again for your continued prayers and support.

Julie and Werner, Thanks for posting the youtube video of the Black River Project. Very nice thing to do.
My husband and I met you two a few years back at ItalRest. You told us about your hiking backseaside on your birthdays. You bought us a beer. You were very nice people but couldn't remember your names until now. Peace and I hope our paths cross again someday.

Here is another update from Betty.

July 15th Update - I wanted to wait until the dust settled a little before getting out another update (also, I haven’t unpacked yet). We learned from experiences in Rapid that it takes the medical staff a few days to make a coordinated assessment. Although assessment is still in progress, we have some initial findings to report. But let me back up a little.

Nancielee Holbrook: A number of people have asked me about Nancielee, the friend who was in the car with Paula. I was told at the hospital that she had returned home, but that information was not correct. She’s in Michigan undergoing a long stretch of rehab as well and won’t return to MA until the fall. If you would like to send her a card, her address is Dr. Pricilla Cogan, Po Box 256, Leiland, Michigan, 49654, Attn: Dr. Nancielee Holbrook

The transfer to Boston was a taxing. A handful of unanticipated expenses and administrative tasks surfaced last Friday evening, which threatened to postpone the transfer. These issues were handled well enough that the flight could proceed. Paula was sedated and experienced some fluctuations in pressure during the flight, which undoubtedly had an effect on her. In addition, Paula had been off her feeding tube for three days before transfer. It wasn’t until Monday that surgery was performed to attach a feeding tube to the stomach and then until Tuesday that she received her first food in six days. During her stay at Mass General, Paula also underwent some testing. Despite these demands on her energy, Paula was happy to see family and friends who came to visit her.

Today was a big day. She underwent extensive assessment by a physical therapy team. Although she has shown limited movement on her right side (and periods of no movement or responsiveness when she is tired), the physical therapists were optimistic about gains that could be realized through rehab. Paula moved out of her coma, the state of complete non-responsiveness, and has moved to Level 3 responsiveness and is retuning a little more each day. She is now taking medication to enhance brain stimulation and recovery, and she already seems alert and connected for longer periods of time. The doctors decided to cast her feet and calves a few days off, and a few days on to maintain turnout. Right now rehab is anticipated to span over a period of months.

Today, Paula was transferred to Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and will now start the treatment needed to promote healing and recovery. We met her doctor, resident, and nursing staff. They were excited about working with Paula and very attentive and thorough in their care. The hospital is just a few blocks from the Mass General Hospital at 125 Nashua Street, Boston, MA 02114. Paula is in Room 302.

Visiting Protocols: Visiting Hours are from 1:00 to 8:00 weekdays and from 11:00 to 8:00 on weekends. Occasionally, Paula will be engaged during visiting hours, and visitors may be asked to leave for 20 minutes or so. The medical staff has talked to us about what is the most helpful kind of interaction.

I will still read any messages you want to read to Paula. Please not that I’ve changed my email address to: elizabeth.a.clinton@gmail.com

The lord is wonderful. I wish Paula all the best, don't know her personally but her story is amazing. The lord surely shined his light on her. All the best with your recovery.

Hi gang,

Paula improves daily, yesterday she said her first word. Her brother Rickie was tickling her nose, which aggrivated her. So she told him to "stop". Again, because of her trach, she cannot speak outloud, however she responds and tries to talk.

Her dad, Rickie and Tyler are constantly at her bedside, which gives her strength.

Anytime I mention Jamaica, Rebecca, Lorraine and Miss Ruby she smiles and smiles.

Keep your prayers coming, they will get her through.

Love,
Lil

Thanks Lillian, that is fantastic news!

God bless God,

Paula was talking up a storm last night, mostly gibberish, but talking, getting very frustrated that the words were not making sense. Medically this is called word salid. You know your thought, but the wrong word comes out. We have all expected it.

However, tonight was different, I was discussing with Paula's nurse about Paula's ability to position herself, to pull her trach and feeding tube out. Suddenly, she said "enough with the information", we were both in shock.

Later, when I was leaving, I told her I would be back tomorrow, and to sleep well. she said "alright tomorrow", I cried and kissed her.

Poor Jennifer, who is her health care proxy hasn't witnessed her speaking yet, but I am sure tomorrow night, we will get her to speak again.

My God our prayers are powerful, please keep them coming.

Lillian

The following is an update from Betty.

July 21st – mini update

Sorry for being out of touch for a few days. Paula had a busy weekend with many visitors from the Boston area and from out of town. We did have to set some limits in visiting to guarantee Paula some resting periods (rest between 2:00 and 3:00, and 5:00 and 6:00, all p.m.), but it was wonderful to see the support for her. Paula is sporting newly polished toe nails, thanks to her niece Lydia, and is getting daily hair brushing from Lillian, a few of the treats that Paula has been receiving.

