Patricia (Patty) Ann Rogers, at 80 still smiling, still giving it all she’s got. In high school Patty played field hockey for an undefeated team (she played left wing). She loves contra dancing and English country dancing. Patty took theater in college and did street theater with kids in New York City. Patty was profoundly affected by the therapeutic and joyous effects of her work with children, and decided to become a Social Worker. She worked for a number of years as a therapist in agencies and in private practice, being clinical director in two agencies. Patty is still joyful despite severe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) developed about 45 years ago, at age 35. It has taken its toll on her functionality, health and energy over the years, and has had a profound effect on her current condition.

Patty was diagnosed, by MRI and consultation with neuro-surgeons, with narrowing of the spinal canal in her neck, and compression of her spinal cord, for which she underwent a complex surgery October 2 at University of Colorado Anschuttz in Aurora, Colorado. The surgery freed up her spinal cord and stabilized her neck, thus relieving the compression. Until the surgery Patty was rapidly losing function in her hands, arms, legs and feet. According to a member of the neuro-surgical team, Patty is doing very well and might regain considerable function. When she is stable enough and has shown definite improvement, Patty will be referred to an in-patient rehabilitation facility in New Mexico.

To complicate matters, Patty developed a small bowel obstruction recently, for which she underwent successful surgery. Patty is being monitored to be sure all is going well on all fronts, for both the surgery on her spine, and the surgery to remedy her bowel obstruction, to be sure healing is proceeding optimally.

As if we didn’t have enough challenges, our Subaru Forester died. It would have cost several thousand dollars to repair it, as much as I paid for it, and time, which we didn’t have. A “new used car” has cost a bundle, almost what repair to the old car would have cost, but is on the road, and is more what we need at this time.

Travel to Colorado and lodging are also taking a toll. The bottom line is, we are in for a lot more than any of us were prepared for. Any way you can help will be appreciated so much. Also, your healing thoughts and prayers help beyond measure. Those of you who know Patty know she has an indominable spirit. She loves God and she loves people, most especially her friends and family, who include Felix (the cat) and Arrow (the small dog)! St. James Episcopal Church and Rocks and Clouds Zendo are integral parts of Patty's life. Patty’s loving family, which include son Sean, daughter Mara, and devoted partner Bill, as well as other family and wonderful friends, which include all of you, continue to do their best to make life joyful and worthwhile for Patty. Thank you!