100forChristy.org - Jay Donosky Reminder

This is a reminder of a fundraising effort by Jay Donosky which will take place this next weekend. In fact, the Courier and Press had a nice article about Jay's effort. You can read it at the following link:

http://www.courierpress.com/news/2010/aug/12/the-race-of-his-life-and-hers/

Jay is training for the Leadville Trail 100 Mile Run which is a 50-mile out and back running race in the midst of the Colorado Rockies. He will run the race this Saturday, August 21st, one day after Christy's birthday. You can also learn more about Jay's endeavor at his link:

http://100forchristy.org/


This week is the last week to sponsor Jay. Follow the http://100forchristy.org link above to encourage Jay's effort during the long hours of running and further support the Rolleys.

100forChristy.org - Jay Donosky

I wanted to make everyone aware of a fundraising effort initiated by a very determined individual. Several months ago, one of Christy's longtime clients, Jody Donosky, approached me about a fundraising idea her son had conceived. Flagstaff, Arizona resident, Jay Donosky, had decided that 2010 would be a year in which he would dedicate himself to ultra marathon training. About the time he began his training in earnest, Jay heard of Christy's accident in Evansville and was moved to somehow make a difference through his running.

Jay is training for the Leadville Trail 100 Mile Run which is a 50-mile out and back running race in the midst of the Colorado Rockies. He will run the race on August 21st one day after Christy's birthday. With the help of a very talented cousin, Jay unveiled the following website http://100forchristy.org/.


Jay hopes individuals, groups, and businesses will offer a pledge for every mile he completes in the Leadville 100. The money raised will go to support Christy in her rehabilitation. Please take a moment to visit http://100forchristy.org/ and learn more about Jay's efforts, the Leadville 100, and how you can make a pledge.

Fundraiser Postponed

The fundraiser scheduled for this Saturday, June 19th at the Newburgh Buy Low has been postponed. Please follow the blog for a future date possibly in September. Thanks to those who pre ordered and sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.

A Fundraiser for Christy Rolley

Our good friend, Kevin Rentchler, along with a few of his friends are hosting a fundraiser for Christy on June 19th at the Newburgh Buy Low. They will have smoked chicken, pork ribs and pork butts for sale from 12-4pm. They ask for pre orders to placed on or before June 16th. Orders can be placed by phone or email at the following: 480-2068 or rentchler@insightbb.com

Bonefish Grill No Longer Taking Reservations

Due to limited seating and an overwhelming response, the Bonefish Grill will no longer be taking reservations for this Sundays benefit in Christy's honor. Once again, I want to extend a big thank you to Scott and Jaimie West for their generosity in making this event possible. What originally was to be a seating of 65-70, blossomed into nearly 110 people. Thank you to everyone for your kindness and my apologies for those who where not able to make a reservation.

Randy

Christy Rolley benefit banquet lunch at Bonefish Grill - May 16th

Scott West, proprietor of the Bonefish Grill and friend of the Rolleys, has generously agreed to host a lunch banquet benefit May 16th. Scott will donate 100% of the proceeds from the lunch to the Rolley family.

The Bonefish Grill is located on Evansville's east side at the Burkhardt Road and Lloyd Expressway. The restaurant's address and phone number are listed below.

Bonefish Grill

6401 East Lloyd Expressway

Evansville, Indiana 47715

Event: 12:00 PM

812-401-3474

Scott has created a set menu for the event which will include a starter, salad, entree, and dessert. Please see the full menu attached above.You can click on that menu to view a larger version. Reservations are required and there is limited seating. The lunch is $20 per person with only cash or checks accepted payable to the Rolley family (no credit cards for fundraisers). Please call the Bonefish Grill at 401-3474 with questions or to make reservations.

Thanks to Scott & Jamie West for their generosity and friendship to the Rolleys. Come join them for a wonderful lunch in support of the Rolley family.

Reminder - Rolley Run 5K - Tomorrow @ 8:00 am Bob's Gym Newburgh

This is just a reminder that Rolley Run will take place tomorrow morning at 8:00 am. Come enjoy some exercise, fun, and games. See the above brochure or previous blog entry for details. Thanks again to Emily Ryan and Elissa Higgins and the event sponsors for your hard work and generosity on behalf of the Rolleys.

