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Wednesday, May 26, 2004 7:16 PM CDT

Thanks to all of you for your messages and prayers.

Stephanie, Matt, and Dalton are doing great. Stephanie has come a long way. She still takes a lot of medicine. She also has to be careful with her diet and drink lots of water and keep the donor site out of the sunlight. She can't stand for long periods of time and sitting is very uncomfortable and painful. She had an appontment with a Surgeron for the October surgery and decided he was not the one for this surgery. She will try another one. She has started PT again.

Dalton is getting so big and independent. His favorite phase is "I do it".

They have moved into a small 2 BR home. They needed to get things back to a normal family life. This little family needed to become Daddy, Mama, and child again.

I has been a week, it has been hard and lonely. Granddaddy and I miss the bear hugs and butterfly kisses, bath time and play time, and all those kisses and hugs when it is nite-nite time. It is so quiet now. No one to grab your finger and say "OUTside" "OUTside". I wake up in the morning and find myself waiting to here him knocking on the door and say "knock knock" ........then more Knocking (a little louder) and he would say "Knock Knock" (a little louder) and if I hadn't made it to the door there would be louder KNOCKING and he would say "KNOCK KNOCK". Well, I knew this time was coming.

Thank God for that time with them.

Keep them in your prayers.
God Bless you,
Barbara

Sunday, April 4, 2004 4:16 AM CDT

Stephanie had to go back to the hospital Wednesday night. Saturday through Wednesday she just seemed to get weaker and weaker. She thought she was coming down with a cold. But, I felt there was something more, so when she went to bed early Wednesday night I took her blood pressure and at that time she was not talking sensible. Her BP was 126/105 so I called the ambulance and they took her BP again and it was 125/100. They tried twice to do a blood sugar finger stick and could not get any blood. Then they got her into the ambulance and there they tried repeatedly to get the IV started and was unable to get the vein. So they took her on to the hospital. She was dehydrated and her potassium was 2.5 which is very low. They kept her over night in an observation room and pumped fluids and potassium into her veins and by mouth. The next day she was sent home with a 4.8 potassium and she was a new person. WOW! I need some of that stuff!

Dalton's Birthday is 2 weeks away and we are so excited. This year his MOMMY will be at his party and we all have a lot to celebrate and to be thankful for. Stephanie is spending a lot of time with Dalton now making up the time (1 year) she has missed with him. When Matt and Stephanie leave to go somewhere he cries now.

Stephanie's next surgery will be in September or October and it will be with a private plastic surgeon. We will be leaving MCG Physicians very soon, when Dr. Hawkins releases her. We will need a private doctor for that replacement as well.(gastro specialist) If anyone could recommend a great doctor for her please do.

I thank God for giving all of us this time together. I will be closing this site soon so please leave a final note to them.

Thanks to all of you for all you have done for us. God Bless you all.

Monday, March 15, 2004 7:57 AM CST

Good Day to everyone, we are doing good and things are looking so much better.

Stephanie had a great week and has started doing more. She started getting out more and now we are so proud of her. She still has some pain and discomfort but she is doing her best to ignor it. Doctor Hawkins said she would have healing pain for a quit a while he gave her a perscription for 70 pain patches 100 mg that will last for 210 days.

This week end she and Matt spent the week-end with Matt's sister and her husband (Ashley and Michael). They had a good time but she is very exhausted this morning. But it is a good way. I think the more I can get her to do the faster she will get better.

We have enrolled Dalton in Mother's Day out for 2 days a week and for swimming lessons again. He had started swimming classes at the Y Jan. 2003 to Feb. 2003 but had to stop because of the accident.

Well I have to go, Walter has a doctor's appointment this morning. He has had a bad sore throat for almost 5 weeks, now. So I will write more later.

Love and God Bless everyone.
Barbara

Sunday, February 29, 2004 6:54 AM CST

Stephanie has had a rough 1 ½ weeks. The pain and soreness has finally lessened and she can deal with it better. She says this was one of the worse surgeries she has had in this last year. I think they did not use the “Do Not Remember Drug” this time. She is very tired and weak. She is not eating much because she has been hurting so much she has been nauseous since the surgery. She is back down to 106 pounds. Now that she is hurting less, I hope she can get the weight back to 114 where she was before the surgery. Sent her and e-mail, a card or leave her a message here.

Dr. Hawkins said the next surgery has to wait for 8 to 9 months (OCT or NOV)and he won't have anything to do with that surgery only plastic surgery. If you know a great plastic surgeon let us hear from you. We may even go to Atlanta for that surgery.

Thanks for your prayers and cards and flowers and those of you who took the time to visit Stephanie in the hospital. All of that helps when you feel so bad.

WELL THERE IS GREAT NEWS TO SHARE!!!!!!!!!!!!

THE HOUSE WAS SOLD AND THE CLOSING WAS FRIDAY, FEB. 27!!!!!! I did not tell anyone, hoping not to jinks it. Thanks to Mr. And Mrs. Ray Williford, Jr of Louisville for buying this great country home. Thanks to Diane Johnson, Loan Officer for HomePlace Financial Mortgage Company in Atlanta for all she did to expedite this closing in 2 weeks and their reduced profit. Thanks to Tyler Mahaffey and Chris Dube for the closing. Thanks to Decision One for cutting our expenses and their profit. Thanks to Cannan Appraisal and Forestry for helping with the appraisal cost. Thanks to Peggy for helping me pack up the stuff left in the house.

THAT BURDEN IS OVER!!!

Now, about the Donations so many of you made to the “CHANCE TO WIN A HOUSE” will be returned. I have 350 calls to make about returning the Donation. Some of you have stated, you would like to donated the $100 fund to help Stephanie and Matt with their medical debts and Medical Insurance they appreciate your donation and generosity. I have 350 donations to get back so please bare with me.

Electrolux has terminated her, she has been on FMLA without pay, since 2/23/03 and it is only good for 1 year. Cobra Insurance will take over for $700 a month for 18 months. They got rid of the house payment, just to take over the insurance payment of $700 a month. Any donation to this expense and her other medical expenses will be greatly appreciated.

Thursday, February 19, 2004 10:47 AM CST

Good Morning to All,

Update for Tuesday-Thursday a.m.:

Stephanie's surgery on Tuesday was completed without any problems. It was long, but thank goodness there were no complications. Stephanie has been in a lot of pain since the surgery. There was a mix-up/mess-up Wednesday in the early a.m. about her pain medication - as to when she could get a shot, etc. She has been experiencing nauesa, too. All this is typical for the procedures that she just had. Stephanie has been running a fever, and they will be giving her antibiotics for that. She has started a clear liquid diet. Today (Thursday), Stephanie will be allowed to walk to the bathroom.

Walter kept Dalton Tuesday and Wednesday. Dan and Nannie Loyal will be keeping Dalton Thursday and Friday. Walter and Matt will take turns with Dalton over the weekend. Audrey, Woody, and April are on standby. Barbara is staying at the hospital 24/7.

We're not sure how long she will be in the hospital. The doctors don't want to set a discharge date. We'll keep you all posted via this Journal as to when she's up to visitors and when she'll be going home. Her room number is 4065, which is 4th Floor West, where Matt was after the accident.

Thanks for checking in on this website and for your continued thoughts and prayers! God bless each of you!

Love,
Aunt Pete

Monday, February 2, 2004 4:30 PM CST

I hope everyone had a great week-end.

Stephanie's surgery is Feb. 17. The doctors agreed it could be done that week. They told her they were going to cut her down the center and try to repair the site as well.
They feel that there is to much inner scar tissue there and they need to remove it as well as removing the damaged gall bladder.

The Physical Therapy is going good she is keeping it going on the days she doesn't go in for PT. I am so proud of her determination.

Dalton is talking more and jabbering all day. Matt is hurting more on these really cold days, but he does not complain. He is getting over the teeth removal. He was out for that day and down the next but he said it wasn't bad at all.

I need to go now. I will write later.

God Bless everyone and keep us in your prayers.
Love, Barbara

Wednesday, January 21, 2004 10:48 PM CST

Stephanie is going to physical therapy 3 days a week now and thanks to them for doing it for free. Thanks to Dr Apostle for setting it up.

Stephanie is not feeling well this week, her Tuesday appointment was cancelled to Thursday. She is not sleeping and today she had a sore throat and a fever. I hope and pray her Potassium isn't low again. We don't know why it keeps dropping since the throwing up has stopped since the last 2 surgerys. The PT person found some stiches under her scars that have not dissolved and now that explains some of her discomfort and pain.

She gave a jewelery party Saturday and 23 friends came and made the party a success. The Jewelery Lady vowed to give 10% of the sales to Stephanie for her medical expenses. Thanks to her for her donation. Thanks to all that came.

Matt will have oral surgery on Friday at 11:30 to remove all 4 molars(?), and Stephanie has PT that afternoon at 2:30. Dalton and I will be the taxie drivers and his nurse.

Dalton is so smart. The other day he said "I perfect" and I told him he sure was. He is 21 months old and he enjoys empting the dishwasher and dryer and pouring the tide into the washer and taking diapers to the trash can. He is a big help. HA HA. His favorite phrase is "I do it" and give him enough time he will do it. He loves working in Granddaddy's shop and riding his 4 wheeler his cousin William Bowles gave him before Christmas. He likes playing with all the things he got for Christmas from everyone. He loves the Books he got, his favorite is The Wheels on the Bus. I have had to read it 12 time in one sitting.

Dalton and I sure Woody since he moved out. Dalton stands on the bottom stair and yells DEEEEEEEEEE which stands for Woodeee. Dalton's dog's name is Baby he calls her Beeeeeeeeee. Sometimes Dalton hears Woody drive up and starts calling DEEEEEEEEEEE and I think he is calling BEEEEEEEE. Dalton knows that Woody's truck and Granddaddy's truck sound different. And if you aren't here you are at WOORK.

The sell of the ticket are very slow so we will keep trying until we get at least 700 sold. If you can help please call and we will get you the forms out to you.

It is late and I need to closed.
Thanks for continuing to keep checking and praying and taking the time to leave a message when you get on this site.

God Bless Everyone,
Love, Barbara

Monday, January 12, 2004 7:06 AM CST

I am so sorry for not writing more often. I won't make any excuses.

Stephanie is doing good. We have good days and bad ones. Thank God the good out number the bad. We both are worn ragged, you know what I mean.

She hopes to have the next surgery in Feb. because her insurance will expire Feb. 23, 2004. They can pay $700 a month to keep it . Her company will have to terminate her at that time. They have been so good to her and this is all understandable, but it will be rough for them.

She is off all the pain medicine but the patch and it is being reduced each month, by Feb. she will be drug free. Then she goes back into surgery again and we will start with that again. They said she has done well with coming off the medicines she was on. They also said she was not hooked on them but her body would go through withdrawals. It was hard on her but she came through it like the champ she is.

She and Dalton are able to spend more time together now that she is doing better. We have to watch him and the tubing. He is courious and wants to pull on it. She is having some drainage issues. She hopes they will be able to remove it and the gallblader in Feb.

The doctor said she could try Physical therapy and driving to the store and back if she felt okay behind the wheel, only short distances. He said Dalton could not ride with her at this time.

Dalton had a great Christmas, thanks to all the giving people who contributed to his Christmas. Thanks to all who gave to Stephanie and Matt for Christmas as well.

Well, I guess everyone knows we have postponed the drawing to June 5, 2004 or sooner. Stephanie and Matt will have another $700 monthly expense starting Feb. 23, 2004. So making the $650. house payment won't be easy. As soon as we get 700 chances we will have the drawing, we are almost halfway there. If you planned to donate please do it as soon as you can. Thank you.

Keep her in your prayers.
Love from the Loyals and Bowles House
God Bless you

Monday, December 8, 2003 11:26 AM CST

Stephanie had a good week and a very good week-end. She spent Saturday with Dalton and Matt. They went to a cousins that night to visit and watch the game. Sunday, they went to church and then went to her dad's boss' home to see their Christmas decorations.

Dalton is still sick with a sore throat and not eating because of it.

The cold weather still bothering Matt's feet and leg.

I guess everyone knows the "CHANCE TO WIN A HOUSE" has been postponed to Dec 24 then Jan. 3 2004 and if we don't get enough by then it will be postponed to the first Saturday of the next, until June 6, 2004. We have complete confidence that we will get what is needed well before June.

Please send your donation if you have pledged to do so.

GOD BLESS each and everyone,
Love,
Barbara

Saturday, December 6, 2003 0:11 AM CST

There will not be a drawing on Saturday, December 6, 2003.
I will be at the house packing and cleaning just in case someone comes out to contribute for a CHANCE TO WIN THE HOUSE GIVEAWAY. We will have the drawing on January 5, 2004 or sooner if we collect 750 chances. We are hoping that all of the family and friends that have pledged to donate will come through with their donation so we can have the drawing before Christmas. We are close to the halfway point. If you know anyone that could donate to help Stephanie and Matt please send me their address and I will mail them a form. Thank you.

Stephanie had a rough week. We spent Wednesday in the MCG Emergency Room. Her muscles are week and she has pulled and strained her neck and upper back muscles. She is on 3 medicines for that, muscle relaxers and anti-inflam. She has stopped the hard drugs she was on again, since the last hospital visit. She has done great with that horrible task. Her body has had to go through withdrawal symptoms 3 times now and she and I and Matt hope it will be a while before she has to take those drugs again. Thank GOD for them when they are needed and we thank GOD she did not become mentally and physically hooked on them. Stephanie has held her weight for 2 weeks now. Thanks to GOD.

Dalton is sick with 104.4 fever, it is a sore throat this time and a stomach virus.

Matt is having some bad days with his feet and legs in this weather, it really does bother him.

I want to thank William Bowles who found brick layers to finish the work that was started in May. The cold was really coming in that bare wall, door, and windows. Thanks to those GOD sent brick layers as well. They will be back in the morning to do the final work, under the windows, around the door and the vent.

Stephanie and Genie Bowles gave an interview Wednesday night on TV 49 a local Christian channel. Jennifer Lacy did her hair and she looked great. Thanks to Jennifer Lacy and Genie Bowles for getting her the interview.

Genie and William have brought us around 100 chances they sold for us. WOW!!! Thanks

God Bless everyone,
And thanks to you for all that you do.
Love, Barbara

Tuesday, November 25, 2003 10:55 PM CST

of antibotics. When she got home she was very tired and very depressed about having a new ostomy bag. It goes in between two ribs and into the liver and into the gallbladder to keep it drained. She will have it for 4 to 6 months or until they feel her abdoman has completely healed from the September 5 reconstruction of the bowels. Then they will cut the abdoman again to remove the gallblader. They won't risk the laposcopic surgery, because they could slip and damage that 109 cm of intestines she has and that would be awful. So they will have to do the hugh surgery like they use to do to remove the gallbladder. So between the new bag and thoughts or another surgery, and another scar to her tiny abdoman she has all rights to be upset and depressed. She will get over this as soon as she goes back to reading her BIBLE. She gets so much strength from it. So many of you have given her books that have helped as well and they are all Christian books. She just has a hard time reading and staying awake after having to take those pain medicines.

Monday, we had so much to do, that we stayed busy all day, which was good for her.

Dalton was so glad to have his MOMMY back home. When you ask Dalton where is Mommy or Daddy, he will say Moma stick (sick)and Dadddy woork. Uncle Woody is now called EEE and Dalton's dog Baby is called ee. Stephanie said he looks like he has grown inches in the 11 days she was in the hospital. She is really loving the hugs and she really needs every hug he is willing to stop and give. Two months ago he was afraid to get near her.

Stephanie's doctor's appointment went okay with no new supprises and Stephanie is down to 103 pounds. She was not able to eat for 9 of the 11 days she was in the hospital. I think Dr Hawkins has lost his magic touch he had with Stephanie, since her October 16 visit. He was harsh with her about the pain and medicines, to bad he did not believe her and check out this pain. The pain that was coming from something other than the 9/5/03 surgery HA the GALLBLADDER. I think this was a problem ever since ICU back in March when she was constantly throwing up, more that the average gut trauma patient, as well as April thru May. Again in June when she was throwing up so much for no reason in the hospital. They even told us her Gallbladder was enlarged then, but did not run any test on it. They just cut the fats in her TPN. In ICU she was complaining about right side pain and they said she probably pulled muscles while throwing up. They would even comment about the bright green bile where is that coming from????? Modern Medicine...........

Genie Bowles came over to sit with Stephanie and Dalton while I went to the Doctor and She ended up taking Stephanie to Dr Hawkins. Thanks to Genie for doing this for me.

I want to thank Granny Loyal and Dan Loyal for taking care of Dalton during the days, while Stephanie was in the hospital.

Thanks to everyone who called and came by the hospital to visit with us.

William Bowles and Genie Bowles have jumped in with both feet to help us out getting the $100 Contributions for A CHANCE TO WIN THE HOUSE. THANKS TO THEM FOR THEIR HELP.
They may be calling on you they are doing a great job. We got 25 contributions today, that they had collected over the weekend. They have a few girls from The Towne Scoop that are helping as well. Ott Stevens from Louisville's radio station WPEH has done an interview that will be aired soon and has the forms to hand out to anyone who wants to contribute. Since it was in THE NEWS AND FARMER and CHANNEL 12 3 times the contributions have started coming in. Thanks to Parris Howard for the great article and thanks all at Channel 12 for the great piece they did last week.

Thanks to all who have us in their prayers,
Thanks to all who are contributing to the Trust Fund,
Thanks to God for giving all of us another glorius day on this earth.
God Bless everyone,
Love, Barbara

Friday, November 21, 2003 7:58 AM CST

Well, after the Ultrasound (Sat), Hidascan(Sun), and CAT Scan (Mon), they determined she had a blockage due to a Gallstone lodged in the tubing not allowing the gallblader to function, backing the bile up into her stomache, and the gallbladder was full of slug and more stones.

So Tuesday morning they surgically inserted a drain tube and now she has a new bag. The tube was inserted through the liver and into the gallbladder. She will have this bag for 4 to 5 months or until her abdoman has had time to completely heal from the 9/5/03 surgery, and she can be cut on again. They will remove the gallbladder at that time. This just pushed the buttock repair for a year from that surgery. I hope I live long enough to understand WHY STEPHANIE is having to go through all this, enough is enough. I know I am not suppose to ask why but first I am the mama and second I am a WOMAN and we have to...

She was almost drug free until this, now we have to go through that again, when the time comes. The doctors said that the stones are still there and could cause more pain in time. Please pray that she can go through this without more pain.

Stephanie's story was on the Channel 12 news last night at 5 it was a great piece. Channel 6 and 26 and maybe 49 are going to do a piece for her as well. I will try to inform you better when it will appear. The Columbia County News and the Augusta Chronicle will also have her story in the paper soon.

There is only 2 more weeks for the Dec 6 Donation for a CHANCE TO WIN THE HOUSE. If you had planned to donate please send your check to
Stephanie Loyal
P. O. Box 2614
Evans, GA 30809-2614
Along with your Name, address, phone number, signature and e-mail address if you have one, I will fill out the form and send you your copy of the rules and regulations.
You can print the form on www.stephanieloyal.com
or call and I will mail you one. Thanks to all that have already donated to the CHANCE TO WIN THE HOUSE.

Love to all and GOD BLESS,
Barbara

Sunday, November 16, 2003 9:37 AM CST

Stephanie's surgery to remove the scar tissue that had attached to the larynax wall went fine....

But we had problems before and after surgery. I had to take her to the ER Wednesday night/Thursday 12:10 AM. Her blood test for Post op came in with dangerously low potassium 2.7 (3.5 to 5.3 is the range of safe potassium).
The doctor ordered 6 oz. of liquid potassium and water to be swallowed every 4 hours and after the first little swallow she started throwing up. So she went to bed and I called the doctor they told me to get her to the ER and they omitted her at 6:30 AM. She had heart arrythmia due to the low potassium. She had to get IV Potassium all day Thursday, the Potassium level was okay for surgery Friday morning. But the potassium started droppong again after surgery on her Trach Scar that had attached to the wall of her Larynx and was causing her to throw up more that her normal. Because her electrolites were so low, they kept her over night. Saturday morning 7 am she started with severe abdoman pain. They told us the symptoms sounded like the gallblader/liver problem they were suppose to order a ultrasound in 4 hours because this is suppose to be done with nothing on the stomach. She finally got the ultrasound done at 8:45 PM because the doctor failed to write the order. I asked about it throught out the day and was told the doctor would be back. Finally at 6:45 I asked to see the doctor and the doctor had gone. So her replacement finally came and ordered the ultrasound. He finally came back at 11:30 after we had to ask the nurse to request him to come discuss the results at 11:00 PM. She has inflammation around her gallbladder and this is why she was in so much pain since the second hospital visit (plastic surgery on her buttock). Isn't this a SHAME.....

MCG AND DOCTORS OF MCG SHAME ON YOU!!!!!!!!

We do not know what is next... We hope to here something more today. The treatment right now is PAIN MEDICINE AS MUCH AS NEEDED, AND REST... I think they are waiting for DR Hawkins to get back in town. So all we can do is sit and watch her hurt.

Please pray for her, she is so pale and weak. They have not weighted her in 4 days and she has not had anything to eat for 2 days and she didn't eat much when she did eat. She can't afford to lose much more weight.

I do not have time to proof read. Sorry for any type or grammer errors.

God Bless everyone,
Barbara

Wednesday, November 5, 2003 4:16 PM CST

Stephanie's surgery is November 14 instead of the 19. That is Friday of next week. Stephanie is getting around better and is looking forward to getting the problem with the throat repaired. She gags and throws up so much that surgery is welcomed. Please keep her in your prayers.

Walter has 3 kidney stones and has been in awful pain. He started with it Saturday evening. I think it was better today but he is hurting less today.

There is only 30 days left to get your CHANCE TO WIN FOR A DONATION. A lot of you have said you are going to get a CHANCE, so if you haven't please send your check to Stephanie Loyal, P. O. Box 2614, Evans, GA 30809-2614. Thank you.

God Bless and Love,
Barbara

Sunday, November 2, 2003 1:54 PM CST

This has been a long week.

Thanks to GOD we all survived it and are here to make another one.

