Tuesday, December 30, 2008
xmas
I can't believe it's been 5 days already since we visited Suzie. Time does, indeed, fly. Leona, Jenny and I made our way out to see Suzie on Christmas Day. We arrived about 2pm, after she'd had some massage therapy. I hadn't been to see Suzie in Queens yet and while the facility wasn't as "posh" as the place on 17th Street, I found both the staff and the other patients very helpful. Suzie was pretty exhausted when we arrived, but she's definitely improved her motor and verbal skills since I saw her last. It was great to see her doing so well (and she has an excellent new haircut). GO.
Monday, December 29, 2008
A Sunday worth the traffic!
Hey All,
Mia and I not clearly thinking went to see Suzie on one of the worst travel days of the year. However, once we finally got to Suzie's room I think both of us forgot about that traffic when we saw the big smile she had on her face. Betty being the wonderful friend she is purchased a flat screen for Suzie. Well let me just say she has become a couch potato already. Through most of our visit Suzie ate a lot, (as did I) watched TV, made me move the TV closer, to the right, then the left and then had me explain the remote to her until she could turn the TV on and off herself and change the channels. What a channel surfer she is. The TV has a DVD player so bring movies on your next visit if you can. Suzie is requesting movies that were on Broadway. She also would like some t-shirts because she is baking in that room and would love some seafood. (Mia and I promised to bring seafood on new years day for her)
A lot of you have been asking what to do with Suzie during visits. Below are just a few things we have been learning along the way, which might help your visits:
1. Bring things for her to do. She likes to keep herself active even if it is for 5 minutes... so don’t be afraid to do things with her. There are puzzles in the closet and coloring books by the window.
2. Lotion our girl up face and all she loves it and needs it because that room is so dry.
3. She loves the radio. actually she likes the Madonna CDS. Suzie knows the words to every song which she will sing with you if you want. We have tried other music but the girl likes her Madonna so we just stick with that.
4. Try to ask questions that are not yes or no answers. But don’t finish her sentences for her. (We read this. We are not that smart☺))
Sometimes she needs a few tries and we just keep telling her to say what ever comes to her head and if it comes out wrong not to worry about it. She seems to keep silent because she knows what is coming out sometimes is not what she is thinking.
4. We heard flash cards with words or pictures are good but we have not tried that yet.
We had a long talk with Mrs. Lee who is the mother of Suzie’s roommate and also keeping an eye on our girl. She also agrees Suzie needs many friends to come visit her. She seems not to talk much when family is around so friends are good for her to talk , laugh and all that good stuff. So please go see her. It is so good for her and her progress. That's the update this week hope some of this helps your visit I know it helps mine…
Mia and I not clearly thinking went to see Suzie on one of the worst travel days of the year. However, once we finally got to Suzie's room I think both of us forgot about that traffic when we saw the big smile she had on her face. Betty being the wonderful friend she is purchased a flat screen for Suzie. Well let me just say she has become a couch potato already. Through most of our visit Suzie ate a lot, (as did I) watched TV, made me move the TV closer, to the right, then the left and then had me explain the remote to her until she could turn the TV on and off herself and change the channels. What a channel surfer she is. The TV has a DVD player so bring movies on your next visit if you can. Suzie is requesting movies that were on Broadway. She also would like some t-shirts because she is baking in that room and would love some seafood. (Mia and I promised to bring seafood on new years day for her)
A lot of you have been asking what to do with Suzie during visits. Below are just a few things we have been learning along the way, which might help your visits:
1. Bring things for her to do. She likes to keep herself active even if it is for 5 minutes... so don’t be afraid to do things with her. There are puzzles in the closet and coloring books by the window.
2. Lotion our girl up face and all she loves it and needs it because that room is so dry.
3. She loves the radio. actually she likes the Madonna CDS. Suzie knows the words to every song which she will sing with you if you want. We have tried other music but the girl likes her Madonna so we just stick with that.
4. Try to ask questions that are not yes or no answers. But don’t finish her sentences for her. (We read this. We are not that smart☺))
Sometimes she needs a few tries and we just keep telling her to say what ever comes to her head and if it comes out wrong not to worry about it. She seems to keep silent because she knows what is coming out sometimes is not what she is thinking.
4. We heard flash cards with words or pictures are good but we have not tried that yet.
We had a long talk with Mrs. Lee who is the mother of Suzie’s roommate and also keeping an eye on our girl. She also agrees Suzie needs many friends to come visit her. She seems not to talk much when family is around so friends are good for her to talk , laugh and all that good stuff. So please go see her. It is so good for her and her progress. That's the update this week hope some of this helps your visit I know it helps mine…
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Christmas Carols and Coloring
Hi Team Suzie & Happy Holidays All!
Janine and I went for a long visit with Miss Suzie this past Sunday. She was at therapy when we arrived as there will be a break in therapy over the holiday week. We chatted with her roommates Mom who is lovely and keeps an eye on our girl.
Suzie greeted us with a big smile and was pleased to see that we did not arrive empty handed! Far from it - Janine brought a little glowing snowman who brightened the room with different colors emanating from his frosty belly and a table top tree which Suzie helped to decorate. Janine also brought a coloring book which was a big hit - although Janine doesn't stay in the lines. Ever the princess I brought her a pink pashmina (now she wants a red one) and some holiday nail polish.
Treats you ask? Why of course - Janine brought every single leftover sweet from her holiday party the night before and we enjoyed cookies throughout our long visit. We stayed until dinner was served and sent Mr. Moon home for an early evening. I think we stayed too long as Suzie inhaled her dinner - we think in an effort to get us the hell out of her room and off to bed! She was good tired - from her work in therapy and her work visiting with us. We are therapy for her and she needs all our positive energy, encouragement and hugs so by all means get yourself out there if at all possible.
As Adrian mentioned in a previous post, it is super easy to reach Park Terrace via the MTA - I recommend the E train which is express to 71st/Continental Ave then it's a 5 min ride on the Q23. Easy, easy, easy.
For now Suzie is staying put here and we think it's for the best. Everyone we ask claims that it is one of the best places for traumatic brain injuries. So pay Suzie a holiday visit in Queens. It will do you both a world of good.
Wishing you all a healthy and peaceful holiday.
xo -
Mia
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Suzie Visit Saturday dec 13th
Hi Everyone,
A lot of you have been asking for a post to be put up on Suzie's progress so here you go.
Suzie is doing very well. She is getting stronger everyday. Her right side seems to be moving more every time we see her. How much she will progress depends on how hard Suzie works. So how fully she will recover is still unknown. However, I will say if she continues to progress like she has been i think in time she will get there. (this is just my own opinion)
Suzie seems to be understanding and trying to communicate more so i encourage everyone to visit as much as you can. The visits seem to be helping her a lot.
I went to see Suzie today and i am sorry to say she was not having a good day. She has a cold or something according to Mr. Moon. She spoke very little tonight and you could tell she just needed some rest and was not up for visitors. As for Suzie moving to a new location the paperwork is still being done. Last time i spoke to Cindy (Suzie's sister) was on Wednesday and they had not picked a date for her move yet. However as soon as she moves i will make sure to update everyone on her location and all that good stuff.
I am so happy to report we have now raised $12,320 for suzie and the money just keeps on coming. How amazing is that!
Have a great weekend all
xoxoxo
janine
A lot of you have been asking for a post to be put up on Suzie's progress so here you go.
Suzie is doing very well. She is getting stronger everyday. Her right side seems to be moving more every time we see her. How much she will progress depends on how hard Suzie works. So how fully she will recover is still unknown. However, I will say if she continues to progress like she has been i think in time she will get there. (this is just my own opinion)
Suzie seems to be understanding and trying to communicate more so i encourage everyone to visit as much as you can. The visits seem to be helping her a lot.
I went to see Suzie today and i am sorry to say she was not having a good day. She has a cold or something according to Mr. Moon. She spoke very little tonight and you could tell she just needed some rest and was not up for visitors. As for Suzie moving to a new location the paperwork is still being done. Last time i spoke to Cindy (Suzie's sister) was on Wednesday and they had not picked a date for her move yet. However as soon as she moves i will make sure to update everyone on her location and all that good stuff.
I am so happy to report we have now raised $12,320 for suzie and the money just keeps on coming. How amazing is that!
Have a great weekend all
xoxoxo
janine
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Smiley Suzie: Sunday in Queens
Mia and I just returned from a really great visit with Suzie on this chilly Sunday.
We arrived in the early afternoon to find Suzie sitting in her chair by the window. Mia and I both were really happy to discover that she has never looked better! She was quite calm and seemed fairly well-rested.
For entertainment we brought Suzie strawberry ice cream (she wasn't interested) and a brand spankin' new copy of OK! magazine (big hit). For everyones future reference Suzie also seemed quite engaged whenever we discussed:
A. boys and/or cute men.
B. Gossip about her work friends.
C. Parties and drinking beer.
She laughed and sang her Madonna repertoire and added a little Cindy Lauper to keep us guessing. When we asked her what we could bring her next time we came to Queens she said, "more visitors."
And on that note...getting out to the facility in Queens was SUPER EASY. I have to be honest that I had envisioned a never-ending journey but it took no time at all. Take the E/F/R train to the 71st-Continental station and then hop on the Q23 bus for 10 minutes. Easy, easy.
