Over The Weekend

Marie had a good weekend overall. We hung out Friday, Saturday and Sunday and we experienced improvements every day.

Friday – After a couple weeks of hospital food Marie was allowed to have some Swiss Chalet Chicken and that sweet Swiss Chalet sauce! She was so excited to have some “real food.” She liked it so much that she asked to have her leftovers after her oatmeal on Friday morning. After that Marie got the news she would be moving that morning to Providence Health Care Centre – A Stroke Rehabilitation Centre. Before she left we were doing exercise that the physiotherapist had shown us and Marie was able to resist the motion of the exercise using her right bicep. Shannon the Physiotherapist couldn’t believe it and said that she was ‘’skipping steps!’’ He said he is very happy about the progress she is making and that she will continue to make more progress during rehab.

After the hot, bumpy, not so pleasant ride to the Rehab Centre she had arrived. She got situated and met her new Physiotherapist Jen and her new OT (Occupational Therapist) also Jen. They both assessed Marie and planned to start full rehab with her Monday morning. After this as well as some other visits Marie was pretty tired and had quite the headache. She decided to take a rest and call it a day, but not before hearing about the amazing turn out and support from the Golf Tournament that day. Dustin & Ashley brought the huge Get Well Soon poster and we unrolled it the best we could all the way around her bed. There is no denying the amount of support that she has. She was stunned at all of the names and well wishes covering the banner and golfers that had come out just for her. Thank you to everyone from Marie and all of us! We wish we could express our gratitude to each and every one that has helped and supported and continues to support us all in this journey. All we can say is Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for everything!!!

Saturday - After getting settled in at providence Marie said that she had one of her best sleeps yet! She said it’s much quieter and she was actually able to go the entire day on Saturday without any headaches!!! We got the opportunity to relax and rest after Fridays move and commotion. It was a welcomed, much needed restful day. We read some magazines together, went outside and painted toenails, watched a bit of a movie, did some exercises – used the right bicep and shoulder muscles again! What a fighter that sister of mine!

Sunday – Marie had breakfast and lunch and was once again getting a little tired of hospital/Rehab food (Which are not much different according to Marie). Dad, Theresa and I had gone out while Marie was napping to get a cell charger and decided to get a bite to eat. During our tour we had some Thick Roasted Red pepper soup from Casey’s, so we decided to bring some back for Marie. We cleared it with the nurses, Marie was pumped! She decided she would have a little then and the rest a little later. She had one spoonful and then before she knew it she was scraping the bottom of the bowl. It was an awesome addition to her dinner! Time went by pretty quickly on Sunday and before I knew it I had to go home. Later while getting gas marie text me and said sweet dreams, I told her that although it sucks that this has all happened that I am so happy we have got to spend so much time together, I love you and goodnight. She said no worries that I could hang out with her anytime! J

On my way home I also got a call from Laura telling me she had seen another rainbow. I saw one leaving Toronto the week before and another double rainbow last night during soccer, not to mention the one’s we all saw on our way down to Sunnybrook our first time. Maybe it’s because we are looking for them, maybe it’s just coincidence or maybe it’s something bigger than us all telling us He’s watching out. I think you can tell which way I’m leaning on that one. J

Thanks again to everyone

Love: Allison

A Day in the Life of Rehabilitation

I thought I would take a moment to write to you about what a typical day is like for Marie right now.


Marie gets up at about 7:00 am to have breakfast. Breakfast is usually eggs, oatmeal, thickies and bread. Right now Marie is still on a modified diet so the menu is still not making Marie's "A-list". We are working on bringing some yogurt and berry smoothies here, tomorrow might be the day! After breakfast, Marie gets ready for the day with a shower and her usual morning activities.

Marie is doing physiotherapy at 10:30am, then lunch, then occupational therapy at 1:30pm. There is lots of time in the day to practice her exercises but there is also time alotted for rest. Doing the exercises (such as balance, focused activities for her left arm and shoulder, walking and transferring from bed to chair properly) takes a lot out of Marie. Focusing on building stamina is a key part of the rehabilitation process and Marie definately doing this every day! We practiced walking this morning with a cane and already this evening when we walked to the computer lab she looks so much sturdier!