Stephanie is about the same. I hope we can start exercising and building her strength. She still weighs 109, thank God she has not lost any more weight in the last 2 weeks. She is eating a little better. I am hoping and praying that she will be able to do better after the throat surgery Nov. 19. They are in the process of reducing her drugs and then she will have surgery and they will start all over again. I know her body is so tired and worn out and weak. I hope and pray this will be it for a long time (11 months) before another surgery is needed.

Dalton is still needing the breathing treatments and he is feeling better. He is starting to say 2 & 3 word sentences. "Comon Gran da", "I doit", "Let me", "MO MO"(anything with a motor), "Mo Juce" and he calls to the deer in the front yard "DERE DERE". I guess I'll stop bragging now.

Matt need oral surgery to remove his wisdom teeth, that will be in Nov. sometime soon.

Walter and I send our thanks and love to all,
Keep us in your prayers,

Wednesday, October 29, 2003 6:31 PM CST

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL,

Well to catch you up with what's happening, Dalton has had a bad cough, congestion, and wheezing. The doctor put him in the hospital for 24 hours to get him some breathing trearments and on oxygen over night. He has broncitus and wheezing and now we have to give him breathing treatments every 4 hours as needed.

Stephanie, Matt and I spent the night there. We did not get much sleep but he is doing better and we are back home. Stephanie has gone to bed already she is so worn out. Matt is running behind him because the treatment speeds him up.

This afternoon Stephanie had an appointment with the ENT Specialist. She has been throwing up now for months for no apparent reason, so Dr. Hawkins was afraid that the scar tissue in the trac wound was causing this problem. He scheduked this appointment a few weeks ago. The ENT doctors said it was true the scar tissue had attached to the voice box/larnyx where foods and/or flim would get hung on the scar tissue and would gag her to the point of throwing up. They have schedule another surgery to repair this on Nov. 19.

Well I have got to go. Sorry I have to cut this short.
God Bless everyone and keep us in your prayers.
Love Barbara

Tuesday, October 21, 2003 12:59 PM CDT

Stephanie is still having some pain and is very uncomfortable sitting. She is getting better every day. She can not drive and she can not pick up anything that weighs more than 10 pounds. This will be for the next year. The intestines heal very slowly and we can't afford for them to rupture (pull apart). She is getting stronger and want to do more but we have to make sure she does not over do or lift more than the ten pounds.

Keep us in your prayers,
Love,
Barbara

Tuesday, October 7, 2003 7:57 PM CDT

Stephanie had her last appointment with plastic surgeons on Monday. They said her abdoman healed better than they expected. But it may need some repair surgery after a year or so.

I had them weigh her and she has lost 7 pounds in 6 days. She had been telling me there was no change in her weight. I thought she had and this is our greatest fear. She can not keep losing weight. They sent us to the lab for blood work but we have not heard back from them. The blood test tells them what is going on and what she needs. I am afraid they will want to install a hickman line and start the evening fluids again. But that would be better than watching her dry up to nothing. She is wearing a size 4 and they are falling off. I hope everyone will pray for her to get over this losing weight stage. She needs to put on some weight.

The Wadley Women's Club is putting on a dance with live bands in Louisville on October 24 at the Lions Club everyone is encouraged to come, all profits will go to the Stephanie Loyal Trust Fund to help them with their medical bills and debts.

God Bless everyone and please keep praying for us.
Love,
Barbara

Wednesday, October 1, 2003 9:56 PM CDT

Stephanie went to the doctor again Tuesday and he removed the Central Line. So no more Fluids at night. In 2 weeks more blood test, they will let us know how much she is getting from eating. This is another big step to recovery. We ask that everyone give a prayer request. If she could retain the foods she eats long enough to get nutrition and retain fluids, also. She had to start vitamins, too.

She is recovering from the rushed and busy week end. The pain is calming down. She is up more, but she gets exhaulted easy. We are working on building her strenght a little each day.

Keep praying for her recovery and leave her a message or email her an encouraging message.

Friday I will be in Louisville handing out Chance to win a house forms at Ingles. If you are from Jefferson County stop by and speak to me.

God Bless you,
Love, Barbara

Sunday, September 28, 2003 2:36 PM CDT

Day 218

Stephanie is still having a lot of break-thru pain. Break-thru pain is pain that happens even after the 5 Oxicodone capsule and 2 Percocet tablet. Then she has a shot for that pain and sometime it doesn't help. She wasn't doing much but when she does it showes later in pain. This week-end Matt's sister got married and Stephanie was determined to be one of her bridemaids. She did it but is really paying for it today. She could not let Ashley and Michael down. They post-poned the wedding June 14th to September 27th because of the accident. Everyone thought the surgery was going to be after the wedding. But she was healed enough for the surgery and she made it to the wedding last night and was at the reception for a little while.

Stephanie has a long battle ahead of her with Short Bowel Syndrome. They will soon be stopping the TPN, (IV Feedings)and when they do that her health will depend on what she can eat and drink and keep it in long enough to get nutrician from this. If she doesn't will need to get IV feedings and fliuds whenever neccessary. It will be months before she can even start to build her strength and exercise to build her muscle back where they were. In a year they will discuss the needed surgery to her butt so she can sit for longer than 30 minutes. If she sits to long on the scar tissue it will break down and cause a open wound. She will have stomach and intestinal problems and need medical assistance for the rest of her live. The message from the MCG medical caregiver was correct with all that was stated. It had not sunk in with me until I read this message. She still needs surgery on her throat where the trach healed wrong attaching the outer layer to the larnyx. This will be done once all had been done.

A lot of you are asking how is the $100 Donation for a CHANCE TO WIN A HOUSE is going. Well it is going very slow I guess people are just getting over school starting back and some are waiting until December to do it. We have had a lot of people tell us they will but haven't so I am hoping they will. Now that Stephanie is out of the hospital I will be able to devote a more time to it. And thanks to all those who have already donated to it. We need 690 more to be able to have the drawing in December. The other prises that have been donated are Refrigerator, Freezer, Air Conditioner, Chain Saw, Blower, Microwave, Gas Grill, Sewing Machine, Gift Certificates to Lowes and Home Depot, and Gift Basket from His & Hers Hair Salon. The odds will be 1 in 100 or better will win something.

Thursday, September 18, 2003 11:36 PM CDT

Day 208
Thanks to everyone for your prayers, cards, flowers, and get well wishes.

Stephanie is looking and feeling better. We will be going home tomorrow, Friday 9/19/03. (almost 7 months since this awful wreck)

We did not go to surgery today for the Hickman Line. The doctors decided today, after getting the blood test, not to do it now. We will come back Tuesday to discuss the surgery later and for a check up. It is very important for her not to lose any weight. The hardest thing about that is eating what will be tolerated that is no fat, no sugar, and limited fruits and vegetables. She has to learn to eat at least 2500 calories a day of tolerated foods. (6 to 8 meals)

Thanks to Peggy for helping the Guys disinfect and clean house, getting it ready for Stephanie to go home.

We are so ready to get home. I don't know how we did this for 86 days.

Some of you have asked how the donations to the "CHANCE TO WIN A HOUSE" is going. Well it has been slow but we are hoping it has to do with school starting and we will be working harder now that this is behind us. We have to get 695 more donations in the next 67 days. If anybody can help us, we need your help.

Dalton was back to the doctor for his check up after the antibotic and he has infected ears again. Please add him to your prayers. We hope to get him out of the daycare soon. Granny Loyal has offered to help with his care at home if I need help.

God Bless you all.

Monday, September 15, 2003 9:33 PM CDT

Thanks to everyone for the prayers and get well wishes.

Today was a quiet day and restful for both of us.

We had a few problems, thank God they were small ones.

She still has the stomach virus, the culture tested positive. She has a blood bacteria from the central line, the test came back positive. She is on 4 IV antibotis fluid they give her a different antibotic bag ever 6 hours. She is running a constant low grade fever but fighting it without medicine most of the time. She is sweating it off.

She is ready to go home because she can't get rest at night. Today she was able to get some rest because they are giving her some pain medicine by mouth. It knocks her out. She really needed the break from the constant pain and the rest.

She was able to eat 1/4 of a sandwich and kept it down.

Keep her in your prayers.
Love,
Barbara

Sunday, September 14, 2003 9:38 PM CDT

Where did the time go? We have been in the hospital 10 days... Stephanie is doing so much better. She is still dealing with uncontrollable pain which causes her to throw up. Her main doctor is back in town and he is working on getting her more confortable. She has had a rough time and is very tired. She doesn't sleep well. The nurses are in here all night long. Last night she got about 4 hours total. We had been averaging 1 to 2 hours total.
Everything the doctors told up about this visit was changed and turned around. BUT we made it and they must have been good changes. (most of them)
She has 109 centimeter (about 40 inches total) of small intestines and that is about 3 to 4 inches more that the medical books say is needed to survive on food and a strong vitamin regimen. Then they said she may need TPN every now and again if she doesn't eat healthy and often. The problem now is the colon and it's functions and ability to retain moisture. They found the left ovary and tube were damaged and may not be functional. This may cause her some problems later down the road.

Walter and Matt have been home with a virus and unable to visit with Stephanie for almost a week. They still aren't over it either. The doctor told us they should not come for 7 days after the last symptom shows itself. Woody, Dalton, and Amy are ok and haven't caught it. They aren't allowed either because they have been around the sick boys.

Stephanie is in room 4049. She got up today to go for her first stroll. It was hard on her but she did it a few times.

She is getting stronger and better every day. The doctors told her today it will be a slow process determining her eating needs and eating neccessities. That she needs patiences and care and not to do thing like picking up, lifting, stooping, reaching up, etc. The abdoman will need to attach skin to muscle after the blood dissolves where she was bleeding, it could take up to 2 years for the skin and muscles to be as strong as they were 6 months ago. She needs to follow doctors instructions to avoid any complications. (damage to the incessions of the muscles and skin, hernias, knots in the intestines, blockage of the intestines) Lifting herself out of bed or out of a chair or opening and closing a car door could hurt her abdoman. This is where we have to stay on top of it. She hates not being able to do things for herself. Alot of time she gets hurt trying to do things I am already doing. So please pray that she has patiences with us doing for her even more now. The plastic surgeons said that the scar tissue on her buttock had attached to the tailbone and she will have a lot of pain associated with it, also.

We all know God has a purpose for her and she will get through all of this. I just hate all the suffering she is going through because someone else decided to drink and drive. When will we do something about all the drinking and driving??? The laws have gotten tighter on smoking well I think drinking and driving kill more and cost tax payers more than cigarettes. Every time we come to the hospital there are multiple accidents killing and injuring themselves and others. Why doesn't this stop????

Sorry, I got carried away for a momment.
Barbara

Monday, September 8, 2003 9:15 AM CDT

REVISED UPDATE beginning on Thursday, September 4, 2003:

What a hectic day, we got up running, and we didn't stop until 4:30 a.m. Friday morning. Between admissions, getting settled in, blood work, lab work, etc., it was quiet an ordeal. Then at 8:00 p.m., I left Stephanie with a room full of company to take Woody to the University Hospital ER because of a work-related eye injury. When we returned around 10:00 p.m., Stephanie was still enjoying her visitors. Next came the preparation for surgery, which included everything from a bath to enema(s). This took until 2:30 a.m. on Friday morning. Then we tried to settle down to get some sleep, but it was time for her vital signs to be taken and to start IV's. Before we knew it was 4:30 a.m., and we tried again to settle down, and then at 5:30 they came in to announce that they were coming to take her to surgery at 6:15 a.m. So we had to get in touch with Walt and Matt to come on to the hospital.

Walt and Matt arrived about 6:00 a.m. Stephanie was taken at 6:30 a.m. for surgery. The doctors advised us that Stephanie's surgery time could take as little as 8 hours or as long as 12 hours. We were allowed to stay in the OR holding room until they took her back to surgery. We stayed with her until they got her at 7:30 a.m. We went to the Surgical ICU Waiting Room and waited. Shock Trauma and Gastro finished their portion of Stephanie's surgery at 11:30 a.m., and then Plastics took over to complete her closure. This included stripping muscles, sewing them in layers, removing scar tissue and the original skin graft, and sewing her back together including centering her belly button (just like Stephanie asked them to do). Fortunately, her closure did not require any synthetic or manufactured material or any other skin grafting. This surgery was completed at 2:30 a.m., but we were not allowed to see her until 4:30 p.m. She was having a rough time, but the doctors said she came through surgery really well. The problems were with her blood pressure and heart rate. They feared there was some bleeding between the muscles and her skin. They were only going to watch and observe her. At 12:30 a.m. Saturday, the doctors came and got me, and said they had to start blood and Stephanie wasn't doing well. Her heart rate was 171 and her blood pressure was 80/40. Her doctor said she may have to have a CAT scan but they were going to continue observing because the CAT scan would be life-threatening at that time. The hematoma was not growing in size, and they feared she was bleeding internally. Stephanie got two units of blood at this time because her hemoglobin was at 6. The blood transfusion was started at 1:00 a.m. and lasted until 3:30 a.m. Stephanie's blood pressure and heart rate were getting back in-line. I had to go back out to the waiting room, and I called Matt and Walter back to the hospital around 6:00 a.m. Walt and I waited and worried about what was going on, and we were not allowed to go back, because every time we called to go back, they said they were “working on her.” (Matt and Walter had planned on taking turns with taking care of Dalton on Saturday, so Matt was making arrangements for Dalton. Woody kept Dalton so Matt could go on to the hospital.) Right after Matt arrived around 11:00 a.m., Matt, Walter and I went on back to see Stephanie. They were starting the 3rd and 4th units of blood, and were still having problems regulating her blood pressure. Most of the day, we spent sitting and waiting and only the family were allowed to go back to see Stephanie. The doctors were still trying to regulate her paralysis and pain medicine in order to keep her vital signs stable. At 4:30 p.m., Walter went to relieve Woody with Dalton. He kissed Stephanie, and told her he was going to go home and take care of “his baby’s baby.” Stephanie shook her head “okay”. It scared Walter and me to death because she wasn’t suppose to be able to move. The doctors/nurses had cut down on her paralysis medicine, too much, and she was coming out of it. The rest of the evening, Stephanie continued to have blood pressure and heart rate problems. She had to have two more units of blood, making it a total of six (6) units of blood, so far. The doctors decided to proceed with the CAT scan, which didn’t reveal any more bleeding.

Sunday morning about 7:00, they started reducing the paralysis medicine. Stephanie was able to nod her head and move her hands. Her hemoglobin was still low, so they gave her platelets to help her blood clot so she would stop bleeding wherever she was bleeding. Her temperature started rising and stayed at 102 degrees for about six hours, and hasn’t been below 101.2 degrees. Her blood pressure and heart rate is becoming more stable, but she continues to have a fever. Stephanie was awake and in pain when we would go back to see her, so we tried to let her rest as much as possible. When her family members go back, we’ve asked that she is not awaken or touched in order for Stephanie to “sleep” through this recovery time in intensive care. She is in the Shock/Trauma Intensive Care Unit and will be moved to 4 South when her condition warrants it.

The family members welcome your visits in the Surgical ICU Waiting Room, and appreciate your understanding of not being able to visit with Stephanie during this critical time. People are telling me they have heard that Stephanie is doing “FINE”. She has come along way and the doctors have cautioned us that she is not out danger, yet. Stephanie is still listed as critical and unstable, so we still need your prayers for her recovery. We appreciate all of your thoughts, prayers, and other gestures of love you all have shown us. God Bless You All.

Love,
Barbara

Saturday, September 6, 2003 9:56 AM CDT

Good morning to all,

I left a message post surgery yesterday so for those of you who haven't had the chance to read it, please go back and view it.

This morning I received a call from Aunt Pete. She asked me to let everyone know of Steph's condition this morning, which is not quite as positive as yesterday's. Her heart rate is up, her blood pressure has fallen, and they have possibly found a blood clot. She has already had to have more blood transfusions. The doctors are contemplating taking her back into surgery.

Mrs Barbara was called back into the unit about 3:30 this morning and I'm sure she has been with her ever since. I have not spoken with her myself, but when I do, I will be sure to report any further detail that I do not already have at this time.

Please say an extra prayer for Stephanie. We all know how strong she has been and the determination that has helped heal her thus far......and we know that through it all, God has provided her with that strength and determination.

I hope the next report will bring better news...until then, please keep the love, support and prayers coming.

Thank you all and with love,

"Little A"

Friday, September 5, 2003 4:36 PM CDT

Hello everyone,

I haven't had the honor of leaving a message on behalf of the family in a few months now, so I am absolutely thrilled to be able to make this report to all of Stephanie's friends and extended family members.

Stephanie came through surgery early this afternoon with flying colors. The doctors said that everything was so much better than what they had originally expected to find. She does still have a very long way to recovery, but for the moment, another prayer is answered.

Stephanie will be under medical paralysis for 2-3 days and very heavily sedated, so I'm sure visits will be minimal. The family, however, would love, as before, to feel your love and support. They are on the same floor as when this first happened in the shock/trauma waiting room. For those of you who visited before, they are in the other waiting room on the same hall, not the actual waiting room they were in before.

As always, your prayers are not only very much needed, but entirely appreciated. She has come so far since February, thanks to her strong will and dertermination to recover, the prayers by the many people that love her, and, of course, by the grace of God.

sending with love from the Bowles/Loyal families,

April Campbell
"little A"

Tuesday, September 2, 2003 10:38 AM CDT

Hi everyone well I only have three more days till surgery. I can't wait God,my family,and my friends will all be there in heart and soul which is what has gotten me this far as it is. I know everything will be fine. I have been trying to get out and do things with my friends and family so I could build up my strength before I go back in.I went to my family reunion which I throughly enjoyed seeing alot of my family. I've been to the mall a couple of times once with Matt,my cousin Chris and his wife Valerie,once with Dena and Emily and once with April and Mrs. Eula. Matt let me pick out all my birthday present which were some clothes. Then when I got home my dad told me I made my toilet over flow and ruined the bathroom and when we walked in there ,there was a picture in there that I have wanted for 2 years so he really fooled me, so that was my birthday present from my mom and dad. I have had a good birthday and it is not even till the 9th. But the best two presents I have recieved are my surgery and all the donations for the house we have recieved so far. I would especially like to thank my cousin Hollie and her coworkers for all they have done for me with all the flyers. I would also like to thank Daddy Loyal for all of his help with the web site. I hope that evryone had great labor day. God Bless everyone and I love ya'll.

Stephanie

Friday, August 29, 2003 1:04 PM CDT

Hey everyone it's Stephanie. How are ya'll doing? I'm pretty good alittle nervous about my surgery. In fact I went to the doctor yetserday and they made a mistake already they told me to come in on Wednesday and the operation would be on Thursday, but yesterday they said no to come in on Thursday and we will have surgery on Friday. So we will see how this one goes but I will just trust in God and he willl take care of me and the doctors working on me. I really appreciate everyones prayers,thoughts,support, and notes. They have all meant the world to me and some days have been the things that have keep me going and my head high. I will be the big 30 on the ninth of September so what more could I ask for than to be getting rid all these bags and hoses off for your birthday. Dalton is going to the doctor on 9/3/03 and hopefully he will say something about tubes for his ears since he has had atleast two ear aches per month. He still has a little runny nose. I can't wait till I get well enough where he does not have to go to day care he can just go to go to a mothers day out once or twice a week for interaction with other kids. Matt has been wonderful as always so understanding and trying to help out around the house as much as he can. He is still haveing a problem with one of the screws in his right foot so they are probably going to have to remove it soon or later. Well I better go. Mom is tired as usual and so is dad because of all the rain he has had to work so much,so hopefully after this sugery I will be able to help out more sometimes I feel realy guilty that I can't help out more but my time will come to be able to take care of mom and dad. God Bless All and take care everyone.

Love ,
Stephanie

Thursday, August 21, 2003 6:31 PM CDT

Finally an update for you.... there is no excuse for it!!!

First of all Stephanie has had a bad cold and cough for 2 weeks, she is finally is feeling better.

We have had a lot going on trying to get over the house of colds, getting the CHANCE TO WIN A HOUSE GIVEAWAY Fund raiser flyers done (thanks to Hollie and Intereality), designing the web sights www.stephanieloyal.com and www.stephanieloyal.net (thanks to Dan Loyal), getting donations for the giveaway prizes, and taking care of the every day STUFF. Well enough of that....

STEPHANIE IS HEALING LIKE NO OTHER - SHE HAS AMAZED US AND ALL THE MEDICAL TEAMS AT MCG. TWO WEEKS AGO TODAY, DR HAWKINS WANTED TO SEE STEPHANIE BECAUSE SHE HAD A PROBLEM WITH HER FISTCULA AND HAD THE COLD. SO WHILE WE WERE THERE she HAD TO REMOVE THE POUCH/BAG FOR HIM TO SEE THE FISTCULA. (We had been telling him for 4 weeks to look at the abdoman wound and he been telling us he won't look any earlier than September 26 which is 6 months - they told us when they closed the abdoman on 3/26 it would be 8 to 12 months before they could connect the intestines and stomach) WELL GUESS WHAT last Thursday when we went for the every 2 week check up he had already scheduled her surgery for Sept 4 with all the neccessary head of the departments. They had discussed and agreed the best way to do it is to do all of it at one time. They are going to connect all 3 sections, strip the muscles to close the abdoman, remove the skin graft and scar tissue and close the stomach. It is going to take 8 to 10 hours to do the surgery. She will be admitted to 4 south on 9/3 but will go to Surgical ICU after surgery. They said she would be there at least 10 to 14 days. He told us the question is how long is the intestine (the loner) the last time they x-rayed it only was 8 inches, that would not be enough for Stephanie to get the nutrition she needs to do away with the IV middle TPN. So this past Tuesday we went to x-ray for Upper, Middle, and Lower GI Series and they found it was 40 cm almost 2 feet(thank God) so that was unexpected but a welcomed surprise. We need to pray for it to be enough. She was so excited about all these surprises.

We want to thank everyone for their continued prayers and messages and visits for our friends.

Please visit her web pages to get information on the CHANCE TO WIN A HOUSE GIVEAWAY.

GOD BLESS EVERYONE
KEEP THE PRAYER GOING.

LOVE THE LOYAL AND BOWLES FAMILIES

Monday, August 4, 2003 6:29 AM CDT

Sunday, August 3, 2003

I am sorry I let you down again with the updates but I have gone back and caught them up so go back to the previous jopurnal up dates to catch up with us.