Overwhelming Success

The benefit for Christy at First Christian Church this past Saturday evening was simply awesome. Once again, we were overwhelmed by the tremendous amount of generosity bestowed upon us. Thank you to those who attended or worked the event. We would be remissed if we did not recognize Christy's sister, Cathy Fuchs, for all the time and effort she dedicated in making the evening such an overwhelming success. For nearly two months Cathy worked tirelessly in order to put together the dinner, dance and silent auction. For those who attended, you can attest that Saturday nights event was well done. Thanks again Cathy for your hard work. Also, we would like to thank First Christian Church of Newburgh for the use of their wonderful facility. In closing, thank you for the generous donations provided by businesses and friends with special thanks going to Gatti Town and the Acropolis for providing food.

Randy

Rolley Run 5K - May 8th @ 8:00 am Bob's Gym Newburgh

As we have mentioned in the past, folks have come up with some very creative ways to support the Rolleys. This next event is great example. Pace with Purpose (Emily Ryan & Elissa Higgins) have organized the "Rolley Run" with proceeds going to the Rolley family.

The run will take place on Saturday, May 8th at 8:00 am at Bob's Gym in Newburgh. The race will be a 5k (3.12 mi) run/walk timed event by the Greater Evansville Runners and Walkers Club. There will also be a kids 50 meter Rolley Dash at 9:00 am after the 5k.

There will be food, magic, face painting, balloons, inflatables, and other fun activities for the kids. You can register for the event online at www.pacewithpurpose.blogspot.com. You can also contact runpwp@yahoo.com with food, prize, and entertainment donations.

Please see the above brochure with more details about the event. Come out and enjoy a morning of fitness and support the Rolley family on May 8th. Thanks to Pace with Purpose and the other event sponsors for your generous support.

First Christian Church Christy Rolley Benefit Night April 24th at 6:00PM - Reminder

This is a reminder of the First Christian Church Benefit being held tomorrow night at 6:00 pm at the church. It will be a fun night that will include a dinner, silent auction, and dance. Please see the flyer in a previous blog for more details on the event. Thanks Cathy and First Christian Church for your efforts.

Thanks Acropolis

Christy and I wanted to thank everyone who dined in or carried out from the Acropolis in Evansville last Wednesday. According to our dear friend and Acropolis owner, Doros Hadjisavva, Wednesday's benefit went smoothly and was a tremendous success. We are fortunate to have people willing to help us in so many ways and Wednesday's benefit at the Acropolis was another prime example of their generosity. Thanks again to Doros, Acropolis General Manager, Ellen Graves, and all the fine staff at the Acropolis for their dedication in making Wednesday night a success.

Randy

First Christian Church Christy Rolley Benefit Night April 24th at 6:00PM

First Christian Church is hosting a benefit with a dinner, dance, and silent auction on April 24th at 6:00 pm. All proceeds will go to the Rolley family. It will be a fun night for all. Please see the poster above for all the details. If you have questions or have items you would like to donate for the silent auction, please contact Cathy Fuchs at cathyd64@wowway.com.

Acropolis Benefit - This Wednesday

The Acropolis Benefit is finally upon us. It will be this coming Wednesday from 11:00 am -9:00 pm and 20% of all food purchases (excluding delivery items) will be donated to the Rolley family to help with Christy's ongoing needs.

Please see details of the benefit in the previous post. You can go online to see their full menu, and if you would like to make group reservation for more than 6, please call Doros Hadjisavva or Ellen Graves at the number listed below. They would be happy to assist.

Please stop by, order online, or purchase from their Deli To Go and further help the Rolley family. Thanks to Doros and his staff for their help.

Acropolis Benefit - April 14th

Doros Hadjisavva, the owner of the Acropolis Greek Cuisine and Spirits and friend of the Rolleys, has generously agreed to host a fundraiser for their benefit, April 14th. Doros will donate 20% of all food purchases (excluding delivery items) that day to the Rolley family.

The Acropolis is located on Evansville's east side. The restaurant's address, phone number, and website are listed below.

Acropolis Greek Cuisine and Spirits

501 North Greenriver Road

Evansville, Indiana 47715

Open: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

812-475-9320

http://www.acropolisevv.com/

doros@acropolisevv.com

ellen@acropolisevv.com

The Acropolis has a wonderful web presence with their full menu presented online. They are prepared to handle groups and donations will be credited for both in restaurant and carry out orders. If you have any questions or would like to make group arrangements, please feel free to contact Doros or Ellen Graves at the above mentioned number or email. It is important to make reservations for groups of 6 or more.

