Help Lori Behm To Sustain A Normal Life

Lori Behm....sister, mother, aunt, cousin, friend. My 58-year young sister is strong-willed and determined, always has my back (and I hers), one of my biggest supporters and one of my best friends. Anyone who knows Lori knows that she would go out of her way to do anything you ask. As we have always had each other's backs, my time has come to do something so selfless to support my sister’s recovery. Although I never felt comfortable with these types of "asks," I am putting aside my pride and asking for your help.

It was May 30, 2021, a fun-filled day (although it rained) celebrating Memorial Day with family and friends. The night ended with "Friends Reunion." Lori left my house and headed home... just 3 minutes away. Within 10 minutes I received a text that Lori had fallen and 911 was called and on their way. I immediately rushed to the house where we were met by EMTs. I saw Lori lying on the floor with devastation in her eyes. Lori had fallen down a flight of stairs... and that was the moment our lives have changed.

On May 31st Lori underwent a 7-hour surgery for a broken neck at C2 through C6. We had not realized, the night before, the severity of her injury, and we were now faced with a life-altering tragedy. Lori's diagnosis - quadriplegia (paralysis, or total loss of sensation and control of limbs - both arms and both legs) and quadriparesis (muscle weakness in all four limbs).

After spending 10 days in the hospital she was transferred to Sunnyview for rehabilitation, where she has been for the past three weeks. Despite all her hard work and intense physical and occupational therapies, Lori still has no functioning limbs and still remains paralyzed. Medical equipment and in-home health care will be needed upon Lori's release from Sunnyview. It is important to note that Lori never misses a beat when it comes to staying positive regardless of her life-altering injury. She still smiles, laughs, and plans for the future. She said if it were God's will to walk again or have use of her hands and arms, she would clearly want use of her upper limbs. So, my dear friends, that is what we are striving for. The fact is, none of us would want to lose our ability to function normally. We often take for granted the ability to walk, ride a bike, brush your hair, or dress yourself....but realistically, this is better than losing Lori altogether.

Let's rally for Lori. Having done so much for others, let's do something special for her to help defray some of her medical and home care costs. Many challenges lie ahead for Lori, your kindness will make her long road to recovery a little less burdensome. Please continue to send healing vibes to my sister and thank you all for your kind words and loving support.

With Love,

Rob Behm