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.