The only note I would make about this facility is that the nurses and staff are no where near as attentive as the people at Rusk. I think Suzie would really be served by some of us sweet talking them and perhaps plying them with cookies/treats? It's worth a try because right now they seem pretty indifferent to patient requests.
All and all a really encouraging visit.
We arrived in the early afternoon to find Suzie sitting in her chair by the window. Mia and I both were really happy to discover that she has never looked better! She was quite calm and seemed fairly well-rested.
For entertainment we brought Suzie strawberry ice cream (she wasn't interested) and a brand spankin' new copy of OK! magazine (big hit). For everyones future reference Suzie also seemed quite engaged whenever we discussed:
A. boys and/or cute men.
B. Gossip about her work friends.
C. Parties and drinking beer.
She laughed and sang her Madonna repertoire and added a little Cindy Lauper to keep us guessing. When we asked her what we could bring her next time we came to Queens she said, "more visitors."
And on that note...getting out to the facility in Queens was SUPER EASY. I have to be honest that I had envisioned a never-ending journey but it took no time at all. Take the E/F/R train to the 71st-Continental station and then hop on the Q23 bus for 10 minutes. Easy, easy.
The only note I would make about this facility is that the nurses and staff are no where near as attentive as the people at Rusk. I think Suzie would really be served by some of us sweet talking them and perhaps plying them with cookies/treats? It's worth a try because right now they seem pretty indifferent to patient requests.
All and all a really encouraging visit.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Saturday in the Park (Terrace) with Suzie
So, this being my first visit I wasn't quite sure what to expect. When Pat Goehle and I walked into her room, the first thing Suzie said was, "Do you know why I'm here?" Followed by, loudly, "NO! NO! NO!" Thank God Patty was with me. She started talking very softly to Suzie with a very sing-song kind of rhythm. Within minutes Suzie had calmed down and was smiling. We looked through her photo album, saying everyone's name. Suzie enjoyed that. I gave her 2 cds of my band, one being "live" cuts from our fundraiser for her but we didn't have any way to play them. Patty painted her nails pink. After she did each nail, Suzie said, "Perfect!" Once there was a loud beeping noise from the corridor. Suzie held her hand up to her head, became aggitated and said, "I hear...strange!" She calmed down when we assured her that we heard the noise too. After awhile it was apparent she was getting tired. She more motioned then spoke but we got the message. She wanted her chair turned to the window and the lights turned out. When we left she seemed genuinely thankful for the visit. It made me think. I was thankful for her having me as a friend. If you haven't gone to see her, try. It'll do Suzie (and you) a world of good. Perfect!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Suzie Update
Hi All below is Suzie's schedule. Good times to visit are between 12-2 or after 3:30
M-F 11am-11:30am Speech Therapy/Basement
M-F 11:30am-12pm Occupational Therapy
M-F 2pm-2:45pm Cognitive Therapy
M-F 2:45pm-3:30pm Physical Therapy
M-F 11am-11:30am Speech Therapy/Basement
M-F 11:30am-12pm Occupational Therapy
M-F 2pm-2:45pm Cognitive Therapy
M-F 2:45pm-3:30pm Physical Therapy
Monday, November 10, 2008
Visting Hours
Hi everyone,
Just to let you know visiting hours at Park Terrace are 10:00am-8:00pm 7 days a week. Lets try and make some sort of schedule so that Suzie still gets visitors. I know its not as close as rusk but she really needs to see people... also thanks to Kelley she raised over 1500 at her event... so our number is getting very high! stay tuned for a new count..
Suzie is in room #205
Park Terrace Care Center
59-20 Van Doren Street
Rego Park, New York 11368
Tel: (718) 592-9200
janine
Just to let you know visiting hours at Park Terrace are 10:00am-8:00pm 7 days a week. Lets try and make some sort of schedule so that Suzie still gets visitors. I know its not as close as rusk but she really needs to see people... also thanks to Kelley she raised over 1500 at her event... so our number is getting very high! stay tuned for a new count..
Suzie is in room #205
Park Terrace Care Center
59-20 Van Doren Street
Rego Park, New York 11368
Tel: (718) 592-9200
janine
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Before the big move
Hi Everyone,
Kay and i went to visit Suzie yesterday and we had such a great visit.. Suzie was up and looking at the food tray the nurses had just brought in.. She was hungry so i began to feed her lunch.. a whole chicken and lots of other stuff all finished by ms. moon. Suzie has been learning how to sit and stand from the bed this week according to mommy moon. Today Suzie was moved to queens. we made sure to let mommy moon know if she needed any help with the move or a ride to queens (for those of us that have cars) that we would be happy to help. For the first time Mrs. moon looked up and said thankyou we might need that help can we let you know.. (of course i said we are here for anything you need)
After feeding suzie, listening to music with her and chatting for a bit we decided to leave her to get some rest before her next apt. she was smiling, had tons of color and overall was very pleased with herself.. (as she should be) i would also like to mention as of today our total amount raised for suzie is $ 10,360 and we have many more checks coming in the mail.. thank you thank you thank you... such good friends (as ms. suzie moon says everytime we all visit)
Kay and i went to visit Suzie yesterday and we had such a great visit.. Suzie was up and looking at the food tray the nurses had just brought in.. She was hungry so i began to feed her lunch.. a whole chicken and lots of other stuff all finished by ms. moon. Suzie has been learning how to sit and stand from the bed this week according to mommy moon. Today Suzie was moved to queens. we made sure to let mommy moon know if she needed any help with the move or a ride to queens (for those of us that have cars) that we would be happy to help. For the first time Mrs. moon looked up and said thankyou we might need that help can we let you know.. (of course i said we are here for anything you need)
After feeding suzie, listening to music with her and chatting for a bit we decided to leave her to get some rest before her next apt. she was smiling, had tons of color and overall was very pleased with herself.. (as she should be) i would also like to mention as of today our total amount raised for suzie is $ 10,360 and we have many more checks coming in the mail.. thank you thank you thank you... such good friends (as ms. suzie moon says everytime we all visit)
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Suzie is Queen's Bound!
Hi All~
I just spoke to Cindy Moon who asked me to pass along the following information to Team Suzie.
Suzie will be moved this Thursday, November 6 between 10am - 12pm from Rusk to Park Terrace Care Center, 5920 VanDoren Street, Corona, NY for extended rehabilitation. See more about the center at http://www.park-terrace.com/. This is a subway to a bus commute for most of us so get those Metrocards loaded up.
Cindy and her Mom will be going out to Park Terrace tomorrow to look at the facility and check out Suzie's new digs. Suzie's Dad will ride with her in the ambulance and Cindy, her Mom and cousin will follow by car with all the goodies from Suzie's room at Rusk so they can re-decorate in Queens.
Cindy told me that on Halloween the staff at Rusk threw a party in the PT room on Suzie's floor. All the PT's dressed up as various incarnations of Madonna (80's, 90's) and that when they put on a Madonna CD Suzie sang along and knew all the words. We're going to have to find out where this affinity for Madonna comes from...she is a true child of the 80's for sure. Who knew?!
Cindy also told me that her Mom finally reached out to the Korean Community Services Center that we had suggested and that she found them very helpful. Phew!
That's the latest - please pass along as needed.
Go Team Suzie!
BARACKTHEVOTE! Go Team OBiden!
Mia
Monday, November 3, 2008
SUNDAY VISIT
On Sunday I paid Suzie a visit in the late afternoon.
Her friend Betty was there when I arrived, and they were listening to a Madonna CD on the boom box. According to Betty, Suzie was singing along to her favorite tracks.
It was great to see Suzie again for the first time in a few weeks, but Saturday was the first time I didn't notice progress. I will admit that I intentionally put off this visit, hoping that I would see all kinds of great developments since last time. In that sense, I was disappointed.
Suzie had a bright smile when I arrived, and attempted to communicate with Betty and me.
"I want to express..." she said, while looking at a binder filled with friends' pictures. She was unable to go any further.
Soon after that she seemed to zone out and lose focus on Betty and me. It seemed as if she had gone somewhere else in her mind. When she returned, she looked agitated and anxious, almost afraid.
"Are you freaking out?" I asked. "What are you freaking out about?"
She repeated the words "freaking out," but I was unsure if that was a confirmation or just the repetition that she does with everything I say. Confirmation or otherwise, something was going on inside of her. I could feel her anxiety in her sweaty palms, and in how she was squeezing my hand.
It's frustrating to not be able to figure out what she's thinking or feeling, and to be unable to help. It's also hard to know what to do in a situation like that -- stay, and ride it out or leave, and allow her to rest. I don't want to make it worse, but I also don't want to leave her when she's feeling scared.
So after about 40 minutes I left her with Betty, hoping that she would feel comforted by her oldest and dearest friend.
I wonder if Suzie knows that she's being transferred and is nervous about the move? I hope it's that, and not something traumatic that she's reliving inside, but can't yet put into words.
Her friend Betty was there when I arrived, and they were listening to a Madonna CD on the boom box. According to Betty, Suzie was singing along to her favorite tracks.
It was great to see Suzie again for the first time in a few weeks, but Saturday was the first time I didn't notice progress. I will admit that I intentionally put off this visit, hoping that I would see all kinds of great developments since last time. In that sense, I was disappointed.