We had a better day. Stephanie felt like sitting up in the reckined for hours yesterday (Sunday). She came into the family room and watched a movie with me and Matt. We were so tired he and I fell fast to sleep. I think she was a little disappointed with us sleeping while she was up with us. I hated it but I sure felt better when I wake up. Dalton was napping, too. Walter was working.

Thanks to all our friends who take the time to visit with us and we do appreciate you doing this. It means so much to Stephanie when you visit and call and leave her messages and e-mail her. (sbloyal@bellsouth.net)

I need to go get Dalton, he is wake this time.

God Bless,
Barbara

Monday, August 4, 2003 6:16 AM CDT

Saturday, August 2, 2003
Stephanie was still exhausted from Thursday's trip to the doctor and the outting that followed. We had to replace her pouch/bag the last one lasted 7 days. This tires her out as well. It took 2 before we got one to stay on. We finished 3 1/2 hours later. Sorry to those who called first before coming.

Dalton is still cranky, whinny crying all day and generally not feeling well. Walter and Matt helped with him to give me some catch up with rest time. I think they both have a better understanding of Dalton's night care. I don't know how Dalton can keep going with no more sleep than he is getting.

I forgot to tell you Granny Loyal (Matt's Grandmother) helped out Friday so I could rest. I got in a few extra hours of rest and I do appreciate her time to help out. Thanks Lois......

God Bless
Barbara

Monday, August 4, 2003 5:32 AM CDT

Friday, August 1, 2003

Where does the time go!

Well Stephanie did over do it and it will take some time to get over Thursday. She was so tired and sore. We rested all day.

Dalton is still not resting at night those teeth are hurting him so much he can't sleep. Matt and I had to take Dslton to the ER at 5:40 his fever was 104.4 and the doctor said he may have a virus or a bacteria infection along with the cutting of 4 teeth.

Stephanie and Matt are planning to give away their house through chances. You get a chance with a $100 donation to the Stephanie Loyal Trust Fund. All donations will receive a receipt which will be the chance ticket to be drawned December 6th at the house. There will be 10 other prizes given away all valued at more than $100. Like appliance, DVD player, TV, camera, certificates for food, hair care,and hardware supplies. This week I will be sending you the rules and regulation and how to enter information. I will be the sponsor and if you would like to donate to this good cause please call me. This house would be a great starter home for a young couple or a great place to rent out for added income, or sell it for total profit to the donator. So take a chance and donated that $100, mail the donation to:
Stephanie Loyal
P O Box 2614,
Evans, GA 30809-2614.
If you have left a message with an e-mail address I will be forwarding you this information, as well. Please send it out to all your e-mail friends and family. If you get up 10 donations I will give you a chance and if they do the same they will get an extra chance for every 10 donation they bring in.

I HOPE THIS DOES NOT OFFEND ANYONE. IF IT DOES I AM TRULY SORRY.

THE HOUSE HAS BEEN ON THE MARKET SINCE MARCH. THEY CAN'T AFFORD TO KEEP PAYING FOR IT. IT APPRAISES FOR $84000 THEY WERE ASKING $75,000. THE MARKET IN A SMALL TOWN IS VERY SLOW. THEIR MEDICAL BILLS ARE ALL COMING PAST DUE NOW AND THEY ARE HAVING TO PAY WHAT INSURANCE WON'T. THE LAWYER TOLD THEM TO PAY $5 TO $10 ON EACH ONE EVERY MONTH THAT WAY THEY CAN'T HURT THEIR CREDIT. THEY HAD PLANNED TO MOVE BACK TO AUGUSTA IN 3 TO 4 YEARS BUT THE ACCIDENT HAS CHANGED THAT.

Dalton just wake up got to go,
God Bless you.
Love, Barbara

Monday, August 4, 2003 4:45 AM CDT

Thursday, July 31, 2003
This was a really great day!
Stephanie and I went to the doctor and the one thing on Stephanie's mind was the date for her next surgery.
He told her he would not look at surgery until Steptember 26. That is 6 months from the closure (skin graft) they did March 26. He said we will discuss surgery then. The skin graft looked like it was ready, but he would not rush it. For those who don't know, the doctor told her from the beginning that when the skin graft becomes like the skin on the back of your hand her body would be ready for the surgery. (it is) She can lift it when the illeostomy pouch (bag) is off. Oh yea! by the way Stephanie has kept the pouch on up to 8 days now. Of course some last half a day but others have lasted 7 to 8 days. That is the longest you want them to stay on.

Well you can imagine she was on cloud nine when we left the doctor's office and we had to go visit her nurses on 4 South. (she doesn't remember the ICU nurses)

We went to His & Hers to visit her friends there. Then we dropped of a birthday gift for a friend's child and visited with them and her friend across the street came over when he saw Stephanie. We got home after dark. I know we over did it but we could not help it. She had an energy I had not seem in 5 months. It was great seeing her so excited. How many of us could be excited about surgery number 14?
The time is getting near.....

Stephanie hopes to be able to be an attendant in her sister-in-laws wedding September 27, we all look forward to her doing that. Ashley postponed the wedding because of the accident so Stephanie and Matt could be in her wedding. (it was scheduled for June 14) But now it also means the next week after the wedding, Dr Hawkins will look at the skin graft without the pouch and determine a surgery date. October to March are the options and we hope it will be completely ready by October. Stephanie is bound and determined to be on her feet and out of the hospital for Dalton's second birthday in April. If the graft is not completely ready until March she will miss his second birthday, too. NOBODY CAN REPLACE THE TIME SHE HAS MISSED WITH HER SON. HE DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THING BUT WHEN PEOPLE TELL HIM TO GO TO MOMMY OR GIVE MOMMY SOMETHING HE BRINGS THINGS TO ME AND MY HEART BREAKS BECAUSE I KNOW IT IS HURTING HER THAT HE THINKS I AM HIS MOMMY. WE ALL DIRECT HIM TO STEPHANIE BUT IT IS TO LATE. THE HURT IS THERE. I AM KNOWN AS GRANDMOMMY SO I GUESS HE HELD ON TO THE LAST PART OF THE NAME. HE CALLS MY NAME BAB BAB AND WE TELL HIM GRANDMOMMY. I THINK I WILL CHANGE IT TO JUST GRAN. (just drop the mommy)

Sorry I got carried away.

God Bless everyone.
Please keep us in your prayers.
Barbara

Sunday, August 3, 2003 2:28 PM CDT

Wednesday, July 30, 2003

Dalton was screaming and whinning all night. We went to the doctor and he said it was his teeth he is cutting all 4 eye teeth at the same time. He was cutting one for the last 2 weeks and now the other 3 are trying to come through. He is running a low fever and crying a lot.

Stephanie is so upset that she can't she help him or take care of him.

Stephanie is doing better about getting up more.

She had a great day.

Sunday, August 3, 2003 2:13 PM CDT

Tuesday, July 29, 2003

Stephanie is doing better every day and I am so proud of her attitude with all that has fell on her. She gets down harden some time but has been able to shake it off. She is my hero. She amazes me everday with her ability to forgive and go forward. Everyday she has to deal with all these medical problems and she can smile and laugh and go on.

I guess I am in one of those moods today. Dalton is still not sleeping and I am up most of the night.

Sunday, August 3, 2003 1:45 PM CDT

Monday, July 28,2003 - Stephanie had a restful day and we just did our usual daily routine. She and Matt are still having discomfort and pain, but are doing good about not taking medication for it. They try to ride it out. Matt may need surgery to remove the screws that are causing the discomfort and pain in his feet.

Dalton did not sleep much that night. I am not sure what the is problem.

Monday, July 28, 2003 3:43 PM CDT

Friday the doctor visit went well. I go back in 3 months to the orthopeadic doctor. He said it was still new growth and needed more healing time. He warned me of causing a stress fracture to use care and caution in movment, and no lifting and not to bend over to pick up any thing. (bend at the knees)

Saturday, I went out for 2 hours to my sister-in-laws shower. I did over do it, in time up and out, but getting out with people my age really was great. I only got sick when I got home. It was worth it. Ansley , my sister in law postponed her June 14 wedding in Feb because of the accident, I was suppose to be in the wedding party. She has rescheduled it to Sept. I know I will be doing well enough to go down the isle.

Sunday, Mom, Dad, and Dalton went to my grandmothers so Matt and I had some time together. They were back by 3:30 and Dalton was exhausted. He loves being in the country and outside. Mom said he had to sit on every tractor, 4 wheeler and momo(lawn mower) down there. He has some knew words this week FOOOT BALLL. and BADD BOYEE. He is cutting his 14 tooth so there is time he is ill (in pain).

Today I had catch up day with every thing Mom has to do to me or for me every day. Some things are just better when our MOMs do it.... Matt and I had a great day!!!!

My scar on my decubitus has to be dressed twice a day, this helps reduce the scaring and promotes the covering to sokten into skin looking covering. The scar is still getting smaller.

Thursday, July 24, 2003 1:11 PM CDT

Hello all sorry about no recent update lately but a lot has been going on. I would appreciate if everyone would pray for Aunt Pete's son Jason. He is having some test run. Everything is going pretty well here. WE just keep praying and keep our heads up. We are going to orthopedics tomorrow for the appointment I missed last week. I will let ya'll know how it goes. I'm so glad more people are writing now abd not just looking in ,it is nice to hearfrom all. God Bless to all.

Love,
Stephanie

Friday, July 18, 2003 10:46 PM CDT

Stephanie has had a great week. She has had a lot of visitors and has enjoyed everyone who visited. Thanks to all who took time out of their busy life to come visit her.

Thursday was a great day at the doctor's office. Dr Hawkins said the wound on the back side will be closed in less than a week. He said it has healed/closed in record time. He could not believe his eyes. She will continue to have a lot of pain and discomfort with this wound because of the internal healing and nerve ending growth and because of the location(above the tailbone and there is no fat left there to cushion the area when sitting, just skin and bone). Stephanie's stomach is healing and it won't be much longer. He still would not give us a time other than 8 to 12 months after the skingraft closure (3/26/03). He said we won't rush in, that we will be certain that the intestines are ready when they cut her open. He feels that it maybe possible to do it all in one to two surgeries (instead of 3 to 4)connecting all three sections and removing the skin graft and pulling the abdoman walls back together. The only problem we seem to have is with the Hickman IV line is a little irritated and we will keep a close watch on it and her temperature.

Today we had a restfull day, getting over the trip to the doctor.

Matt is still have a lot of pain and discomfort with his feet, ankles and heels. If he is off of them driving, watching tv or sleeping when he gets up he looks like he is walking on broken glass. He never complains but I can see the pain in his face. When he comes home he takes Dalton outside(he loves being outside) and they walk and talk and throw thing. Dalton doesn't know how much his Daddy is going through to be there with him on those walks together.

It is late so I will say good night.

God Bless you all,
Love Barbara

Tuesday, July 15, 2003 3:55 PM CDT

Well I had a bag accident on the way to the hospital today, before we even got out of the driveway. So I came back and called to reschedule my appointment for next week.Then as always I tripped coming up the stairs but no big deal I just scratched my leg and knocked off some of the black stuff off my toes. So that is how my day has been so far, I hope all of ya'll have had a better one. My day went from the above to wonderful after I read the journal entries today. I hope you all know how much you all mean to me. I'm amazed at what ya'll think of me. It really makes me even stronger and gives me more will power to keep going when I read stuff that I never even knew I did. So thanks to all who have inspired me and to God. Till tomorrow have a great night.

Love,

Stephanie

Monday, July 14, 2003 8:14 PM CDT

Hey everyone. How are ya'll? I'm kinda tired after today. I have been trying to get all this terrible paperwork and bill paying done from these doctors. I think I might become one and make the big bucks after all this is over with.(YEAH RIGHT) I feel pretty good though and mom and I are getting it together. Matt,Dad,and Woody had a good trip and are all doing pretty well. Well hope everyone is well. Dalton went to the doctor today and his ears are all healed. Sweet dreams and God bless all.

Love
Stephanie

Sunday, July 13, 2003 4:31 PM CDT

Hey All. How are ya'll doing? I'm doing pretty good today. My NANA (grandmother)came to see me and a good friend Amy also came. We had a nice visit. I have alot going on next week. Dalton has two appointments Monday and I have a doctors appt. on Tuesday (Orthopedics)and Thursday with trauma and plastics. So next week will be a rough week but it will all be ok. I just wanted to say thank you for everyones prayers and thoughts. I do love having company so if anyone would like to come by during the day or night just call 860-5660 before you come to get directions or to make sure I have not went out dancing or something like that.(Ha!Ha!)

God Bless and love to everyone,
Stephanie

Thursday, July 10, 2003 11:15 PM CDT

Well another week has almost left us. It really shows on Stephanie's wounds. They look marvelous...... three months ago this hugh bedsore was 6" X 8" today it is 1/2" X 1 1/4".
The plastic surgeron said it would take a year or so...... (5 months, it will be healed)
Thanks for all those prayer....

Her abdoman wound is getting smaller and softer. We all know this is great news as well.

Stephanie is healing very fast. But she gets depressed frequently and cries alot. If you can drop her a note to help cheer her up, please do it. She asked me the other day why do people visit when they think you aren't going to make it, but don't visit when you survive? I told her that people were worried about her and they made time for visiting when she was critical. But now that she is doing better people don't want to bother her and that everyone is so busy in todays world. It seemed to pacify her for the moment. She needs visitors and friends to help her cope with all she is having to face and deal with. She realizes that she will never be back to her old self. She knows that her body has a long way to go.

She got her hospital bill it was $515,000. It was less than we thought it would be. The blood cost was $48,000.00 for the 143 units she received. I wonder where the credit is for all the blood donated by everyone. I haven't seem a credit, yet. I haven't added up all the doctors bills and all the other medical bill.

Dan and Sherry brought over a great meal last night. Thanks to them for all they have done to help us.

Matt is doing good, but he still suffers every day with swelling and pain in the feet. I think that will always be a problem for him.

Dalton is doing better. He goes back to the doctor on Monday.

Please keep them in your prayers and as always God Bless everyone.

Love,
Mom

PS
Hi, I just wanted to say hi and come to see me if you can, I would love the company.
God Bless you,
Stephanie

Saturday, July 5, 2003 10:47 PM CDT

I hope everyone had a Safe and good 4 of July.

I will try to do better. I will try to do this in the AM instead of at night.

Stephanie's doctor's appointment (trauma/surgeon) went well. In fact the new Plastic Surgeon was paged and she came to check on Stephanie's skin graft. She told Stephanie that she would come to the trauma office on her next visits so STEPHANIE would not have to make separate visits. We thought that was very kind of her, because she is not in her office on Thursdays. Stephanie has lost all the skin graft, but the doctors said he had never seen a wound heal as fast as this one has since the surgery 3 week ago. It was the size of a dollar bill 3 weeks ago, today it is a little bigger than a quarter or smaller than 50 cent piece.

Her doctor told Stephanie she could start getting up and walking more, now that the skin graft is lost. She is back to throwing up again every time she does more than going to the restroom. He said that was because of the laying flat for 3 weeks. It should get better now that she can move and walk more.

Stephanie asked him to reduce the pain medication. He said ok reluctantly but gave her something we could use if she over does it and needs relief ASAP. That is better than a constant medication, he said he was pleased that she wanted to do this.

She is healing very well on her abdoman wound as well. The skin graft is getting loose and wound is getting smaller. The doctors said she will be back in the hospital by Christmas to have her stomach section and the 2 foot of intestine section connected back together. I am thinking, September or October. For those who don't know what I am talking about, the doctors told Stephanie that the skin graft on the abdoman will turn loose and would lift up when the intestines are ready to be connected back together. They said it would take 9 to 12 months from March 26, 2003. It is getting loose and you can bet she checks it every day.

Friday was rest and recover day. She was exhausted after her trip Thursday to the doctor. She had planned to go to a friends to watch the fire work show but could not make it.

Saturday, Matt, Stephanie, and Dalton spent the afternoon and early evening with Matt's Mom and Sister and Michael. She was very tired those 4 hours were rough on her. It was hard on Dad and me her go off and me not being there for her. We were nervous wrecks..... We actually went to a friends home for a cook out. We left to come home before eating. We were sick to our stomach with nervousness. I had a bad headache from worry. I am sure it will get better with time.

God bless you all,
Thanks for check on her and leaving her a message.
Barbara

Tuesday, July 1, 2003 11:47 PM CDT

Stephanie is doing a little better. She and I managed to make it through the weekend. She had a lot of visitors that helped out when they could. I had to give most of my attention to Dalton.

I appologize for not updating the site daily. I had my hands full with all the guys gone. Dalton has been very sick. He cried or whimed all night Wednesday. I took him to the doctor, Thursday. He has a perforated eardrum. Thursday night he cried all night. All day Friday he had to be held upright, running a fever and ear aches (pain). The upright position keeps the pressure down and it allows the fluid to drain out. He didn't get better by Monday and we went back to the doctor and now the other eardrum is perforated. He put him on a stronger antibotic. Tuesday was the first day I did not have to carry him all day. Every night he slept in my arms in the upright, every time I tried to lay him down he would wake up crying and in pain. Tonight he was able to sleep in he bed with the head raised. The doctor said the eardrums usually heal with out hearing loss. Please say a little prayer for him.

Stephanie goes to the doctor Thursday. We are looking forward to this appointment, to see what he thinks about the Butt Wound and Skin Graft. I don't see much skin left but the healing process has really speeded up.

I want to thank everyone who came over and helped out. We are so blessed with great friends like you.

Good Night and God bless all.
Love,
Barbara

Thursday, June 26, 2003 2:23 AM CDT

Stephanie had a bad day of pain and being miserable, she just could not get comfortable. She is still having a lot of pain in her hips. The donor site and the way she has to lay for so long are causing her the problems and hurting. The donor site it looking good.

My cousin Cindy and her daughter Gillian came by to visit and helped me around the house. Thanks to them for all they did. They brought me lunch as well. Happy Birthday Donnie!!!

Gillian will be 15 today 6/26, HAPPY Birthday and enjoy the youth while you have it. Don't try to grow up to fast.....

Dalton is get so big. Every day he surprises us with what he is doing.

Walter took off for some R & R (trout fishing). Matt and Woody will be joining him Friday afternoon. I hope they enjoy the break.

Stephanie and I will be enjoying the break as well. Dalton will be the man of the house...

Please thank God for all the blessing he has given us. We hope you have a blessed day.

Best regards,
Barbara

Tuesday, June 24, 2003 10:08 PM CDT

Thanks to all who sent Stephanie and the family such great messages.

Monday, June 23, Stephanie, Dalton, Dot, Walter, and I could not sleep last night for some unknown reason. Stephanie and I tried to sleep in a little but deliveries and home nursing care kept that from happening, so we quit trying.

Stephanie and I did all we needed to do, then we watched a movie, thanks to Pam, she loaned Stephanie her DVD's of latest releases. Thanks and God Bless you and Jack for all ya'll have done for us.

Daddy Fred and "Mama Fred" Dot brought supper over. Of course she baked her famous brownies, too. Thanks for the great meal and thanks for being the best neighbors. God Bless and take care.

Tuesday, Stephanie had a good day. Stephanie's skin graft is looking good and continues to shrink in size. More miricales every day.... The donor site is healing fast, as well. I ordered some wound gel and it is doing a fantastic job healing her wound sites. I finally got the drugs the doctors ordered today. She has to take meds by IV and most of them are not available at most drug stores. It is always a chore to find pharmacy to order them. Saturday, we had to go to MCG Inpatient Pharmacy to enough to get us through Monday.

"Mama Fred" Dot came over to sit with Stephanie, today while I ran to the Bank, Drug Store, pay some bills and etc. But half way through I broke a crown off at the gum, on a piece of jerky. So then I had to cut the errands off and go to the dentist. I got there about 2:30 and left at 7:30. Thanks to Dot and God bless her.

When I got home Matt's Dad and Sherry had brought dinner. Thanks to you both for the great meal. Thanks for the pictures of Matt and Dalton at your house. It has been a pleasure getting to know Dan and Sherry Loyal. They have been great to all of us. God Bless you both for all you have done.

The one thing that has come from all this, is the closeness to our friends and family. I am so thankful to all of you.

Keep Stephanie and Matt (he is still having trouble with his feet and legs) in your prayers.

I need to close now.

Be Safe and take care.
God Bless you all.

Sunday, June 22, 2003 4:23 PM CDT

I have had so many calls from friends that were upset with JANE form Scotland. They are doing what Stephanie asked so they call instead upset with Janes lack of knowledge of the truth of that night. So this is to JANE of Scotland
Please read/reread the poem Stephanie personally chose to place there, this will tell you where she is in her life with God.

I WOULD LIKE TO TELL JANE SOMETHING:
STEPHANIE is not angry even thought
EACTLY 4 MONTHS AGO today HER CHANGED TO HELL HERE ON EARTH.

SO JANE MY DAUGHTER HAS A LOT SHE COULD BE ANGRY ABOUT BUT IS NOT...........

DO NOT SEND ANY MORE MESSAGES. IF YOU WANT TO DISCUSS THINGS CALL YOUR FRIEND JENNIFER ABOUT THE TRUTH. DON'T UPSET STEPHANIE AGAIN, THANK YOU AND GOD FORGIVE JENNIFER BECAUSE I CAN'T AT THIS TIME.......

I AM THE ANGRY ONE. GOD HELP ME.

Saturday, June 21, 2003 9:51 PM CDT

Good evening to all. Stephanie had a restful day and a few visitors. She watched Dalton for a few minutes, go wadding in his pool. I took Dalton to get his picture made before he losses his curles to a hair cut. Stephanie said she was going to cut it soon.

A message to everyone. It is Stephanie's wishes that no more be said about the accident it upsets her and nothing can change what happened. She does not want this lovely site to become a battle ground. The trial will be here soon and we all need to be praying for Stephanie's recovery.

Walter is running me to bed,

God Bless,
Barbara

Friday, June 20, 2003 10:29 PM CDT

Stephanie is back home. Thank God!!!