By the way, their Deli To Go menu is an excellent way to purchase bulk items and platters. It is a great choice for schools or companies who want to provide lunch or dinner. Check out their menu for a nice selection of salads, platters, dips, and meats.

Thanks to Doros and his entire staff for their friendship and generosity.

Awesome Event

I wanted to provide an update as to what has been happening with Christy over the past few days. On Tuesday afternoon, Amy and Jill rolled into Atlanta for their second visit with Christy. They were impressed by her tremendous progress. The girls spent most of the evening catching up over a Thai dinner in her room. She really enjoyed the meal, and I think they chatted til late that evening.

Wednesday was a very full and busy day. The girls sat in on Christy's morning rehab and got to see her play tennis for the first time since her arrival to Shepherd. Jill commented that she thought she looked very good on the court. That's a nice compliment coming from a former Murray State collegiate tennis player.

After lunch and a bit of rest, Christy competed in and won the brownie bake off at the Shepherd Center kitchen. Christy admitted that she had some stiff competition, but her two secret weapons were far too much for the other contestants to overcome. After cleaning up the kitchen, Christy got in some additional upper body strength training exercises. Jill and Amy were again impressed by how well she has progressed.

Later, the evening consisted of carryout from a local Mediterranean restaurant with Amy and Jill. After dinner, Christy got to attend (via Skype) the Drop-N-Shop benefit that was held in her honor at the Lakeridge Crossing party house in Newburgh. Many of her favorite vendors and even more friends were in attendance. According to event organizer, Jill Lucy, "it could not have been a better evening." By all accounts, the evening was a tremendous success and a huge boost to Christy's spirits. What a perfect ending to a great day.

Many thanks go out to all those involved in the planning and execution of such an awesome event. I would also like to thank all the people who attended. Christy and I again have been touched by your tremendous outpouring of support.

Randy

Reminder - Girls Night Out Benefit

Drop-N-Shop

Wednesday, March 10th, 5:00pm-8:00pm

Lake Ridge Crossing Club House

2144 Lakeridge Drive, Newburgh, IN

Questions: jill_lucy@wowway.com

Join us tonight for a shopping benefit for Christy and her family. Some of Christy's favorite vendors are coming together to offer their support. When you shop, Christy shops. Most of the proceeds will go directly to the Christy Rolley Contribution Fund at Old National Bank to help with her needs.

In addition, Christy will receive all PARTY PERKS! Free gifts! Free bags, free jewelry, free clothes, free food, and fab skin. If you can't attend, contact one of the following ladies, and they will be happy to apply your outside order toward the benefit.

Thirty-One Gifts - Janet Kissel - 490-5270

Tastefully Simple - Tina Guffey - 430-3316

lia sophia - Erika Maurer 205-3996

CAbi - Bobbie Williams - bwilliams2@wowway.com

Botox - Dr. Kelly Perkins

BTW, there are flyers available that can be posted or handed out. Feel free to send an email to Jill to request one. Her email is listed above just under the location.

Hamlin Equipment Rental Charity

Folks continue to find creative ways to support Christy and the Rolley Family. Here is an example of how the Hamlins, a neighbor of the Rolleys, are doing it. If you know of anyone in need of rental equipment, please point them in the direction of the Hamlins. Their May rentals will provide continued assistance to the Rolley family.

You can click on the attached flyer to view a larger version. Thanks, Hamlins, for your generous support.

Ready For The Weekend

I spoke with Christy yesterday afternoon and as usual her spirits were off the charts. She said she is really getting her transfers down. I'm not surprised at all. Our conversation was abbreviated due to some adjustments they were to make on her wheel chair. She was to go off campus again for dinner so the changes needed to be done. Earlier that day, they had made some adjustments and now she felt as though she was in a recliner on wheels. This was not to her liking, and I quite honestly was surprised. For anyone who has ever sat in her driver's seat or my car's passenger seat after she has been in knows exactly what I'm talking about. Once you get seated, an adjustment must be made because you feel as though your laying in the back seat. Oh well, maybe now she has come to realize that good posture is important.

With regard to seating, Friday is big day for Christy. First, she will have a seating clinic in which they will fit her for her own personal wheel chair. Once the specifications have been determined, they will construct one to meet her needs. The good people at The Rehabilitation Center in Evansville will be involved in this process, and I can't begin to tell you how extremely helpful they have been. Also, today Christy will be free to remove her back brace for good! I think this is a huge milestone for her. I'm sure this is one of many more to come.