Suzie had a bright smile when I arrived, and attempted to communicate with Betty and me.
"I want to express..." she said, while looking at a binder filled with friends' pictures. She was unable to go any further.
Soon after that she seemed to zone out and lose focus on Betty and me. It seemed as if she had gone somewhere else in her mind. When she returned, she looked agitated and anxious, almost afraid.
"Are you freaking out?" I asked. "What are you freaking out about?"
She repeated the words "freaking out," but I was unsure if that was a confirmation or just the repetition that she does with everything I say. Confirmation or otherwise, something was going on inside of her. I could feel her anxiety in her sweaty palms, and in how she was squeezing my hand.
It's frustrating to not be able to figure out what she's thinking or feeling, and to be unable to help. It's also hard to know what to do in a situation like that -- stay, and ride it out or leave, and allow her to rest. I don't want to make it worse, but I also don't want to leave her when she's feeling scared.
So after about 40 minutes I left her with Betty, hoping that she would feel comforted by her oldest and dearest friend.
I wonder if Suzie knows that she's being transferred and is nervous about the move? I hope it's that, and not something traumatic that she's reliving inside, but can't yet put into words.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
great hair
Shantelle, Jenny and I saw Suzie Saturday evening around 6:30pm. She looked great - love the hair - and seemed in really good spirits. After a bit Suzie asked us to turn the television off, turn the lights down and lower her bed. Apparently she thought it best to sleep through our visit. Actually, it was great - her communication skills improve daily and her sense of humor is still very much intact.
Friday, October 24, 2008
DATE CHANGE
Hey kids,
Suzie will actually be leaving on Nov 6th to another rehab not the 7th.. we still dont know where so stay tuned. she looks great and is doing well. she started standing this week and she is requesting red nail polish:) lol
have a great weekend.. j
Suzie will actually be leaving on Nov 6th to another rehab not the 7th.. we still dont know where so stay tuned. she looks great and is doing well. she started standing this week and she is requesting red nail polish:) lol
have a great weekend.. j
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Dr. Oz: What Really Happen to Your Brain During a Stoke...
Everyone:
I know this blog is really about visits and updates about Suzie (and I did have 3 wonderful visit during my recent visit to NYC) but I was watching Oprah this morning (Oct. 21, 2008) and the show was on stroke patients with Brain injuries. The main guest was a Doctor who had suffered a stroke and was describing what she felt like in the hospital with staff and visitors. I found the show very informative on how to deal with a patient with brain injuries. I would have definitely loved to have had some of this information prior to my visits.
Please watch or read...
Here is the link:
http://www.oprah.com/dated/oprahshow/oprahshow_20080904_stroke
Thanks,
Mr. Tracy (who loves his Suzie Moon!)
I know this blog is really about visits and updates about Suzie (and I did have 3 wonderful visit during my recent visit to NYC) but I was watching Oprah this morning (Oct. 21, 2008) and the show was on stroke patients with Brain injuries. The main guest was a Doctor who had suffered a stroke and was describing what she felt like in the hospital with staff and visitors. I found the show very informative on how to deal with a patient with brain injuries. I would have definitely loved to have had some of this information prior to my visits.
Please watch or read...
Here is the link:
http://www.oprah.com/dated/oprahshow/oprahshow_20080904_stroke
Thanks,
Mr. Tracy (who loves his Suzie Moon!)
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Friday Visit
Hey All,
Betsy Allen and I went to see Suzie on Friday. We had a great visit. I walked in and said " Suzie i brought someone." Suzie looked up and Said "Betsy" with a big Suzie smile.. " Mr. Moon tried to put Suzie's head piece on her chair (thinking she would want it) Suzie told him she didn't want it she could not see with it on. (finally after her saying it more then once mr. moon got the hint and we all laughed because Suzie was getting her way:) We stayed and talked with Suzie for a bit. she told us she ate a Banana and a piece of a burger? (not sure about the second one:) she said something about stepping on stairs soon. We gave her some work updates and she made some funny Suzie comments from time to time. Suzie said "betty and high school friends were here." (i know betty mentioned she visited with the girls last week) This was the first visit i had that Suzie was trying to have a full conversation with us. She loved the team Suzie shirt that fred made for her. she even held it for a bit and then looked at betsy and said " have great friends". Just an update Suzie is now not being moved till Nov 7th. yeaaaaaaa
Betsy Allen and I went to see Suzie on Friday. We had a great visit. I walked in and said " Suzie i brought someone." Suzie looked up and Said "Betsy" with a big Suzie smile.. " Mr. Moon tried to put Suzie's head piece on her chair (thinking she would want it) Suzie told him she didn't want it she could not see with it on. (finally after her saying it more then once mr. moon got the hint and we all laughed because Suzie was getting her way:) We stayed and talked with Suzie for a bit. she told us she ate a Banana and a piece of a burger? (not sure about the second one:) she said something about stepping on stairs soon. We gave her some work updates and she made some funny Suzie comments from time to time. Suzie said "betty and high school friends were here." (i know betty mentioned she visited with the girls last week) This was the first visit i had that Suzie was trying to have a full conversation with us. She loved the team Suzie shirt that fred made for her. she even held it for a bit and then looked at betsy and said " have great friends". Just an update Suzie is now not being moved till Nov 7th. yeaaaaaaa
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Suzie Laughs
Joined Scott Peehl. Tim Holm and her *Chicago Surprise* Tracy Muchesko last night for an evening visit. She was just finishing dinner with my favorite nurse Persia. She asked us to wait until she was through feeding her so she wouldn't be distracted. Walking in with these boys by my side was great. Suzie lit up like a kid on Christmas morn. She just kept repeating "You guys" and beaming. After perusing the crowd a couple of times she truly recognized Mister Muchesko and he literally took her breath away. I had mentioned that a friend of ours was going on a date tonight. She was extrremely excited about this possibility for our friend. It was really cute:) I was looking through her Madonna song book and asked her Suzie are you like a virgin"? She laughed and the I asked "Or are you a Material Girl"? She laughed again and answered swiflty and confidetnly "Material Girl". We got quite of few giggles out of her, she loves her boys. The radio happened to be on as I was walking around to the right side of the bed mid-way thru the visit Stevie Wonder was singing "I just called to say I love you"-I started singing to which Suzie chimed in & the boys joined us. She knew the whole chorus and was perfect. Those moments are incredible and we all got a little misty. Scott said, "Damn her now I have to like a Stevie Wonder song". As we were leaving we asked what she would like us to bring her on our next visit. Without missing a bit she said EVERYTHING!�
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
THANK YOU!
Hi Team Suzie,
I just wanted to send everyone a HUGE THANK YOU! Last night was a success because of all of you. Thank you to all the bands that donated their time and talent to raise money for Suzie and thank you to everyone that came as well as sent money to support Ms. Moon. Last night we raised $5,390 in three hours (WOW) also adding in donations that have been mailed to myself, jenny and Leona the total amount so far is almost $7,000.
Thanks for the continued support for Suzie . I feel privileged to know each of you and be part of such an amazing group of people!
I just wanted to send everyone a HUGE THANK YOU! Last night was a success because of all of you. Thank you to all the bands that donated their time and talent to raise money for Suzie and thank you to everyone that came as well as sent money to support Ms. Moon. Last night we raised $5,390 in three hours (WOW) also adding in donations that have been mailed to myself, jenny and Leona the total amount so far is almost $7,000.
Thanks for the continued support for Suzie . I feel privileged to know each of you and be part of such an amazing group of people!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
SUZIE IS HUNGRY!
Great news. Suzie is now eating solid food three times per day.
I visited at 5 PM on Monday afternoon, just in time for dinner. Suzie's nurse Persia was helping her eat soup, beef souffle, apple sauce and tapioca pudding. The pudding was a big hit, as was the cranberry juice that Suzie drank through a straw. Actually guzzled would be a better word.
"Very perfect food," Suzie raved.
Persia told me that Monday was the first day that Suzie ate solid food at all meals. Her appetite was great, and she even asked for corn, which unfortunately was not on the menu. But Persia promised to make a special request.
Suzie's mom and aunt also came in during dinner, and spoke to her in Korean. Suzie repeated Korean phrases back to them, which made them both very happy.
I asked Suzie if anyone from MJM had been by to visit.
"Pat and Lauren," she said.
"And Janine?" I asked.
"Janine Panico," Suzie said.
I told her about my trip to Boca Raton with Danusia last week for MJM, and how Sarah Palin had made a campaign stop at our hotel. (I also explained who Palin was, in case Suzie hadn't heard about America's favorite hockey mom.) Then I mentioned that Danusia had yelled "Go Obama!" at McCain supporters who were lined up along the road to the hotel.
"Go Obama!" Suzie yelled back at me. So I guess we know who she supports.
It had been more than a week since I last saw Suzie, and I found her to be much more responsive than on my last visit. She showed off her strength by giving my hand a few big, hard squeezes, and she was clearly enjoying eating food again. Each time Persia would give her something new, Suzie thanked her. She even fed herself a bit.
I talked a bit more about work and, before I left, I asked Suzie if she remembered my name. In all my visits she has never greeted me by name.
"Betty?" she said. Her mom and aunt laughed and so did Suzie.
I leaned over and whispered in her ear.
"Will!" Suzie said in a raised voice, her eyes wide, as if it was all coming back to her.
