Support Diane's Stroke Recovery

When I last saw Diane at her nieces baby shower, she looked great.  So happy and excited to attend the party!  While we chatted over lunch, she told me that her big CNA certification test was coming up this week.  She was worried about passing, but planned to do a lot of studying to make sure she was prepared.  She had been living the frugal life since she had been laid off a year or so.  Unable to find a new job, she took matters into her own hands and enrolled back in school to be a CNA.  She worked hard, passed her class with flying colors and had lined herself up a job for when she passed the test.  We are so proud of her, it wasn't easy to do being older, but she muscled through it and was on her way back to full time work!

Unfortunatly, she wasnt able to take her test.  She suffered a massive stroke while getting ready for her part time job on Tuesday and was rushed to Sewickley hospital.  From there, she was transferred to Presbyterian and has been in the ICU since then.  It was a left sided stroke, which has left her weak on her right side, confused and unable to communicate.  Her sons and sister have been by her side to comfort her and calm her every minute.  She isnt out of the woods yet, though, and when she is, she will have a long road to recovery.  It is looking like there will be lifelong deficits.

We are heart broken.  But, in my heart, I know she is going to kick this strokes butt.  My girls need their MeeMee!!  We plan to be with her every step of the road and give her as much support as she needs.

One thing that is difficult will be taking care of her household expenses.  Until we see where this path is going to take her and she recovers, we cant tell if she will be back to work or if we will need to file papers with social security to get her some money coming in.  In the mean time, the world doesnt stop spinning, bills keep coming and she needs a house to come home to.  

As much as we hate to ask, we are reaching out to her friends and family for some much needed help.  We want to tell her to relax, get better, dont worry about money; its essential to her recovery!  I know its the holidays, money is tight, but if Diane has ever touched your life or if you would think to send a card or flowers to her, please consider giving a small donation, instead.  Everything helps and it is so incredibly appreciated!

Thank you so much and may God bless and protect you and your loved ones this Christmas season!

Sincerely, 
Jason, Jarrod, Rhoda & Joy