Today also starts a big weekend for Christy. She will once again get company from home. Last weekend Christy got to visit with her mother, Brenda, and sisters, Carla and Cathy. Emma and Jacob also made the trip, and they were great for her morale. Today, the girls from our neighborhood will make their way to Atlanta. I'm sure Christy can't wait to see Debi, Angela, and Laura, and I'm sure the feeling is mutual.

As always, thank you to everyone for their kindness. My family has been the recipients of so many prayers, well wishes, kind gestures, etc. We can't begin to repay all the kind acts, but we can say "thanks" and assure you that we are so appreciative of all that we have been given.

Randy

Progress Update

I just spoke with Christy over lunch and got an update on her progress. She mentioned to me how well her physical and occupational therapy has been going. I think her progress has been tremendous thus far as she continues to make great strides. On Saturday, the therapists added a new wrinkle to her rehab. They implemented a bicycle to her workout. This particular bike worked her legs automatically while she focused on increasing her upper body strength through weight lifting exercises. I know this new regimen left her exhausted at the end of the day, but I'm sure it was rewarding as well.

This morning Christy was able to take a shower again on her own. She said that was refreshing and went well but she did mention the transfers in the shower area make her a bit anxious. For the very first time, she was able to rest on her stomach for about 20-30 minutes today. She said that was quite a change since she's only been able to lay on her back to this point. Later today, she and Emily, the OT, were to bake some lemon poppy seed muffins in the kitchen. This will help her get familiar with the oven before the big brownie bake off that is slated for next Wednesday.

As for the bake off, Christy will go off campus Monday to a local Target near the Lennox Hill Mall area to get all supplies needed for her awesome brownie recipe. This particular Target is a pretty neat place even by my standards. The kids and I went there during our visit and found that it has 3 floors and 2 escalators. One escalator is solely dedicated to moving your shopping cart from one floor to the next. How cool is that?

With regard to the participants in the bake off, ladies beware! You're essentially swimming in the deep end of a pool that contains a shark. Seriously, good luck to all participants and the judge(s)as well. Concerning judges, Christy I'm not sure who they are but I'm certain Mr. Wagner at Newburgh Elementary School would love to be in on such an event. That being said, I'm not sure he could be fair or impartial, and I think logistics would present a challenge. Oh well, just a thought.

In closing, Christy will be getting more company this weekend as some of the Drexton Girls (minus Julia) make their way to Atlanta. Debi, Angela and Laura hope to leave this Friday, March 5th around noon. If anyone has anything they want to get to Christy, I'm sure the Drexton Girls would be happy to deliver. Be safe girls.

Randy

Great Progress

Christy continues to make great progress in her rehabilitation efforts at Shepherd. This past week has been packed full of great accomplishments and first time events. As some of you may know, Christy had two trips off campus this week. Her first outing was a little shopping at a CVS which is located just a few blocks from the Shepherd Center. The biggest event was dinner out on the town at a local Ruby Tuesdays. I think she really enjoyed both of her trips tremendously. If nothing else, the change of scenery was refreshing. It's also my understanding that Christy's acting career got it's start this week. I believe she's involved in a hospital produced educational video on do's and dont's in a wheelchair. That should be interesting.

I continue to be amazed by Christy's accomplishments over this short period of time. It's hard to believe but by tomorrow (Friday) she will have completed her second full week of rehab and she doesn't seem to be slowing down by any means. By the end of the day I know she is exhausted but she continues to persevere. Christy I'm so proud of you!

The kids and I continue to do well at home but we sure do miss our girl. This past week has been packed full of basketball, wrestling, dentists appointments, a bit of sickness, school work and general chaos. All that being said, I would be remiss if I didn't give a big shout out to all the wonderful folks at Newburgh Elementary School. Starting Sunday, we had a "pizza party" compliments of the 3rd grade staff. Tuesday was Mrs. Green (Sam's 1st grade teacher) cooking up chicken tenders and her awesome green bean casserole. Thursday consisted of a home style fried chicken dinner from the 2nd grade team. Thanks again.

In closing, I want to acknowledge all the get well cards, notes of encouragement, financial offerings and prayers. There are too many good people for me to single out individually, so please accept a collective "thank you" from Christy, the children and myself.