That was a great moment.
Looking forward to seeing all of Suzie's NYC crew tonight at 7 PM at The R Bar, 218 Bowery, between Prince and Spring Street. (R/W to Prince, 6 to Spring, F/V to Second Ave.)
I visited at 5 PM on Monday afternoon, just in time for dinner. Suzie's nurse Persia was helping her eat soup, beef souffle, apple sauce and tapioca pudding. The pudding was a big hit, as was the cranberry juice that Suzie drank through a straw. Actually guzzled would be a better word.
"Very perfect food," Suzie raved.
Persia told me that Monday was the first day that Suzie ate solid food at all meals. Her appetite was great, and she even asked for corn, which unfortunately was not on the menu. But Persia promised to make a special request.
Suzie's mom and aunt also came in during dinner, and spoke to her in Korean. Suzie repeated Korean phrases back to them, which made them both very happy.
I asked Suzie if anyone from MJM had been by to visit.
"Pat and Lauren," she said.
"And Janine?" I asked.
"Janine Panico," Suzie said.
I told her about my trip to Boca Raton with Danusia last week for MJM, and how Sarah Palin had made a campaign stop at our hotel. (I also explained who Palin was, in case Suzie hadn't heard about America's favorite hockey mom.) Then I mentioned that Danusia had yelled "Go Obama!" at McCain supporters who were lined up along the road to the hotel.
"Go Obama!" Suzie yelled back at me. So I guess we know who she supports.
It had been more than a week since I last saw Suzie, and I found her to be much more responsive than on my last visit. She showed off her strength by giving my hand a few big, hard squeezes, and she was clearly enjoying eating food again. Each time Persia would give her something new, Suzie thanked her. She even fed herself a bit.
I talked a bit more about work and, before I left, I asked Suzie if she remembered my name. In all my visits she has never greeted me by name.
"Betty?" she said. Her mom and aunt laughed and so did Suzie.
I leaned over and whispered in her ear.
"Will!" Suzie said in a raised voice, her eyes wide, as if it was all coming back to her.
That was a great moment.
Looking forward to seeing all of Suzie's NYC crew tonight at 7 PM at The R Bar, 218 Bowery, between Prince and Spring Street. (R/W to Prince, 6 to Spring, F/V to Second Ave.)
Monday, October 13, 2008
Team SUZIE Update Monday Oct 13th
Hi All,
Just a few updates. Suzie is starting to eat food now. (Betty fed her a bit yesterday and Suzie did great) The rehab is starting to get her off the feeding tube. Mia Spoke with Suzie's sister the other night who told us Suzie will be moved to a Rehab in Queens on Oct 23rd maybe before then. Once we have more details we will pass them along. Cindy (Suzie's sister) is still trying to get Suzie moved to a Rehab in the city but as of now she will be moved to queens. As most of you have noticed Suzie has started to move her right side. The doctors are asking that anyone that visits sit or stand to her right side. This is so she gets used to using that side of her body. I know we all (including myself) tend to stay to her left because she seems comfortable that way but force yourself to go to her right. Suzie has her good days and her bad days. So if you happen to get Suzie on a bad day don't get frustrated or upset go again and the next time she will have a good day.
We are awaiting more detailed information on Suzie's progress and future recovery process from her Sister. Once we know we will pass it on.
Just a reminder Tomorrow Tuesday (Oct 14th) is Suzie's benefit.
Hope to see you all there!
Just a few updates. Suzie is starting to eat food now. (Betty fed her a bit yesterday and Suzie did great) The rehab is starting to get her off the feeding tube. Mia Spoke with Suzie's sister the other night who told us Suzie will be moved to a Rehab in Queens on Oct 23rd maybe before then. Once we have more details we will pass them along. Cindy (Suzie's sister) is still trying to get Suzie moved to a Rehab in the city but as of now she will be moved to queens. As most of you have noticed Suzie has started to move her right side. The doctors are asking that anyone that visits sit or stand to her right side. This is so she gets used to using that side of her body. I know we all (including myself) tend to stay to her left because she seems comfortable that way but force yourself to go to her right. Suzie has her good days and her bad days. So if you happen to get Suzie on a bad day don't get frustrated or upset go again and the next time she will have a good day.
We are awaiting more detailed information on Suzie's progress and future recovery process from her Sister. Once we know we will pass it on.
Just a reminder Tomorrow Tuesday (Oct 14th) is Suzie's benefit.
Hope to see you all there!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
My Best Visit with Suzie!
I had a great visit with Suzie tonight. As soon as I walked in, Suzie exclaimed, "Betty!" She and I chatted a bit. I asked her if her foot is still bothering her and she said, "A little." I showed her recent pictures of my son and she ooh'ed and aah'ed. When she held my hand, her grip was firm.
After 15 minutes, Suzie's friends from junior high school, Jessica and Cindy, joined me in Suzie's room. Suzie was so happy to see them. The three of us talked to Suzie. She was in excellent spirits and she LAUGHED. It was the first time I heard Suzie laugh in a very long time. She was a little tired but she was alert and very in control. She didn't have any of the outbursts I've seen in past visits.
It was such a great visit. It was so great seeing Suzie happy. We were all happy at the end of the visit.
After 15 minutes, Suzie's friends from junior high school, Jessica and Cindy, joined me in Suzie's room. Suzie was so happy to see them. The three of us talked to Suzie. She was in excellent spirits and she LAUGHED. It was the first time I heard Suzie laugh in a very long time. She was a little tired but she was alert and very in control. She didn't have any of the outbursts I've seen in past visits.
It was such a great visit. It was so great seeing Suzie happy. We were all happy at the end of the visit.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Friday visit
hey all,
went to see Suzie on Friday it was a very short but a good visit. Suzie's mom said she had a good day of therapy. she made sure we noticed Suzie's legs moving:) Kay mentioned to Suzie she was going to be out of town for a month and Suzie said "ohhhhhhh" Kay said " do you want to come? Suzie said okay... ummmm no.. she also mentioned betty a few times. "You spoke to betty?, betty was here, and then i think she just said betty again. (we told her betty would be visiting after the weekend) she was pretty tired but looked great. her right arm is up placed in a cushion thing and I asked her mom how it was doing and she said okay.i also tried to order suzie more TV time but mommy moon said the doctors said only the radio right now but that she would ask again. The nurses not only ate all of Noelle's cookies but they want more and wanted the recipe... mission accomplished Noelle!
went to see Suzie on Friday it was a very short but a good visit. Suzie's mom said she had a good day of therapy. she made sure we noticed Suzie's legs moving:) Kay mentioned to Suzie she was going to be out of town for a month and Suzie said "ohhhhhhh" Kay said " do you want to come? Suzie said okay... ummmm no.. she also mentioned betty a few times. "You spoke to betty?, betty was here, and then i think she just said betty again. (we told her betty would be visiting after the weekend) she was pretty tired but looked great. her right arm is up placed in a cushion thing and I asked her mom how it was doing and she said okay.i also tried to order suzie more TV time but mommy moon said the doctors said only the radio right now but that she would ask again. The nurses not only ate all of Noelle's cookies but they want more and wanted the recipe... mission accomplished Noelle!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Videotape Assistance Needed for Fundraiser
Hi All~
We're looking to videotape the fundraiser event on Tuesday, October 14 at the R-Bar. Does anyone have a resource who could handle this request? I'm putting out the word to some key people but thought it couldn't hurt to ask here as well.
Let me know either with a post here or shoot me an e-mail at miapinto1@aol.com.
Thanks and Go Team Suzie!
Mia
Thursday night shift
hey gang,
Betty we must have just missed you. Myself. primavera and pat went to go see suzie at 5:30. She was in very good spirits but was very tired. she said a few words like thank you and yes and okay. Pat asked if she could polish Suzies nails and Suzie smiled and said Okay and put up her hand:) once again today Suize was moving even more then Monday. She literally lifted her head, arms legs and her right leg is moving...yeaaaaaaa
Betty i will make sure her tv is working tomorrow i turned it on today and was wondering why it wouldn't work (now i know)
Suzie did have a bit of pain. when i asked where the pain was she said here.. (pointing to her leg) i also asked the nurse and they seem to be on it. we lotiond suzies legs and feet which she liked (for whomever goes next) all and all she is getting stronger and stronger everyday. today i totally saw our suzie. it made me leave with a smile.. Our girl is such a fighter.. xoxox janine
Betty we must have just missed you. Myself. primavera and pat went to go see suzie at 5:30. She was in very good spirits but was very tired. she said a few words like thank you and yes and okay. Pat asked if she could polish Suzies nails and Suzie smiled and said Okay and put up her hand:) once again today Suize was moving even more then Monday. She literally lifted her head, arms legs and her right leg is moving...yeaaaaaaa
Betty i will make sure her tv is working tomorrow i turned it on today and was wondering why it wouldn't work (now i know)
Suzie did have a bit of pain. when i asked where the pain was she said here.. (pointing to her leg) i also asked the nurse and they seem to be on it. we lotiond suzies legs and feet which she liked (for whomever goes next) all and all she is getting stronger and stronger everyday. today i totally saw our suzie. it made me leave with a smile.. Our girl is such a fighter.. xoxox janine
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Suzie - Thursday Oct 2nd
I visited Suzie twice today. In the afternoon, Suzie was in a wheelchair in front of the nurses' station. She seemed to be in the same state that Will reported. Every once in a while, she would reach down to her ankle and say, "No. No. Pain." The nurses tell me that they have assessed her and she is not in pain and that it is mostly neurological...although they did say that she is on pain medication. When I asked her where it hurts, she looked at me calmly, put her hand on her thigh and said, "Over here." So I can see why she's frustrated. She's trying to say she's in pain but is being told that she is not.