I want to go back to Wednesday morning. Two doctors came in to remove the dressing from the skin grafted site. Stephanie watched them as they removed the dressing, she could tell that things weren't looking to good, by their facial expressions. They said they didn't think the skin graft took. They left to call the Attending Physician. They did not return with him, he came in alone. As he opened the door he said the graft did not take. Stephanie got very upset and the doctor's bedside manner did not help, the things he said just made it worse. (if it could have gotten worse at this point) He left and Stephanie called her Dad and me, I could not be reached at that time. Her dad called me and told me to get down there because she was so upset and why. So I cried most of the way down and then I called out for help and guidance. When I got there we cried together and then Aunt Pete, Stephanie and I prayed. Sherry Loyal arrived she called Dan Loyal to get in touch with their Pastor from Warren Baptist Church. Rodge came and we all prayed over Stephanie, again. Soon after he left, the pastor from Louisville's First Baptist Church came in and he lead us in prayer, again. Then I went to see about getting a different doctor to take care of Stephanie. A doctor from Plactic surgery came down and redressed the wound differently and agreed that the graft did not take. Then Dr Hawkins (SICU)came in that evening, he took a look at the pictures we had 5-21 (when we got home) 6-5 (vac/sponge removed) and 6-18 (Wed. week after the surgery). He could not believe the pictures, the wound had gotten worse by 4 weeks. He asked to look at the site. When he dropped the gauze, we could not believe our eyes, there was skin showing up on the granulated tissue. Miricals never stop surprising us. It is more like 60overage, but Dr Hawkins said it is still very fragile and we need to be very careful not to give it a reason die. Please take a moment to give thanks for these miricals that keep coming our way.

I know this is truly a mirical.

Thank you to all who have continued to pray for Stephanie and us.

Stephanie was so glad to get home and she really enjoyed Mama Fred and Daddy Fred's visit tonight.

Dalton was so excited that Mommy was back in her bed.

She is real weak again. Just a walk to the bathroom exhaust her. But we will be working on that again.

Matt over did it today. His feet are giving him a fit. We hope he can keep off them tomorrow as much as possible.

The alarm is going off so I have to go suction the Bag. I hope everyone has a great weekend and a safe one.

God Bless everyone,
Barbara

Friday, June 20, 2003 9:50 AM CDT

Update for Thursday, June 19, 2003, and morning of Friday, June 20, 2003

Stephanie rested better last night and had a better day yesterday. She felt better Wednesday night after Dr. Hawkins (her primary doctor from Shock/Trauma) looked at the skin graft and felt that some of the graft had taken. He was also referring Stephanie to have some other testing done by a gynecologist because of some complications that have occurred. Stephanie was examined by a gynecologist and will have to have a more thorough exam done next week.

Matt came to see Stephanie and was able to have a nice visit with her. Matt also help me in changing out her ilieostomy bag and change the dressing on her decubuitus dressing. Barbara brought Dalton for a visit. Dalton was being such a good boy, too! Later, her dad popped in for a few minutes. She was so glad to see her family and visitors today and to be able to enjoy their visits.

Stephanie is being released today (Friday). Her skin graft is looking better, but the doctors are still not sure how much graft did take. It looks like maybe one-fourth of the area may have taken. As usual, time will tell.

Sorry this so short, but I just want to give you all an update as to what’s going on with Stephanie.

Love,

Aunt Pete

Wednesday, June 18, 2003 5:08 PM CDT

Quick Update for Wednesday, June 18, 2003

Today has not been a good day. The sponge vacuum was removed today, and the skin graft did not take. We don't know what the next step will be. The doctors will be letting Stephanie know what her alternatives are tomorrow. Suffice it to say, Stephanie has been very upset. The attending physician had a very callous attitude about the skin graft failing to take. We have been concerned with the “care” of the skin graft from the beginning. From staying in recovery from 2:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., not having her “special” mattress or the sponge vacuum, and her TPN (just to name a few of the foul-ups), we feel her care was less than acceptable. We don’t know if any of these things were a contributing factor to the skin graft not taking.

Stephanie really needs your prayers to help her through this phase of her recovery. Thanks for your continued support.

Love,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie’s Other Mother

Wednesday, June 18, 2003 5:21 AM CDT

Update for Tuesday, June 17, 2003

Stephanie had another restful night and was in good spirits throughout the day. When she has quiet time, she dozes off to sleep for a little "cat-nap" in between the hospital activities. (Stephanie won't know what to do when she can actually have a complete night's sleep without having to be disturbed every 30 minutes to 1 hour to be suctioned!)

Stephanie had the x-rays done to follow up on the bladder infection. We don't have the results yet. She was hoping to have the sponge vacuum removed from her decubitus today, but the doctors want to wait a full seven days.

Her donor site for her graft seems to be healing nicely. She has one more toe that is back on its way to looking "normal". I don't think it will be much longer before the other affected toes will be shedding the blackness to expose the new skin and/or toenails.

She has not eaten very much since she has been in the hospital (as though one yogurt or one serving of mashed potatoes a day prior to coming to the hospital was very much!). Stephanie is so worried that the ilieostomy bag will come loose because she has to lie on her side. I think she thinks if she doesn't eat, there won't be much output. I know the TPN is giving her all the nutrition she needs, but it just doesn't seem like enough.

She had a few visitors, but mostly she had a quiet and restful day.

Thanks for all your prayers, and we appreciate your continued support and love for the Loyal and Bowles Families.

Love,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie’s Other Mother

Monday, June 16, 2003 11:17 PM CDT

Update for Monday, June 16, 2003

Stephanie had a restful night last night and has been in much better spirits today. Her complexion is getting back to normal, and the dark circles are disappearing from under her eyes.

Barbara brought all of Stephanie’s greeting cards to hospital for her to look over again. They both enjoyed reading them again. It is heart-warming to read all the pretty greeting cards that she has gotten. Stephanie also read a lot of the past website messages left for her, and she was so touched by them. Stephanie enjoyed visits with several friends and family members.

Danielle Reese with Channel 26 News interviewed Stephanie and April Campbell today about this website. The interview will be aired on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. and on Friday morning.

Dr. Louis had urologists check Stephanie because of the numerous bladder infections and other problems with the catheters that she has had. They want to schedule Stephanie for several tests as soon as possible. She will probably not be released until Thursday or Friday.

We know your prayers are helping Stephanie, as well as, your visits, phone calls, website messages, and greeting cards. Please continue to pray for the family.

Love to All,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie’s Other Mother

Sunday, June 15, 2003 9:40 PM CDT

Update for Saturday, June 14, 2003

Stephanie did not rest very peacefully at all last night. I think her being awaken by the doctor preparing to remove the dressing over her Hickman catheter for her IV line so he could remove some sutures may have caused it. The rest of Friday night and Saturday morning, Stephanie would doze off and then wake up shortly as though she had had a really bad dream. She would actually be making a “pushing away” motion with her arms. She was aching all over and just generally in pain. She was nauseated and after throwing up, she bled from her ilieostomy bag, so we had to go ahead and change it. She has a bladder infection and continues to run a low-grade fever. Her folio was leaking so it had to be replaced, and then later they removed it completely. She is pretty exhausted from the pain and all the procedures she has had.

She had a few visitors and a nice visit with her parents. Barbara when home to get some rest and hopefully get over the pneumonia. Matt was being “Mr. Mom” and Dad.


Update for Sunday, June 15, 2003

Stephanie rested a little bit better but whenever she woke up, she was disoriented and almost in a panic state. She is very uncomfortable and can’t seem to get in a position that gives her any relief. She is feeling so tired of all this and is beginning to be a little depressed by everything she is going through. She was nauseated again today. Her folio was giving her problems again today. She has requested to see an urologist, but she won’t be able to see an urologist until Monday. Her folio was changed again today – twice.

Stephanie had a sweet visit with Dalton, Matt, and Barbara. Walter was working today. She enjoyed visits with other family and friends, too.

I know these two updates are not what you would like to be reading. We still have a lot to be thankful for. We are so lucky that we have the miracle of Stephanie still be here with us. We are truly grateful and thankful to God for that.

Please keep praying for the family.

Thanks for checking in, and please, leave her a message – not matter how short!

Love to All,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie’s other Mother

PS. Happy Father’s Day to all of you dads!

Friday, June 13, 2003 4:37 PM CDT

Update for Friday June 13, 2003

Stephanie has had a better day today than yesterday. We were up every 30 to 45 minutes all night long. We don't want the ilieostomy bag to leak. She is lying on her left side which is where the bag is attached. So far, so good. We know that the ilieostomy bag will most likely start leaking in the next day or two -- but we aren't given up hope of the possibility of having it last during the whole hospital stay.

Stephanie's "special" bed is quite different. It has a cut-out section (like a shallow swimming pool) for the lower part of her body and has pulsating "beads". Stephanie says it doesn't feel as great as it sounds.

She has been quite alert all day and is in good spirits. She has enjoyed her visitors and looks forward to seeing more of her family and friends, too.

Barbara did attend the arraignment hearing for Jennifer Langely. Jennifer pled "not guilty" and still has not shown any remorse for the horrible injuries she caused and the pain and suffering that Stephanie and Matt have endured. I've read the message that a "family friend from Augusta" left earlier today, and we've already heard from a lot of friends that they concur with those same feelings. It was very hard on Barbara to go. Thanks to Vickie Barnes and Jeannette Allen for accompanying her to court. Stephanie and I waited patiently (no pun intended) at the hospital for an update.

Thanks for checking in and please leave a message for Stephanie and family.

Love to All,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie's Other Mother

Friday, June 13, 2003 2:45 AM CDT

Update for Tuesday, June 10, 2003

Most of the day was spent in preparation for Wednesday’s surgery. Stephanie was a little apprehensive. She enjoyed visits from family and friends throughout the evening.


Update for Wednesday, June 11, 2003

Stephanie’s surgery was late getting started and finished around 12:30 a.m. Her blood pressure dropped, and she had to stay in Recovery until about 1:30 a.m. She was in a lot of pain and worn out when she came to her room. There were so many mix-ups and mess-ups about everything from her room, bed, medications, to the donor site for the graft. Stephanie had requested that the graft come from the front of her right leg, but instead it was taken from the back of her right leg. She now has no “good” way to lie in bed or sit. Barbara and I stayed with Stephanie during the night.


Update for Thursday, June 12, 2003

Stephanie awoke to finding out that her graft was not taken from where she had requested. After another morning of mix-ups and mess-ups, Barbara was able to get Stephanie moved. Stephanie is in Room 3049 on 3rd Floor West. It is nearest to the elevators directly up from the West Entrance.

She has had a rough day. As usually, Stephanie is being a real trooper about everything. We have been suctioning her every 15 to 30 minutes, plus the other routines she has had to endure. Needless to say, she is tired, and her temperature was in the low 100’s.

Barbara stayed until early evening, and then she went home. She really, really needs some rest. (I hope that Walter and Barbara did get a chance to celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary.)

Stephanie and I played a few rounds of Scramble, and then she was ready to call it a “day”!

Thanks for your continued prayers and well wishes.

Love,

Aunt Pete, Stephanie’s Other Mother

Tuesday, June 10, 2003 11:18 AM CDT

Update for Monday, June 9, 2003

Stephanie had a good day on Sunday. She enjoyed visits from several friends Sunday afternoon and evening. She had several visitors from her work, Electrolux. Sunday night was a little restless for her though.

Monday was a “normal” day for her. She had her various Monday procedures done through out the morning, and by early afternoon, she was ready for a break. Stephanie had several phone calls regarding her next hospital stay and the skin graft for her decubitus. After taking care of her medical business, she watched a movie that her friend, Pam Holt, brought her. Then, she walked around a little inside the house. She became nauseated and had to be sent back to bed to rest. Next came the nighttime routines of wound dressings, TPN, and shots. She had a more restful night, which includes suctioning every 1 to 1 ½ hours.

Barbara’s x-rays on Friday showed that she still has pneumonia. And as we all already knew, Barbara is way past exhaustion, and she even admits it now. She was ready to actually give in to resting by mid-afternoon. She had been up with Dalton from 1:30 to 4:30 a.m. Monday morning, then back up at 6:00 a.m. We got her to agree to let Matt, Stephanie, and I listen out for Dalton during the night.

Woody cooked spaghetti for supper. Matt, April, and Woody helped with Dalton until Walter got home. Then Dalton wanted his Granddaddy’s attention. Walter worked a little late on Monday, but still came in and got right to work helping out with all the “normal” routines.

Stephanie will return to the hospital on Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. for her surgery. She will remain in the hospital for at least 5 days. During that time, she will have to lie on her side. She is so ready for that decubitus to heal on her butt. It has been the source of a lot of pain. It is a little bit bigger than the palm of her hand and is less than ½ inch deep.

The arraignment for Jennifer Paige Langely is scheduled for Friday morning at the Richmond County Courthouse.

Thanks again for all of your kind thoughts and prayers, and please continue to pray for family.

Love to all,

Aunt Pete, aka, Stephanie’s Other Mother (and Barbara’s Sister)

P.S.
Please take a minute to leave Stephanie and family a message. They really enjoy hearing from each of you.

Sunday, June 8, 2003 10:23 AM CDT

Sunday, June 8, 2003 10:23 AM CDT
Hello Everyone,

This journal entry is from Stephanie.

I'm sorry it has been so long since I've left you an update. I would like to share with you what my "normal" day is like so that you will know why I haven't gotten around to leaving an update from me personally.

I wake up around 7:30 to disconnect my TPN, which has been running for 12 hours. This is when my day really begins. What follows this is my morning shot of heparin which prevents blood clotting, morning dressing change for my butt wound, personal hygiene, colostomy line flushed, frequent suctioning of my ilieostomy bag (usually about every 15 minutes to an hour), usually a daily changing of the ilieostomy bag which can take from 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the output, afternoon dressing change for my butt wound, exercises, starting the TPN, another heparin shot, and suctioning of my ilieostomy bag every 1 to 1 1/2 hours through out the night. Some of these procedures take very little time and others take a lot of time. I get tired and have to rest in between them, and sometimes during the procedure. It doesn't leave much time for much else because of my new daily living.

I'm not telling you this because I want any pity, but because I want to share with you what my life has become. This is the reason I haven't been able to personally respond to all of your emails, cards, calls, gifts, and other acts of kindness. I so much appreciate all of your love and concern that has been shown to my family and me. I do love hearing from each of you and love to read my website messages. It really touches my heart to know that so many people care about my family and me. Thank you all.

I also want to take this time to express my appreciation for all of you who helped my family and me by building my apartment. It is truly the "room that love built". Matt, Dalton, and I are able to have some time together as our own little family, plus we can enjoy visits from family and friends in our apartment.

As of last Wednesday, June 4th, I went back to see the doctor due to problems with my colostomy bag. Dr. Schreram stated that when I go in on Wednesday, June 11th, they would insert a small tube and bag in that area as well as doing the skin graft for my butt wound. He also let me know that it will be at least six months from now before they would even attempt to reconnect my stomach and intestines. So, I guess this will begin my countdown for my "normal life", which I will work hard for the next six months to achieve. I keep the faith everyday, praying that when the time comes, everything will be back to normal. I do appreciate all of your prayers, and please keep my family and me in your prayers.

Thursday, June 5th, was a typical day for my family and me.

Friday, June 6th, Mom had to take Dalton back to the doctor. Dalton has been coughing a great deal and was acting like he didn't feel very good. He has a sinus infection and is cutting teeth. Mom also had to go back to the doctor herself. She had x-rays to see if she still has pneumonia. She does have bronchitis now. As always, she is trying to do all that she can for all of us.

Saturday, June 7th, we had a very long afternoon trying to change the ilieostomy bag. It took over 3 hours because of the output. For some reason, the output is producing more acid and is really irrating my graft site.

Matt has gotten his new shoes and socks and they seem to be helping out a great deal. He started to accompany another sales rep on his route and is beginning to show major improvements in becoming stronger every day. However, there are still times when the swelling and pain get to him, but he is really trying. He is able to help more when he is home. He and Dalton are enjoying time together. Matt has been trying to help Mama and Daddy with errands, too.

As for Mom, she is not feeling quite up to par. In addition to taking care of me everyday, she also listens out for Dalton every night. She has not been feeling well, but continues to do all that she can for our family. To have her and my Aunt Pete (who has been back here since Friday one week ago) here is to truly know where I get my strength and determination. And we know that our real strength comes from God. We thank him daily for our family and our strength.

My dad went back to work this week, and has been working some overtime including Saturday and Sunday. He still does a lot around the house when he is here. Dalton always wants to be with his Granddaddy whenever he is home.

My Aunt Pete came back to help. She stays with me during the nights to help free Mom so that Mom can listen out for Dalton and hopefully get some rest. She also helps Mom with whatever she can. I enjoy having her with me because we have a good time together. I am so lucky to have an aunt who loves me so much and is willing to take time out of her life and from her family to help my family and me during this difficult time.

One thing I would like for everyone to take from this, is that everyone will stop and take a look at what they have and not what they don't have, and that they will be grateful for everyone in their lives. Sometimes things can be bad, but we all must keep our heads up in looking to God for the answers. Be thankful for what you have, because you never know how fast it can go away or you can lose what you do have. Never take a day of life for granted. And, as they always say, never go to bed angry. I hope you will take these things to heart and think about them every day. I have learned a lot from this experience, and I hope that no one else has to go through what I have had to go through to learn this.

Love to all and please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Stephanie

Tuesday, June 3, 2003 10:31 PM CDT

Update for Monday, June 2, 2003 and for Tuesday, June 3, 2003.

Stephanie had a visit with the plastic surgeon on Monday. The butt bedsore has come to a plateau. The doctors want to close the wound with a skin graft and would like to do this asap. Stephanie will have to go back in the hosptial and stay for about five days.

She had a long day away from the house. She had several errands to run and was gone from home about five hours. The sponge vacuum did come off today (Monday), so that helped her sit for a longer length of time. She has to have the butt wound re-dress twice a day.

Monday night was not very restful for Stephanie. She and I were up every 90 minutes to vacuum the ielistomy bag. She can get up by herself, but we want to make sure that one of us "spot" her in case she gets too weak.

On Tuesday, Stephanie was able to make a lot of calls to take care medical and insurance issues. She had blood work drawn.

The insulation was blown in today. Thank goodness! The temperature in the apartment was almost unbearable in mid to late afternoons.

Stephanie has developed a horse throat. We think it may have been the extreme temperatures of her room. It hasn't slowed her down very much.

This is just a "quickie" update to help keep everyone informed as to what is going on with Stephanie and family.
Stephanie still has a BIG suprise for those of you who haven't visited her lately. She doesn't want us to tell what it is. You need to come see her.

Warmest Regards,

Aunt Pete

Sunday, June 1, 2003 1:01 PM CDT

Stephanie has had some rough nights. We had to call the Pain Management for the pain in her back Friday night. I think it is because she is up and moving around more. Of course she is suppose to do more and exercise 3 times a day. Then when she tried to rest she feels the pain (aching and sore muscles), but the majority of her discomfort is from the vacuum machine on her Decubis.

She has been 4 days without nausea. The PT nurse said the Wound Vac may come off for good Monday and we will change to a dressing called Wet to Dry. It will have to be changed twice a day. Stephanie is hoping for this time to get here.

She had soon new visitor Saturday. They said they had been praying and waiting for this time, when they could come and sit with her and talk.

Dalton is besides himself having all of us together again. He woke up Saturday morning at 4:30 wet. I had to change his pajamas and when I turned around to get his clean pjs he took off in the dark house and laughing all the way. He ran straight to his dad's and mom's apartment. When I caught up with him Stephanie had his hand and talking to him. He got a kiss from his mommy and dad and went quietly back to bed.

He likes pushing Mommy around the deck in the wheelchair. He thinks he is so big. He is liking daycare now he doesn't cry when we drop him off. Granddaddy is relieved that he doesn't cry now.

Peggy came in Friday evening and cleaned up the house for us. She was fast and diligent and she finished in record time. We wanted to thank her for being so giving and kind.

Vicki came Friday and sat with Stephanie so I could get some rest and running around done. Dalton was running a fever still so I had to carry him back to the doctor. He said he felt that his medical problem was related to the measle shot he got 2 1/2 weeks ago. The lump nodes in the back of the neck were enlarged and the low grade fever were signs of this the measle shot reaction. I just wanted to thank her for the break and for keeping Stephanie company.

Davis Insulation will be installing the over head insulation on Tuesday. Thanks to them, for their kindness.

Jessie had not returned to finish the brick work. We are waiting to here from a friend about the insulation for the flooring. This week end the apartment got up to 84 Degrees.
I know when Jessie gets the brick finished and the atic insulated will make a big difference.

Please keep the prayers for us.

Thanks to all.

Best regards,
Barbara

Thursday, May 29, 2003 11:27 PM CDT

Well it has been a very busy week.

Tuesday, Stephanie had a Pain Medicine Management appointment. When we got to the hospital her pouch(bag) had started leaking. We thought we were prepared for this but boy were we wrong. While at the appointment we found out that the Prescription for pain IV was a little short of medicine. The prescription had been faxed to the out of town pharmacy and the syringe was made up with .1 mg not 1mg so she has been in a great deal of pain. They also increase the pain patch to 125 mg from 100 mg. Of course the next words were she will need to reduce these next time she comes in. Stephanie said that won't be a problem because her Decubius is suppose to be much better in 4 weeks. Let's say a little prayer for this hurdle, she needs to jump.

That office was in the South wing first floor. Then I had to wheel her and a 25 pound Vac machine to the Surgerical Specialist on 4 East. This was unscheduled, she was having a problem, they had to look at it. We left home at 9:00 am and got home at 4:30 pm. When we got home we had to replace the decubius wound vac sponge. We had to replace it because the doctor had to look at the infected area, so it was removed for him to look at it. We also had to replace the Pouch. Oh what a day. But thank God I have the chance for that day with her.

Wednesday, Stephanie could hardly move from all the sitting she had to do on Tuesday. That decubius was hurting all night and all day. She cancelled all OT & PT. It was not a good day. Thanks to Mama Fred & Daddy Fred for the great supper of hamburger steaks, gravy, butter beans, rice, rolls, mashed potatoes, and Ice tea.

Thursday the correct medicines, the correct 3 pound portable /wound vac machine, and the correct sponge/wound gear, the bed delievery person came to adjust the firmness of the mattress, and the TPN and supplies delivery. We got the correct equipment and supplies on and she had a great evening. After replacing the Butt wound with the new stuff. Thanks to Jeannette for picking up supper for us. We had a great meal from Famous Dave's, Ribs, BBQ Chucken & Pork, potato salad, corn on the cobb, fried potato wedges, and muffins. It was very good. Then Stephanie and I had to replace the pouch because the one on started leaking. She has a surprise for all her visitors. She doesn't want me to say anything about her surprise. So come and visit her and see her surprise.