In the evenings (and sometimes through out the day), there are recreational activities. As Marie has only been here for a couple of days, she hasn't participated in any as of yet. They have a wii in the basement, and we are definately going to check that out!

A lot of the residents here are older more "typical" stroke and neurological patients. There are many other types of injuries too though, like car accidents etc. Although the residents are mostly older, a lot of the staff members here are younger. Although she hasn't mentioned it, I think is good for Marie, who is used to spending most of her days with people under the age of 18 years old!

There is a chapel here, a computer lab, a cafeteria, lots of rehabilitation rooms and some other recreational rooms. The facility is technically a hospital however it feels quite comfortable.

Marie has yet to check out the blog. In her words, she says what would you write?, "it's pretty boring" - she has no idea that being here and watching her progress is far from boring.

Take care,
Laura

A Tremendous Success... Tee It Up For Marie at The Wilds

Friday June 26th was a gorgeous day with a sunny 30 degree temperature and balmy breezes. It was a day and an event fitting to support and honour a beautiful person who in some way has touched and made a lasting impression on all who attended.


Tee It Up For Marie was held at The Wilds of Cedar Valley. The course is a jewel in the rough, a well maintained executive 18 hole course just minutes from Barrie and a pleasure to play. The course is owned by the Winkleman’s. Marcia Winkleman heads up the science department at St. Peter’s High School. A heartfelt thank you to Marcia and her husband Scott, for their idea to host the event and their generosity in donating the course for this very special event. Further thanks and gratitude are also due for all who organized and supported this day.


As I walked in to the event, a crowd of people surrounded the event tent with a huge banner wishing Marie well. People had personalized it adding notes from the heart to the “missing” guest of honour. As I turned and looked at the canteen, there was Marie’s picture. Jillian had the picture enlarged and it was surrounded by other photos of Marie’s family and friends. In that picture, Marie looks like a movie star and it struck me like a ton of bricks. My emotions had got the better of me once again, and I had only been there a few minutes. Seeing friends, family members, and co-workers (many of them travelling from out of town) eager to help affirm one’s faith in humanity as we band together for a common cause.

The day went off flawlessly. I think all will agree that the feeling in the air that day was one of help and hope. Thank you to the many of you who attended, or were unable to attend but still donated. From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU! I would also like to acknowledge those who contributed in other ways and to those at the BMO Bank of Montreal. As most of you are aware, Marie was a long-term occasional teacher and does not have the luxury of a benefit plan so your help will go a long way.


As the tournament drew to a close and another round of food and beverages appeared, people said their goodbyes and went their ways knowing that we have not only found a very special golf course, The Wilds of Cedar Valley, but that they have been part of something very unique for the common cause of supporting a special person.


Thank you, Thank you, Thank you ….

From Marie, and her family.


(Written with love by Dad)

PS) In case you are wondering, the event raised almost $6000!!!! WOW!!!

Huge News!!

Today, only 12 days after Marie's stroke, we have so much to reflect on and be so proud of Marie for. We have watched her achieve so many significant milestones and accomplishments in her recovery so far. And now, we have yet one more item to add, because of all of her hard work, Marie has been already admitted into a rehabilitation center in Toronto. And, she is going TOMORROW! Normally, there is at least a 1-3 week waiting period (or more) for a placement. When her application was submitted only this morning, they scooped her up!!

This is another awesome step for Marie, because it means that her care will be even more focused and intensive as she will have even more resources geared to her needs!

As every stroke is different, therefore there is no time frame on how long Marie will stay, but our best guess is that Marie will be there for 8 weeks. After that, her rehabilitation will probably be done on a local out patient program in the Barrie area.

Congratulations Marie!!!

Tee it Up For Marie

The following link is an article that was published in today's Barrie Examiner:

http://www.thebarrieexaminer.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1628411

Up Walking Again!

This afternoon Marie was up walking again! Even though a little while before her headache was quite severe for her! What a trooper!

Other than that not much to report!

A Physio Morning

Marie had a good night last night with some good shut-eye.