I think Suzie is resisting the restraints on her. She keeps trying to pull at the seat belt that is securing her to the chair. When she reaches down, it looks like she is trying to get the splint off her left foot. Unfortunately, the splint cannot be removed. It is needed to hold her foot up in a certain position. What is incredible is that Suzie is able to reach down with her hand and bring her left leg up so that she is touching her ankle.
Suzie was calmer this evening. She was very quiet before she saw me. However, once she saw me, she got upset and tried to reach down for her foot again. She did calm down again after a while and drifted off to sleep.
Would someone mind reordering the TV for Suzie? The order I put through last week expired. I tried to reorder it tonight but after holding for 20 minutes, I hung up because I didn't want to spend the remaining 15 minutes of visiting hours on the phone. (I think there is less hold time during the day.) I won't be able to go back to the hospital until next week so won't have a chance to reorder it for her. I usually order it for a week but you can order it for as little as one day. To reorder, turn the tv on and call the phone number on the screen.
Thank you all for your continued support for Suzie.
I think Suzie is resisting the restraints on her. She keeps trying to pull at the seat belt that is securing her to the chair. When she reaches down, it looks like she is trying to get the splint off her left foot. Unfortunately, the splint cannot be removed. It is needed to hold her foot up in a certain position. What is incredible is that Suzie is able to reach down with her hand and bring her left leg up so that she is touching her ankle.
Suzie was calmer this evening. She was very quiet before she saw me. However, once she saw me, she got upset and tried to reach down for her foot again. She did calm down again after a while and drifted off to sleep.
Would someone mind reordering the TV for Suzie? The order I put through last week expired. I tried to reorder it tonight but after holding for 20 minutes, I hung up because I didn't want to spend the remaining 15 minutes of visiting hours on the phone. (I think there is less hold time during the day.) I won't be able to go back to the hospital until next week so won't have a chance to reorder it for her. I usually order it for a week but you can order it for as little as one day. To reorder, turn the tv on and call the phone number on the screen.
Thank you all for your continued support for Suzie.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
TUESDAY AFTERNOON VISIT
I went to visit Suzie on Tuesday afternoon at 4:45.
She had finished her therapy for the day and was in bed, awake but looking exhausted. She caught a glimpse of me at the sink outside her door, doing my pre-visit hand washing. She smiled and waved.
I noticed a few things immediately. She is much more active than the last time I saw her just a few days ago. Not active in the sense of getting up and walking around, but squirming, wiggling, raising herself up in bed.
The difficult part of this is, her movement often seemed to be discomfort-related. She would yell out “pain” and hold her left hand to her head while lifting her back off the bed and crunching toward her leg.
The pain seemed to go in waves and, when it would subside, she would calm down and re-engage with me.
I sat down on a chair next to her bed. She reached out her left hand and held mine. I asked her how she was doing.
“Fight,” she said. “You can fight.”
“You’re fighting to get better,” I said. "You have to keep fighting."
I told her about some things that were happening at work, and she widened her eyes and said, “Oh.” It was clear to me that she was reacting to what I was saying. Then I told her that Benjamin Solotaire said hello. Suzie said his name and smiled. She also said “the beach.” And then she said something surprising.
“You have an opening?” she asked.
“Damian does,” I said. “Damian has an opening tonight.”
I knew from everyone at MJM that Damian Costilla, one of our PAs, had an art opening that same night. I wonder if someone told Suzie. If not, it’s an odd coincidence.
She repeated it again, more definitively. “You have an opening.”
I sat there for a while, holding her hand, until one of the nurses came in and I said goodbye.
From the hallway I heard her yell “Pain!” three times, much louder than she had yelled when I was in the room . I hope the nurse was giving her something to make her feel better.
Then she yelled “Why why why?”
I’m glad she didn’t ask me that when I was in the room, because I don’t have a good answer for her. She doesn’t deserve this fucked up thing that has happened to her, but she‘s fighting hard to deal with it.
She had finished her therapy for the day and was in bed, awake but looking exhausted. She caught a glimpse of me at the sink outside her door, doing my pre-visit hand washing. She smiled and waved.
I noticed a few things immediately. She is much more active than the last time I saw her just a few days ago. Not active in the sense of getting up and walking around, but squirming, wiggling, raising herself up in bed.
The difficult part of this is, her movement often seemed to be discomfort-related. She would yell out “pain” and hold her left hand to her head while lifting her back off the bed and crunching toward her leg.
The pain seemed to go in waves and, when it would subside, she would calm down and re-engage with me.
I sat down on a chair next to her bed. She reached out her left hand and held mine. I asked her how she was doing.
“Fight,” she said. “You can fight.”
“You’re fighting to get better,” I said. "You have to keep fighting."
I told her about some things that were happening at work, and she widened her eyes and said, “Oh.” It was clear to me that she was reacting to what I was saying. Then I told her that Benjamin Solotaire said hello. Suzie said his name and smiled. She also said “the beach.” And then she said something surprising.
“You have an opening?” she asked.
“Damian does,” I said. “Damian has an opening tonight.”
I knew from everyone at MJM that Damian Costilla, one of our PAs, had an art opening that same night. I wonder if someone told Suzie. If not, it’s an odd coincidence.
She repeated it again, more definitively. “You have an opening.”
I sat there for a while, holding her hand, until one of the nurses came in and I said goodbye.
From the hallway I heard her yell “Pain!” three times, much louder than she had yelled when I was in the room . I hope the nurse was giving her something to make her feel better.
Then she yelled “Why why why?”
I’m glad she didn’t ask me that when I was in the room, because I don’t have a good answer for her. She doesn’t deserve this fucked up thing that has happened to her, but she‘s fighting hard to deal with it.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Suzie Moon Benefit date change
Hi everyone,
Due to circumstances beyond our control, the Suzie Moon Benefit has been moved to Tuesday, the 14th at R-BAR 218 Bowery (Between Prince and Spring)
On the upside, Fred Caputi was able to finagle an extra half hour of time on stage (7-8:30) so he hopes to expand the entertainment a bit. Please come out if you can, wallet or checkbook in hand and bring some friends. If you are unable to attend please know that we are always collecting donations. ( Checks can be sent to Janine Panico, c/o MJM Creative, 71 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011 and cash can be given to Janine Panico, Jenny Moss, Leona Brown.)
Thanks to all who have contributed so generously. Ms. Moon is doing better each day we see her but money is and will continue to be a major factor in her recovery. So come on out, tell friends, family , strangers:)))) Can’t wait to see everyone. More fundraisers will follow soon!
Thanks for the continued support for Suzie .
Due to circumstances beyond our control, the Suzie Moon Benefit has been moved to Tuesday, the 14th at R-BAR 218 Bowery (Between Prince and Spring)
On the upside, Fred Caputi was able to finagle an extra half hour of time on stage (7-8:30) so he hopes to expand the entertainment a bit. Please come out if you can, wallet or checkbook in hand and bring some friends. If you are unable to attend please know that we are always collecting donations. ( Checks can be sent to Janine Panico, c/o MJM Creative, 71 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011 and cash can be given to Janine Panico, Jenny Moss, Leona Brown.)
Thanks to all who have contributed so generously. Ms. Moon is doing better each day we see her but money is and will continue to be a major factor in her recovery. So come on out, tell friends, family , strangers:)))) Can’t wait to see everyone. More fundraisers will follow soon!
Thanks for the continued support for Suzie .
Monday Visit with Ms. Moon
Hey all,
We saw Suzie Monday. She was having a very stressful day but she was saying alot of new words and boy was she moving around. I actually was shocked with how much she was moving. she literally was trying to get up. hopefully Suzie is having a better day today but overall she looked great and is getting healthy more and more everyday. Noelle is making a little snack for the nurses as a thankyou for all their help.. (thanks Noelle) Also There is a very good chance the event on oct 15th may be changing so please stay tuned for updates..
xoxox janine
We saw Suzie Monday. She was having a very stressful day but she was saying alot of new words and boy was she moving around. I actually was shocked with how much she was moving. she literally was trying to get up. hopefully Suzie is having a better day today but overall she looked great and is getting healthy more and more everyday. Noelle is making a little snack for the nurses as a thankyou for all their help.. (thanks Noelle) Also There is a very good chance the event on oct 15th may be changing so please stay tuned for updates..
xoxox janine
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Sunday Visit with Suzie
Just came for visiting with Suzie.
She looked good but tired.
She kept saying " You Far" as she tried to set up or as she raised her hands.
Several times she would say gibberish and look at me and laugh with that "Suzie face".
It was like she knew what she was saying was gibberish, but she didn't know how to make it right.
She also said " You work" followed by "You Far"
She never said "Fuck" . She smiled when I told her I had heard that a lot of people had been to visit her. Everytime I mentioned someone's name she smiled.
All in all a good but short visit.
