Can you believe it's already 2024? It's been quite a while since I posted an update, and there's so much to fill you in on. Read to the bottom for an important save the date!

The first angiogram after my radiation treatment revealed that the arteriovenous malformation (AVM) has shrunk to the point where there’s hopefully no longer a risk of a second stroke event. The next angiogram in May will confirm there definitely isn’t a risk. 

I have returned to Shepherd Center Pathways outpatient program where I am making progress on navigating daily life. I've obtained a MARTA Mobility card to help me get there as I work towards regaining my ability to drive.  

I am greatly enjoying auditing an online abstract art course through Cousera, which is encouraging as my goal is to get back to Georgia State University.

Also, I am assisting in teaching an art class at Sycamore Place Gallery one afternoon a week and am seeking more opportunities. So, if you know of any, please let me know!

I'm absolutely loving Grandma Barbara's "Sing Your Heart Out" class at the Frank Hamilton Folk School on Wednesday nights. There's still room in the spring session if anyone wants to join us!

I am so ready to keep moving forward in my recovery. We have framed this whole process in phases, which I will outline below:

Phase I: I have successfully completed the first part of my healing journey - staying alive and regaining a good deal of my independence. I've also made progress in regaining memory and brain function. I vividly remember the wheelchair, the helmet, and everything else. Now, I'm standing here ready to take my next steps. Although I still lack use of my left arm/hand and rely on a cane for support with my left leg, this is just the beginning. There's potential for much more mobility on my left side, which is what we're calling Phase II!

Phase II: I will continue to attend all the therapies provided through my health insurance and Shepherd Pathways. Additionally, I have a long list of other things that can aid in my recovery that I am planning to detail in my next update. It is exciting stuff, there's even a robot exercise arm with live remote assistance!

Right now, my bills still need to be paid, and I don’t even have all of the funding for my basic necessities like regular home help to assist me with personal care, household tasks and therapy routines. I haven’t had help for several months now, and I really miss it. 

My family and friends have been incredible with their continuous love and support. Now, we're exploring creative ways to secure the financial support needed to achieve my goals over the next 3-5 years (can you believe it's almost been 3 years already?). We're actively seeking grants and other resources to assist.

In the meantime, I have a very important announcement: SAVE THE DATE!!!

On July 20, 2024, a group of my supporters are planning a benefit for me, and more details will follow! I can reveal a little bit: there will be live music, art, food, beverages, and a super fun evening at Callanwolde!

Please stay tuned for my next update, and thank you all so much for keeping up with me through everything I’ve been through! We're still running the GoFundMe campaign- if you ever want to give to my campaign use the following link: (Support Ellie's rehabilitation and home care, organized by Audrey Ferguson). If you give any money on this site, CaringBridge, it does not go to me, it goes to CaringBridge. So if you want to support me, do it through GoFundMe! Thanks for reading this & hope you have a great weekend!