The casts have been removed on her lower leg. They seem to have made a real difference in turnout. I am expecting that the casts will be replaced again after a few days, but am not sure of the schedule.

Paula has had a speaking adapter placed in her trach that will allow her to begin the process of speaking again. Although she received the speaking device a few days ago, it was dislodged or removed for two days, so she wasn’t making any sounds at all on Saturday or Monday. I understand that learning to speak with this device takes some practice and takes a while to get everything working together, so she will not be reciting the Gettysburg Address. (I did ask her to do that—she scowled and then smiled.) Mostly she is in the sound production stage and is not able to converse. She has managed a few words, so we are hopeful that she will progress over the next few weeks.

Although Paula will need a lot of time to recover, all reports are that Paula is responding well to rehab. Each day we do notice some improvement in her focus and alertness. The assessment team is meeting for the first time this week to review Paula’s progress. We look forward to receiving their findings and the details of their treatment plan. In the meantime, we are working hard on the related issues, e.g. insurance issues and fundraising, and handling her personal and professional affairs. Please see Paula’s Peeps http://www.lotsahelpinghands.com/c/616014/, www.bringpaulahome.com, and Paula’s Face Book page, for more information. Much thanks for your prayers, support, messages, and visits.

To send cards: Spaulding Rehab Hospital, 125 Nashua Street, Boston, 02114, Rm. 302

To send personal messages: email me at elizabeth.a.clinton@gmail.com [Edited for typo -TBNet]

Hi everyone,

I am sorry but I have little good news.

Paula was able to be in a wheel chair for about 5 hours, she was quite exhausted when we put her back to bed. They have capped her trach and plan to give her soft feedings soon. grinded meals, pudding and things alike.

I continue to make her as comfortable as possible, as she did for me when I was in the hospital.

Other people aren't as optomistic, and although they are not relatives of hers they are making the decisions. They are planning to put her in a longcare facility for brain trauma patients.

I want her home and I will be there for her, but I don't make the decisions and where they are planning to send her, is not accesible to me, thus, I won't have access to her. Maybe I have been unrealistic with her and this place might be the best place for her. I guess we all have to wait until she can make her own decisions, so all we can do is pray,

I have arranged for Mother Theresa's nuns, Mission of Charity to come and say the Rosary with her. Prayer is what we need, and God will decide the rest.

I will keep posting, if you keep praying.

Love Lillian

Another update from Betty.

July 23, 2009

I was hoping to get this update written while at the hospital earlier, but that didn’t happen. Much to report on and very little time—it’s already 2:30 a.m. and I have to get this done tonight. The assessment team, meeting for the first time, made some initial determinations. The casting of Paula’s feet has been removed for two days and replaced again. The 9% turnout change from the first period of casting is quite a gain. Paula’s speech therapy is progressing and she is saying a few phrases. (e.g., I asked her if she had chapped lips. She said, “Yes, chapped lips.”) She’s really making a lot of so-far unintelligible sounds and (true to character) is producing sounds rapidly and without much break. All good signs!

Her trach has been downsized again, and within a week the doctors will test Paula’s ability to work her throat properly in getting the food through the right passage. They are happy with progress on related skills, like coughing. When the doctors have downsized the trach to a sufficiently small device and are certain that she will not get food into her lungs, the trach will be removed, and with it the much hated feeding tube. In fact, Paula had become so proficient at yanking out tubes that the mitt she wears to prevent her from grabbing is now encased with a large wrapping that looks like a muff anchored by Velcro straps. It won’t take her long before she will have found a way through those two barriers…..I fear she may be placed in a cocoon by the time I get to the hospital tomorrow.

Therapy to promote range of movement and sitting up is also occurring and the results are good. Overall, Paula has been progressing faster than expected. We hope to get a more complete report from the assessment team but are not certain when this will occur.

We did get some mixed news about Spaulding’s rehab plan for Paula. Their objective it to get her to a 25% engagement level, at which time they then intend to discharge her. Given her current rate of progress, the doctors anticipate release in the first half of September. Options for treatment are then very tricky. One option is to place her in a nursing facility that accepts insurance, but will reduce her rehab to a quarter of what it is now and, thus, stunt her rate of recovery (if not recovery itself). The better and preferred option is a facility specializing in brain injury rehab, four of which are in New England. However, these programs are expensive and only accept private payments (no insurance). Moreover, payment in advance for 4-6 months at approximately $15,000 per month is required. So generating significant monies over the next two months is critical. We have an event to be held on August 7th that we hope will generate $10,000 or so, as well as a couple of smaller events in the pipeline (or potential for events) that should also help. But we will certainly be short of the $60,000 to $90,000 we as an initial payment. If you can host a fundraising event (publicity can be very helpful as well) or want to collaborate with others in our network, please contact us.