Randy

Week Two of Rehab

Just an update as to what has been happening with Christy and our family. The kids and I said our "goodbyes" on Saturday afternoon as we left Atlanta on our way back home to Indiana. Although it was tough leaving, I think it was best for all involved. Christy needs the time to focus on her rehab and we all need to get back to our routines. The departure was eased by the fact that Christy's dear friend, Amy McDowell was still visiting and would be there till Sunday morning.

Christy got to take her first shower since entering the hospital. She was able to complete this new task with such flying colors, her P.T. and Amy were once again awed! By the sound of her voice, I could tell that shower was one of her highlights thus far. From that point, the weekend only got better. Sunday she was able to have lunch and visit with Molly who came over from Augusta, GA. Christy said the weather was absolutely perfect and they got to spend their time outside in the secret garden. Later in the afternoon, Christy got a visit from her friend Suzie who moved away from Evansville to Atlanta about 3 years ago. Christy said their visit was wonderful and they were able to pick right up from where they left off.

Sunday evening started as the kids and I had a "pizza party" compliments of the 3rd grade staff at Newburgh Elementary School. We finished off the night with about 30 minutes of Skype time with Christy. What a perfect ending to the day and a great start for week two of rehab.

Randy

Girls Night Out-A Benefit for "One of the Girls" - Christy Rolley

Drop-N-Shop

Wednesday, March 10th, 5:00pm-8:00pm

Lake Ridge Crossing Club House

2144 Lakeridge Drive, Newburgh, IN

Questions: jill_lucy@wowway.com

Join us for a shopping benefit for Christy and her family. Some of Christy's favorite vendors are coming together to offer their support. When you shop, Christy shops. Most of the proceeds will go directly to the Christy Rolley Contribution Fund at Old National Bank to help with her needs.

In addition, Christy will receive all PARTY PERKS! Free gifts! Free bags, free jewelry, free clothes, free food, and fab skin. If you can't attend, contact one of the following ladies, and they will be happy to apply your outside order toward the benefit.

Thirty-One Gifts - Janet Kissel - 490-5270

Tastefully Simple - Tina Guffey - 430-3316

lia sophia - Erika Maurer 205-3996

CAbi - Bobbie Williams - bwilliams2@wowway.com

Botox - Dr. Kelly Perkins

BTW, there are flyers available that can be posted or handed out. Feel free to send an email to Jill to request one. Her email is listed above just under the location.

Many Thanks From Atlanta!

I wanted to take a moment and bring everyone up to speed on Christy's progress here at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia. The kids and I are finding out first hand how truly amazing the Shepherd Center is. We are so thankful the fine people at Shepherd had an opening for Christy. She continues to work tirelessly in her rehabilitation and her progress is tremendous. I am so proud of the effort and work she is putting in during this phase of her rehab. For anyone who knows Christy, this comes as no surprise. She is a tireless individual who will not rest until the work is done. Please know that we are so grateful for all the prayers and generosity bestowed upon Christy and our family. Again, please accept our thanks for all the support.

Randy

Thanks Beef O'Brady's

Thanks to Beef O'Brady's for their generous support of the Rolley family during last Thursday's benefit in Newburgh. They raised over $3,800 for Christy and the Rolley family.

I know the benefit stretched their resources but appreciate their willingness to step forward to help. Thanks to John Greenwell, Hayley Maravich and friends, and the entire staff at Beef O'Brady's for their tireless work Thursday. Please contact the restaurant and visit their Facebook page to thank them for their generosity. www.facebook.com/pages/Newburgh-IN/Beef-O-Bradys-Newburgh/234384633425

Thanks also to the many people who ordered food or ate at the restaurant that day to support the family. Thanks for your patience and patronage on what was a very busy day.

Caring Bridge Link

You may have noticed the Care Bridge link on the left side of the blog just under Christy's pictures. Christy's friend, Jill Keepes, has created a journal on the Caring Bridge. Jill travelled with Christy on the plane and has been supporting her as she has settled in at Sheperd Center. Jill has been doing a nice job documenting their trip complete with pictures. She also just posted pictures of the family when they arrived yesterday. Follow the link for great current information about Christy and the family.

Personal Message from Christy

Personal message from Christy to all of you-Friday evening

I just want to thank everyone for all their prayers, love and support..... it has been overwhelming how you have all reached out so much to me personally by visits, financially, prayers and all the well wishes. Thanks also to all of you who have reached out to me even though you only know of me through others. I am going to give this my BEST fight and I am confident that I am at the right place and I am continuing to get stronger everyday.

