Saturday, March 21, 2009

So... what happened again????

I know with all the yapping my sister Malina and I (Mia) do, sorry we can't help it:), things may still seem confusing.

How about stating only the facts-

March 19, 2008- Darleen got into a car accident. Its serious. She is air-lifted to Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

March 20, 2008- Darleen is in a coma due to swelling in the brain.

March 21, 2008- Brain Surgery- to remove part of her skull because swelling becomes more severe. Surgery went well. Doctor says," Now we wait. She has a chance at life and now we wait to see how long she needs to heal."
Prognosis: Severe Traumatic Brain Injury in a coma

July 2008- Its 4 months into recovery now. Darleen is moved from ICU to the Special Care Unit. Still "sleeping".

November 2008- Its 8 months into recovery. Darleen was discharged from the hospital and now moved to a pediatrics care facility in Orlando. And she is starting to smile more. Subtle changes. She's coming...

March 2009- Its 12 months into recovery. She can breath on her own, she can smile, she can look straight into your eyes, she can roll her eyes if you bug her (still Darleen), she can yawn, she can swallow, she can cough, she can occasionally move her right arm, she can turn her head to the left, she can!!!!!

I hope this makes the situation we are in a little bit more clear for all of you who are all so supportive. Thank you really!! Thank you for following our story!!!
- Mia

7 comments:

  1. I just wanted to say that I appreciate the updates. I never really knew what happened to Darleen & didnt know exaclty how well she was recovering. It's good to know that she IS getting better. I didnt know Darleen very well when she went to school at marietta but when we did talk, she was one of the sweetest gals I'd ever met!

    You cant really trust everything the doctors say. My mom was in a terrible car accident when I was 7 years old (I am now 19) and she was in a coma for a total of 3 months. I know thats not long at all compared to Darleen, but the doctors told my dad that she wasnt even going to make it. They also added that if she DID make it, she'd be in a vegetative state for the rest of her life. Guess what? My mom is incredibly healthy, living a perfectly normal life. Yes, she still suffers from the physical injuries from the accident, but she is the same mom I had before.

    Thats why I have tons and tons of faith that Darleen will be perfectly fine. I pray for her every single night, and I just want you guys to know that she is always thought of.

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  3. sorry my internet connection sucks up here!

    Thanks so much Ashley! I love your words of inspiration and you know we've been in awkward situations as you were. They say a lot of seemingly "predictive" things, but our family is too strong and fun to just believe them. I know that you're only 19, but very mature. I CAN'T THANK YOU ENOUGH! You made my day =)

    I'm currently in the mountains of Colorado, but I will be updating soon! Wanted everyone to catch up before Mia and I went crazy again. Stay tuned! =)

    Love,
    Malina

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  4. I'm so glad to hear that Darleen's doing way better. I wear the ribbon everyday, hoping things will get better for her and her family.


    Thanks again for the updates.

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  5. I'm really glad that yall made this website. It is a great way to let everyone know how Darleen is doing.

    I think of her all the time-- & even though I didn't know her very well when she was here in Marietta, I know that she a very strong & motivated young lady & she will get through this.

    I was really happy to read about all the things that she can do now. I'm glad she is getting better. God has a special plan for her (He might have just wanted some time with her for awhile!)

    I will continue to read this & will anticipate more updates!

    God Bless your family.

    Elise Testerman

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  6. I wonder did yall sue the bus driver that hit her?

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  7. LRMC Trauma Night shift StaffJune 12, 2009 at 9:44 PM

    We from 4west (Trauma unit *NIGHT SHIFT*) happened to run across the web page. We are SO happy to hear of Darleen's progress and just want to let ya'll know we are thinking of you. By the way ... we sure do miss those doughnuts :) *wink *wink
    Can't wait see ya walking through our doors to visit us.
    God Bless you!
    LRMC NIght shift trauma staff

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