Thanks to all who sent cards and messages.

well today, she said listen Lil, but she lost her thought, she tried to say Peter, he was there with me. She didn't want me to leave, but Betty was there and we were going out to dinner and I had already prepared her for the night.

Her father will be 78 tomorrow, I told her and asked her if there was anything we should get for him, for her. She tried to tell me, however I suspect her preasant for him is in her hous. I wouldn't have a clue how to find it, but no-one has access, they changed her locks and Tyler doesn't have access.

So Peter and I have gotten the cake, a fifty dollar gift certificate to her favorite restaurant and tomorrow I will buy him a shirt and some nice cologne. When she comes through she will give him what she has already bought him.

Her nurses agree with me that Paula will be back with her soon.

Love Lillian

It is good to see Paula getting her spirit back. She has a long and difficult journey to return to her usual bubbly self. Her progress in the last several days is very encouraging.

Peter

Prayers are with Paula for a steady recovery.
It seems as if she has such loving and caring friends and family around her. What a blessing that is.

It is good to see Paula getting her spirit back. She has a long and difficult journey to return to her usual bubbly self. Her progress in the last several days is very encouraging.

Peter

tonight paula was asked for a kiss from her brother, she looked at me like, is it ok,i wispered to her it has been 35 years since I make those decisions, not that he followed it, so she kissed him. When I left I asked if I could get a kiss, she said only for her brother.
When Rickie is available I will take him to Jamaica, he is bilt very husky, but when you see him, you cannot deny that he's Paula's brother

Ricky is a wonderful man, just like Paula, I can't wait til you meet him.

thanks Rebecca for keeping my Postings.

Love Lil

As I have said on more than one occasion a person do not have to know someone to wish them good in life. I do not know Paula.
After reading about Paula's misfortune I'm hereby sending my prayers to her and her family for a speedy recovery.
God is good,God is always there if we trust in him and believe. He will carry us through our roughest times.
Get well soon Paula.

Hi everyone,

I took paula out in the sun for about fifteen minutes she was so thrilled. Now remember she confuses her words and gets frustrated, which is all normal in her recovery process.

But get this one of her Male nurses happened to be from Jamaica and she broke into a cognitive conversation with him in Patoi.

So maybe she won't get her English back, but she will be fine in our house in Jamaica.

When I left tonight I said "Irie" and she smiled and said "Irie" back.

Looking for someone who can build a handicap ramp in my house and for the first visit can help me put her to bed.

All my love and I cannot wait til she can come home to see Lee, Lorraine, Miss Ruby, Kim and most of all Rebecca. It will Probably be January and February,

Lil

What good and positive news of Paula.
The love and care surrounding her is obviously giving her energy and encouragement.
So, if she speaks jamaican only, we will all understand her perfectly!

Keep forward Paula.

Here is another update from Betty. And if you are going to be anywhere near Boston this weekend, please remember the fund raiser will be held tomorrow night. Details are in this update.

August 6

Hello all.

I have been hearing from a lot of people about getting out another update. Only now have I had the time and clarity to get finger to keyboard make that happen. We have all been working non-stop on getting the fundraiser and the steering committee for FPPP going as well as on handling a good number of small details/issues that cropped up concerning Paula’s care. That said and most everything addressed for the present, here’s the latest news on Paula.

Paula’s rehab is progressing steadily. She has been sitting up with support and is moving both legs, especially when the casts are removed. Paula is still being placed in removable foot casts to maintain proper turnout and to speed reuse. Similar support is being used on her right hand. The right hand, the limb that was the most affected by the accident, is showing small movements, and Paula can grasp with her right hand if requested (and if she’s feeling cooperative).

Paula is still talking up a storm—and way too quickly (nothing new there!!). Most always, we can make out phrases or short sentences and may get the gist of what she is so desperately trying to let us know. But we don’t always understand. We know that she generally understands what we are telling her. We are not asking her many questions or asking her what she remembers (to avoid inevitable overload). Instead, we tell her about things, like Judy is saving you a beach chair at the Hampton cottage or Karen is thinking about you at the beach house. Although many words are still indiscernible, Paula often calls people who come to visit by name and asks about (or for) some of her many friends and family. In my last update, I relayed the incident about the woman in the room whose doctor transferred because of the noise and traffic. The very next evening, another woman was placed in the adjoining bed in Paula’s room. Unfortunately for her roommate, Paula woke up in the middle of the night and started talking non-stop until mid morning. By that time, the new roommate had requested a change of room. For the last few days, Paula has had the room to herself….