This morning was productive with regular morning routines and a visit from Shannon the physiotherapist. With the help of a cane, Marie walked all the way around the unit. It tired her out but she did so awesome!!! Shannon says that Marie can go for small walks as frequently as she would like with accompaniment, and she can go outside soon in a wheelchair. Outside is not a walkable distance as of yet because we are deep in the abyss of the hospital.

Marie's spirits are good. She's cracking jokes with the nurses and her new roomies.

Laura

Lots of progress.... Again!

Today was event filled for Marie! A few of the things were: walking around the ICU and a small distance in the outside hallway. She also changed rooms tonight and made it comfortably into n

her new ward room. It's a little cooler but we found out that the air conditioning is broken in most if not all of the hospital. Her pain was manageable and she as alert for a good portion of the day. She also got her catheter and the remaining staples out (there were 48 in total). Her inscision looks really great, the doctors did an awesome job of ensuring it will not be noticeable. Right now she is sleeping soundly after a long day's work!

The social worker tells us that she will likely be in the hospital for a few weeks and then move into a rehabilitation facility that will likely focus on stroke survivors. We are not sure of the location of the center, but it looks like some of the best in the country are right here in Toronto so we are hoping she can stay in the city.

There's still no news on the cause of Marie's stroke. The main focuses for Marie right now are avoiding infection, getting enough rest, and working on her recovery program. This new unit will help her with that.

Ta-ta for now!

Laura

Leaving The ICU Shortly

Last night was much better for Marie. She says that she slept well. She ate a good amount of her breakfast, and drank all of her thickie.

Today they are hopefully going to move Marie from the Neuro-ICU to a ward room. Hopefully it will be quieter there (and the air conditioning will work!!). I'm not really sure how anyone sleeps in the CCU or ICU with all of the beeps, clangs, talking, grunts and groans that are going on in there! Not to mention some of the excitement the other patients bring to the ICU. One dude down the hall keeps getting out of bed (when he's not supposed to) and frantically telling everyone that he is going to be late for his dry-walling job, and that he has to go right now! A new room will definitely be a welcomed for Marie! (Although she doesn't really even mention the noise anyway).

Talk to you all soon,

Laura

A Special Thank You

There have been so many generous and hearfelt gestures and offers of support for Marie and her loved ones as we make our way through this journey. It is so difficult to adequately put into words our gratitude, but please know that we thank you dearly for the love and support you have extended to Marie and our family!

There are too many individuals to mention here, however we wanted to recognize one person who really stands out in the crowd of many. Marie's good friend Jillian has been an outstanding support to Marie and to our family in so many different ways.

Jillian has thoughtfully prepared and organized many things for Marie which include; being Marie's liason with the school, taking care of all work related requests, contacting Marie's soccer team and landlord (who is dear to Marie), communicating with us about the upcoming golf tournament for Marie, picking up things from Marie's house, organizing greeting cards etc. from the school land community, and even buying an extra pair of jogging pants for someone who needed them.

She does this all with a great spirit and wonderful organization. In many instances she has figured out what we need to do even before it has crossed any of our minds. She does this even though this is one of the busiest times of year for her as a teacher. I know Marie knows she is blessed to have Jillian as a friend. Through this experience, she has also become a great friend of ours as well.

Jillian, for all of the things you have done for us, and for those things that we may ever even know that you have done, thank you! We truly appreciate you and your dedicated friendship to Marie! May we all be so lucky as to have a friend like you when we are in our time of need.

Love,

The Kenneys

Headaches

Last night was a rough one for Marie. She didn't get much sleep at all because of her pounding headache. The morning didn't provide much relief for her either. She said that her pain was a 9 out of 10 and most other times in the past, she has said that it is a 3 or a 4. It seems like if her headaches are not medicated soon enough they quickly escalate to be much more severe. The doctors are changing her pain medications to find a more suitable solution. They said it will likely involve medications that are longer lasting.

This afternoon, Marie had a slightly elevated temperature. The doctors ordered another CT scan today to check on the swelling. It came back normal. Later in the evening, after some ice and cold clothes, her temperature came back down to normal. Even through all of this, Marie's sense of humour and grace are still shining through, loud and clear.

The doctors tell us they are very happy with Marie's progression and she may be able to move out of the ICU as soon as a bed becomes available. Another great step!

