Healing for Abby

This is an update to Abby’s injuries and progress. When we first started the go fund me we had basic details of her injuries and unfortunately they are worse than originally believed. Abby suffered what is called degloving of her foot. This means there was not only severely broken/crushed toes but there is extensive damage to the skin and nerves.

Her first surgery was to try to repair her toes. At that time it was unclear if the big toe could be saved so she was asked to sign an amputation consent prior to surgery if it was needed. She came out of that surgery with all her toes but still a great deal of uncertainty. Since that surgery Abby has undergone several more surgeries to simply try and remove debris embedded in her foot. There is a great deal of nerve damage which brings its own concerns and hurdles in her road to recovery.

Her foot has been in a vac dressing to help clean the wound and wrapped in a special warming blanket in hopes of promoting circulation and healing. She has spent two hours a day, everyday in a hyperbaric chamber in another effort to promote healing. Earlier this week she was told they would start the skin grafting. Unfortunately Abby was also given the news that three of her toes can’t be saved, amputation can no longer be avoided. Abby is also suffering from drop foot which is weakening the muscles in her ankle and calf. She was fitted for a special brace that will allow her to exercise these muscles and avoid further damage to them.

Abby has a long road ahead of her and being out of her hometown to receive the best care possible for her has made it costly for her close family to be with her. Her mom and boyfriend alternate time there so she always has a loved one with her. Unfortunately it was originally thought they would be able to utilize Ronald MacDonald house but due to Abby’s age that isn’t an option. They have been able to secure lodging at a reduced price but it is still a great deal more than originally thought. Add to this that neither mom or dad drive and transportation also becomes an issue. Family has done their best to arrange visits when they switch off but it doesn’t always work out and Ubers have had to be used on occasion. It is unclear when Abby will be transferred to a hospital closer to home but the focus remains doing our best to make sure Abby’s mental health does not also become a an issue as this will deter her healing.

To date Abby has remained steadfast in her fight to heal. She is determined to heal and resume her goals in life. For now those goals are on hold but she will get there. If you could find it in your heart to donate any amount to help with all the costs that her journey is presenting it will be greatly appreciated. As a family, we would like to thank each and every one of you for taking the time to read Abby’s story. If you are unable to contribute to this cause we would like to ask you to consider sharing Abby’s story with others.

Thanking everyone in advance,

Abby & her family