Support for Dee!
New Update 3/3/2017
Hello everyone! I'm planning on updated on my gofundme page more frequently! I'm deeply touched by the large community that is here to support me, not only are my close friends and family here to support but a few from the biking community and even friends of my brothers all the way from Japan! As I have been recovering and as I continue on this journey I find motivation in the positive energy that this community gives me. It's been 3 months since I have updated and a lot has happened. I'v been enjoying my P.t and O.t at RIC, my therapists have been able to support me in walking efficiently with crutches and currently working on gait (walking) training with my prosthetic. I took my first steps with a prosthetic on January 20th, around 150 days after my accident. It's on heck of a journey, my first steps felt heavy and clumsy. I don't think I realized that it takes multiple visits to find an appropriate fit and this will continue as my limb changes through the next few months. I'm lucky to have found a good prosthetic doctor who is willing to work with me every other day and is open to try new ideas while we explore what will work for me. He is very detailed and willing to work overtime to make sure I don't leave until he feels satisfied with a fit. As of Monday I know feel comfortable enough to wear the prosthetic during the day for up to 6 hours, how exciting! Your support will help pay for my prosthetic and a running leg in the future. I started back to work on January 9th part time, I'm not able to be with my students due to safety concerns but I have been able to support my school by working on a variety of tasks in the office. I'm working towards being able to get back in the classroom in the future! Thanks again for all of your kind donations, there are no words strong enough to describe how thankful I am of all of you. Feel free to email me at [email redacted].
New update from Dee 11/21/2016
"Since I last updated so much has happened. I went to Marianjoy Rehabilitation Center where I gained strength in my injured arm, learned how to maneuver a wheelchair (and got one to keep for my own!), take care of all my personal self-care, and so much more. The staff was wonderful! Unfortunately as soon as I was to be sent home I had a visit to Stroger Hospital where I learned I needed a revision at the amputation sight, as it had "fallen apart." During that surgery they removed the external pelvic fixator, which now allows me to bear weight on my left leg. Best news ever! While at Stroger recovering from surgery I received physical therapy to help me learn to walk with crutches-woo hoo! I was released last Thursday and now I'll continue my journey with outpatient therapies at The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. My evaluation is on Tuesday and therapy starts on Friday. I am so excited to keep moving forward in order to prepare myself for prosthetic rehabilitation in the future. I will continue regular visits to Stroger and my phenomenal team of doctors. I thank each and every one of you for all your love and support.!"
-Dee
Our friend Dee needs our support! Danielle (Dee) Palagi was in a bicycle accident with a semi in Chicago on September 23, 2016. Anyone who is lucky enough to know Dee knows she is a strong, supportive, caring and inspirational Special Education Teacher and friend. Due to her accident, Dee has undergone several surgeries to her arm, pelvis, and foot (which was amputated). She has a long recovery ahead of her in the hospital but remains positive as always. Any amount can help towards her growing medical expenses. Thank you!