We are still trying to get the last few items completed on the apartment. (brick laying and insulation) The apartment has been a blessing. It is so great having Stephanie, Matt, and Dalton here. Them living in Louisville would have been a night mare. She could hardly handle the 20 minute trip to the hospital. So to all of you who had a hand in this (labor, supplies, money, gifts, and the all powerful gift of prayer)Thank you. Those 2 words just is not enough to express what we feel for you all. Their apartment is truly the "Matt Loyal Family home that love built".

Love to all and to all a good night.
Barbara

Wednesday, May 28, 2003 3:17 PM CDT

Update for Tuesday, May 27, 2003, received information in various phone calls with Stephanie, Barbara, and Walter.

Stephanie had a visit with pain management and Dr. Hawkins today. She had a very uncomfortable one and half hour wait, and unfortunately, her iliestomy bag didn't want to cooperate. It was determined that her pain medication prescription she gets prior to the change of the sponge vaccuum was issued incorrectly. It was issued as 0.1 instead of 1.0 - makes a big difference. Also, her patch medication was changed by 25 mg. Hopefully, that will help eliminate some of her pain. She hasn't found a "position" that she can really be comfortable in for very long. Her energy level is not increasing as fast as she wants it to increase, but she is certainly trying hard to build it up. Her TPN is keeping her sustained, so doesn't "eat" very much. Please pray for God to help her get over her pain and help her mend.

Barbara is still feeling poorly, but is still hanging in there being the best mom, nurse, grandmom, and wife that she can. Please pray for her strength and health.

Walter is hanging in there doing a great job at granddad, dad, husband, and nurse's assistant. Please pray for his endurance, too.

Dalton is still running a fever, and his bowels are normal. He has a virus with a cold and running nose. He is being precious!

Matt is about the same.

==========================================================

Update for Wednesday, May 28, 2003, via phone call with Stephanie and Barbara.

Stephanie's mattress was being changed out today, and hopefully, that will help her rest better. She still feels about the same as above.

Barbara was busy helping with the changes to Stephanie's bed, and she seemed to be feeling some better - just tired.

Hope this quickie update helps to keep all of the Loyal/Bowles family and friends informed. Please keep all of the family in your prayers. Thank you!

Love to All,

Aunt Pete

PS: If you know of anyone in the insualtion business, Stephanie and Matt's apartment really, really needs to be insulated. It gets so hot in there that it almost unbearable.

Monday, May 26, 2003 1:08 AM CDT

I could not sleep tonight for some unknown reason, so I decided to sent an update.

Stephanie had a busy night Saturday night. She was up and down every hour. She had a leak in her ileostomy pouch and this means a 2 hour remove and replace or repair(patch) and get up often to check, empty, and clean the leakage. So she chose to repair (patch) and change it Sunday morning.

She is trying do all her exercises they want her to do and along with all the procedures that has become second nature, has helped to increase her energy levels. She is able to get up to the restroom hourly. She visits the family room where Dalton and her dad are playing. We plan to go outside Monday if it isn't raining.

We miss the nurses, Stephanie told a visitor yesterday that she did not realize how much the nurses did until she got home and she or I started doing it. Wheeeeew!!!!!!!

Her first outing will be Tuesday, she has an appointment with Pain Management. She is in a lot of pain most of the time. I sure hope they can correct this. The patch is not working, it doesn't adheve to her skin completely. That means she doesn't get full benefit of the patch.

Walter and Dalton spent the day playing and riding something, just having a big time.

Matt went to church today. Stephanie told him she wants to go to church soon. When she can tolerate going and sitting for a couple of hours, that will be the first place we will go. (Pouch under control, too)

Sunday, May 25, 2003 3:33 PM CDT

Update for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m.:

Stephanie had visits with the Occupational Therapist and the Physical Therapist on Friday. She has two more visits left with the OT and eight more visits left with the PT. Stephanie is doing exercises to strengthen her back and to “wake-up” the nerves in her hand, arms, feet, and legs. Stephanie is getting around a little more and was able to sit-up in the living room for about two and half hours. Stephanie had a “bath” in the shower, and I know that had to feel great for her.

Barbara and Walter are getting the hang of all the different procedures that have to be done each day to Stephanie. Walter is doing a lot with and for Dalton (when he is not at play school), while Barbara does more of the personal care for Stephanie.

Matt has his new prescription shoes and socks. It takes him about 20-30 minutes to put them on because the shoes and socks are so tight and his feet are so swollen. Anybody got any ideas on how to get the swelling down or how he can prop up his feet at work?

Dalton has a little cold and cough, probably allergies. He seems to be enjoying Play School. Dalton has taken a “bit” out of some of Stephanie’s styrofoam wedge and cushion. He also likes to “change” the dials to Stephanie’s air mattress. He knows he is not supposed to touch the dials, so he will spank his own hand when he does it.

Time is beginning to take its toll on both of them. While I was there, I could tell that both of them were really running on reserve energy. Stephanie’s doctors expressed concern about Barbara’s health the day Stephanie was leaving the hospital. (For Stephanie’s last two weeks in the hospital, Barbara had been at home keeping Dalton and helping to finish the “room that love built”.) Barbara was feeling really bad on Friday (to the point that Stephanie asked her what was wrong with her), and she had to go to the doctor. Barbara has walking pneumonia, and the doctor gave her some very strong medicine to help her get over it.

If you are reading this journal and are wondering what you could do to help out, here are some ideas for help: meals, laundry, housekeeping, errands, babysitting, yard maintenance, etc. Because contrary to what Barbara and Walter will say, they do need help not only for Stephanie and Matt, but also themselves. They are really providing care for Stephanie, Dalton, and Matt. I know I am being very bold in asking for help for them, but I know a lot of you really care and just don’t know what to do to help them.

Thanks for checking in on the Bowles and Loyal Families. They appreciate your continued prayers.

God Bless Each of You and Love to All,

Aunt Pete

Thursday, May 22, 2003 9:26 PM CDT

Wednesday brought some “first times” for Barbara, Walter (J.W.), and Stephanie. Barbara and Walter are being trained to take care of Stephanie’s home health care needs. Barbara gave Stephanie some of her shots. Walter chose to be the “distracter” for Stephanie. Barbara changed the butt sponge vacuum and IV port dressing. Stephanie is still changing her own ilieostomy bag. Barbara and Walter set-up the TPN drip for Stephanie’s IV. The home health care nurse was only allowed two visits by the insurance company (Can you believe that?). The home health care nurse said Barbara missed her calling and would give her an “A+” on her nursing skills. Stephanie is still getting PT and OT. Pat (Walter’s sister), Barbara, and I shampooed Stephanie’s hair. Afterward, Stephanie asked her mom to cut off about four inches. Barbara did a great job. Stephanie was really pleased with her new hair cut.

Pat and I both returned to our respective homes today. Barbara and Walter are both prepared to getting settled in to what their “normal” routine will be without any additional help. Walter is taking a few weeks of vacation and Dalton is back in Play School. He started playing Wednesday and Thursday mornings before his grandparents could leave the building. He was still playing and having fun when they picked him up. Stephanie’s long time friend, Jeannette Allen, dropped by the day care unannounced to check on Dalton, and he was having fun. Dalton is doing great now, and milk/milk products seem to have been the culprit to his diarrhea.

Stephanie had a good night sleep Wednesday night. She only had to be suctioned about every two hours. The TPN is back down to 12 hours drip. Stephanie is still “eating” very little. She seems to be getting the nausea under control. Thursday was tiring, but Barbara, Walter, and Stephanie have made it through the first day of “no extra help.”

Matt’s having some problems with swelling of his feet and ankles and has to rotate with heat and cold compresses. He is still waiting on his prescription shoes to arrive, but he is wearing some of his “old” shoes this week. Last week he was not wearing any shoes, and I hope he didn’t do any damage by walking without any support on his feet for a week!

Woody is back at home after giving up his bedroom for me for a few nights. Thanks, Woody! I really enjoyed sleeping in a real bed, too!

The “room that love built” still needs to be insulated. It gets really hot in there in the late morning and afternoon. The brick mason also has to finish bricking up the exterior. Stephanie and Matt are really enjoying their room and being together. Dalton is so cute when he just drifts in to check on them. He likes to “raise” his mommy’s bed. He found the control right away.

Barbara’s and my mom is still sick. She has undergone tests each day this week, and she will have to return to MCG for more tests next week. They have determined that she is passing blood, but they haven’t figured out why. Please keep her in your prayers.

Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie’s Other Mother

Tuesday, May 20, 2003 3:57 PM CDT

Stephanie is trying to get settle in. The transition was a little more difficult than she had anticipated. Her first night home gave her even more appreciation for her nurses at MCG. All in all, she has done remarkably well. We are still working out some kinks in her home health care and some of the equipment. Also, the doctors did not prescribe any medicine for nausea or headaches. She has been so-o-o nauseated. Pat Bowles Shaffer, J.W. (Walter)'s sister, is a RN is here helping all of us make the transition. (Thank goodness!!!)

Stephanie, Matt, Dalton, Barbara, J.W. (Walter), Woody, and I are most appreciative of all the acts of kindness and love extended to all of us during these difficult days. "Thank you" does not seem like enough to say, but it comes with a lot of love from each of us to all of you!

Before I give close, I would like to make a few comments about Sunday's update that I posted Monday morning.

My heartfelt reflections and "things I have learned" from "my" experiences during the 85 days with Stephanie at MCG were NOT directed towards anyone. I only shared "my" thoughts about "my" experiences of being with a loved one and staying in the Shock/Trauma ICU Waiting Room and being at the hospital 24/7 for almost three months. If I offended anyone, it certainly was not my intention. I even read my update to Stephanie before I submitted it to the website. Again, these are "my" reflections on things "I" have learned. And guess what, I might have to repeat a few of the "lessons". I regret if anyone was offended by me sharing "my" reflections of being with Stephanie at MCG. If you would like to share your feelings or comment about Sunday's update, you can send me an email at peteandjimmy@aol.com or call me at 770-519-1024.

God Bless Each of You and Love to All,

Pete Tanner, aka Stephanie's Other Mother

Monday, May 19, 2003 5:01 PM CDT

Stephanie Lynn Bowles Loyal is home. After 86 days she finally made it. She is settled and relaxing. She was surprised with their apartment. Thanks to everyone for all you did to help us get her home.

Love,
Barbara Bowles
We will continue to do journal entries. She will have her next surgery in 5 to 9 month, if everything goes as planned.

Monday, May 19, 2003 6:40 AM CDT

Sunday, May 18, 2003, was day 85 for Stephanie at MCG.

The anticipation is really building up for the whole family. Stephanie wanted to do a "test run" of riding in a car. She saved her exercise time for doing just that.

After the usual night of hourly wake-ups, Stephanie started her day at 6:00 a.m. with nausea and hick-ups. Hick-ups have become a common occurrence for her. (We've tried a lot of "sure cures", and so far she hasn't gotten over them for hours once the hick-ups return.) She slept a little between some visitors and the normal hospital routines. Then, she was ready to "get ready" for her "test run." We went outside and waited for her parents by taking a little tour of the southside hospital grounds. She did enjoy getting outside of the hospital walls, but she was so anxious to see if she could endure the pain of riding in a car. Her mom drove around the parking deck. Stephanie's butt bedsore was bearable; so she wants to ride home in her mom's car and not by ambulance

She had a nice visit with her parents, and then later had a nice visit with Matt. Everyone is looking forward to Monday. The house is ready, and Stephanie is ready to be home, too!

I would like to reflect about the last 85 days.

The first time I saw Stephanie in the Shock Trauma ICU room, I could hardly breathe; I thought I was going to faint; and I didn't know what I could do to help. I don't even remember who was with me. I know it was God who gave me the ability to stand there, and that He was going to give me the strength and guidance I needed. The sight of her that day is one I will never, ever forget!

Some of the "things" I learned through these last 85 days:
1) To be thankful for ups and downs.
2) Sometimes we have to go backward to go forward.
3) No change is good, but also, change can be good, too.
4) Patience is truly a virture, but impatience drains your spirit and your energy.
5) Silence is golden, and we must use the "slient time" to prepare for the time not to be slient.
6) Take time to "weigh" out the positive and the negative, otherwise a positive can become a negative, but rarely will a negative become a positive.
7) Sometimes, a person's actions or lack of action is speaking LOUDER than what that person is saying.
8) The "Serenity Prayer" does help and does work.
9) Miracles really do happen, and happen, and happen!
10) Small lies chip away a large piece of trust and respect with each time one is spoken.
11) Curosity can be okay, but judgement can be wrong and hurtful almost everytime.
12) Honesty is always the best policy, but sometimes has to be gingerly tendered.
13) Looking for the "good" in everyone is wonderful, but everyone is not good.
14) Some people will never see the errors of their ways, but don't forget #'s 8, 9, & 10.
15) FROG - Fully Rely On God!
16) Keep your love ones as close as you can.
17) Say "thank you" and "please" as often as you can - it might be the first time some people hear it.
18) Smiles help; frowns don't!
19) Smiles feel good at the moment given and every time you reflect on that moment.
20) Saying "I'm Sorry" might help the first time, but not each time after that.
21) Don't take love for grantite; sometimes it can be blasted away!
22) Don't say you will, if you know your won't!
23) Promise less, and provide more.
24) Life and Selling Real Estate are a lot alike.
25) Trust your instincts.
26) Don't assume anything.
27) There are a lot of good people, but don't forget about #13.
28) Doctors and nurses are our "guardian angels" right here on earth. God, Thank you for each and everyone of them, and I pray that more "guardian angels" are being trained.
29) Life is a gift, and love is a blessing.
30) Best friends are family. You never have too many.
31) Having a Sister for a Best Friend is a gift and a blessing from God. And if you're lucky, you get a wonderful brother-in-law who becomes like a brother; and a daughter who is like your own daughter.
32) And there are always more lessons to be learned!!!!

To all who are reading this - Thank you for what you have done for Stephanie and her family, for the encouragement you have given all of us, the miracles you have prayed for, and the gifts of time, blood, money, food, work, and other
forms of your love and concern for them. Your love and concern has given me the extra strength I needed.

Love to All and May God Bless Each of You,

Love,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie's Other Mother

Sunday, May 18, 2003 11:46 PM CDT

Saturday, May 17th was Day 84 for Stephanie at MCG.

Stephanie wanted to visit the gift shop first thing Saturday morning. This outing took about 50 minutes. Later we took a trip outside to get some fresh air and to walk one of Stephanie's visitors (Miss Eula) to her car. We were "testing" the pain level she might have to endure if she goes home via car vs. ambulance. Her pain level was rather high but she said she would rather go home by car. Tomorrow, her mom and dad will come with her mom's car to see how Stephanie will do getting in and out of it.

Today is Woody's birthday, so Happy Birthday Woody! He and April S. went on a deep sea fishing trip.

Barbara, Walter, and Matt went to Louisville to move more of Matt and Stephanie's belongings. Thanks to Brad and Carol Campbell and April Campbell for all of their help and support. You all are so special to Stephanie and her family.

Ms. Vickie Barnes was at the house working on some of the final clean up list and anything else that "has" to be cleaned up.

Thanks goes to all who have helped and those who are still helping.

Blessing to All,

Aunt Pete (aka Other Mother)

Saturday, May 17, 2003 3:25 PM CDT

Friday, May 16, 2003, was Day 83 at MCG for Stephanie.

Stephanie woke up to having her sponge vacuum dressing changed on her butt bedsore. She put on makeup for the first time today. She looks like the Stephanie we all knew before the wreck. Later she walked down the hall, and early afternoon, she rode to the 7th floor to see Nana (her grandmother and Barbara’s and my mother). Then we took a quick tour to Shock Trauma ICU for her to say “good bye” to some of the nurses who helped her while she was down there. She rode in the wheelchair for about 25 minutes. The doctors told Stephanie to sit up more to see if she gets some relief from nausea. She is trying, but it causes her so much pain. It has taken up to three hours for her to get any pain relief medication.

I had a very busy day running between the two floors to check on Mama and Stephanie. I really didn’t get any updates about the house from Barbara, but I know she was busy scheduling the delivery of the medical equipment Stephanie will need at home.

Stephanie is still on track for going home on Monday afternoon. Her Aunt Pat (Walter’s sister who is an RN) is coming down on Monday to help her settle in and to help Barbara in anyway that she can. I will be sticking around until maybe Wednesday.

Thanks again to all who have helped or are helping. Please keep Stephanie and her family in your prayers. There will be a lot of adjusting to do (for her whole family), and I know it will be hard on everyone.

God Bless you All,

Aunt Pete, aka Stephanie’s Other Mother

Friday, May 16, 2003 4:56 PM CDT

Thursday was Day 82 at MCG for Stephanie.

Stephanie has experienced a lot of discomfort from nausea and pain. The doctors think that once she can sit up more that it will help to eliminate the nausea. Her pain is predominately from her butt bedsore. It is healing nicely, but it is in such a location that Stephanie cannot get comfortable in any position. Her head bedsore is shrinking more and more each day.

Stephanie wore shoes for the first time today. She walked down passed the nurses station and back to her room. The shoes helped a lot. Stephanie said it feels like she has stone bruises on the bottom of her feet.

Late this afternoon Stephanie's grandmother (Barbara and my mother), Ann Cross was admitted to the hospital. She has bronchitis, had to have 2 units of blood, and other testing done. Luckily, she was on the 7th floor. Barbara and Walter and Dalton came to the hospital for a short visit with both Stephanie and our mother. It was a hectic night to say the least. Darlene Westray came to our rescue and thank goodness, too! Darlene and I took turns checking on our patients.

Dalton was very happy and "blew" his mommy a lot of kisses. Stephanie was so glad to see Dalton and her parents.

Barbara and Walter have been working hard to finalize the "room that love built". Unfortunately, I did not get the name of all the folks who helped out today. I apologize for this, and hope that everyone understands why I didn't get that information from Barbara.

Thanks to all who have help and are helping. We appreciate each and everyone of you.

Love to all & God Bless,

Aunt Pete, aka, Stephanie's Other Mother

Thursday, May 15, 2003 9:53 AM CDT

Wednesday was Day 81 at MCG for Stephanie.

Stephanie is still not resting very well. Her TPN has been increased to dispense in 12 hours instead of 16 hours, and we (Stephanie and I) think that is the cause for her nausea. The doctors are aware of the problem, but they haven't given any comments about why this is happening. Her bedsore on her head is heading great now that silver nitrate is being used. Her butt/back bedsore was re-dressed and has started forming "granulation buds", which is a good sign. The procedure is still very difficult for her to endure. She walked down the hall and back. The last ilieostomy bag lasted from 5/12 at 5:15 pm until 5/14 at 4:30 pm, and that is outstanding. Stephanie is doing a great job in changing her ilieostomy bag. She has to be suctioned every half hour to hour (24/7) in order to keep the bag from pulling loose.

Matt is driving now and is able to check in on Stephanie more. He still walks with crutches, but he is getting around great. He visited with Stephanie for a few hours during the afternoon/evening. I was able to run a few errands while he was here. Matt was able to assist Stephanie and they both did fine.

Woody came by for a little while after work, then rushed home to help with the carpet laying at the "room that love built". Barbara was busy all day with the renovation and Dalton. Dalton's stool cultures came back negative, but he still has dirrhea (and no fever).

Monday is now the target date for Stephanie going home, but that is not for certain. Keep checking, and I'll keep you posted.

I'm sorry I don't have all the names of the folks who helped at the house on Wednesday, so if I leave you out, please don't be offended (I'll include your name tomorrow.). Thanks for helping on Wednesday goes out to Steve Foust, Jerry Tiller, and Billy Pindell. Thanks to all who have helped Stephanie, Matt, Dalton, Barbara, Walter, and Woody since February 22.

God Bless All!

Love,

Aunt Pete, aka, Stephanie's Other Mother

Wednesday, May 14, 2003 7:04 AM CDT

Tuesday was Day 80 for Stephanie at MCG, and she's on the homestretch!!!!

After a night with no sleep because of pain, she got a few short catnaps before all the activities started. Late morning she had a little stroll down the hall and back. She had a nice visit with Dena, John, and Susan from His N Hers Salon, and also with Vicki Barnes, which was their first time meeting each other. (Vicki and Clyde Barnes have been a Godsend for Stephanie and her family. They have done so much to help with the garage/apartment renovation.) Then, the afternoon activities started.

Stephanie was able to drink a Dannon's Light Smoothie and seemed to really enjoy it. Darlene Westray, our friend from Shock Trauma ICU Waiting Room brought her the Smoothies, and the nutrition staff had to approve it before she could have it. It was so great to see her "enjoy" something to drink/eat. (In case you haven't met Darlene, she is quite a woman. She has made friends all over the hospital, and we have mutually adopted each other. The night Stephanie moved from ICU, Darlene and Barbara made 9 trips back and forth moving. She checks on us off and on all day. She brings ice, picks up food, helps with Stephanie, and also went with me to Matt and Stephanie's home in Louisville to help in getting it ready to sell. Thanks so much, Darlene!)

Her TPN line started bleeding during the late afternoon, and it had to be re-dressed. Stephanie is still experiencing a lot of pain in her left hand and from her butt bedsore. That is what keeps her up at night because she can't get comfortable.

She made a few calls to take care of insurance matters and for preparation for going home.

Stephanie and I usually play a couple of rounds of Scramble (handheld game) each night before we retire for the day. We are both competitive, so it is fun.

Dalton is still sick (dirrhea), and the stool culture results aren't back yet. Otherwise, he is having a great time exploring and playing. April Campbell helped with him yesterday so Barbara could focus on finalizing the "room that love built".

Barbara and Walter (JW), Peggy and Glenn Davis, Clyde and Vickie Barnes, The Cozarts, and Steve (the carpet installer) worked on the "room that love built." It could be ready for Friday, but I'm not sure the doctors will let her go home on Friday. The doctors want to make sure that all of Stephanie's equipment is working properly. We'll know later today.

Matt saw his doctor yesterday and has been given the okay to walk and drive. Hooray for Matt!!

Please keep the family in your prayers. Thank You!

Sincerely,

Pete Tanner, Stephanie's Other Mother

Tuesday, May 13, 2003 10:17 AM CDT

Hello to Everyone. This is Pete Tanner (Stephanie's Other Mother and Barbara's Sister).