Laura

Thickies

Yesterday we told Marie about the player in the US Open that was winning early on. We told her that he had a stroke last year. She said that she didn't think that would be her. She explained, because she wasn't that good at golf, but Jillian could do it.

Marie is still very unimpressed with her meal plan here. Yesterday, she said, "I was thinking about this juice". She explained that because they are not really smooth, but they were thick, that she was going to call them "thickies" :) She has been craving frozen yogurt. So we picked her up some, but have to wait for the Nutritionist's approval before we can give it to her.

Last night, she said her headache was bothering her so she was given some medication so she could sleep. We think that she slept for a few hours, but not through the night.

Allison and Laura

Evening Update

Marie's MRI didn't give much more information than her CT scans have. She had another CT scan to compare to the older CT scans to look at the clot in her neck . According to the neurologist, the clot in her neck is gone. This could be because she is now on blood thinners.

Marie at three solid meals today with assistance, or as she calls them, roadkill. Minced meals aren't her favourite... who can blame her? She is drinking thickened liquids to avoid any possiblity of any fluids entering her lungs.

Marie is working on her exercises to strengthen her left arm which has feeling but as of yet very, very limited motion.

The best news that today brought is that she is able to move her left foot, and put her weight on it. Even though it takes a conserted effort, and tires her out, it is very big news.

Marie Walked Today!!!

Allison hung out with Marie until she wanted to go to bed at midnight. She said she slept better, she slept through the night.Marie woke up around 8, determined to walk around.

With the help of Pat, the nurse, and Allison Marie walked about 20 feet! She was holding herself up and taking direction with Pat and Allison there just in case.

Upon arrival back at the bed, Marie was back to her normal breakfast routine: Cream of Wheat. Her spirits are still high, cracking jokes and all. Its naptime now, more updates to come.

Afternoon Update

Laura's computer is not working this afternoon. So I'll just give you a quick update. Nothing has really changed this afternoon. Marie is talkative, and feeling better, but tired of being in the hospital (who could blame her). Got a few test results back, but didn't really show any new information. They're still trying to figure out the cause. If we get any more information, we'll post as soon as we can.

Dennis

Morning Update

It was a long night for Marie without a lot of (decent) sleep. She's got a really bad headache and says that she feels like a marionette from all of the tubes and wires coming from her. She's ready to be done with those!

I found out that her counting skills were just fine. She knew that her finger heart rate monitor wasn't working properly. She told me that she knows how to set off, it takes "just takes 20 touches". Said "see the nurses don't even come". The restlessness of being her is definately setting in for her.

Other than that, not much to report.

Wes

Midnight Update

Marie has had some active conversations today and is also actively complaining about the pureed food that she has been served. She is asking for ice cream but she isn't allowed that just yet.

At 9:00pm Marie got moved to the Intensive Care Unit from the Critical Care Unit. This is another positive step for Marie!

The swelling in Marie's eye is down also and she is opening both of her eyes, and she can see from both of her eyes.

We still don't have the results back from any of her tests, but it looks like it probably isn't a problem with her heart (although there are still more tests for this too).

Talk to you all tomorrow!

Fundraising Event...Mark Your Calendars!

Marcy Winkleman wanted us to let you all know that they will be hosting a golf fundraiser on Marie's behalf. Marie golfs at this course every Friday with some of the teachers from St. Peter's High School.

The Wilds At Cedar Valley in Barrie.
9 Holes of Golf and lunch
Friday, June 26th, 2009
Starts at 12:30-3:00
$50 to enter
All proceeds are going to Marie

If you are able to make it, please call 705-733-3751 ask for Marcy or refer to Marie's fundraiser.

PS)

I forgot to mention that although waiting room visitors are ok the nurses are asking that we keep the visitors to a minimum so Marie can get her rest. I'm sure Marie would love to see everyone later on when is in the rehabilitation! We will keep you posted on this as well!!

What a Cheering Squad!!

Last night Marie was a little restless. She was able to get some rest after they gave her a sedative. In general she is not on a lot of medication anymore, she gets Tylenol and Morphene if she requests it.