We had a safe flight today from Evansville to Atlanta at the Shepherd Center, we arrived about 12:30 eastern standard time. We arrived just minutes ahead of the snowstorm. This place is amazing and the staff are excellent. Thank you all so so much for all your support and prayers, I feel them daily as I work hard and heal. I feel this all is in God's hands and that this happened for a reason. He already knows the outcome and He will see me through. I love you all very much and look forward to coming home and seeing you all! Randy and the kids are coming down today to check this place out and they are VERY excited to see where Mommy is going to be for the next few weeks.

love to you all

Christy

Off to Sheperd

Today is an exciting day for Christy. She has been released from Deaconess hospital and leaves for the Sheperd Spinal Center in Atlanta, GA. She is being transported by plane at 8:30 a.m.. Her good friend Jill Keepes is traveling with her.

The Sheperd Center is a private, not-for-profit, 132-bed hospital that specializes in the medical treatment, research, and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord and brain injury. Last year they admitted 825 people to its inpatient programs and 522 people to its day patient programs. In addition, Sheperd sees some 14,000 people annually on an outpatient basis. The link to the facilities website is www.sheperd.org. The Tour Sheperd link on the left side of their home page provides a wonderful visual tour of the facility.

Sheperd Center is also known for the way it accommodates families. Randy and the kids will follow in the morning and will be at Sheperd Center through Tuesday of next week. True to form, Christy spent most of last night and this morning making sure tomorrow's travel was organized and comfortable for the kids and that their school work for Monday and Tuesday is being addressed while they're gone.

Let's send Christy off with a bunch of well wishes in the comment section below. As the new picture on the left reflects, she continues to be brave and hopeful and is ready to get to Sheperd and go to work.

Progress Update

Wednesday was a huge day for Christy. Randy was able to get her out and about the hospital in a wheel chair while she visited with Jason McDowell and Brad Ferris. The change of scenery was good for her spirit and the conversation was brisk. Later in the afternoon, Christy was moved from the trauma ICU to a private room. Although she hated to leave all the wonderful and caring personnel, this was a big step in her recovery because at that point it was clear that Christy was no longer an ICU patient. Christy's road to recovery is still in the early stages, however, her progress has been tremendous. Please accept thanks from Christy's family to all the many friends and well wishers for all the support during this time.

Beef O'Brady's Benefit - Reminder

This is just a quick reminder of the Beef O'Brady's benefit for the Rolley family tomorrow in Newburgh. You can scroll down to the February 6th blog post for all the details. Please order ahead if you can and be sure to thank the good people at Beef O'Brady's for their support of the Rolley family.

Another great day

Today was a day of firsts. Christy was able to get her hair washed and fixed. As most women can attest, that alone can be a very uplifting experience. Most of the morning was spent visiting with friends while seated in a wheel chair. Later in the evening, Randy and the kids were able to have a nice visit and read through the many cards that Christy has received from so many good friends and well wishers. Tuesday was another great day!

Progress Update

I just talked with Randy and listened to a voice mail from Christy and wanted to pass along some good news. Christy got her chest tube out today which in turn allowed her to try on her brace. With the appropriate help from others, they got Christy sitting up on the side of the bed for a short time this afternoon. You could definitely hear the bounce in Christy's voice on the voice mail. They are going to make some adjustment to the brace to improve the fit, but it was a good first day of therapy.

Please continue to send words of encouragement in the comments section following the post. I know they are encouraging to Christy and the family.

Spontaneous Efforts of Help

There have been a number of spontaneous efforts to help the Rolley family. A great example is the Beef O'Brady's benefit mentioned in a previous post. There are several benefits being planned you will see in future posts.

If you have an idea and would like to get the word out, please call 812-459-2652. We can make sure something gets on the blog to describe the event and encourages participation.

Christy and Randy continue to be grateful to everyone for your many prayers and acts of kindness.

Progress Update

Christy is recovering well following her surgery Friday. As you might guess, she is tired from the procedure and spent most the day yesterday resting up. While it is encouraging for her to see friends, right now visitation is being limited to allow her to gain strength following the surgery. Feel free to send words of encouragement in the comments section following any of the blog posts. Randy's making sure those are past along.

Christy's progress continues to remain on schedule. She will continue to recover from the surgery in the ICU. Once she is ready, she will receive a brace fitted over her stomach and back that will allow her to sit up. This will prepare her to begin physical therapy. She will remain at Deaconess hospital for several days yet.