Kay
She looked good but tired.
She kept saying " You Far" as she tried to set up or as she raised her hands.
Several times she would say gibberish and look at me and laugh with that "Suzie face".
It was like she knew what she was saying was gibberish, but she didn't know how to make it right.
She also said " You work" followed by "You Far"
She never said "Fuck" . She smiled when I told her I had heard that a lot of people had been to visit her. Everytime I mentioned someone's name she smiled.
All in all a good but short visit.
Kay
Friday, September 26, 2008
Our Visit with suzie
What a great visit we had tonight. Noelle, myself and pam walked in Suzies room at about 4:30pm. we walked in to a smiling suzie moon. she looked at me and said " you came wednesday" i smiled it was the first time i have heard suzie speak a sentence. she then as with her visit with betty continued to repeat your awesome! i told her i agreed that i was awesome.. lol haaaaaaaaaahahaha but then told her not as awesome as her. she cried maybe twice but i just called her name and stuck my tongue out at her and she laughed. she laughed alot with us but contined to say your awesome! at one point we decided to show her two pictures from the book we put together for her. Danuisa was first.. she looked and smiled at the picture (noelle said "suzie look Danuisa") and then clear as can be suzie said Danuisa" Our second picture was Ms. Jenny Moss she smiled again and almost was able to say jenny's full name. we stayed not to long. noelle read a card her and pam wrote and we talked to her for a bit. I think she said fuck maybe twice but we mostly got your awesome.. suzie is most def there and she is trying her best to make out words. she looked great, and she looked so much more rested then yesterday. i think the late visits were a great thing. Many of you have been asking about weekend visits . we beleive the times are the same after 4pm is best... have a great weekend everyone. can't wait to hear what suzie's new word is monday:)
My visit with Suzie
I just got back from my visit with Suzie. This visit was an emotional one.
When I first walked into Suzie's room, she was repeating the word "fuck". When she saw me, she said, "You are apple". She kept repeating this while her voice continuously got louder. After a while, she would calm down, drop back to a talking tone but continuing to repeat, "You are apple" again in a louder and louder tone. She looked quite upset. While repeating this, she raised her left hand and reached high up in the air. She also lifted her head and shoulders off the bed as if she was trying to get up. I didn't know what to think. I was amazed at her physical abilities but I was upset that she seemed upset. I kept saying, "I am Betty, Suzie." After a while, I just resigned to said, "Ok. I am apple."
After 10 minutes, I decided to leave. As I walk by the nurses' station in tears, two nurses asked why I was leaving. I told them that I did not want to upset Suzie and tire her out. They asked me if I could stay longer and told me that I was not upsetting Suzie. They said that she cries when she is alone. So I turned around and headed back into her room. I ended up staying for another hour. That hour flew by.
Upon seeing me again, Suzie smiled and said, "You came. You came." Then my waterworks started again. I told her that she looked awesome. She then repeatedly said, "You are awesome." After a while, it became a question. "You are awesome?" I told her that she is amazing. She said, "You are amazing?" It was as if she was trying out the phrases. As I talked to her, she smiled a lot. I could tell that she understood me as she responded with facial expressions. She also made a few attempts to ask me some questions.
Suzie is there and can understand me. She might be having trouble controlling what's coming out of her mouth and she's very frustrated with trying to find words to express herself but definitely she can understand me. I find it similar to someone learning a second language. If someone speaks to you in that language, you can pick up what they are saying but it'll be a lot more difficult for you to speak back in that language. She probably keeps repeating "apple" because it is one of the words she's learning during therapy. I told her not to get so frustrated with herself. She can't expect to learn to talk in one day. At one point, she asked, "Are you anal?" then laughed at herself because I don't think that's what she really meant to ask me.
She cried and said again, "You came. You came."
I said, "Of course I came. I couldn't wait to come. I'm sorry I wasn't here earlier but I was sick."
She paused and asked, "Are....you....better?" Then gave a small laugh for managing to get that question out.
I sat quietly with her while she drifted in and out of sleep. Before I left, I told her that I'll try to stop in tomorrow. If I can't make it tomorrow, I'll definitely be there on Sunday. She asked, "Promise?" Oh, I'll be there tomorrow.
I told her that I was turning off the radio so that she can get some rest. She said, "Oh-kay". It made me smile because she said it in the same tone that my 21 month old son says, "okay".
As I left, Suzie looked well. I was amazed with all I saw and heard. We were both smiling.
When I first walked into Suzie's room, she was repeating the word "fuck". When she saw me, she said, "You are apple". She kept repeating this while her voice continuously got louder. After a while, she would calm down, drop back to a talking tone but continuing to repeat, "You are apple" again in a louder and louder tone. She looked quite upset. While repeating this, she raised her left hand and reached high up in the air. She also lifted her head and shoulders off the bed as if she was trying to get up. I didn't know what to think. I was amazed at her physical abilities but I was upset that she seemed upset. I kept saying, "I am Betty, Suzie." After a while, I just resigned to said, "Ok. I am apple."
After 10 minutes, I decided to leave. As I walk by the nurses' station in tears, two nurses asked why I was leaving. I told them that I did not want to upset Suzie and tire her out. They asked me if I could stay longer and told me that I was not upsetting Suzie. They said that she cries when she is alone. So I turned around and headed back into her room. I ended up staying for another hour. That hour flew by.
Upon seeing me again, Suzie smiled and said, "You came. You came." Then my waterworks started again. I told her that she looked awesome. She then repeatedly said, "You are awesome." After a while, it became a question. "You are awesome?" I told her that she is amazing. She said, "You are amazing?" It was as if she was trying out the phrases. As I talked to her, she smiled a lot. I could tell that she understood me as she responded with facial expressions. She also made a few attempts to ask me some questions.
Suzie is there and can understand me. She might be having trouble controlling what's coming out of her mouth and she's very frustrated with trying to find words to express herself but definitely she can understand me. I find it similar to someone learning a second language. If someone speaks to you in that language, you can pick up what they are saying but it'll be a lot more difficult for you to speak back in that language. She probably keeps repeating "apple" because it is one of the words she's learning during therapy. I told her not to get so frustrated with herself. She can't expect to learn to talk in one day. At one point, she asked, "Are you anal?" then laughed at herself because I don't think that's what she really meant to ask me.
She cried and said again, "You came. You came."
I said, "Of course I came. I couldn't wait to come. I'm sorry I wasn't here earlier but I was sick."
She paused and asked, "Are....you....better?" Then gave a small laugh for managing to get that question out.
I sat quietly with her while she drifted in and out of sleep. Before I left, I told her that I'll try to stop in tomorrow. If I can't make it tomorrow, I'll definitely be there on Sunday. She asked, "Promise?" Oh, I'll be there tomorrow.
I told her that I was turning off the radio so that she can get some rest. She said, "Oh-kay". It made me smile because she said it in the same tone that my 21 month old son says, "okay".
As I left, Suzie looked well. I was amazed with all I saw and heard. We were both smiling.
Hi everyone,
We just got a call fro Cindy (Suzie's Sister) they have requested that Suzie have no visits till after 4pm (not even her parents are going during the day) Suzie as been too tired for her therapy because of such active days of people in and out on top of her therapy. We ask that you please follow the family and doctors wishes for no visits till after 4pm and only close friends and family at this time.
Thanks and keep those donations coming:)
Janine
Happy Birthday to me...
Forgot to mention a great thing that happened...Cindy (Suzie's sister) told us this great story....on monday, while the speech therapist was working with Suzie, she noticed that Suzie kept saying "anniversary." The therapist turns to Cindy and asks, if it is an anniversary of some sort that just happened or today...and Cindy told her that it was Suzie's birthday on August 4. So the therapist starts to sing happy birthday. Now, Cindy's assuming that the next thing Suzie will do is to repeat after the therapist...but instead, she chimes along with the following verse, and when she gets to this part..."happy birthday to....", she finishes with "me!" and a great big smile. Suzie finished the whole song, never stopping or stuttering.
Along with the song, she recited the alphabet start to finish.
Cindy told us this in tears and said that the room was like a Korean soap-opera, Mom, Dad and Cindy all in tears.
Is that great, or what? Have a great weekend....
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Family Request for Those Visiting
Hi Friends~
Janine, Pauline and I were able to spend some time talking with Suzie's sister Cindy today prior to a visit.
Cindy expressed how much the family appreciated everyone's support but asked that we please keep our visits short - no more than 5 - 10 minutes at a time and no more than 2 -3 people at a time at the end of the day, after 4pm ONLY. The concern is that Suzie is getting very frustrated and tired as her daily therapy is very intense. On Thursday she was too tired following an early afternoon visit with her parents and sister to complete her speech therapy. Suzie must get her rest so she can focus on her recovery. Close friends should continue to visit under these parameters as too many new faces at once might be overwhelming. We will continue to keep everyone posted as she progresses.
We have offered Cindy the support and assistance of our community and left contact numbers with her. She told us that Suzie will be discharged from Rusk on October 23 and transferred to another rehab facility. The hope is that a space will be available at a facility in Manhattan but a location in Queens is a possibility. Again we will update as new information becomes available.
Thanks everyone for being such an amazing support network.
A Friend...