They got Marie up early for her MRI. We aren't sure when the results will be in. She is also having the scope in her esophagus today. We will keep you posted!

More friends were by this morning and told us again how much everyone in Midland is cheering Marie on, and about how they are going to be there for Marie throughout her recovery. Jillian brought by a big box full of cards, three bristol boards crammed front to back full of comments and best wishes from St. Pete's. There are going to be a masses held in Marie's name at St. John Vienny Church. There has also been prayer service for Marie at St. Pete's, and we're sure many of your hearts too. We always knew Marie had A LOT of friends, but the outpouring of support has been nothing short of phenomenal. We love you all and thank you so much for all of the INCREDIBLE support.

Laura

Lots of Progress!

Medical Testing and Specialists

Today was a very busy day for Marie with medical testing and specialists. Some of the specialists that she saw was; neurologists (a team of 3), neurosurgeon, stroke case manager, physiotherapist, nutritionist, and a speech therapist. Some of the testing that she had was a Doppler Echocardiogram, and a CAT Scan.

The doctors say that she can have an MRI tomorrow. At first they were concerned that the staples might not be compatible with the MRI but they now know they are so they are going to proceed. This will help reveal what parts of her brain have been affected, and to what extent.

The Echo did not reveal anything, so they are going to do a scope next to analyze her heart.
The CAT scan result didn't reveal any further problems to do with the swelling.

Other Positive Developments
- Marie started eating some pureed foods and drinking fluids.
- Her physio went well, she responded very well to the repetitive motion and other tests.
- The swelling on her eye has come down considerably. Yesterday we couldn't see her eyelashes for the swelling, today it seems like it is 1/2 of what it was before, and we can see most of her eyelashes.
- They are waiting for a bed in ICU for Marie (she is in the CCU now). She is not the first on the list to move there, but she will likely be moved shortly. This will help her because this floor focuses more on rehabilitation. It will also be a little bit quieter, and have a window which will help her get her days and nights back in order.

Always the Jokester...

Marie had many visitors today, cousins and close friends and family. She recognized everyone and we talked to her about friends that were sending their best and about all of the comments you are writing on this blog and on her facebook, messages and cards.

Some of today's jokes from Marie included:
- Allison was there when Marie was eating her dinner. Marie ate some applesauce with Tylenol in it. Marie asked him “Alex did you spike my sauce?”
- When Dad and Wes were in with Marie, she randomly said she felt like having a beer. She then asked them if they wanted beer too? She said to one nurse, "we're gonna need 2 beers", then she turned to Alex and said, "Alex do you want a beer?" He said yes, and then she said to the other nurse and said "make it 3 beers" :)
- When her cousin Jeff was in, he told her that he thought he knew what gave her the stroke, he said that it was probably running up Ferndale in Barrie (he saw her on Saturday doing this). She responded "Anne Street is worse".
- Marie's not a big fan of the thick apple juice that they are passing off to her as apple nectar. She has complained to a few different people that they are serving her apple juice "with chunks". Nasty!

Laura

PS) People have been asking how they can get their cards and notes to Marie. We have a couple of volunteers that are going to help us out with this:

Shalaigh Kenney (a new Kenney as of May 23rd! ... formerly Windmill). She is from Elmvale. Feel free to drop any cards off at the Springwater Parks and Rec office (beside community hall) or email her at shalaighwindmill@hotmail.com so Shalaigh can pass them on to Marie.

Nicole Newburn (the undercover Kenney) is in the Penetang/Midland area. Please feel free to drop anything off for Marie at the Huronia Museum and Huron Ouendat Village in Little Lake Park, Midland or contact her via e-mail (nicolenewburn17@gmail.com) or on facebook for other means of dropping off your treasures. :)

Last Night

Last night was an uneventful night which is a very good thing. Marie was very sleepy and had some pain medication so she did not do a lot of communicating throughout the night (although I mostly stayed quiet so she could sleep). This morning, from 5:50-6:50am she was quite alert. She asked me if I heard about what one of her friends said when he got backed into by a smart car. When I said yes he told me in the waiting room he said "how smart can you really be if you backed into me?" Marie quickly corrected me and said, "he said, for someone driving a smart car, you're pretty stupid". Marie thought it was pretty funny on Friday (she told a few of her friends) and she obviously still thinks it's funny today :) The nurses were impressed that she was cracking jokes! And so am I!! That's the Marie we know!!

