Hello friends !

In July 2021, as Melissa was getting ready to move to a Long Term Acute Care facility in Seattle, several of the many wonderful folks who had cared for her in Tualatin told her they wanted her to come back some day so they could see her much recovered.   While there is still a long road ahead, and more progress to be made; Melissa, Billy and I finally made it back to the hospital and were able to meet up briefly with several key staff and have a bit of a visit.  

It was so great to be able to do this.  We now have something positive and happy to associate with the hospital.  

There could be nothing big enough - nothing we could possibly even dream of doing for them - that would come anywhere near expressing the gratitude and appreciation for all of the hard-working men and women at Legacy Meridian Park Hospital that fought so hard with us to save her.   I hope all that cared for her know that we would have loved to have seen them as well, but alas you can't expect to catch everyone at one visit.

So - how has Melissa been doing?   

She is still on oxygen support, though has been able to reduce the amount to low enough that she can use a small battery-operated concentrator that she can sling over her shoulder.   I'm sure it is a bit heavy, but seems to be so much better than wheeling around oxygen tanks.  

She has been able to return to one of her jobs as a hair stylist, starting off slowly and building her capacity and expanding her hours.   It does not seem as though returning to being an electrician is in the cards. There are many other tasks and activities that she has been able to work on as she makes progress in reclaiming bits and pieces of her life.

There have been many doctor's appointments, many scans, many therapy appointments, many tests - and there will be many more.   She is working with some folks at the U.W. Interstitial Lung Disease Center, who have become the Covid recovery experts it seems.   She has been managing her appointments herself for the most part.

There are times when it feels like this journey has been travelled for years, but when we stop and think, it has only been 8 months since she returned home from the hospital.  She has come such a long away, it is truly amazing.  She works hard at it and pushes herself every day.  We all take so much for granted.   Sitting - eating - walking - cooking dinner - going for a walk  - etc       Remember to take time to stop and appreciate the little things and shower the people you love with love.

I appreciate each and every one of you.   Your love and support has absolutely been invaluable in helping us navigate this journey.

~ much love to all ~

Pat Daniels   (Melissa's mom)