Monday was Stephanie's 79th day at MCG. It was a very eventful day. She started early by having blood work, then move rapidly into her "normal" Monday routines. Her back/butt bedsore change was the typcial painful procedure. Next, she walked down the hall and up and down one flight of stairs. Then we took a little tour (via a wheelchair) to Shock Trauma ICU. She wanted to see where she had been and where her mom, dad, and I stayed for almost two months. When we got back to 4 South, she walked from the Nurses Station back to her room. Next, we changed her iliestomy bag (the old bag lasted approximately 51 hours - the longest yet). Then, she assisted in bathing off herself and getting ready for a visit with Matt and her dad. Walter (JW) stayed a good distance from her because he is still recovering from a cold (allergies). After her eventful day, she had an unrestful night. She experienced a lot of pain from her butt/back bedsore. The ride in the wheel chair and the changing of the vacuum sponge were probably the cause. She wants to rest today with a little interruptions as possible.

We found out on Saturday that the determining factor for knowing when her intestines are ready to be reconnected is when the skin graft can be "lifted up" from the intestines. That means the intestines have formed the granulation needed. Stephanie also inquired about her chances for being "bag-free" some day, and was told her chances are pretty good. Next, she wanted to know about whether she would have to always have the port and TPN for her nourishment. The doctors said, only time would tell if her lower intestines would absorp enough nutrients from her intake to sustain her life. If the not, she would have to have the TPN. As always, Stephanie took it like a Champ.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family for their support of my helping Stephanie and her family and their understanding of my absence at home.

The "room-that-love- built" is coming along. Vic Shepherd spent Saturday sanding, while Barbara was painting trim and watching Dalton. Walter (JW) had to work at Bell South. Sunday, Woody, Walter, and Barbara spent Mother's Day sanding and working. I think they are ready for some help in painting.

Thanks for checking in and all your prayers and support.

Love,

Pete (Stephanie's Other Mother)

Sunday, May 11, 2003 2:58 PM CDT

Happy
Mother's
Day

I hope everyone is having a great day spending time with their loved ones.

Stephanie had a very good Saturday. Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Pete went out to eat last night while Stephanie had visitors and Matt with her.

I haven't said much about Pete (my sister) but I am sure you can tell we have a special relationship. She has been here for Stephanie and me. She missed her sons' birthdays in March (5th & 8th), and now she has missed Mother's Day with them, as well. I don't know what I would have done without her. I know she misses her 2 grandchildren, Kaley and Jake, too. Pete is a real estate agent for Keller Williams Realty in Duluth (NE Atlanta). Cindy Beamon is assisting Pete's clients. I know when this is over Pete will need all the business we can send her. If you know anyone needing an agent in the Atlanta area please send them to her. 770-967-7888.

Stephanie had a rest full night and a quiet morning. When I called last she had some visitors, and she was having a good day. She talked to Dalton and since yesterday he has been saying mom mom mom mom mom mom mom mom. What a great Mother's Day gift, hearing your son say Mom for the first time.

God Bless everyone and thanks for keeping us in your prayers. Love Barbara

Saturday, May 10, 2003 6:28 AM CDT

Just a short note. Stephanie is doing more each day. She is pushing herself to do more than the doctors have given her to do. So, yesterday she walked to the Dr.'s office left him a note on his board, then walked back, then walked to the nurse's card andwrote them a message. It is Nurses Week and there is a big cardall the patients and doctors can sign. Well I have lots to do today and Walter is working so I am trying to prime the wood trim and then paint it if anyone wants to help come on out.

Oh yeah... AND watch Dalton. I hope Matt and Bobby will take him Mother's Day shopping.

She had all those end of week procedures, to so by 6:00 PM she was exhausted when I talked to her. But by 10:00 she had gotten her fifth wind. She was sounding much better. She talked to her daddy (we haven't been to see her since Sunday night) Her daddy is working later and hard on the apartment and I am staying home with Dalton and the tommy problem, we haven't heard from the culture.

I have to run.

God Bless and please keep Stephanie and her family and friend in your prayers.

Love,
Barbara

Thursday, May 8, 2003 12:01 AM CDT

Stephanie had a very ruff day yesterday. Surgery was moved up from 11:00 AM to 6:30 Am so her day started about 5:30 Am preping her for surgery. They called us at 6:15 +/- to give up the change. This was a difficult time for me because I could not be there. (stomach virus) Her Dad and Matt were able to make it there before she went into the OR. Dalton and I were at home together waiting for a call. Everything went fine. The doctors changed their mind at the last minute on the type of port/line they put in. She was in some pain most of the day, she said she hurts so must that has learned to live with it. She is being weined off the morphine now that the patch is suppose to be working. Every shift I hear them ask her where is her pain level, very seldom is it under 5. (little 1-10 bad) Now that they have her walking every muscle in her body hurts, as well, even holding her head up has strained those muscles she hasn't used in 2 1/2 months. Her back is very weak and she can't wear the abdoman support they brought her because of the ileostomy pouch on the front of her tummy area and the drainage tube on her right side.

They changed her sponge vac (bed sore) after surgery and her day stayed like that all day.

She walked in the hall later on.

Bath for her is a tiring ordeal as well.

I saw a lot of patients come and go in the ICU a lot of them were mean and rude to everyone. My daughter was there longer than any of them and she always thanked everyone for what ever they did, no mater how much it hurt. She knew they were having to do their job. She has been so good for all the pain and suffering she has been living through. She is my hero and I here the radio stations honoring mothers for the love they have shown their children. Well, Stephanie had fought a battle for her life for her son and husband. I tape Dalton and her laughing and played it for her during the first month (when she was unconscious) for her to hear Dalton laughing and I ended it with him crying and I would tell her Dalton is crying for his mommy to come home. Well she is coming home next week and in my heart and mind she is the MOTHER OF THE YEAR 2003 in this universe. I am sorry I got so emotional and verbal.

I want to thank the Bellsouth Boys (VIC, WALLACE and MIKE) for the sheetrock job (still in progress) and the plumbers (Wallace and Barry and Clyde)for finishing the ruffing in last night. Thanks, Clyde for returning the fix the Heat and air vent that the plumbers had to move. God Bless everyone and thanks for all you have done.

Please keep us in your prayers and again thanks.
Love,
Barbara

Wednesday, May 7, 2003 5:22 AM CDT

Stephanie walked to the doctor's office and left him a note on his Dry-Erase Board. That was one of the things she had to accomplish.(walking more often and longer) She had to be wheeled back to the room. She was hurting and gave out. He came and told her next time she has to walk back and they laughed. We know she will before the week is over.

I have Dalton now. He has had a stomach virus for 2 1/2 weeks. We had him Sunday and now I have it. We are going to the doctor today. We thought he was over it and he visited Stephanie Sunday, please pray she doesn't get it.
Matt has been around both and we hope he doesn't get sick. It would be hard but he would have to stay home for 48 hours after the last .

She was scheduled for the port surgery at 11:30, but we received a call at 6:30 AM this morning, they were coming to get her for surgery. Matt has also moved in so he and Walter left to go be there for her, (Aunt Pete) is down there for me.(and her) I am suppose to learn how to take care of the port but can't because of this virus.

She told me on the phone she was doing good. I wish I could be there. I feel like I have let her down. I know I have let myself down. I promised her I would not leave her.

Thanks to Clyde Barnes and Vickie Barnes (great people) for finding a plumber since the other one left for vacation. Clydes brother is a plumber and Wallace Barnes, Barry and Willie will do the plumbing. Thanks to all three of them.

Mr Richard Johnson donated the sheetrock and supplies, we want to thank him, also. Mr Johnson is the Builder that came to my rescue. So a big thanks to him. Will Grear delivered the sheetrock and cut the door in the brick wall.
Thanks to him, as well. Someone delivered the insulation yesterday, but I don't know who sent it or who delivered it thanks to all who made this apartment come together.

I haven't thanked C & C Construction (Cozart Construction)
and Barnes Heat & Air and Sig Cox H & A. Charlie & Mitch Cozart did the most of the framing & flooring. Thanks, guys and they will be back to set the door and trim work. Sig Cox Supplies the material and Clyde Barnes did all the work.

Jessie Wynn layed the concrete blocks for the flooring and will be back to lay the brick, Boral Brick supplied the Brick and got all the other material Willie needed, donated.
I haven't met Willie, yet, but thanks goes out to him.

Billie Pendell did the electrical work for Atsco, Inc who donated the supplies, Billie also helped with the supplies.
Southern Lighting Gallery donated the lighting fixtures. Thanks to all of them.

If I have missed anyone I will be sending thanks again. But if I missed you thanks as well.

God Bless and keep the prayers for this little family.
Barbara Bowles

Monday, May 5, 2003 7:35 PM CDT

Day 73
Stephanie slept most of the night, we still had to check her ileostomy bag for leaks every 30 minutes. If we left it up to the nurses they could get busy and unable to suction it and it's weight filling up could cause a leak. So Pete and I take turns (nights) getting up to check and suction if needed. Of course it wakes her up when we do it, she usually goes back to sleep even before we cover her. But the 30 minutes come pretty fast for us.

Today was the typical Monday with all those procedures that start on Monday like Cleaning the central line, changing the surgical wound sponge & vac, changing the ileostomy bag and shampooing her hair, and bath and etc.

Her doctor told her today it probably would not be this week, but hopefully by the next week end. She has to walk more before going home. She will have the port surgery (procedure) Wednesday and we would have to learn how to take care of it and how to use it. She has to get better control of the ileostomy leakage. The last one lasted for 21.5 hours and that's not bad for a beginner. There are her toes that made need surgery, from the lack of blood flow during the first vital days she was in ICU. They debreved the right big toe Sunday.(removed dead tissue)
The doctor that told her she would be home by Mother's Day
was hopeful to get all done by then. But Dr. Hawkins says that is to soon. Stephanie wants to be sure she is ready because she doesn't want to come back into the hospital because we rushed out.

God Bless and take care,
Barbara

Monday, May 5, 2003 5:54 AM CDT

Day 72.....

Good Morning, Stephanie had a great weekend, She enjoyed her visitors. She doesn't have to rest as much during the day. The doctors still say by Mother's Day she will be home.

This week they will surgically install a PORT, it is like a multi line IV that will be put under the skin. It is where she will fed through her vein and where they will get the weekly blood test. She will not be going to a rehab center, Stephanie told the doctors the OT & PT can come to her. She will be bed ridden when she gets home, how long will depend on her. She will get visits from home nursing care center, to do the things Stephanie and I can't do. She will need the same type of bed she has at the hospital, she will have the wound vac, she will need the suction machine for the eliostomy bag, she will have 2 tubes (drainage and wound vac) and 2 bags (drainage and ostomy).

When she comes home she will still be weak and she has no resistances. It is very important to remember if you have been sick or around someone sick in the last week STAY AWAY. A intestinal virus can kill her. Her family will be asking everyone who comes to visit, every time. So expect it. I have to be carefull as well.

Everyone is welcome to come and visit with Stephanie, Matt, and Dalton, when they get home but please call if at all possible. 706-860-5660.

We have so much to be thankful for and we are. Stephanie wants to thank everyone for sticking with her for this long period of time and not forgetting about her. Thanks to everyone for all you have done.

God Bless everyone and have a blessed day. Barbara

Friday, May 2, 2003 10:09 PM CDT

Guess WHO?
Stephanie wanted to write to you all!!!!!!!
Ladies and Gentlemen, Here's Stephanie Lynn Bowles Loyal...

Today is day 69 and I feel so much better today. I want to THANK YOU for all the prayers, they got me where I am today. Your prayers brought me many blessings. I want to let you know I will read every message you have sent me (even though my mom has tried to read them to me I was unable to comprehend them and some days I have been unable to remember what she read, I look forward to sending everyone an e-mail when I (some I know and some I haven't met, yet) and family. Dalton has been sick since last Friday. I saw him last on Easter Sunday. Matt has been around him so he is having to stay away, too. I miss them both.

I have walked half way down the hall. I am eating baby food and yogart and keeping it down. I can drink anything I want(I want very little). I want to thank every one for the cards, flowers, mail and donations.

Last week I asked my mom what she wanted for Mother's Day, she said "ALL I WANT IS MY DAUGHTER HOME." So I told the doctors I have to be home by Mother's Day. They told me yesterday I will be home by Mother's Day.

Aunt Pete said, "The apartment is coming alone great." Tonight they installed the flooring. Tomorrow, they plan to put up the 4 walls and wire and duct work. Monday they will be plumbing and sheetrock. Mom said the sheetrock takes 2 to 3 days to complete it. So that means painting Thursday and flooring on Friday. I am so excited I can hardly wait to get home.

Daddy Fred, I am in need for Autumn Trail air. Get ready I'm coming home.

Well, I'm tired now I will write again soon. Please leave me a message.

Tuesday, April 29, 2003 1:05 PM CDT

Day 61 (was Saturday April 26, 2003)

Day 62 (was Sunday April 27, 2003)

Day 63 (was Monday April 28, 2003)


Hey everyone, I am so sorry that the updates are a little behind. I haven't been home much in the past few days and have finals at school coming up this week and the first part of next. SO, be patient with me please until things calm down and I can get back to updating everyone on a normal basis.

On, Sunday, while at the hospital, Mrs Barbara asked if, in my next update, I would share something with everyone. Stephanie has received this card twice over the past few weeks, and it's amazing how true it is. I will just write the contents of the card below.

"I'll bet you've had about enough of people telling you how strong you are and how great you're doing during this awful, difficult period in your life. Maybe you'd rather hear someone say how much this sucks, how outrageous and unfair it is. Maybe you'd rather hear someone tell you that you don't have to be strong all the time. Or that it's definitely okay to curse fate and throw a tantrum or two. So here I am to tell you all that stuff and more, to let you know where I stand, which is right in your corner. There's no right way or wrong way at a time like this. However you work through this thing is immaterial to me. All I care about is that you ask for what you need, lean on those who love you, and try to trust me when I say that you'll come out on the other side." Jeannie Hund


"I know this isn't the esiest time in the world fro you and that the challenges you face would test the strongest faith-and yet, I see the spirit of God shining through you as each day you just keep putting one foot in front of the other. You are an inspiration and a blessing to everyone who knows you. But I am aware that hanging on and hanging in and being brave are not as easy as you make it look, and that's why you're constantly in my prayers. I ask God to comfort you, give you strength, and to bring you better days. It's what you deserve because you are truly one of his beloved children." Linda Lee Elrod


Hope everyone is having a good week and trying to enjoy these beautiful days. Keep sending those prayers and I will get an update on Steph's progress ASAP.

love to all,

April

Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:15 PM CDT

Day 60 (was Friday April 25, 2003)

Today, not only did Stephanie stand but she also walked about 3 feet (as far as her iv and other various lines would allow.) And of course, being Friday, and two days since the last, the dressing on her decubitus was changed. Stephanie calls these days "butt days." She says it with a cute little grin and then rolls her eyes. Also, the ilieostomy bag was replaced again.

The family would like to thank Augusta Concrete and block for the delivery of block for the garage. And they would also like to thank the Anonymous donors for the plywood and flooring. Work has already been started on the heating and air with the under the house work. Thank you to everyone who has helped with this project. Things are really coming along for Matt, Stephanie and Dalton's new "home."


love to all,
April Campbell

Thursday, April 24, 2003 10:05 PM CDT

Day 59

Well, everyone, I want to warn you that today's update will be a complete shocker. So, sit if you must :)

Today, the physical therapist visited Stephanie. He first asked her if she felt like sitting up. She said yes, so she sat up. He then asked her if she felt like dangling her feet. She said yes, so she dangled her feet. She was taught how to exercise her feet with each new challenge. His next question...........would you like to stand up? She said YES, so she STOOD!!!!!!! Yes, today, for the first time in nearly 60 days, Stephanie rose to her feet and stood up. Isn't God just full of miracles???

The doctors said they have never seen someone down for 60 days do what she has done. She's one amazing girl!!!

While she was standing, the sheets on her bed were changed. She sat for a few minutes and then stood again and finally said she was exhausted and got back in the bed. During the time that she was standing, the blood began to circulate much better in her legs. The color has now started to return to her toes and the donor site on her leg will heal faster.

Stephanie would like to continue to thank everyone for their many prayers and blessings.

love to all,
Little A

Thursday, April 24, 2003 10:31 AM CDT

Day 58 (was Wednesday April 23, 2003)

Stephanie napped on and off all day between the normal routine procedures. The dressing on her back/butt was changed again today. It has to be changed every two days and is very painful for Stephanie.

The ilieostomy bag was also replaced again due to the leakage. They are still trying to figure out a way to stop the leaking. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to bag a fistula on uneven skin? Duck tape has already been suggested :)

The Physical Therapy doctors are now saying that Stephanie will be able to sit and stand as soon as they are able to start working with her. They haven't decided yet, whether that will be with or without the brace.

Thank you to Sherri Loyal for lunch today and also another big thank you to the bellsouth crew and friends that helped with the demolition on Tuesday afternoon.

love,
April Campbell

Wednesday, April 23, 2003 8:09 AM CDT

Day 57 (was Tuesday April 22, 2003)

Stephanie had a restless night Monday night. She was depressed because of being so exhausted.

She had a good visit with her mother-in-law on Tuesday. Dalton started day care on Monday and she was on her way to pick him up. He seems to like it and is adjusting very well. He is getting along good with the other kids.

Stephanie will be going home before going to rehab, but she will be bed ridden until she is able to go through physical and occupational therapy. Although her back is fused, it is not strong enough for her to be out of the bed. The orthopedic Doctors are constructing a special brace for her. Mrs Barbara will have to spend a week training, to learn how to take care of her on her own.

Stephanie was asleep by 8 pm and we are hoping for a restful night for her.

The demolition crew worked very hard yesterday afternoon and evening and almost completed that part of the project. It is done except for the windows and the doors. The Bowles's would like to thank everyone who came out to help yesterday.

I would also like to take a moment and remind everyone to take precaution when visiting Stephanie. If you are sick, or have been around infected people, please wait until you are well and the "bug" has passed. Stephanie has serious internal injuries and cannot fight off infection the way the rest of us can. It is very dangerous for her condition to be around illness and infection. There are many many ways to let her know you are thinking about her until you are able to come and visit. If you would like the address to the hospital to send a card, let me know, or you can leave a message on the web site for her. I assure you, the new messages get delivered often.

love,
April Campbell

Monday, April 21, 2003 11:09 PM CDT

Day 56

Stephanie didn't have a very good day today. The dressing on her decubitus was changed again. Also, the ilieostomy bag was replaced twice. As we have stated before, this process takes approximately two hours to complete each time it is done.

Stephanie napped off and on all day. She got sick and vomitted early this morning and was still nauseated this evening.

The meeting at Bellsouth Union hall this evening went very well. There was a great turnout of friends and family. The work will be coordinated by Mr Richard Johnson from the home builders association. Mrs Barbara said he has been a God send to her. She has worked very hard over the past week and a half trying to get supplies and labor lined up for the enclosing of the garage. Mr Johnson has taken the remaining load onto his shoulders so that Barbara and Walter can maintain focus on the most important thing.....Stephanie. A "plan" has been outlined as far as what comes first and who is available for what specefic tasks. If you would like to volunteer help in any way, please contact me and I will give you the information that was discussed at tonight's meeting. Basically, the "demolition" part of this job will begin this week and hopefully be done by Saturday, which will start phase 2. So, if you have some pent up frustrations and feel like hitting something......grab a sledge hammer and join the demolition crew in Sugarcreek. If anyone needs directions to the house, please click on the email link and send me a quick note so that I can get those to you.

Thank you all for the prayers, support and generosity being shown to Stephanie's family during this time. The greatest reward is knowing that you've made a difference in someone's life. I can't even begin to express the "difference" everyone has made for Stephanie.

love to all,
April Campbell

Monday, April 21, 2003 8:27 AM CDT

Day 53 (was Thursday April 17, 2003)

There was no update for this day.
Today was Dalton's 1st birthday. He came and spent the afternoon with his mother and had a small party in her room.

Day 54 (was Friday April 18, 2003)

On Friday, the dressing on Stephanie's decubitus was replaced. This was very painful for her and it must be done every two days.

Her iliestomy was also worked on at midnight Thursday night and finally replaced Friday afternoon. They still cannot find one that will not leak.

Stephanie does not have a urinary tract infection. They now know that she has a fistula, which can only be treated surgically. However, due to the 8-12 month healing that has already begun on the intestines, this surgery cannot be performed until that time.

They took x-rays on Stephanie's back and are waiting on their return to see how her back is healing.

Stepanie napped well all day.

This message came straight from Stephanie and she wanted me to close with a personal thank-you for everything that everyone has done for her and her family.

love,
April Campbell


Day 55 (was Saturday April 19, 2003)

There is no update for this day. Stephanie's son, Dalton, celebrated his first birthday today and Ms Eula, from Stephanie's work stayed with her while her family spent the afternoon at his party.

Day 56 (was Sunday April 20, 2003)

Stephanie and her family would like to wish everyone a Happy "belated" Easter. She received many visitors, cards, flowers, and stuffed Easter animals. She would like to thank everyone for the love and support.

Dalton's birthday went very well. There will be pictures posted on the web site ASAP. Stephanie was able to see the pictures and videos from the party before the evening was over.

Stephanie is getting stronger every day. She is doing her hand and leg exercises and building strength back up in both.

Her skin graft as well as the donor site are both looking very well.

The family would like to remind everyone of the meeting at Bellsouth Union Hall tonight at 7pm. There are directions on a previous entry, but should you have a problem, please call my cell phone at 706-833-0991. We hope to see you all tonight.


love,
April Campbell

Thursday, April 17, 2003 9:14 AM CDT

To the loving friends and family of Stephanie Bowles Loyal:

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of you for the constant prayers and acts of kindness that have been shown to Stephanie and her family during this difficult time. The support that they have received from family and friends has been immeasurable. God has given them strength for each and every day through the people in their lives.