I visited Suzie today, she was being wheeled around the halls of the 9th floor by her Dad when I saw her. She was having a tearful, frustrating moment, but she looked right up at me when I approached, burst into tears and said, "You forget." "No, I did not forget you, honey." I held her hand and I told her how pretty she looked, she held my hand back. There were bursts of tears and "Forget" a lot...and then I remembered that I had brought her a stuffed gorilla (picked out especially by my daughter, Mabel), so I showed Suzie the gorilla, and told her that I had something for her. "She stopped crying, looked at it and said, "Oooohh....a friend." Then I noticed that she had on a little touch of make-up, so I told her how pretty she looked and I saw that she had make-up on. "Oh, you know." , she said. Then it was time for her to go back to her room, and her sister came to greet me and give me some info on how she is doing.
She's making phenomenal strides. The therapists are all being quite aggressive in getting her to do more and more. The breathing tube was removed yesterday, and her wound looked nice and clean. They were planning to take away the feeding tube soon, as well. From all other accounts posted here, I must agree - the room she is in is quite nice, at the end of the hall, private, and with large windows with a nice view. All kinds of CWA decorations, and family all around. Suzie is such a fighter, and however long it takes, I feel confident that we'll get her back. One day at a time.
I walked away from the hospital feeling inspired. Several doctors came to visit while I was there, and clearly she is in good hands.
Mia and Janine joined me after a little while, can't remember the exact words that were said, but at one point, she actually looked up at us and gave us a little Suzie-smirk.
Her sister Cindy, advised me to let everyone know that while Suzie is making great strides, she gets incredibly tired from all of the therapy and then while visitors are talking to her, she gets very frustrated and stressed from not being able to communicate. Hence, the "fuck." I must admit, it was hard to not smile while she was going into her bursts of "Fuck", but her Dad was standing there saying, "Now, not nice words, not nice words!" Cindy did ask that we provide the therapists with a chart (she said a list of names), but the production in us has to produce something, a Powerpoint? A Keynote? Digital photos? Do we need a projector? Mia and the rest of us (met with Rick, Erin and Kathy L afterwards), decided it had to be with photos and names. I'll let the producers produce....but know that there may be a request out for some photos! Cindy also asked that maybe we try to not overwhelm Suzie with too many visits. Keep them short, no longer than 10-20 minutes, again - a detail that I'll let Mia and Janine communicate better.
I like to think that maybe Suzie knew who I was, hard to tell. Nonetheless it was comforting to see her, hold her hand, get a little smile. Hoping that she found it comforting, too. Hearing her voice, loud, strong - wow, she is something!
Like others who have posted here, I concur that it is good for her and for you to see her, hold her hand, talk to her, give her words of encouragement. Respect the family's wishes by keeping the visits short, and when Miss Suzie looks tired, it's time to go. At one point, Suzie looked at us and said, "Over." Okay, we took the hint...it was time to go.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Thank you all!
For those of you who don't know me, my name is Betty Crosa. Suzie and I have been great friends since high school so I have been very much involved with Suzie's situation since I found out about it.
First, thank you, Mia for setting up this blog. This is amazing! In addition, thank you everyone for being there for Suzie. In the past few weeks, I have been struggling with balancing the demands of my family, work and visits to Suzie. I've been so worried that Suzie is lonely and feeling guilty that I'm not spending all my free time with her. At the same time, I've also been feeling guilty that I was spending too much time with Suzie and not enough time with my husband and son. I can see now that Suzie has many great friends behind her. It gives me great comfort to see that so many people are visiting her. The blog really helps me be more informative of her situation. It's been very frustrating getting to the hospital after work and on weekends to find that the right people are not available to shed light on Suzie's state of recovery.
Since I have come down with a bad cold recently, I have not visited Suzie since Sunday. (Now that she is in the rehab, I'm afraid to get her sick, creating a setback.) So I'm in awe of the progress I'm hearing from the blog. I can't wait to see her, hear her talk and say "Fuck!" with her.
Thank you again. I cried tears of joy while reading this blog in the office today. You guys really made my day!
First, thank you, Mia for setting up this blog. This is amazing! In addition, thank you everyone for being there for Suzie. In the past few weeks, I have been struggling with balancing the demands of my family, work and visits to Suzie. I've been so worried that Suzie is lonely and feeling guilty that I'm not spending all my free time with her. At the same time, I've also been feeling guilty that I was spending too much time with Suzie and not enough time with my husband and son. I can see now that Suzie has many great friends behind her. It gives me great comfort to see that so many people are visiting her. The blog really helps me be more informative of her situation. It's been very frustrating getting to the hospital after work and on weekends to find that the right people are not available to shed light on Suzie's state of recovery.
Since I have come down with a bad cold recently, I have not visited Suzie since Sunday. (Now that she is in the rehab, I'm afraid to get her sick, creating a setback.) So I'm in awe of the progress I'm hearing from the blog. I can't wait to see her, hear her talk and say "Fuck!" with her.
Thank you again. I cried tears of joy while reading this blog in the office today. You guys really made my day!
SUZIE WANTS MAKEUP!
If you haven’t visited Suzie yet, now is the time.
Her progress after two days of physical, occupational and speech therapy is truly inspiring.
When Mia Pinto and I visited on Monday, Suzie’s nurse Clare told us that she had started speaking – calling the nurses by name and thanking them. She wasn’t able to -- or didn’t chose to -- speak to Mia or me on Monday. But today she was talking up a storm.
Danusia arrived first, just after 12, with flowers. I arrived about ten minutes later. As I walked the corridor toward Suzie’s room I heard her voice strong and clear, all the way down the hallway. It was a great surprise.
If you’ve known anyone who has suffered a debilitating stroke, you know the process of re-learning can be extremely frustrating. And Suzie is clearly frustrated. I suspect that what she is thinking in her head is not matching what comes out of her mouth. And her frustration often results in crying, or growling with anger, or lowering her head to compose her thoughts.
Or cursing. There was a lot of cursing today. At one point she just yelled “Fuck!” And then variations on it, i.e. “fuck it” and “fuck this” and “fuck you.”
So, if you visit and she tells you to fuck off, don’t take it personally.
But she is speaking, saying words, phrases, the beginnings of sentences. That is huge, and bodes extremely well for the future. She is determined to communicate. And she wants to ask questions.
Suzie said to me, “Forget. Did you forget?”
“Did I forget you?” I said. “Of course not.”
“Did you forget,” she repeated. “When you had an…”
The word she said next sounded like aneurysm. When I visited on Monday I had told Suzie that I had an aneurysm too, back in 1997. Unlike Suzie’s, mine was discovered before it ruptured, and treated before I had any lasting neurological problems. But she must have remembered that conversation, because she asked me about it.
And then the questions kept coming.
She asked me if I was “fucking my neighbor.”
“I will, if she’s hot.” I said. Suzie smiled.
Then she asked me if I was gambling. Suzie has done enough shows with me in Vegas to know the answer to that question.
I asked her if she was hungry and she said, “McNuggets.” She and I had talked about how hard it is to be stuck in the hospital, watching TV commercials for fast food. Later on she said “hamburger.”
And she also said some things that I didn’t understand. She kept saying “Eunice” and repeating the numbers 52820. If anyone can shed any light on these mysteries, please do.
Later on, I grabbed a tissue to wipe her nose and she said, “Makeup.”
I asked her if she wanted makeup and she repeated it. “Makeup!” A few moments later Patty Chabrier and Erin Aftisse showed up with a Sephora bag – FILLED WITH MAKEUP!
Great minds think alike.
Suzie’s mom told us that Suzie had had a few sips of water yesterday. She’s still being fed through a feeding tube, but something tells me a 6 piece McNuggets is in her future.
I was very nervous before I went to see her on Monday, and now I can’t wait to go back again. I can’t wait to see how she progresses -- and to help her with that progress.
Her progress after two days of physical, occupational and speech therapy is truly inspiring.
When Mia Pinto and I visited on Monday, Suzie’s nurse Clare told us that she had started speaking – calling the nurses by name and thanking them. She wasn’t able to -- or didn’t chose to -- speak to Mia or me on Monday. But today she was talking up a storm.
Danusia arrived first, just after 12, with flowers. I arrived about ten minutes later. As I walked the corridor toward Suzie’s room I heard her voice strong and clear, all the way down the hallway. It was a great surprise.
If you’ve known anyone who has suffered a debilitating stroke, you know the process of re-learning can be extremely frustrating. And Suzie is clearly frustrated. I suspect that what she is thinking in her head is not matching what comes out of her mouth. And her frustration often results in crying, or growling with anger, or lowering her head to compose her thoughts.
Or cursing. There was a lot of cursing today. At one point she just yelled “Fuck!” And then variations on it, i.e. “fuck it” and “fuck this” and “fuck you.”
So, if you visit and she tells you to fuck off, don’t take it personally.
But she is speaking, saying words, phrases, the beginnings of sentences. That is huge, and bodes extremely well for the future. She is determined to communicate. And she wants to ask questions.
Suzie said to me, “Forget. Did you forget?”
“Did I forget you?” I said. “Of course not.”
“Did you forget,” she repeated. “When you had an…”
The word she said next sounded like aneurysm. When I visited on Monday I had told Suzie that I had an aneurysm too, back in 1997. Unlike Suzie’s, mine was discovered before it ruptured, and treated before I had any lasting neurological problems. But she must have remembered that conversation, because she asked me about it.