The trach wound is healing nicely and Paula has been eating some pureed food. She has managed to manipulate a few spoonfuls of food on her own, but will need more practice to eat independently. As soon as she can eat sold foods, the feeding tube will be removed and the much despised mitt will be banished forever. Now that the trach wound is well closed, Paula can have her hair washed (something that really makes her feel relaxed) and can wear some regular (Paula) clothes.

Although the rehab is going well and many gains are being made in cognitive awareness and functioning, this new awareness brings with it a more acute recognition of her condition along with the emotional repercussions that stem from that awareness. Paula is experiencing a full range of emotions from sadness, to frustration and anger. She does get weepy and panicked, but she is generally amendable to being guided out of these feelings with some words of support and encouragement. This is all a normal part of healing, and we do tell her that a large part of this emotional turmoil is a sign that she is on the mend.

We have found that Paula’s rehab sessions are enhanced when Jennifer or Julie (perhaps one or two other) accompany her and help her to embrace what she sees as tedious exercises. Particularly in speech therapy (governing the trach and feeding issues as well) much progress had been noticed when one of her support group attends. We are so grateful that the Spaulding is giving Paula remarkable care and is flexible enough to make any reasonable accommodation that will contribute to Paula’s recovery.

Paula is now well enough that the hospital is allowing a couple of designated people to take her outside for brief periods. Lillian has taken her to the veranda where Paula has spent a little time working on her tan. This is her favorite time of the day. Yesterday, she asked Lillian to take her out as soon as Lillian arrived.

We expect a lot of visitors over the next few days. PLEASE be aware that Paula cannot process more than one conversation at a time—that means NO side conversations. If you visit, you will probably run into others you want to chat with. Bring those conversations into the family rooms at either end of the corridor or behind the nursing station. Keep your visits brief and calming. Paula is already suffering from overstimulation, and we have been taken to task by the hospital staff often for the stress of visits. Also be were that you are in the way if you are in the corridors—the nursing staff don’t like maneuvering around the large numbers of visitors on the weekend; please be aware of the needs of the staff to attend to their patients. The first impulse of many visitors is try to probe or make Paula remember events and people from the past. Paula absolutely hates this—and it is stressful for her. You can tell her about events, but don’t go into long tomes. She needs to talk, so try to be a reassuring and patient listener. Keep your visits brief, especially if others are waiting, and try to be respectful of other visitors. Remember too, that Paula has a special connection with many people and many others are also traveling from out of town this weekend to visit. These points may seem obvious, but too many of us have been so absorbed in our visit that these recommendations have not been followed.

So do visit, do leave messages, so have a good time and visit with others. Paula is relying on out sensitivity to put her needs first. Soon enough, she will be trying to bend us to her will, but for now, she needs our vigilance in watching out for her.

The O+ reunion promises to be an extraordinary event and a lot of fun. I was hoping to find the ticket count but don’t want to delay getting this update out any longer. I do understand that we are getting close to sell out, so get your tickets fast. (http://www.livenation.com/edp/eventId/410486)

Please see Judy O’s Paula’s Peeps website (http://www.lotsahelpinghands.com/c/616014/), Colin’s blog/photo site (http://helpingpaula.blogspo), the FPPP (www.bringpaulahome.com) or the twitter site (http://twitter.com/bringpaulahome) for links, media, chat, and postings.

I’ll probably be scaling back to weekly updates from now on unless some major change occurs, but you can always check the websites for info bites.

Big thanks to all who have been working so hard these past few weeks to make Paula's recovery easier.

