Day 640...One Year Ago - Tom Arrived Back to Piper (trying not to ramble)

One year ago today, accompanied by his lifelong friend Brian Smith, Tom returned from Denver's Craig Hospital.

Here's one of the news stories that ran...(copy and paste into browser)                                                            https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/kansas-city-kansas-man-returns-home-9-months-after-accident-in-las-vegas

Can you imagine going to Las Vegas for a fun weekend, only to return home (nine months later)? But not to the familiar place you left, the one packed with 20+ years of memories. Instead, you pull up to a completely new address. Not to mention you need to roll through the doorway, not walk through it. This is the Jochen's reality.

We are forever grateful to: Kim Brown for tirelessly helping Jody find a home that could be made accessible. And to the faithful crew who helped with the move and made their house liveable with a major remodel made possible by donations and sweat equity from thoughtful friends and family. 

Tom was originally to travel with a nurse who'd stay with the family for one week to coach and ensure the transition was smooth. However, at the last minute, Craig pulled the rug out from under Jody. The hospital didn't even send the right equipment. So disappointing considering Craig's reputation as a world-class hospital. 

Jody was scared, we were all scared... except Tom. 

Fast forward to today --

• TOM:  Is a quadriplegic (for now) with the best of attitudes. Yesterday, he finally had his first physical therapy, since the end of April. He only has 20 valuable days left-- a fraction of what he needs. Insurance does not begin to cover his recovery. The drunk who caused the accident was underinsured and the car for hire (they were riding in) was improperly insured.     
• JODY: Has put everyone before her and is awaiting approval for physical therapy.  Just as Tom is, she's an inspiration! On top of it all, she now needs to look for a NEW job (after 20 years with a great and supportive company she loves).
• CHLOE: Is starting her college career at KU.  Tom, Jody, and Carson were able to get her moved in fairly smoothly and she has logged in three days of classes and loves it so far). We are hoping that trend continues! She is greatly missed at home. We are grateful she is surrounded by great friends, fellow KU'ers: Reese, Chase, Madi and Riley.
• CARSON: Is kicking off eighth grade with a great attitude along with some big goals. He is a godsend to us all and especially to Jody and Tom as they work to fill the void left by Chlo's move. He is a heartbreaker, smart, kind-hearted and funny. He seems much older than his 13 years.
• THIS FAMILY'S ABILITY TO COPE AND KEEP GOING IS AMAZING.

We cannot thank Nick Jennings enough who has continued to help Tom transition from his bed to chair. No words, just none. Plus he's worked to find some others who may be able to help. It takes about 10-15 minutes and Jody just needs someone to assist. They have it down to a science. 

Same with Ashley Mizell who has also sent some people Tom and Jody's way. THANK YOU! 

Think of Gina and her family daily...and all those involved and their great support.

AND SO WE GO ON...