Please pray for Christy and Randy as they consider the best spinal rehabilitation center for Christy. Fortunately, they are receiving quality counsel from a variety of sources about the available options. Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers.

Beef O'Brady's Benefit - Thursday, February 11th

John Greenwell, the owner of Beef O'Brady's in Newburgh, has generously agreed to donate 15% of this Thursday's income to the Rolley family. Hayley Maravich, General Manger, and several other close friends have organized the event.

In addition, you will be able to make cash donations and there will be a silent auction with items donated from various businesses in the area.

Hayley has indicated that pre-ordering items is very important. Food for the event must be order this weekend, and it would be a tremendous help knowing ahead of time how much food to have on hand. In addition to hot food, Beef O'Brady's has wonderful deli wraps and sandwiches offered on catering trays. These would be a perfect option for a school staff or business and can be prepared ahead of time.

Please stop by or request a faxed menu if you need one. You can fax at 490-5800 or call your order in at 490-9464. Please call to confirm a faxed order.

This is a significant undertaking for the restaurant. Please be patient and make sure you thank those serving you Thursday. Thanks to John, Hayley, and all those involved with the benefit. I know they are happy to help and feel proud to be part of such a generous community.

Christy Rolley Contribution Fund

Many have expressed an interest in financially helping the Rolleys. In response, Old National Bank has agreed to accept contributions on their behalf at any of their banking centers. Checks should be made to Randall D. Rolley. Please indicate "Christy Rolley benefit" in the memo line.

Thanks to Old National Bank for their kind support.

Christy's Stabilization Surgery

Christy's stabilization surgery went very well today. The purpose of the surgery was to repair the damaged vertebrae and to stabilize her backbone. To be clear, the surgery's purpose was not to visually inspect the spinal injury.

The surgery was a lengthy process - some six hours. There were fortunately no surprises. In fact, the doctors were encouraged by the low level of bleeding, bruising, and clotting in the tissue surrounding the injury.

Much was accomplished during the procedure. The first part of the surgery was cleaning and aligning the vertebrae. The doctors then inserted multiple layers of screws to repair the damaged vertebrae. The remaining portion of the surgery was shaping the rods and cross links that will serve to stabilize Christy's backbone.

She just moved back to the ICU for recovery. Randy and the rest of the family will have an opportunity to see her later this evening.

Christy, Randy, family, and friends are grateful to the hospital and surgical team for their careful planning, consultation, and attention to detail during what was a long and tedious procedure. Thanks also to all those who have had Christy and the Rolley family in their thoughts and prayers.

Thanks for Your Thoughts and Prayers

As most of you know by now, Christy was involved in a sledding accident this past Sunday afternoon at Helfrich golf course on the cities west side. Christy was with her four kids, William, Ellen, Isaac, and Sam. They were sledding with Christy's sister, Cathy, and her two children, Jacob and Emma. Around 4 pm, Christy and Emma struck a tree while sledding on a tube. Thankful, Emma was thrown clear and was uninjured. Christy, however, struck her head and back and required care at the scene.

She was transported to Deaconess hospital and has been under the able care of the staff there since Sunday night. The MRI shows Christy fractured her T8 & T9 vertebrae and sustained a spinal injury. Tragically, she presents with paralysis from roughly her sternum down.

It has been a very difficult week for Christy, Randy, and their entire family and friends. In time, I'm sure they will share on this blog how much they have appreciated and been sustained by the avalanche of support and prayer that has been extended on their behalf. I know it has been a comfort. It is also a testimony to how much they are universally loved and respected.

The kids have been able to visit Christy twice - once on Tuesday evening and again this evening. It has been a blessing and encouragement to all. Otherwise, the kids have been in school and following their normal evening activities. Christy and Randy have appreciated how the teachers and staff at Newburgh Elementary have kept a careful eye on the kids.

Most of the week has been an effort to determine the extent of Christy's injuries. It has also been preparation for a surgery that's designed to stabilize the damaged vertebrae in her back. That surgery is scheduled for tomorrow morning at 7:30 am and is expected to be a lengthy procedure. Christy remains hopeful and brave. Please pray the surgery is successful and allows the doctors to gain additional clarity about how to best care for her going forward.

Many thanks to the emergency responders, doctors and hospital staff, teachers, and friends for your support this past week. Please check back for additional updates about Christy's progress. The blog will also provide information about the many ways being planned about how to help the family.