Betty Clinton wrote:
>
> August 23, 2009
>
> Update on Paula.
>
>
>
> I was hoping to delay this update until mid week when we expect to have more information about Paula’s progress and transfer, but recent developments have forced some reworking. (Sorry to those who have been looking for updates, I didn’t have time this last week to respond.) What is that adage about if you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans? I am living proof!
>
>
>
> Late last night Paula removed her mitt and dislodged her feeding tube. She was transferred to the Mass General Hospital (Rm. 1232 – elevator B) awaiting a surgical re-incision of the tube. Originally, the minor surgical procedure was scheduled for last night, but summer weekends are notoriously hard for arranging anything but major surgeries. Still, the hospital is aiming on scheduling the procedure today (let’s hope), so we expect she will return to Spaulding either tonight or tomorrow. If you plan to visit, please call ahead and find out her location and status. (The locals know that these two hospitals are only blocks apart, so if you wind up in the wrong place, the other facility is walking distance—and parking at Spaulding is cheaper, $5.00 per day and good for the whole day, including leaving and returning as often as you want (MGH is $9.00—so Spaulding is the bargain).
>
>
>
> News Flash – Just got off the phone with Jennifer Booras. Paula is in surgery now and is expected to be out of recovery by ~4:30 p.m. EDT. Her transfer back to Spaulding will follow shortly thereafter, pending arranging transport, I’m guessing.
>
>
>
> The mitt removal has been an issue for the past week. Paula has become quite the Houdini. A few days ago, I timed her at 10 minutes flat. We have been trying to work with the hospital staff to either get the feeding tube removed or put some other restraint in place to prevent Paula from injuring herself. What has been a distraction is the fable that some visitor has removed her restrain and not put is back on. It seems that this tale gets passed from one shift to the other and has found its way to the general public. Even if it were true (and it’s not), the fact is that Miss Houdini is faster in freeing her hand than the length of an average phone call.
>
>
>
> Not only is she able to free her hand, but she has made clear that she moving about enough to being able to catapult herself out of bed. In fact, it is not an overstatement to say that she is determined to escape. The staff, anticipating her ability for bed-break (“jail break”, in Paula-speak), had a large contraption like an upside-down playpen, secured over her bed. You can imagine how much this is pissing Paula off. After she removed the despicable mitt the other night, she attacked the nylon netting blocking her get away. I told her they were “curtains” and she didn’t need to be digging at them. That stopped her for a little while, and we got focused on something else.
>
>
>
> Paula’s physical condition is improving bit by bit. She can pull herself up to a sitting position and is showing good movement in both legs. Her right arm, though still far behind the notoriously adept left one, is moving some, and she can squeeze her right hand on command. Her emotional state is volatile and fragile, not unexpected during recovery and probably less so than was anticipated. She is often distressed about present and past difficulties; my sense is that past and present are running together simultaneously, and that Paula is not able to distinguish the linear separation just yet. On the other hand, she seems to be remembering more and more and asking about many of the people in her network (mostly about those she believes she has some reason to be worried about). She is painfully aware and distressed by the gravity of her situation and her limits and needs much reassurance that she is making progress and is expected to recover. She is working with us on gaining some emotional control and, is able to construct short periods when she is relatively worry-free. Our hope is that she will build upon these interludes and, with additional recovery, will transit this stage faster. Although her emotional distress is painful to her and to her network of family and friends as well as to the staff who have been so supportive, it is a sign of improvement and probably an ineluctable stage in recovery.
>
>
>
> We are still looking at a September transfer, but exactly when, under what conditions, to what location, with what costs (we know that all the alternatives will be expensive) are all still to be determined. We are hard pressed to raise funds quickly for direct care and ancillary costs. To that end, if you can raise any funds, or have access to a website that would post fundraising events or messages, please email me with the particulars.
>
>
>
> So Paula is out of surgery now, and the tubing is back in place. MGH is making the arrangements now for her return to Spaulding, although Sunday transport may not happen as quickly as it would during the week. My best guess would be in a few hours.
>
>
>
> Till next week…..

Hey Paula, Here's a little poem I found and I thought abour you:


TO BELIEVE...
Author Unknown


To believe is to know that every day
is a new beginning.
It is to trust that miracles happen,
and dreams really do come true.
To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds,
To know the wonder of a stardust sky
and the wisdom of the man in the moon.
To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart,
The innocence of a child's eyes
and the beauty of an aging hand,
for it is through their teachings we learn to love.
To believe is to find the strength
and courage that lies within us.
When it is time to pick up the pieces and begin again.
To believe is to know we are not alone,
That life is a gift and this is our time to cherish it.
To believe is to know that wonderful surprises
are just waiting to happen,
And all our hopes and dreams are within reach.
If only we believe.

Hi Everyone,

Sorry I have not been giving feedback, my mom slipped into a coma and I had to be in Canada. She is doing fine now, she had a few falls at home and went to the hospital where they over medicated her and thus the coma.

I spent quite a bit of time with Paula today. We went outside for about an hour and she enjoyed the sun.

She is aware of her condition and is very upset. She still mixes her words which frustrates her to no end. She has been eating well and if she keeps it up they will take the tube out and will no longer need restraints, which she will be thrilled with.

Tomorrow they are going to try standing so I literally took the sneekers off my feet and left them for her. Luckily she had a pair heals that I fit into. Tomorrow I will buy her a pair of sneekers of her own.