And then the questions kept coming.
She asked me if I was “fucking my neighbor.”
“I will, if she’s hot.” I said. Suzie smiled.
Then she asked me if I was gambling. Suzie has done enough shows with me in Vegas to know the answer to that question.
I asked her if she was hungry and she said, “McNuggets.” She and I had talked about how hard it is to be stuck in the hospital, watching TV commercials for fast food. Later on she said “hamburger.”
And she also said some things that I didn’t understand. She kept saying “Eunice” and repeating the numbers 52820. If anyone can shed any light on these mysteries, please do.
Later on, I grabbed a tissue to wipe her nose and she said, “Makeup.”
I asked her if she wanted makeup and she repeated it. “Makeup!” A few moments later Patty Chabrier and Erin Aftisse showed up with a Sephora bag – FILLED WITH MAKEUP!
Great minds think alike.
Suzie’s mom told us that Suzie had had a few sips of water yesterday. She’s still being fed through a feeding tube, but something tells me a 6 piece McNuggets is in her future.
I was very nervous before I went to see her on Monday, and now I can’t wait to go back again. I can’t wait to see how she progresses -- and to help her with that progress.
Quality NOT Quantity....
Just came from a the best two-three minute visit ever! She was in the middle of physical therapy and the nurses were kind enough to let Kevin Corstange & I say "HI". She was sitting up in her wheelchair and struggled a bit to say something. She conquered the moments of struggle & frustration with "Very Best Friends". It was so great to hear her speak. We both gave her a hug and a kiss and let the therapists do their thing. It was a tearful walk of joy to the elevator for both Kevin and myself. Goes to show you it's not the length of time you share sometimes, it's what happens with the time shared. So, cliche I know but.... So, TRUE-in this case! Suzie is truly getting stronger everyday!
Suzie on wedn. sept 24th
I went to see Suzie today,around noon with Will. She was sitting up in a chair. I gave her flowers and when I asked her if she liked them she sighed and said " Oh, I forgot flowers". She was talking a lot and when not understood she said "Fuck" a lot. I feel it's amazing how fast Suzie is recovering and that she is able to express frustration. She is truly amazing,
Danusia
Danusia
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday 9/22 the Night Shift
First, I'd like to thank-you Mia for spear heading Team Suzie-brilliant! Second, Danny thank you for sharing your thoughts from your journal-you are one amazing man!
She was asleep when we walked in the room. She opened her eyes within seconds. When I walked over to hold her hand-she raised her hand in mine. It made my heart skip a beat. This was the first time in all my visits she could physically reach up and grab my hand on her own-YEAH! Janine mentioned some show they had done in NJ which every time they talk about they still laugh. Yet another eye roll from Ms. Moon. The TV was on and there was a commercial for Dancing with the Stars. I said "Hey, maybe they would be doing some Salsa Dancing later" & "I bet they couldn't hold a candle to you and your shimmy-shake"? I got a recognizable Suzie grin. As we said good-bye and wished her sweet dreams-she gave us a wink. It could have been a twitch yet it seemed very deliberate, oh so we'd like to think?
That's the Monday night update. Look forward to hearing everybody else's experiences along the way.
Monday, September 22, 2008
A Brand New Day - Monday, Sept. 22
Hi All,
Will McKinley and I just returned from a visit with Suzie in her new digs and I could not agree more with Kay's previous posting. This place is terrific and Suzie looks and seems much improved since my last visit at the hospital. She was just finishing up with some therapy when we arrived so we spoke briefly with Suzie's Dad before going in to visit. He is also in much better spirits and is encouraged by her progress.
Suzie is in a lovely private room with excellent light from three windows. She was sitting up in a chair, in real girly pj's, looking fresh and lovely. I am happy to report that the CWA sign we posted back at the hospital made the trip with her and is posted along with photos of Bananas the cat and some snapshots of friends. Her color was much better and there were fewer tears - she made some attempts at speech and we're told by the nurses that she can speak when the breathing tube is removed.
The head respiratory therapist came by during our visit and informed us that the prospects for taking her off the assisted oxygen are good and they will be working aggressively towards that goal. In fact the desk nurse Clare said that Suzie has been talking and had said her name. She attempted to get Suzie to say my and Will's name but Suzie was not quite ready for that yet - we think it's the production professional in her and she won't indulge us until she is confident and ready. All in good time.
Everyone we encountered was friendly, encouraging and open to sharing information on her condition, treatment and progress. Our hope is that during future visits we can get a sense of the overall prognosis, continued plans for rehab and ways we can best assist Suzie and her family in achieving her goals.
Visits are encouraged by all, two at a time - therapy schedule is posted in her room and also on the large board by the nurses' station.
Go Suzie!
Mia
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Doug and I just came from a visit with Suzie.
It was wonderful.
She looked great. Her color was good and her eyes were clear.
Her mother told us she had just finished therapy so she was very tired.
She recognized us and smiled as we talked with her.
When I told her that the client loved the video that she had worked on she smiled and squeezed my hand.
She was so much better than the last time I saw her. It is very encouraging.
I encourage everyone to go for a short visit.
I think it will do both you and Suzie good.
It was wonderful.
She looked great. Her color was good and her eyes were clear.
Her mother told us she had just finished therapy so she was very tired.
She recognized us and smiled as we talked with her.
When I told her that the client loved the video that she had worked on she smiled and squeezed my hand.
She was so much better than the last time I saw her. It is very encouraging.
I encourage everyone to go for a short visit.
I think it will do both you and Suzie good.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Update Sat 9/20
Saw Suzie this afternoon at her new location in the Rusk Rehabilitation ward of the NYU Joint Disease center on 2nd Avenue and 17th Street. When I arrived she was sitting up and in an adjustable wheel chair. Her Dad was there. He went to go get some lunch while I visited with Suzie. She seemed good, though a little tired - I think it's been a big few days for her.
Note: Her room is #923 and is a private room instead of a shared room as originally posted.
After 15 minutes or so her Occupational Therapist and an intern came in to move her back onto her bed. Afterward I talked to her therapist who told me Suzie had been in the chair because she'd met with a group of therapists that morning so they could assess her abilities and needs. Suzie will start working with those therapists tomorrow (Sunday). And while they won't have a set schedule for her therapy until they have a better idea of her high and low energy points during the day, she will get 3 hours a day of therapy (which is excellent news). As a result, during her 'non-therapy time' she'll probably be pretty tired. We shouldn't be surprised if she seems exhausted or sleepy when we visit. Resting in between the therapy is a big part of the process, the therapist said.
She also said that good visiting times are between 12-1pm and after 4pm because the therapists have lunch between 12 & 1 and leave around 4. Only 2 people can be in the room at a time.
Also, Suzie's right hand is currently in a 'cushion'. Her right arm is less mobile than the left. The cushion is for her comfort and to keep her nails from digging into her palm - it's not a 'splint' as I had originally thought.
She seemed very well though - it was good to see her in an atmosphere that felt very positive and healing. This is such a great change and I'm looking forward to seeing its positive effects as the days and weeks progress.
kevin c.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Thank you all!
I want to thank everyone who has kept us all informed about Suzie and also set up this blog area. This is a great idea.
I have read the posts and everyone's comments, and you are all such great friends and supporters of Suzie as well as each other. I'm honored to have been invited into this wonderful group of caring people.
I have a few meetings coming up in the city next week, and I look forward to stopping by and seeing Suzie. When I return, I will post something here to let you all know about my visit with her.
Danny, the thoughts that you wrote about from your journal are really special. Thank you so much for sharing that with us. It really moved me and reminded me of how much I care about Suzie and miss seeing her on the road!
Still thinking about Suzie and hoping to see her soon!
Take Care everyone!
Duane
I have read the posts and everyone's comments, and you are all such great friends and supporters of Suzie as well as each other. I'm honored to have been invited into this wonderful group of caring people.
I have a few meetings coming up in the city next week, and I look forward to stopping by and seeing Suzie. When I return, I will post something here to let you all know about my visit with her.
Danny, the thoughts that you wrote about from your journal are really special. Thank you so much for sharing that with us. It really moved me and reminded me of how much I care about Suzie and miss seeing her on the road!
Still thinking about Suzie and hoping to see her soon!
Take Care everyone!
Duane
Suzie's Moved!
Friday, 9/19 -- 2:00pm
Suzie has been moved from the hospital to Rehab!
Joint Disease
301 East 17th Street
corner of 2nd Avenue & 17th Street
tel 212-598-6262
Room #930
Bed #2
nurse station tel: 212-598-6414
Visiting Hours: Sunday thru Saturday -- 11:00 am-8:00 pm
YEAH SUZIE!!
Welcome to Team Suzie
Hi Friends,
In an effort to keep everyone up to date with Suzie Moon's recovery we are starting this blog. This will enable us to update each other on Suzie's progress without relying on individual e-mails and forwards.
Posts can be added following visits or updates. The blog will also function as a means of sending messages of encouragement, gossip, on-site shenanigans (what?!) and the like to Suzie which can they be relayed by those visiting her at any given time.
We can also share information about fund-raisers and resources to aid Suzie and her family during her recovery.
Will McKinley and I hope to visit the hospital later today and an update will follow. Please pass this link along to all concerned.
Thanks all,
Mia
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