Marie has a sore neck right now on her right side. At first, the nurses weren't sure what the sore neck was from, so the nurse checked with the Doctor. He said that it is from the position and the restraint that was used on her for her surgery. The nurse said that they usually don't hear about this complaint from patients because they aren't generally alert enough after surgery to say anything to indicate their discomfort. Another good sign! We are giving her neck massages to help ease the discomfort for her.

Marie's left eye has swollen shut since last night. The nurse says this is also a common reaction after the surgery and is not anything to be worried about. When the nurse was asking Marie her pain level she said that she felt like she was hit by a truck. I don't think she knows right now what really happened, we will have to decide what to tell her and when with the help of the social workers here and the doctors. Some people think she already may know what is going on because she is hearing what people are saying even if she is sleepy or not offering a response when it's said. It's something for us to think about for the future.

Before the nurses do anything to Marie they always tell her what they are doing first. For her regular neurological tests they had to pinch her left hand. When the nurse told her what was coming, she said she "didn't like that" and "can't she just tell them the pinch hurts?"

Marie is likely going to be moved to another ICU soon. It is the same thing as this ICU except the patients that are there aren't on ventilators, and they will be able to focus more on rehabilitation. In both ICUs the nurses often only have one patient to look after. They check her bodily fluids, blood sugar, position, mouth (for dryness etc.) and neurological indicators at least every hour, if not more. Dennis noticed that all of the machines in her room look really high tech, (even compared to what we saw in Barrie which looked good too). She is in really good hands here and we feel really, really lucky she is here. We also feel so grateful for the fantastic team of nurses and doctors that are here and for every one's fantastic support. We've heard that all of Midland is rooting for Marie, and we know that Midland folks are just the tip of the iceberg! We are definitely feeling all of your love and support here.... thank you so much!

Laura

PS) If you can, please send a note or a card for Marie to read when she is feeling better. We are also going to make a large collage of pictures for her room, so if you have any good ones you would like to share please pass them along! You can email them to marielynn0705@gmail.com.

Hope, Relief & Inspiration, A Note From Marie's Dad

Please allow me to put some words on paper to unload some of this heavy blow that fate has dealt my little girl. She is 28, an athlete, a worker to surpass any worker, a heart so big that she takes on to guide troubled students on top of a full time job and a night school teaching job. This is my Marie. Yesterday, a picture of health and today someone so dear fighting literally for her life.

The sense of loss is overwhelming. The fear that we have faced, like none before. As we went from RVH to Sunnybrook with Marie in a helicopter overhead, an isolated rain shower hit ahead of us on the way, and the most beautiful rainbow appeared with colours more vivid than I have ever seen. This perfect rainbow I take as my first sign of hope that we are not in this alone.

My thoughts and my prayers are with her and I would change places with her without hesitation.

The tears do subside, the mood is now better. She is so frail and we have so much ground to regain. Now that the surgery has removed the pressure, we have at last came to a plateau. As she slowly responds as the swelling subsides, we see her reach the first steps of the many ahead. Fear of the loss of such a wonderful person has now been conquered. We are now more happy than the sadness of yesterday.

Marie, my sweet Marie has a support group that recognizes how special this person is. Marie whatever it takes we will be there for you. Marie, "the machine" will return and climb hills that others can not. In a word, I see her as an inspiration. She needs help at this time, but I know that shortly she will turn this experience into a tool to help others.

Marie, we love you so dearly. Our hope and prayers are and will be with you.

Love, Dad

7 pm Update

Marie's doctors are still actively searching for the cause of her stroke. They are reviewing past scans because the neurological team does not see a dissection (tear) of the corroded artery in her current scans that the Barrie Doctors thought they saw. They say if there was a tear it would have stopped the blood flow to her brain causing the stroke. They are also focusing on her heart and any blood/inherited disorders. We are in the process of gathering a detailed family medical history. Something I know I had thought of do a few times before but never did.