Anyway, we both miss you all and Treasure Beach and I look forward to bringing her as soon as she is able.

Lillian

Another update from Betty Clinton:

September 3, 2009



Much to report and many changed, but I’ll try to be concise….



Tomorrow, Paula’s feeding tube is scheduled to be removed. She is eating solid food (pureed) and doing a pretty good job of feeding herself (left-handed). The feeding tube issue has been a major hurdle for all of us, and it took a lot of follow up with the hospital to get the removal acted on. So the tube is on its way out, and with it, or closely following will be the removal of restraints and the vile mitts. Yes, I did mean “mitts,” for Paula’s right hand has been active enough that this one also needed to be wrapped and netted.



I guess I have to back up a bit. Paula has been slipping out of restraints with such aplomb and agility that she often escaped unnoticed. Although the hospital staff had every intention of stringing out the weaning of the tube for another week or two, they had no answer for her ability to outwit the fetters and apparently no restraints that could keep her secure.



Recently, as well, Paula had some medication adjustment in response to her increased anxiety. It took a few days, but she seems to have acclimated to the medication change and is back to talking and interacting. She has been enjoying the great weather for the last week in the frequent excursions she is treated to by a handful of designated family and friends. The hospital is bounded by a newly constructed and landscaped walkway along the water, complete with waterfowl, drawbridge, trains, and other diversions—all quite liberating to experience in contrast to the rather monotonous confinement of the hospital room.



According to her doctor, Paula is still making noticeable strides in her rehab. She is generally more articulate, although she still calls up the wrong word or the wrong name when we are sure that she is following the conversation. After a rather lengthy and coherent interaction with her sister, Missy, and her friend Sandie, Sandie asked Paula if she knew the names of the people she was talking with (Missy and Sandie). Paula said that she certainly did—that they were Sally and her husband??!! Paula also has a new purpose in life: she is harrying the staff. She always has one eye on the door to see who is passing by. If she recognizes any staff member, she calls out to him/her, “Hey, hey you (or hey and the staff person’s name), come in here a minute.” She was perplexed that the staff member didn’t stop in his tracks and answer her call. She asked me why he stopped (meaning, I realized a second later, why he didn’t stop). I told her it was probably his training. “Well,” she said, “I’m going to retrain him!”



The downside of these gains (and whatever retaining program Paula has in store for the staff over the next two weeks) is that she will soon be released from the Spaulding—a short-term, acute-care facility. We are scrambling now to find an appropriate placement for Paula, and one that will keep her within reach of her family. I will report back on these arrangements as soon as I have more details. We were hoping that she might be released to one of the Mentor programs, but she is not quite ready yet, and, quite honestly, we have raised only a small portion of the funds required by such placement. We believe the interim (next) placement will provide a short reprieve on raising the enormous funds that will be needed for Paula’s care. So run a fundraiser—support one that is already set up and lighten the load.



The other thing you may be able to help with is the photo album. We have been getting 700 or so hits per week, and we’d like to rotate the photos so that additional locations and time periods can be represented. If you have anything appropriate that you could scan and send, please email them to us. We’d love to see them and expand the photo album

Stay well.

Hi Everyone,

I have not been around for awhile, I was in Canada caring for my mother.

But upon my return I went to see Paula she was so happy to see Peter and greeted us with on of her beaming smiles. Then she burst into tears and said she was sorry, she couldn't do anything.
I guess she remembered that I wouldn't return until after my mom passed.

Anyway on a greater note, she is doing so well. Yesterday she and I were just goofing around, hanging on her bed, the nurses came in thinking I was having trouble and started laughing when they realized we were just being silly. I am so happy to see her improving but I realy need my sister/best friend to do girl chat.

Julie and I plan to bring her there February or March. Paula and I were talking about the beach and the water, she said many a people have been healed, sea bathing in the aqua waters. We have one of Eggy's postcards and we tried calling but it was a wrong number printed on the back.

Everyone is on our mind, thank you friends of Treasure Beach.

Regards Lil

The Black River Project
Holiday Card Sale Kick Off

This Saturday, the Black River Project is offering for sale a selection of high quality holiday cards as its first fundraiser since Paula’s absence. These high end cards, featuring the exquisitely designed artwork, capture the giving spirit of the holidays, a spirit that Paula embodies. The Black River Project is determined to continue its programs and its support for Paula. Please go to:

http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/view/22580723

to view our selection of holiday cards. We know that you will want to send them to all of your family and friends. For more information, please contact us through BRBCards@gmail.com

Here is another update from our friend Betty Clinton on Paula's progress. Thanks to all of you who keep Paula in your thoughts and prayers as they seem to be working.