As everyone knows, Matt spent two weeks in MCG and upon his release, has been living with his Mom and Stepfather, Audrey and Ed Peel. Dalton has also been living with the Peel’s during this time. However, the time has come to begin preparation for bringing the Loyal’s “home” and back together again as a family. Several alternatives have been explored for making this happen. Stephanie has moved, after 7 complete weeks in shock/trauma ICU, to a private room on the 4th floor. Her longest journey is now immediately ahead of her. Stephanie will spend the next 8-12 months allowing her body (intestines and back primarily) to heal. She will require constant care and attention to her wounds for 1-2 years. The Doctors have suggested a time period of 5-7 years of repair surgeries and medical assistance. Obviously, Matt, Stephanie, and Dalton will not be physically able to live on their own for quite some time to come.

After carefully considering every option possible, Stephanie’s parents have decided to enclose the double garage at their home in Grovetown and turn it into an “apartment” for Matt, Stephanie, and their son. This way, Stephanie will always have people that can care for her and help with Dalton, but Matt and Stephanie will also have some privacy to grow as a family as well.

Due to the sizable cost of this project and the already surmounting medical bills and needs, their only option is to do the construction their selves along with help from their family and friends. They are incredibly fortunate to have such skill and ability surrounding them and have already had a few offers of help. They will need all the help they can get, as they would like to have this project finished and their “new home” completed upon Stephanie’s release from MCG.

We all know how hard it is to ask others for their generosity or charity. Like anyone else, the Bowles’ strive to be a self-sufficient family working hard to take care of their own. However sometimes life hands us lemons. They realize that what Matt, Stephanie and Dalton will need is beyond their financial capabilities and they must put those needs ahead of their pride. At this time, I would like to ask everyone to come together, take those lemons and make the best lemonade ever! After all, that’s what friends are for, right? They will need not only help with the physical labor enclosing the Garage, but also monetary donations or donations of hardware supplies for this project. They would like to start the last weekend in April and finish by the 1st weekend in May. Can we all come together to make this happen for Stephanie?

Barbara and Walter have been working on the floor plan for the garage apartment and are working to develop a list of supplies that this project will require. Help in any form will be greatly appreciated. If you know what you can help out with or what you can donate, please contact me @ 706-833-0991 or send me an email at lilbit996@aol.com. I will pass along any messages to Stephanie’s parents.

They have scheduled a meeting for the family and the people that have already offered to help in this transitional project. It will be held at the Bellsouth Union Hall at 7pm on Monday, April 21, 2003. This building is located behind K-Mart on Washington road in Martinez. If you are on Washington road, you will turn onto Davis road (right turn coming from Bobby Jones direction, left turn coming from I-20 direction). You will pass Martina’s (floral shop) and Formosa’s (Chinese restaurant) on your right. After the Chinese restaurant there will be a road to the right. This road is between Formosa’s and Georgia Military College. The name of the street is Leigh Street. If you turn right on Leigh Street, drive straight back and there will be a tan building on the left. We will try and have balloons or something to draw attention to the building, but it’s one of the only buildings back there and is not hard to find.

I am forever grateful to everyone who has shown such continuous love and support to Stephanie’s family throughout this difficult time. Our prayers have been the foundation for many many miracles. Sometimes, when things get tough, we have to wonder how we will survive, but God always paves the road and provides the strength to endure.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity for this family during this time.

Love to all,
April Campbell (“Little A”)


ps-please read previous journal entries for this morning's earlier update for Stephanie's last few days.

Thursday, April 17, 2003 7:51 AM CDT

Day 51 (Was Tuesday April 16, 2003)

There is no update for this day.

Day 52 (Was Wednesday April 17, 2003)

Stephanie slept well Tuesday night. She is a little depressed because today is Dalton's first birthday and she can't share in that with him the way she would like to. She is upset that she cannot spend time with him, hold and kiss him, rock him, play with him, etc.

The ilieostomy was replaced two times today. This one looks good and we are hoping to have the leaking stopped. This takes about two hours of construction to get it to work.

Also, they replaced the surgical sponge on the decubitus. Morphine and demerol didn't stop the pain this causes her.

Stephanie had a long day with procedures and was asleep by 8:30.

Thank you to you all for the continued prayers.

love,
April Campbell

Tuesday, April 15, 2003 1:29 AM CDT

Day 50 (was Monday April 14, 2003)

Stephanie had a restless night Sunday night. The nurses are in every hour to change her dressings and on top of that, the air conditioner in the room was not working correctly and it was very hot.

Monday brought lots of visits from ST surgeons, plastic surgeons, and physical therapy wound specialists. She also got a new ilieostomy because of the leaking.

Today, the catheter was also removed.

Stephanie was moved from her regular room to a larger room this afternoon. Matt didn't have room to manuver his wheel chair in the original room but now there is plenty of room and it is very accomodating. The room is full of flowers, books, angels, stuffed animals, balloons and other various gifts. Thank you to everyone for adding some cheerfulness to Stephanie's new room.

Dr Baxter brought Stephanie a diet coke and some apple juice this afternoon. She hasn't drank the coke yet, but she did drink a small amount of juice (the first other than ice chips in 50 days.)

Thanks to Dan and Sherry Loyal for lunch today.

There have been lots of visitors, and Stephanie is glad to see everyone, but the visits have been limited to 15 minutes to that she does not get to exhausted. She is still very tired and weak from being moved several times, and obviously, the injuries she has. She was very tired this evening and hoping for a good night's rest. Hopefully by the weekend and first of next week, Stephanie will feel up to receiving more visitors.

Thanks to everyone for your continued prayers, support and love.

I will update the contact information soon with Steph's new room number, and an address where cards etc can be sent.

love,
April Campbell

Monday, April 14, 2003 9:04 AM CDT

Day 48 (was Saturday April 12, 2003)

There was no update for Saturday.

Day 49 (was Sunday April 13, 2003)

Stephanie was moved out of Shock/Trauma ICU early Sunday morning. She was moved around 12am and was processed until 2:30 am. She got very little rest. Monday will be filled with more procedures and also trying to get completely settled into her new environment. She is very tired and needs to get some rest but is looking forward to seeing more of her family and friends towards the end of the week.

Stephanie is still having problems with the iliestomy leaking and dressings have to be changed hourly. Dr Baxter removed Steph's trache today. For the first time in 50 days, I was able to hear my daughter speak to me with her sweet voice. It was great just to hear her say "hi mom, how's that sound?"

Stephanie has a urinary tract infection and the catheter had to be replaced, it seems like there is always somehing going on.

Rhonda Lewis and her mom brought Chicken N Dumplings with sweet potato pie for dessert. It was yummy and thanks so much for their hard work.

Pete left Saturday and she is so very missed. We love her so much and appreciate her dedication to Stephanie and me. I do not think I could have made it without her and Walter beside me to hold me up. What a sister I have got! Anyone in the Atlanta area needing to buy or sell a home needs to call her. I know she gives her clients the same attention and dedication she has given us for the past 50 days.

Thanks again to Pete and God Bless her and I would like for everyone to pray for Jonathan, her son, to be safe in his journey with the Marines, whenever and wherever that may be.

Please keep praying for us, she has come a long way but the slowest journey is the healing that is in front of us.

Thanks for all your prayers and blessings,

Love,
Barbara

Saturday, April 12, 2003 9:01 AM CDT

Day 47 (was Friday April 11, 2003)

Stephanie was awake most of the day today because of procedures being done on her. The ilieostomy was replaced three times during the day because of excessive leakage. Each procedure took 3 hours. The doctors also changed the trache to a smaller trache and she can now talk and breathe a lot better. Also, the physical therapist came to work with Stephanie's feet and arms.

Walter worked all night Thursday night so his visit with Stephanie was a short one, and then he went home to get some rest.

Thanks to Pete Tanner for lunch and to Lynn and Randy Newby from Cumming, Ga for supper.

love,
April Campbell

Friday, April 11, 2003 11:14 AM CDT

Day 46 (was Thursday April 10, 2003)

Stephanie slept from 7:00 pm last night to 6:am, only waking for nursing procedures. I check on her around 12:00 when the nurse was doing something and she woke up long enough to tell me how tired she felt. She sent the nurse to get me at 6:15 am and we talked until 7. Then I had to leave for shift change.

She went to the decubiti surgery at 12 noon and was back in her room at 2:30pm. The doctor said it went well. (No muscle tissue was removed, only skin and fat.)She slept through most of the day.

Thanks to Mary Norton for lunch and to Bruce and Cindy Kernaghan for supper. And thank you all for your continued prayers and support.

love to all,
Barbara

Thursday, April 10, 2003 8:51 AM CDT

Day 45 (was Wednesday April 09, 2003)

Stephanie slept through the night. She is still very weak.

Today the iliestomy was replaced because the other one was too small and it was leaking too much.

She was nauseaus most of the day, we do not know why. It could be from a number of things like sitting up. She has been flat on her back for 6 1/2 weeks. The ilieostomy bag replacement was upsetting too. She is also not taking as much pain medication.

Stephanie is having surgery around 10 am Thursday (today) on the decubitus (bed sore.)

She was so exhausted from the dry heaves that at 6:55 she said shift change is starting and I need to rest. She slept until 10pm.

Please keep Stephanie in your prayers this morning as she undergoes yet another surgery.

Love,
Barbara

Wednesday, April 9, 2003 9:45 AM CDT

Day 45 (was Tuesday April 8, 2003)

Stephanie had a "big" day today. Two of her drain tubes were removed, and the ilieostomy drain was inserted. The graft area is doing great, and her abdomen area is healed over enough to leave it uncovered. The plastic surgeons think the bed sores will probably not require additional surgery and skin grafting.

On Thursday, the black area of the bed sore wil be removed and they will make a decision about what else they want to do with that area. The orthopedic doctor said we can let Stephanie sit up at a 70 degree angle or less, and it will not hurt her broken L3 vertabrae. He also checked her feet/ankles and fingers/hands for range of motion. She has less range of motion with her left hand and the physical therapist will have to work with her to improve her flexibility and increase her range of motion.

Thanks to Cindy and Donnie Cobb for lunch today (Purvis BBQ) and to Fred Jennings and Ashley Grose for supper tonight. We appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Thanks for all your prayers.

love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Tuesday, April 8, 2003 10:16 AM CDT

Day 44 (was Monday, April 7, 2003)

Stephanie rested most of the day. The bed sores on her back and head are looking smaller. Late yesterday afternoon, the Doctor told Matt that the Plastic Surgeons are planning to do surgery on her back sometime Thursday. Also, the idiostomy will probably be done before Thursday's surgery but nothing has been made definite at this time.

Her vitals were stable but she was still running a slight fever throughout the day.

Barbara and Walter left the hospital and spent the day at their home with Dalton. I think it was a big day for all of them.

Thanks to Cindy and Jillian Cobb for lunch from French Market Grille, and to Lois Loyal (Matt's grandmother), Aunt Mary Wilson and Uncle Randy Loyal for dinner.

Love,
April Campbell

ps- please check previous journal entries to see the update that was posted for Sunday. It was only current for a short time.

Tuesday, April 8, 2003 10:09 AM CDT

Day 43 (was Sunday, April 06, 2003)

Stephanie had a restful night. She still has a low grade fever. She is very weak from the fever and she had another unit of blood.

Today is Matt's birthday. He opened his presents in Stephanie's room so that she could share in celebrating his birthday.

Today, her docotrs told us the Plastic Surgeons will meet with Stephanie this week to discuss the surgery for her bed sore. Also, the trauma surgeons plan to do the next surgery installing the idiostomy.

Dalton visited with his mommy and the rest of us. We all had a great visit with him.

Thanks to our mom, Ann Cross, for the birthday lunch (by Matt's special request) and to Dawn Vowell for a wonderful dinner.

Please keep Stephanie and our family in your prayers. We know that your prayers will help us through these difficult times.

love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

ps- sorry for the delay, check back shortly for yesterday's update....it will be posted momentarily.
little A

Sunday, April 6, 2003 11:19 AM CDT

Day 42 (was April 05, 2003)

Last night about 10:30, Stephanie's fever broke. Then her blood pressure started dropping. They called the doctor when it got to 73/29. By 11:30 it was back to a safe 95/49, thanks to the medicine changes.

She slept through the night except when the staff had to do procedures. (chest x rays at 4:30 am, dressing changes to both bed sores, drawing blood, measuring fluids at 6 am and heat lamp to the donor site on her leg.)

After 18 hours of 103.8 to 105.8 degree temperature, heart rate up to 178-179 per minute, and blood pressure from 178/83 to 73/29, Stephanie was weak and exhausted. When she would wake, she would say I love you but let me rest. So we did. I sat with her most of the morning and Matt sat with her most of the afternoon.

Matt's birthday is tomorrow. We wish him many more to come and that they all be happier than this one.

We would like to thank Jennifer Cornelius and her mother Joann Bryant for the barbeque chicken lunch and Bill and Lisa Lange for the Wife Saver meal.

Thanks to all for the prayers, notes, and gifts of love. Our friends and family have been great during our stay in the hospital. We started our 7th week today.

God Bless everyone,
Barbara Bowles

Saturday, April 5, 2003 7:26 AM CST

Day 41 (was March 4, 2003)

I posted a small update to Day 40's entry, but am not sure if it ever showed up. So I will re enter that information this morning.

Stephanie ran a very high fever all day yesterday. Her normal temperature is 97.6 (average normal being 98.6) and her fever rose as high as 105.6 (which would actually be 106.6 for "us".) The fever remained that high throughout the day as well as her heart rate being in the 170's. The cause for this high temp and risen heart rate is still unknown. A sonogram was done on Stephanie's leg to check for blood clots. No additional clots were found and the original blood clot appears to be dissolved.

Stephanie's fever finally broke yesterday evening around 9:45. Another very hard day for Stephanie ending with a miracle.

Thank you all for your prayers and please continue to pray for Stephanie's strength and will to fight.

love to all,
April Campbell

Friday, April 4, 2003 7:32 AM CST

Day 40 (was April 03, 2003)

We were able to say Good Morning to Stephanie around 6:15 am. She was in good spirits and had a restful night. Barbara had another restful night too (only 1 Tylenol pm.)

Stephanie now has a sign on her vitals monitor requesting visitors/nurses not to touch her left hand, pat her head or rub her hair. She has a gauze glove on her left hand to protect it. Hopefully this will help the pain go away.

We were allowed limited visits the rest of the day because of activity in the ICU and procedure's being done to Stephanie. Stephanie actually got to talk with Dr. Hawkins (the head doctor.) He told her that the plastic surgeon will be checking out the bed sores in the next few days. He also told her they would be making a decision about what they will do to eliminate the drainage/fluid on her abdominal graft. They removed on her of drain tubes and redressed her abdomen and bed sores. Dr. Hawkins also described how her eating will be altered for the rest of her life and that she will have to have vitamins and supplements to survive.

Stephanie has been asking for a mirror and Barbara arranged for her to get one today. Stephanie looked at each scar/red spot on her face and at her graft donor area. We assured her that we are doing everything possible to revent and/or reduce scarring. She was very quiet but did not get upset.

She has been vomitting once or twice each day. It appears to be phlem. The phenergan makes her very sleepy and a little disoriented. She remains in good spirits - just like Stephanie - right?

Matt had a full day at work, then came to ICU waiting room and exercised. He then had a nice visit with Stephanie.

Thanks to Jeanette Allen for a wonderful supper. We really appreciate all that you have done for all of us in the ICU waiting room, too!

Your prayers are working, so please keep praying for all of us.

love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Thursday, April 3, 2003 7:41 AM CST

Day 39 (was April 2, 2003)

Stephanie had a good day and so did we! She had a good night's sleep and woke up in great spirits. I gave Barbara two Tylenol PM's, so she had a restful night too. Probably the first night she hasn't been in a light seep and awake the rest of the time. When I went into Stephanie's room at 6:40 am, she was already talking with her daddy. After her dad left for work, Dr. Baxter came in to Stephanie's room, and she answered a lot of Stephanie's and our concerns.

1) Her left hand either has a fracture that did not show on the x-ray or she has pinched nerves.

2) The dressing for her abdomen has to be changed once a day. Her graft is doing great. Her insides are healing too, but at a slower rate which is normal.

3) She doesn't have to have x-rays every day at 4 am any more because her lungs look good (and have been looking good for the last week of x-rays.)

4) She will remain in Shock Trauma ICU until her intestines are healed more and she has gotten stronger.

5) Her leg where the graft was taken is healing good.

6) Her bed sores are getting smaller in size.

Barbara and I shampooed Stephanie's hair today. It is quite a job because of how it has to be done, the thickness of Stephanie's hair, her trachea, and the bed sore on the back of her head.

Matt came to visit after work today. He has been exercising regularly. His next check up is on April 15.

Thank you Mr & Mrs Reese for lunch today and to the Kernaghan's for supper. Barbara, Walt, Matt and I truly enjoyed the "home cooking."

Thanks again for all the cards, emails, and other thoughtful expressions.

Let's keep on praying, too!

love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Wednesday, April 2, 2003 7:21 AM CST

Day 38 (was April 1, 2003)

Well, it's the first of the month at MCG and the doctors get rotated. What does that mean for Stephanie? We do not know because neither Stephanie nor we have talked to any doctors today. Hopefully that means no news is good news. Stephanie was awake a lot today. Barbara was allowed to give Stephanie a bath. Stephanie is talking with her voice valve several times a day. She tries to save that for when she has visitors. She is looking more and more like herself every day. Her spirit is getting stronger too, even though she does have some low moments. Dalton had a nice visit with Stephanie today (thanks to April Campbell.) He loves the Easter decorations and stuffed animals that Stephanie's co-workers at Electrolux gave her. He wanted to hold each one.

Stephanie is so anxious (imagine that!) to get to her regular room. She wants to see more of her friends and family (we're all ready for that too.)

Barbara, Walter, Woody, Matt and I appreciate the meals that were brought to us here at the hospital. Many of you have asked us to please let you know when the meals became less frequent and you would wait until that time to bring lunch or supper. Although, we are still receiving some meals, they are indeed less frequent than before. Simply put, the time is now.

Please keep praying for Stephanie's recovery and for her family to have strength to endure. They are all getting so very tired and weary - and we all know there are more difficult times to come. Thank you!

Love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Monday, March 31, 2003 10:04 PM CST

Day 37

Stephanie had a restful night and day. Barbara was allowed to assist in giving Stephanie a bath as well as stay with her a lot today. Stephanie's dressings were changed on her graft, and Dr. Baxter said the graft appears to have taken 100%. Her toes are looking better too. Stephanie's left hand is still bothering her; particularly her baby finger and the back of her hand. We sill have not gotten any information about the plans for the treatment for her bed sores and her broken vertebrae. Also, we do not know about moving into a regular room yet.

Matt went back to work today and seems to have done ok. He had a quick visit with Stephanie tonight because she was ready to go to sleep earlier tonight. She had a very busy day with various treatments and was awake a lot, even though she was resting in between treatments.

Thanks again for your prayers.

Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Monday, March 31, 2003 6:15 AM CST

Sorry for the delays....this was kind of a busy weekend for everyone. This should catch everything up! Have a good Monday everybody.

April


Day 34, Day 35, and Day 36 (March 29-30, 2003)

On Friday, we were unable to see Stephanie very much. The ICU was busy with new patients, doing procedures on Stephanie, and other "normal" routines that prevent the families from visiting with patients. Stephanie doesn't always remember to press the button for pain medicine, so we are trying to make sure we do it for her. The doctors/nurses do not think about the pain she will have to endure before they do a "procedure" on her (or other patients.) Consequently, Stephanie endured a lot of pain on Friday when they removed the gauze from her leg where the skin graft was taken and when they redressed her abdomen area. When we were finally allowed to visit with her, she was feeling very down. As soon as she saw some of her family, she bounced back, and talked with her speeking valve for over an hour.

On Saturday, we got to visit with Stephanie earlier, but we still were limited in our visits with her. Barbara braided Stephanie's hair and she looked very cute with her purple bows. She had visits with her family and a nice visit with Miss Eula (who works with Stephanie.) Miss Eula brought her some Easter stuffed animals (and they are sooo cute.) Of course, Stephanie loved them. Barbara decorated her room with Easter cards and the stuffed animals.

They changed the gauze again on her leg while Walter and Barbara were in her room and they saw how painful it was for her. The next gauze that was removed had neosporin on it, and it was removed without any pain. She has to have the heat pump on the area several times a day. She used her speaking valve only a little because she over-extended herself Friday.

On Sunday, we weren't allowed to visit with Stephanie until 10:30 am. She gets very depressed because she doesn't know "why" we aren't coming back to see her. She wants one of us to stay back with her as much as possible - even if she is asleep - and we want to be with her, too. We (Barbara, Walter, and I) try to take turns when there are no other visitors. That way, we make sure she has her pain medicine, ice chips, and help suction her trachea.

I told her she had gotten a lot of "Get Well" cards and that we have them in her book. She told us she was ready to open her cards herself and wants to see them all. She is holding me accountable for making sure that Matt exercises. So, now we are keeping an exercise log for Matt, and he has to exercise in our presence. He's a good sport about it. Stephanie is very determined that both of them get fully recovered as soon as possible.

We haven't had an update from the doctors since Wednesday night. If the doctors do not change their minds, I think Stephanie will be in a private room later this week.

Sorry for not updating the website the last couple of days, but I was a little "under the weather." Thanks for all your emails, cards, gifts, food, and contributions to her trust fund.

On behalf of Walter, Barbara and Matt, God bless you all, and we love you all!

Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Friday, March 28, 2003 2:47 PM CST

Day 33 (was March 27,2003)

Stephanie rested all day. She would wake for just a few minutes and then go right back to sleep. Barbara and I took turns in staying with Stephanie (when we were allowed.) Stephanie was able to do her arm and feet exercises. She is determined that she will not need a wheel chair when she goes home.

By the way, we have relocated to the right side of the same Shock Trauma/ICU waiting room. IF you come by and we are not in the waiting room, you can call 1-4633 to check if we are back with Stephanie in her room .

Thanks for checking in on this site, and please leave us a message. Stephanie will soon be ready to have all of her messages read to her. And please keep us in your prayers.

Love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Thursday, March 27, 2003 0:45 AM CST

Day 32 (was Wednesday, March 26, 2003)

Stephanie's temperature finally came back down. She is still suffering from the pain in her left side, and the warm compresses are just a temporary relief for her. We still do not know the cause for this pain. Most of the day was spent waiting for surgery for the skin grafts to her abdomen. Finally, at 8:00 pm, she went into surgery. For the the first 2 1/2 hours, the doctors repositioned her tubes and the last hour and a half was spent doing the skin grafts. At 11:45, the surgery was finally completed, Stephanie was resting well and did great.

