Rachel’s Story

Site created on December 30, 2019

Thank you for visiting Rachel's site.  Rachel was diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), an extremely rare neurologic disease that is particularly cruel.  PSP usually strikes people in middle age and has an average life span of 5 years from around the time of the diagnosis.  There are different subtypes of PSP.  Rachel's main symptoms were extreme fatigue, being very unbalanced (which led to ankle, pelvic, toe, and recently vertebral fractures), being apathetic, difficulty sleeping, problems with executive functioning (multitasking like cooking, organizing, etc.), swallowing issues, memory issues, amongst others.  I started this site to keep those who wish to be updated, updated.  Thank you for your prayers, support, and thoughts.  All are much appreciated!  Rachel passed away on January 7, 2021.  She donated her brain to a study to help others and was eventually diagnosed with a very similar disorder, Corticobasal Degeneration.  

Newest Update

April 10, 2022

Journal entry by Larry Studt —

Good afternoon everyone.

Thank you to all that were involved in yesterday's Celebration of Life for Rachel and thank you to all that were able to attend, watch online, or be with us in thought.  The event was full of music Rachel loved and participated in over her music filled life.  As we move on from the event, we will have fond memories of yesterday and continued memories of Rachel.

This will be my last entry for Caring Bridge.  Caring Bridge has been so helpful with communication over the years.  I still check in several times a day and likely will for awhile.  Just habit I guess.  I hope to never have the need for Caring Bridge again.

I wish I could personally thank each one of you as all of you mean so much to us.  Thank you.

Life continues,

Larry
Read More of the journal titled "April 10, 2022"
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