Update – November 8, 2009
Please sit back, clear your mind, and enjoy this update, for I guarantee it will be worth reading. You may have seen a few short postings indicating that our Ms. Paula is showing encouraging improvement. None are an overstatement. My last two visits made me very optimistic about her recovery.

In the first of the two visits, I laid a red bag on Paula’s tray table as I came in. Paula lit up when she noticed the bag and kept asking me, “What’s that? What’s in that?” My explanation didn’t satisfy her, and she asked to inspect the contents. She was clearly disappointed that the bag held nothing for her. I asked her if she was looking for presents. “Yes, presents would be good,” she replied, “I’m ready for presents.” Just as I was settling in, the Prayer Lady came in and held a long, long prayer vigil. After about 15 minutes of invoking the mercy of God for all of Paula’s tribulation, Paula was getting fidgety and we were about to get ejected by the staff, as Paula missed her post lunch nap. We had only another 10 minutes or so to chat, but the chat was very productive. Paula was interactive in a very meaningful way and held her focus across multiple exchanges. She provided a brief report on her physical therapy progress and the few steps that she had achieved in gym. Although Paula was highly invested in our conversation and followed closely conversations between other parties in the room (something that she had no tolerance of earlier), she was clearly fatigued. We departed, leaving Paula to dream until her next therapy session.

Mindful of the request for gifts (and the limited amount of space in her room) I returned a few days later bearing a gift bag holding bottles of nail polish. Paula was beaming when I gave her the bag to open. “Oh, this is great. I really needed nail polish. Oh, this is great,” she declared as she held the polish bottle up to her hand to get the full effect of the color selection. She then launched into a bustle of room rearranging (with me as the witless servant to her reshuffling undertakings). “Tyler’s photo—Oh! Take that off the window and put it near me—over there (pointing to the bedside dresser). “Can you get those papers out of here!” And so on, and so on. Like the earlier visit, she told me she was going home soon, but this time she elaborated on her reasons. “When I go home, I can make a lot of phone calls. “ She was able to tell me that her niece Rene had visited her earlier and also reported (tattled) on a couple of people she hadn’t seen in a few days. I was struck by her gains in making time distinctions. Clearly, she was struggling with chronology, but had a much more pronounced command of what recent events happened and when. The distress previously consuming her over concerns from 20 and 30 years ago seemed to have dissipated, and any distress that she showed was about present matters—in fact, she announced that she wasn’t going to worry about too many things—everything was going to work out. A little later, she was frustrated when she tried to convince me that she was able to use the bathroom by herself—I needed only to open the bathroom door for her. (Ok, and I’m looking to buy the Brooklyn Bridge!) Although I wouldn’t guarantee Paula has full cognizance of the separation between present and past (issues, events and attitudes), I am confident that she is well on her way.

We chatted about clothes, food, and walks outside. When I asked about her favorite color (her favorite color changes periodically), she told me she was wearing a lot of red and she was really liking red now. Like the visits over the last few months, Paula was in full command of the staff and any pedestrians traveling the hallway. No matter how engrossed in conversation she was, Paula kept one eye on the door so that she could waylay any passing staff. “Hey, where are you rushing off to? Come over here.” Many stopped in, if only to promise they’d return when they got a free minute. The floor staff were always pretty friendly, but on this day they seemed especially pleased to see Paula—there was an added nuance in, an anticipation to the brief exchanges I had not witnessed before. I did not have to wait long for an explanation. A nurse from the floor stopped by for “a reading.” It seems that Paula had been practicing her palmistry skills on the staff. “Let me see,” Paula asked, motioning the nurse to put her palm closer for inspection. Paula examined her palm closely and ran her finger over the center of her palm. She told the staff person, You’re in a relationship and you’re pretty sure that it is steady.” “Humm,” she interjected. “Well, something is going on. You’re curious about someone else. Oh! It’s someone here--at the hospital.” The nurse seemed stunned and her face changed color. “Don’t be curious. Just be friendly.” We all giggled uncontrollably, even the poor woman who had either her worst nightmare or her deepest secret disclosed. As the staff person made her way down the corridor, I could hear a little hubbub in the corridor and others were speaking their intentions to undergo readings later in the evening. I told Paula that I would hang a shingle outside her door. “Cosmic Readings—Your future is my present”

I hung around chatting for another half hour or so, waiting for my replacement, the staff person to arrive who would sit with her. Paula was getting sleepy and needed to sleep, we shut the lights. She was sleeping comfortably in seconds. I think she is finding her new calling as a palm reader draining.