Thanks again for all your prayers. Stephanie still has a long way to full recovery, so please keep praying.

Love to all,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Wednesday, March 26, 2003 9:26 AM CST

Day 31 (was March 25, 2003)

Today was another day of high fever for Stephanie. She was in great spirits, but just felt weak and tired. Her high fever kept the doctors from doing the skin grafts again today. Barbara was able to comb her hair out and braid it again. We are rubbing special creams on her facial scars to help reduce them and they are getting smaller. (Merderma is great stuff!)

She has been talking more through her trachea, too. She even "talked" on the phone with her dad this morning -- oh what a great thrill to hear and see her do that. (I'd love to have seen Walt's face.)

She did rest a lot, and saw and "talked" with a few family visitors. Hopefully, her fever will go down tonight so she can move forward with the skin grafts.

Thanks again for your thoughts and prayers.

Love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Tuesday, March 25, 2003 7:15 AM CST

Day 30 (was March 24, 2003)

Last night, Stephanie's temperature rose to over 104 degrees. Additionally, she has been vomitting several times a day for the last few days.

The skin graft was postponed because of her fever. The doctors relocated the IV central line this morning. She had to rest most of the day because she had to go back into the OR to have her drain tubes checked out. The left tube was changed and the right one was ok.

The family spent most of the day waiting on the next procedure and letting Stephanie rest. (It has been a very long day.)

Tomorrow, Stephanie should have the skin graft done.

Please keep Stephanie and her family in your prayers.

Our best to everyone,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother"

Monday, March 24, 2003 7:48 AM CST

Day 28 (was March 22, 2003)

Stephanie had a better day than yesterday (Friday). She rested a lot and talked with some of her immediate family. She said that she was feeling better. Stephanie needs to rest for Monday's procedure.

Day 29 (was March 23, 2003)

Stephanie rested a little bit better last night. She slept a lot today. Late this afternoon she started running a fever over 104 degrees. Throughout the day, family were allowed short visits (only when she was awake.)

Matt, Barbara, and Walter met with Dr. Hawkins today to go over what the next procedures will be. Tomorrow, the first skin graft will be done for a better temporary closure and less chance of infection. Stephanie will remain in ICU for about 8-10 more days and then moved to a regular room. Treatment for bed sores and broken vertabrae issues will be decided later this week or early next week. Stephanie will more than likely go to a rehab facility when she leaves MCG. The intestines will not be reconnected for 8-12 months. This will allow her body to heal more and to help her regain some strength.

Tonight, Stephanie asked that we thank everyone for their prayers. We all appreciate your prayers, emails, cards, visits, gifts, food, and other acts of kindness.

Also, thanks to everyone who has made a donation to the Stephanie Bowles Loyal Trust fund.

Let's keep our American troops in our prayers, too.

Love,
Pete Tanner
(Stephanie's "other mother")

Saturday, March 22, 2003 1:32 PM CST

Day 27 (was March 21, 2003)

Sorry for the delay in this update.
April Campbell

Stephanie had another restless and painful night. Her side is still hurting and the CAT scan found no abcest in her chest walls. She had 400 cc's of fluid removed from her lung around 3pm. Later, the doctors removed the sponge vaccumn and examined her abdominal area. Stephanie was medically paralyzed for the procedure. Unfortunately, paralyzation did not prevent Stephanie from feeling the pain of almost 300 staples being removed. She endured a lot of discomfort.

They decided to temporarily seal the "open" area on Monday with skin grafts. This procdure is being done to protect the "open" area from bacteria.

Stephanie was given a sedative about 8pm in hopes that she would have a restful night. Her doctors asked that she have no visitors after 8pm and to continue with limited visitation.

Walter went back to work on Monday. We miss him being with us but we know that he has to save his vacation days for when Stephanie needs him most. This has been really hard on both Barbara and Walter.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Thanks to all of you for everything that has been done for our family.

God Bless you all,
Love,
Pete Tanner
"Stephanie's other mother" amd Barbara's sister.

Thursday, March 20, 2003 11:02 PM CST

Day 26

Stephanie had an unrestful night because of the pain in her side (not sure if it is muscle spasms), ICU Shock/Trauma activities, and needing to cough and unable to cough because she is off the ventilator.

Barbara and Walter were able to see Stephanie for about 5 minutes around 6:30am. I was so lucky to go back right before Stephanie's bath and was allowed to assist in giving her a bath. Since I am Stephanie's "other mother," I was delighted to help. (Stephanie asked that I stay and help) I spent about an hour with her, and I saw, first hand, some of the painful rituals she has to endure; and of course, she does it withough a complaint and always with a "thank you."

Stephanie rested until mid afternoon when she got a surprise visit from Dalton and Matt (thanks to April Campbell.) Stephanie was allowed to "speak" to Barbara, Matt and Dalton. Dalton wanted to play with his mom's tubes and hoses - so he didn't stay too long. Later when Walter arrived, Stephanie was allowed to "talk" with Walter, Barbara, Dalton, Matt and me. Of course, Walter is one proud dad to have finally heard her speak again!

Stephanie had another CAT scan late afternoon to determine the cause of the pain in her side. We do not have the results yet.

Since we (Barbara and I) have had several nights with very little sleep (shock/trauma ICU waiting room is not condusive to a restful night's sleep), we followed Dr Baxter's advice to get our rest and more importantly, to allow Stephanie to rest without disturbing her.

Visitation with Stephane is still limited. The family is always delighted to visit with friends and family in the waiting room. We all appreciate everyone's understanding that Stephanie needs her rest in order to recouperate.

Stephanie is so appreciative for all of the cards, letters, emails, gifts, food for family, and other acts of kindness you all have shown us.

On behalf of Barbara and Walter,I, too, want to thank each of you. Reading your messages every day is so heart lifting. The support you all have shown all of us is so overwhelming. God bless all of you, our country, and all our service men.

Love,
Pete Tanner
(Stephanie's "other mother")

Thursday, March 20, 2003 6:49 AM CST

Day 25 (was Wednesday March 19, 2003)

Stephanie had a quiet night. Today was a very busy day. Stephanie is off the ventilator and it has left her room. She worked for 20 minutes to learn to speak with the traech. The respiratory therapist called us back for her to speak to us. Stephanie's Aunt Pete and I were so happy to hear her speak again. We recorded messages to Matt, Dalton, and her Dad. They hated missing her speak.

Stephanie lost the tube that was in her nose also. She was exhausted by 4:00 pm so we had another day of very little visitation.

She also had some bad muscle spasms, today. She is having to deal with that because the medication is bad for her stomach. Stephanie wanted to thank everyone for everything. Please keep the prayers coming. We still have many more surgeries to come before she recovers. The doctors say about 13-17 more weeks in Shock/Trauma ICU. The respirator and the nose tube will return for surgeries. The next surgery will be in 1 to 2 weeks. That will depend on Stephanie's body. It will let them know when it is time.

God bless everyone!
love,
Barbara and Walter

Wednesday, March 19, 2003 7:42 AM CST

Day 24 (was Tuesday March 18, 2003)

Stephanie had a restful night. Stephanie's dad went to work Monday, for the first time since the accident. He visits at 6:00am, 11:30am, and 4:30pm, sometimes he gets to see her but sometimes he doesn't.

Matt visited with Stephanie when they allowed her to have visitors.

She was off the ventilator most of the day which made her very tired. She has another bed sore on the back side of her head. This was from the neck brace that she wore for 2 1/2 weeks when she could not turn her head.

The glass wounds and the air bag burns are healing and looking better.

Stephanie wanted me to thank everyone for all you have done.
The prayers and messages have been miraculous, please keep them coming.

love,
Barbara and Walter

Tuesday, March 18, 2003 7:40 AM CST

Day 23 (was March 17, 2003)

Stephanie got a sedative last night so she slept most of the night. Yesterday, Dalton was 11 months old. We hope that he will be able to spend some time with his mother next month for his birthday.

Stephanie was taken off the ventilator for 4 hours and on oxygen for 4 hours and back on the ventilator for 4 hours. They want to build up her lungs before taking her off completely. She is looking forward to doing without the ventilator. They will be teaching her how to talk with the trache this week.

Stephanie is getting stronger every day since surgery last Thursday.

Please keep praying for us.

God Bless Everyone.
Love,
Walter And Barbara

Sunday, March 16, 2003 10:46 PM CST

Day 22

Another restful day for Stephanie filled with visits from family and friends. Stephanie also got her hair washed today. Mrs Barbara and her Aunt Kathy (Bowles) gave her a new "clean do." She also got a St. Patrik's Day card to be sure she had her green. No pinches for Stephanie this year!

There is nothing further to report as far as Stephanie's medical condition is concerned at this time. I'm sure as the week gets started, there will be more detailed updates to follow.

with thanks and love as always,

April Campbell

PS- Happy St. Patrick's Day Everyone!!!!

Saturday, March 15, 2003 7:05 PM CST

Day 21

Stephanie had an uneventful and restful day. She had lots of family and friends up to visit and was full of smiles as usual. Matt was also up for a visit today and is looking great. He's collecting many well wishes on his leg casts, it's beginning to look like a collegiate battle field(Steph and Matt's friends are very diversified sports fans.)

The family continue to send their thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.

love,
April Campbell

Saturday, March 15, 2003 7:40 AM CST

Day 20 (was March 14, 2003)

Stephanie slept most of Thursday night, and she also had a restful day today. Matt spent most of the day at the hospital visiting with Stephanie, frequent short visits and visiting with their friends and family.

Matt's mother and Ed brought Dalton up to visit with Stephanie and us. Stephanie was so pleased to visit with him. Needless to say, Granddaddy and Grandmommy were so excited to get to spend the time with him also.

Stephanie rested most of the day. She is so weak from the surgery that we had to limit our time back there with her. It is hard to do, but we do it.

Please keep the prayers and messages coming.

Love,
Barbara and Walter

Friday, March 14, 2003 7:53 AM CST

Day 19 (was Thursday March 13, 2003)

Stephanie has been begging for her hair to be washed for days. Her nurse, Matt, told me he would help me but I had to go it so I did it. It took 1 1/2 hours to shampoo and comb out the tangles in her hair.

She has had 2 1/2 days of unstable vital signs. We were very upset last night with her condition and worried about her surgery.

Thanks to all for all your prayers last night. Because this morning we found a "Blessed Stephanie." She was alert and looking great with her clean hair. Some might say the clean hair (haha) or the 2 pts. of blood (yeh!) but we all know the difference we saw was answered prayers for all of us. I beleive we can't work those kind of changes over night.

Surgery was at 4:35 pm today. She was tired of delays when her time finally came. Surgery was successful and all went well. She returned to her toom about 6:00 pm. We got a quick visit around 6:45. She is resting and looking great again.

Thanks again for your prayers and for taking the time to send her messages. Please leave her a message every chanve you can. She will be so pleased when she is able to read them.

love,
Barbara and Walter

Wednesday, March 12, 2003 11:12 PM CST

Sorry for the delay in updates, I haven't been able to get them in the past few days. This should bring everyone up to date with Steph's condition.
April

Tuesday March 11, 2003 Day 17
Stephanie had a restless night which caused her vital signs to be unstable. Also, her abdominal drain hoses stopped draining properly which caused gread discomfort and harm to her. Stephanie had to have abdominal xrays to determine the cause of the drainage problems.

The speech therapist worked with Stephanie to teach her how to talk through her trachea. She was able to say a few sentences. We're looking forward to "hearing" her when they allow the family to be present.

Stephanie's blood test came back with low hemoglogin. She had to have two more units of blood. She spent most of the day resting quietly with restricted visitation.

Matt had his first follow up visit with his doctor. He has new hard casts on his lower legs and feet. They're nice and clean and white!! He got to visit with Stephanie and her family.

Thanks again for all of your support and prayers.

love,
Barbara and Walter


Wednesday March 12, 2003 Day 18

The late evening and night were very difficult for Stephanie because of her unstable vital signs and the abdominal drainage problems. The abdominal xrays identified the drainage problems. Stephanie will need another operation to eliminate the problem. They will reposition one of the hoses and add two more vaccumn hoses.

Stephanie's had tachicardia off and on through out the day. The doctors decided to keep her sedated and requested further limitations to her visitation.

Late this afternoon we met with her doctors to discuss the test results and their plan of action. They've scheduled surgery for tomorrow. The doctors told us they are having a cardiologist chech her and that she may have to have a "temporary" pace maker.

Stephanie's swelling has gone down tremendously and she is looking more like herself every day. Even in her weakeded state, she still has that great "spirit" we all love.

Please, please keep the prayers coming. Thanks to all of you who have given blood and helped with the blood drives. We appreciate all the thoughtful expressions given to our family. God Bless!!
Love,
Barbara and Walter

PS- Special thanks to all who participate in the Louisville Blood drive today.

PSS- We also want to thank those who have tried to give blood but could not. Your effort is most appreciated and we certainly understand how much you wanted to help. God Bless You!!!

Monday, March 10, 2003 10:30 PM CST

Last night and today have been uneventful as far as any changes in Stephanie's medical condition. However, the doctors have stressed that Stephanie needs her rest, and that visitors are now limited to just immidiate family and for only a few minutes each visit. Aslo, Stephanies immune system is very weak and cannot fight off any form of bacteria or infection.

Stephanie's immidiate family appreciates the visits from all of Stephanie and Matt's friends. For over a week, only immediate family have been allowed to visit in Stephanie's room in Shock/Trauma ICU. We have been informed that there were some visitors who "slipped in." as well as an acquaintance that tried to get into her room with a camera. Please abide by the doctor's orders and respect the family's wishes. We all want the best for Stephanie-which is complete recovery as soon as possible.

Please continue to visit the family in the ICU waiting room on the third floor at MCG. It helps so much to make the days more bearable for her family, and we assure you that we tell Stephanie about all of her calls, visits, emails, cards, and other thoughtful expressions.

And please keep on praying for Stephanie and Matt's full recoveries.

Love,
Barbara and Walter

Sunday, March 9, 2003 10:17 PM CST

Hi all,

Stephanie had another rather calm day. No changes to report. She did have another CAT scan today and the results of this scan and the one on Friday should be in sometime Monday. I will report those results as soon as they are passed along to me. She rested well most of the day. The only significant update is that the doctors now say, rather than being in shock/trauma for 6 to 8 weeks, Stephanie will be there anywhere from 14 to 18 weeks. Please continue to pray for her each day and for her family.

love,
April Campbell

Saturday, March 8, 2003 8:35 PM CST

Stephanie had a restful day today. She has been trying to talk and smile so much since coming off the medication that she is simply wearing herself out. She slept most of the day. The doctors have reduced the number of visitors as well as durations of visits in order to let her rest as much as possible.

Matt was up for another visit today. He is looking good and getting around fairly well with the injuries he has.

Thanks for everyones prayers and concerns,
April Campbell

Friday, March 7, 2003 11:59 PM CST

Stephanie's evening was uneventful, she rested well. She had a very busy day with the doctors and nurses coming in to meet her and see her smile. Of course, the family had to get some time in to see her awake and responding to requests and questions. She can't speak because of the ventilator but she tries very hard to get us to read her lips.

Today, they increased her pain medication because she was hurting a lot. She slept most of the day. She did have a CAT scan late today.

She wanted me to thank all of you for the messages and prayers. Keep them coming. Matt came to visit with Stephanie but she slept through it.

We were glad to see her getting some rest.

Barbara and Walter

Friday, March 7, 2003 6:04 AM CST

Stephanie had an uneventful evening and day yesterday. She is still on the ventilator but relying on it less. The doctors hope to get her off of the ventilator some time tomorrow. Then they can do the CAT scan of her whole body. That will tell us if there is any brain damage (due to lack of bood and or lack of oxygen) or stroke (due to low blood pressure.) With the responses she has givin us since they stopped the paralyzation drugs, it should be null to minimum if any.

Stephanie will need 4 to 6 more major surgeries on her abdomen and a few on the bed sore on her back side (app 4" X 15" in size). Both the abdomen and lower back wounds will need skin grafts. We aren't sure what the broken vertibrae will require. The CAT scan will tell us if there is anything wrong with her neck and head.

Although she has come a long way since last week, she has a long and hard road to "full" recovery. The doctors will not elaborate on "what all" that includes. They remind us that we have to take one baby step at a time and sometimes, there may be a step back.

We are so proud of our little girl's hard work to aid in her recovery and her determination to recover. We still need your thoughts and prayers. Your messages are so inspiring and encouraging and we will be reading them to Stephanie as well.

God bless eace and every one of you.

Love,
Barbara and Walter

Thursday, March 6, 2003 0:23 AM CST

Thank you Jesus!!!!! And thanks to all those praying for Stephanie.

Stephanie had a great day. She has astonished all involved with her improvements. Today the doctors decided to experiment with the medicine that has had her in a paralyzed state. They discontinued it to see if she could answer some questions; 2 blinks for yes, 1 blink for no. She not only blinked, she shook both feet side to side, she tried to squeeze my hand, and she nodded "yes" instead of blinking. Stephanie is trying so hard to communicate with us that we have to reduce the number of visitors and the amount of time we spend with her. She has to rest on her own or the doctors will medicate her so she will sleep. The doctors also said she has a staph infection which is another reason for reducing visitors.

We told Stephanie about her messages, calls, prayers, and other acts of kindness. She smiled and shed some tears. We are so excited that we have seen some response from Stephanie.

Matt was released from the hospital today. He hopes to come visit Stephanie every other day. He has to stay off his legs and feet for 12 weeks. He will be able to see Dalton every day.

Please keep Stephanie and Matt and our families in your prayers. Again, we thank you for caring.

Love,
Barbara and Walter

Tuesday, March 4, 2003 10:23 PM CST

We have had a great day again today. Stephanie had a fever through the night, the blood tests aren't back yet to tell us what bacteria is causing the fever.

She was able to have the respiratory mode dropped down without any trouble. Stephanie's vital signs are still good and when we talk to her, the blood pressure would rise. It is great to see that reaction.

One of her doctor's said what she has concurred is "beyond immaculate," but I know that all of your prayers have helped us get to this point. This morning I realized Stephanie didn't know why she can't move. So I explained it to her. As I told her that one of the medicines she's taking paralyzes her, I also explained that she would be this way until her abdomen was better. I know she understood because I saw 3 tears flow from both eyes and her blood pressure dropped.

Thanks to everyone for all you have done. The miracle of prayer has worked overtime for our fmily. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

love,
Barbara Bowles

Tuesday, March 4, 2003 11:03 AM CST

Stephanie had a peaceful night last night. She is still running a fever, though it is down from 103 to 102 degrees. The family is still requesting lots of prayers. The date of the next surgery is unknown.
love,
April Campbell

Tuesday, March 4, 2003 0:37 AM CST

Stephanie had exploratory surgery today. This was surgery #4. The outcome was good, and surgery was successful.

They repaired a hole in the small intestines and removed the fluids that had seeped into her abdomen from this hole.

The doctors also performed a tracheotomy to avoid damaging her vocal chords.

All of her doctors are amazed that she came through the surgery and that her remailing intestines are looking good -but they didn't attach the three sections (that's another surgery.)

Stephanie's strong will is definitely helping her to get through these procedures. her body is working her to recover. She has been running 103 degree temps but her other vitals are stable.

Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers. We appreciate all of you.

love,
Barbara and Walter

Monday, March 3, 2003 4:33 PM CST

This is a very short update to let everyone know that Stephanie came out of surgery today and is looking good. I received that confirmation from her father about 4pm and there will be a much more detailed update later this evening. Keep those prayers coming.

love,
April Campbell

Sunday, March 2, 2003 11:49 PM CST

Sunday, March 2nd, day 9 was another trying day.

Stephanie had a 102 degree fever this morning of undertermined origin. When the doctors made the rounds, they decided to schedule surgery #4, for Monday, March 3rd.

Her vital signs are stable and her lungs are clear but she is still on the ventilator. They will do exploratory surgery on her abdomen to find the cause of the fever and to unclog the drain hoses, and they will do a tracheotomy.

Stephanie is a strong willed person but she has gone through enough to make the strongest man buckle. Please continue to pray for her will to live and give her strength to keep fighting for her life.

Dalton needs her, Matt needs her and her dad and I need her.

love,
Barbara Bowles

Saturday, March 1, 2003 11:08 PM CST

Stephanie Bowles Loyal, 29 of Louisville, Georgia, received severe injuries from a head-on collision on I-20 February 22,2003. The accident was caused by a woman driving in the wrong direction on the interstate. Stephanie is the wife of W. Matthew Loyal and the daughter of Mr and Mrs J. Walter Bowles of Grovetown, Georgia (and formerly Louisville, Georgia.) She was a 1991 graduate of Evans High School. Stephanie's injuries have resulted in the removal of the majority of her intestines. She has a broken vertabrae, arm, and fingers. Stephanie has had complications caused by blood clots and respiratory problems. She still may have other medical issues not yet diagnosed because she cannot be x-rayed. Matt, her husband, suffered multiple fractures in both legs, as well as both heels have been crushed. He has a broken pelvis and sacrum (tail bone). He has had two surgeries and has a long road of physical therapy ahead.

Stephanie and Matt have a 10 month old son, Dalton. They would appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this time. A trust fund has been created in the name of "Stephanie Bowles Loyal" at Bank of America.

The Loyals appreciate your concern.

Thank you,
The families of Matt and Stephanie Loyal

Saturday, March 1, 2003 4:12 PM CST

Stephanie is looking good today! There is still a great need for AB+ blood. If you would like to donate to help replenish the blood bank, please do so at either MCG, Shepeard Community Blood Center, or the American Red Cross. AB+ blood is encouraged, however, any type will be gladly accepted. Donations can be made in the name of Stephanie Bowles Loyal (MCG).

Also, there has been a trust fund opened in Stephanie's name to help with medical expenses and living expenses while Stephanie and Matt are recovering. It is located at the Bank of America. If you would like to donate to this fund, donations can be made directly at the bank or mailed to:

J.W. and Barbara Bowles
5045 Autumn Trail
Grovetown, Ga 30813

Please note on the donation that it is for the Stephanie Bowles Loyal trust fund. All of your donations and prayers are continuously appreciated.

love,

Stephanie's family

Saturday, March 1, 2003 0:25 AM CST

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