Support Ashley's Care and Carport Conversion

Ashley's road to recovery continues. Since she suffered a traumatic brain injury 9 months ago, things have been challenging, to say the least. In-facility care Insurance has now unfortunately run out, but her need for 24/7 care has not. Rebecca and Christy have made the decision that Ashley's needs will best be met at their home in Florida, where they can work together to provide the care that Ashley needs. They are currently navigating the challenge of figuring out cross-country transportation for Ashley.

In order to prepare for Ashley to live in an accessible home, some modifications must take place to their house. For the time being, Ashley will be in a guest bedroom with the bathroom nearby. The bathroom needs to be redone - part of a wall and the tub needs to be removed in order to provide her with a roll in shower. Rebecca and Christy hope to convert the carport into an apartment style living area for Ashley to have more privacy and a sense of independence as she continues her treatment and therapies. They hope and plan to have an accessible bath as part of her area as well. They are currently trying to find and select all the members of the medical team that she needs - internal care doctor, neurologist and pain management to say just a few. In addition, they are working to set up home health care which will cover speech, occupational and physical therapy services. Home health aides will be needed, as Ashley cannot be left alone, and still requires 24/7 care.

Ashley is working hard each day to build up her strength and to regain the skills that we all take for granted. She has had significant muscle atrophy being in a bed since January, and is in a significant amount of pain every day. Her Baclofen pump surgery has been scheduled which will allow her body to be more relaxed and not so contracted. She continues to stretch out her fingers, toes, arms and legs, while also working on breathing while she talks. She has been able to try different foods again, but with the medication she is on, nothing is palatable. She is still not able to see, and it is unknown if she will regain her sight.

We are all hoping this move will allow her to be more closely monitored as she is challenged everyday to assimilate back into society. She will join in on daily activities, like morning coffee, daily dog walks (in her new chair!) and helping mom cook dinner each night, all with the assistance of the tools she needs.

Many of you have reached out, asking how you can help. Of course we ask for your continued prayers for Ashley’s full recovery, and for wisdom in making decisions on her behalf. It’s really hard to accept help, but it’s even harder to ask for it. If you are so moved, any donation received will go towards Ashley’s medical & rehab expenses, the renovations needed to convert the house into an accessible one, and the support of caregivers. For those of you who have contacts in the medical or building industry and are able to donate time or services, please contact Christy or Rebecca directly.

No pressure, and if you’re moved to help, no amount is too small. We are truly grateful for any contributions as we all make this transition.

Please share this with your network of family and friends if you’re so moved.