They are hoping that she will be fully stable in 3-4 days and be able to move out of the ICU and into the general surgery floor. She is mostly sleeping but has some moments where she can answer questions by squeezing your hand. She can open her eyes sometimes but other times she tries but looks too tired. She made couple of small jokes today ... which aren't blog-able...LOL! We ask her to tell us if she wants a chat or quiet time by her squeezing our hands.

After the staples are removed from her head (7-10 days), she will go for an MRI that will look for deficits that were left from the stroke. The doctors say that the CAT scans only show less detailed information and that they need the MRI for more detailed info about her brain function.

A lot of people have been asking if they can send flowers etc. The ICU does not allow anything in her room. We are however collecting cards and notes for Marie to read when she wakes up.

We are in the process of creating a schedule for friends and family so that there are always a minimum of two people here at all times.

Afternoon Update

Marie's first CAT scan after her surgery has shown that the swelling has increased slightly. The Doctors are monitoring this closely. The surgery was done to allow the brain to have room to swell. It is considered a lower level of swelling.

Marie was breathing on her own and so they removed the ventilator this afternoon! She has responded well to neurological testing (even better than yesterday). She can respond to requests to move her right arm, legs and has sensation in her left arm. It is evident that she knows what people are saying. Jillian made a joke to Marie and she even cracked a small smile!

We are still awaiting the results of some of her other testing. We will post more information as soon as we can.

Dennis and Laura

How Could This Happen?

On Friday, we know a few things about how Marie spent her day. Earlier in the day she was seen by one of her cousins running up a large hill in Barrie. She is an avid athlete and runner, running 8km+ most days. That day and in the past few weeks, Marie had been very busy with marking papers and preparing for the end of the school year. She had been working two jobs as a teacher at St. Pete's High School and teaching night school as well. She had lunch with one of her friends, Jillian at Boston Pizza. Friday night she was supposed to go out with her friends, however wasn't feeling well, and decided not to go. Marie returned her sister Laura's phone call at around 6 pm to say that she was feeling tired and they decided to talk later. Jillian talked to her at 11pm. One of her friends texted her at midnight and came over to visit. She turned the light on, went into the washroom when she collapsed.



They called 911 and an ambulance arrived. They were at the hospital very shortly which is a very important. Her symptoms reflected that she may have had a stroke. A special stroke drug was administered quickly to minimize the effects of a blood clot.



According to the doctor, this is a very rare occurrence in young adults. Something has caused a clot in Marie's cortid artery. A multitude of tests are being done to see if it is a few different things including a blood disorder, heart disorder or a problem with one of her veins. The stroke has caused swelling on her brain and right now that is the primary focus for her doctors.



The swelling was the reason that she was air-lifted to Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto. Immediately upon arrival she was rushed into surgery to relieve the pressure on her brain. Sunnybrook hospital specializes in brain injuries and the team here is one of the best in Ontario.



Marie is surrounded by her siblings, Mother, Father and friends. We ask you and thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.



Dad and Laura

The First Few Days

Hi Everyone,

As many of you know, Marie suffered a stroke early Sunday morning. She was sent from RVH in Barrie to Sunnybrook in Toronto for emergency brain surgery to relieve the swelling on her brain caused by the stroke.

Someone at the hospital suggested we start a web page that will help us notify everyone of Marie's status. We thought it was a great idea so some of us are going to post some updates when we can.

Later on we will write about what happened but for now we wanted to just give you a quick update of her current condition.

She has come out of her surgery well and is responding to her neurological indicators well. Unfortunately, the stroke has caused some damage to the right side of her brain. We do not know the extent of the damage of the stroke. The swelling on her brain is the critical issue at this point in time. It appears to have not gotten any worse since her surgery and the Doctors have requested a CAT scan this morning to verify this. Last night she was able to open her eyes slightly and she recognized Allison's voice. At 5:50 this am, Constantine the nurse asked her to hold up two fingers and she gave the peace sign. She is breathing on her own but has a ventilator on to regulate her breathing. We think these are some very positive signs within her very serious condition.

Later on when the swelling is under control they will focus on the cause of her stroke to try to prevent any further problems.

Please pray for Marie!

Laura and Dennis