Hello, All.

Sorry about getting back to you so late. I know some of you have been waiting for responses from me. Unfortunately, my computer has been down for a long, long time, and the replacement I picked up is also on the fritz. So, I’ve been stealing computer time from others as often as I can.

I want to remind you about the holiday cards that are being offered to support the Black River Project. We have expanded our offering to include the work of some very special artists:

Alicia Petitti – Young professional artist and photographer, niece to Paula;

Franz Brown – Established South Dakota Artist, famous for his holiday work;

Che Ryung Jung – Middle Schooler and budding artist, recently relocated from South Korea;

June E. Palmer – South Dakota landscape artist, features artist in the Black Hills .

We are offering free shipping on all US orders for orders received before the 15th fo December.

Here’s where you can see the new additions (and the old ones) and find out information about ordering.

http://helpingpaula.blogspot.com/

http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/view/22580723

If you order by mail, please drop us a note at BRPCards@gmail.org, so that we can process your order quickly.

Thank you for your support. We will be placing a posting and some photos about the card event at the helpingpaula bologspot in the next two days.

Before yesterday’s card event, I went to the hospital to visit Paul. She was in good spirits and was asking about many of the people she hadn’t seen since the accident. She was very, very happy to know that her project was being helped in her absence—she got a little teary-eyed when I told her about the additions to the offering and the good response that the cards were receiving. She was thrilled that her son, Tyler, was participating and told me that she was going to tell everyone to buy some cards. Paula does know that she will be going to another rehab facility, but is anxious to get back to her home and her work. She has been working hard at getting her making gains on walking, which is very exhausting for her. Moroever, she had been moving her her right arm well, which was of such concern earlier, and is starting to return some of the activities, like eating, back to he rright hand. She said that she is remebering more and more everyday. She asked me to thank all of you for your thoughfulness, your get well cards, and your prayers and wishes. (Before I left, I got a little shoppping list of things she wanted—yes, she’s really coming along nicely.)

Your support, good wishes, and prayers are working.
Betty

P.S. A big thanks to all who have ordered cards and passed this info along to others.

I often call Paula at the Re-Hab center. Sometimes she knows me and some times she doesn't. Last time we spoke she asked my if anyone remembered her, I had to laugh, who could ever forget Paula's caring ways. They work hard to get her walking with assistance and she gains her strength daily, but has a long way to go.

Pray to the lord that she will carry on.

Just wondering how Paula is doing.

I would like an update also

I don't know Paula, but read about her here. I was stumbling around youtube looking for another version of this song, and came across this video dedicated to, and of, her. Thought some folks might appreciate it.

http://youtu.be/pWTYHUp7o9E

Beautiful tribute to a beautiful woman who touched Jamaica and Treasure Beach for so many years. I only hope she will one day be able to return to the island and people she loves so dearly.

I am very happy to post this update I received regarding our friend Paula.

Exciting message from Jennifer Booras about Paula
posted by Judy Oshansky on Monday, September 12, 2011

Hi everyone,

Paula's house is almost ready for her arrival back home. She was quite fortunately chosen from a lottery for an ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) waiver. This covers the cost of adapting her first floor apartment and will be instrumental in making sure proper care is in place for her to go home. They have installed a concrete pathway that leads to a wooden ramp for easy access to the back door, and also to the less steep side front steps that are being added. They will put railings on the original front steps so that she can use those as well, as she was very insistent on that. The bathroom has been totally redone with a walk-in non slip shower, new floor and tile as well as grab bars and new toilet.

Tyler and Missy are arranging to pack up and organize her stuff on the third floor next weekend, and to prepare her new space on the first floor. They are hoping to get your help next weekend, September 17th and 18th. There is a lot to do and they can use all the help they can get. Call Tyler at 508-718-8665 or Missy (leave a message weekdays or call in the evening) at 781-856-6660 for details and schedule.

ABI Waiver also putting in a closet for a stackable washer/dryer off the bathroom and the money left in the Phoenix Trust will be used to purchase that for her as well as other small things she may need once settled in. Tyler and Colin have gotten her some new furniture as well so she should be in good shape if people will help with the packing, organizing and setting up next weekend.

Tyler will be staying with her for a couple of months to help her get situated. She will hopefully be starting therapy again next week at the Community Rehab Center in Newton.

Wishing everyone the best and hoping you will pitch in to make Paula's transition home successful.

What is her condition now?, and is her family with Her?....wishing her the best.

Tyler is her son and as stated above will be with her during this time. Paula has terrific friends and family who have been with her from day one.