Rae Merritt's Healing Journey

Hello all,

If you are here, it is because you know and love our one and only Rae Merritt! If you haven't heard by now, Rae had a horrible accident last week. We’re sharing how you can offer support during this challenging time.

On Saturday, January 13, Rae got lightheaded and fell and hit her head. She unfortunately hit with such force she broke the ligament in the front of her neck that prevents it from hyperextending and ultimately damaged her C3, C4, and C5 vertebrae. She was transported to Scripps Encinitas Hospital where a spine surgeon did x-rays and an MRI; the results of those tests led them to spinal surgery.

Her surgery was done Sunday from 9pm-midnight. They fused the 3 damaged vertebrae, making them immobilized to prevent further damage to the spinal cord. This injury has caused paralysis in her arms and legs.

Current status is that her left side is the most impacted, with limited to no movement in her left arm. Her left leg has very slight movement and is limited in strength. Her right leg has limited movement. Her right arm can lift, push, and squeeze, but with little force. She has feeling and sensitivity in all limbs, which is a positive! While Rae has been recovering from the surgery, Gary researched facilities for inpatient treatments. After considering several options, they decided to begin treatment at the TriCity physical rehab facility. She was transported and admitted on Thursday the 18th to start the physical therapy and recovery process.

She is starting with 4 intense therapies each day. The doctor told the family that these inpatient treatments can vary in length from weeks to months, depending on her progress. From there, the plan is to move her home, where she can then advance to outpatient care. From there is where we come up against the unknowns.

The spinal surgeon's words: “This is a serious injury. It is a marathon, not a sprint. Plan on a year for recovery.”

These next stages are uncharted waters. Currently the focus is day to day, hoping to move into week to week, then month to month and so on. Many questions remain: How long will inpatient care last? How long will outpatient care be needed after that? How much assistance will Gary need? How many people will be needed to help with care? How long does insurance hold up? Will home modifications be needed? The list here can go on and adds up exponentially in terms of the psychological and financial costs.

This accident has been a lot for the family to digest. The already outpouring of prayer, encouragement and support has been overwhelmingly beautiful, and they are so grateful for this community! This fund intends to give those who can or want to help a way to do so as the family looks toward the future, where unknown obstacles and numerous expenses loom. Help offsetting any part of what they are facing is deeply appreciated, beyond what words can express!

Rae is an amazing wife, mom, friend, teacher, and more! Her dedication to her students at Jefferson Elementary is unmatched! She has poured so much love and time into those kids, and they never forget it! Everywhere Rae goes, she runs into a former student, where her lasting impact continues to positively influence our community. She is a friend to everyone, radiating fun and ensuring a good time for all who know her. Please continue to hold her and her family in prayer and positive thoughts as they navigate through this.

We are here for you, Rae!