A Benefit for Sally McGee

On Sunday, Jan. 15, Sally McGee suffered a massive stroke in her home.

She was airlifted to Georgetown University Medical Center where she underwent two brain surgeries, but the damage had been done. A staggering 75% of the right side of her brain is irreversibly damaged. The left side of her body is completely paralyzed, and although there is still hope that over time she can regain some function on her left side, it will only come after years of arduous and painful therapy.

There have been glimmers of hope in the last few days. Doctors were able to remove her breathing tube and - although she has had a tracheostomy to help clear her throat - she can breathe on her own. She still requires a feeding tube and is still considered to be in critical condition.

Sally's husband Mike and her sister Caroline have spent the last two weeks by her side in the neuro ICU living through a nightmare I can't even imagine, and though doctors are evasive when they ask what the future holds for Sally, one can be sure it will involve indefinite disability and piles of medical bills.

Sally is the kindest person I know. She's been my songwriting partner, cellist, neighbor and friend for 13 years. When I've experienced tragedies - and I've had too many to count over the past few years - she never deferred, she never wavered, she was always there for me, and now we need to all be here for her.

So, on behalf of myself and my Dead Pens family, I humbly ask for your donation to help Sally and Mike during this terrible time. All proceeds will be given directly to Mike to offset the weight of the American health care system that is about to squat its rotund derriere right down on their front doorstep.

Thank you for your consideration.

Ryan Abbott

Guitar

The Dead Pens