Vader sent in the 501st to fight cancer.
On Sunday, the Rebellion helped a stroke victim with a personalized greeting from Jedi Master Yoda himself!
I am SO geeking out on this one. She did too. I brought home her ipod Sunday night so I could load it up with the first round of everyone’s greetings.
And wouldn’t you know…
Monday…
After hearing Yoda speak to her directly (including her name!)…
She felt temperature differences AND random pokes on her right side.
Coincidence?
Well, yeah, probably. It IS just a character in a movie and tv show after all.
It’s still cool to get my geek on once in a while and enjoy things.
So the past few days have been relatively rough, and we think we’ve figured out why.
We think she may be ready for the next step in this juncture…MAY…POTENTIALLY…but understand….that’s the last stop before home!
Got a TON of questions to get answered first, but from what I’m seeing, the non-compliant times I mentioned before are either boredom, she’s frustrated at the pace, or they don’t offer that at this facility.
Until we leave this place, we need to focus on her endurance.
Which means, we need her to do her therapies.
Which means, we need to keep her occupied so the nursing staff doesn’t feel the need to “medicate her” into oblivion. Yes, I’ve spoken with them on that topic.
Which means, I need good people, whom I know and trust to volunteer to visit and continue to work on her cognitive therapies with her.
I’m really soul-searching on this one, but even on day one, I knew it would come down to this.
This is why, when everyone wanted to come and visit when they first heard what had happened to my wife, I asked them not to.
Because I didn’t need you then, and I said that your time to help would come.
I’m thinking this is that time to start lining up volunteers.
Until we get her to the new facility, we’ll need a little coverage.
After she’s done at the new facility, depending on what level she at when she leaves, we’ll need a fair amount of coverage at home for the first couple of weeks.
I have 2 definites. Beyond that, it gets fuzzy as to who’s available to help.
I’ve set up a site at www.lotsahelpinghands.com and will be sending invites to folks I know. Even if you can help for an hour here or there, it’s beneficial. That would give others a break. If you are out of town, we’ve got spare beds here. So, can you help? Would you offer up your spare time? Or maybe a week’s worth of vacation? I know it’s a tall order I’m requesting, but I’ve got to ask.
If you haven’t gotten an invite just yet, I apologize. I’ve had a lot on my mind. Either email me or request one by leaving a comment.
Oh wow, almost forgot the update on Anissa!
Let’s see, I’ve had her standing, which came along with an enthusiastic, “Ta-daa!” from the Mrs. I’ve been feeding her applesauce and pudding. She got a pulverized breakfast Tuesday morning and said it was delicious. We’re trying to strengthen the swallowing muscles before anything other than pulverized. Still, it’s the first “real” food she’s gotten since November 17. I reminded her that there are easier ways to go on a diet.
We’ve been working on her fine motor skills on the left side, and the feeling is coming back in her right! I came in from outside and put my cold hands on her right leg. She responded with a “brrr cold”. I asked if she could feel that, and she said yes. Last week, I put ice cubes randomly around her leg while she wasn’t looking, thinking I’d get some sort of reaction. I didn’t.
Monday, she did react though. Whoo-hoo!
Of course she didn’t want to do the ice-cube test again.
There are times she’s extremely aware of her surroundings. There are times she gets too tired to speak. There are times she repeats things randomly.
Like I said before, it’s a roller coaster.
Then came Tuesday.
Why was Tuesday so awesome?
Because it was pure Anissa all day.
She had been falling asleep during her therapies at times because they were wearing her out. Today, she went a full 90 minutes. Then out of shear stubbornness, she decided to stay awake and have detailed conversation the rest of the day. Pretty much all day. We worked on a few things in her room. She went through some of the mail and got a handful of surprises. Many thanks to everyone who sent stuff! The variety of what came in was absolutely perfect.
It also included a very special, very personalized package from a Mr. R. Macchio.
Ralph, many thanks for that. She lit up like a light when we opened it.
She also actually posted to facebook.
She’s missing everyone badly.
on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:26 am
I wish I lived closer so I could come in as a reinforcement. Meanwhile, I’m continuing to send love and prayers. -Christine
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:28 am
Love hearing the good news. Makes me smile
Keep up the fight Anissa; you’re kicking ass! Also glad to hear Ralphie boy is stepping up. Awesome.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:33 am
Thanks, Pete. Your Star Wars spin made me crack up!
This is all such wonderful news!
Tell Anissa Katie and I are coming very, very soon. CAN’T. WAIT.
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mayhewp Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 9:46 am
Wait til you hear what Yoda said…
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:35 am
Yay! I want to type more, but how do you type random squeals and hopping arounds??
I am ready to come, as often as you need!
LOVE TO YOU ALL!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:37 am
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by AnissaMayhew: New blog post: Day 49 http://www.hope4peyton.org/2010/day-49/...
on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:42 am
Still praying for you. You need to win the husband/dad of the year award or something.
Tell Anissa-son to wax on and wax off - then when she asks why, pull the whole mr. myagi thing on her and she can do the crane after she is all healed.
Hopefully you laugh and dont punch me.
-Aman
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:43 am
I really wish I was on the right side of the world to be able to help.
It is a wonderful, amazing thing to watch Anissa fight this thing and start to come through - a tribute not only to her spirit but to the love and care given to her.
Kudos to all the people who have never met Anissa, except through her writing, who have felt moved to give something.
I’ll keep praying to my gods and being amazed at the love of strangers and the strength of a family.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:45 am
I don’t recall where u live although I’m sure I’m not close…otherwise I’d be there if my 3 kids would survive
I’m a nurse and would love to help….even tho I do not know Anissa….My prayers and best wishes are with you and your family!!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:47 am
Peter,
After following Anissa on Twitter and reading her blog when you moved to Georgia, I have figured out we live in the same town! I have never had the honor of meeting you or her or the kids but if i can help in any way, please let me know. (I am in town on the weekends always and the rest of this month looks pretty loosley scheduled for me. )
And give the monkey fighter a hug from her local friend that she has yet to meet.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:55 am
This update puts a giant smile on my face! And that was so great for Ralph to send her something. Wishj I lived closer so I could help but sending my love and hugs from Texas!
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amy Reply:
January 7th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
Me too, too far away to offer to help but will continue to send my best from BC Canada.
Love the fact Ralph sent a giftie!!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:58 am
Ralph Macchio is good, good people.
And it totally made me laugh when The Outsiders was on TV last night. Obviously, I had to watch.
love to all the Mayhews.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:11 am
Yahoo Anissa!
I’m local too and we have never met but would love to help in any way you need. Grocery shopping? Errands?
We have a foster dachshund named miyagi and he sends extra love.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:17 am
Oh JEEZE. This is all awesome all the time now, isn’t it? I am so excited for YOU and the kids and ANISSA!! YAY!!!!
Steph
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:18 am
Wonderful. Amazing. Both of you. Xoxo
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:18 am
PS Tell her we want to see pics of Ralph’s package!!!!
Steph
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Adventures In Babywearing Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 10:19 am
Uhhhhhhhhh
you know what I meant.
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Dawn Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 11:24 am
oh we KNOW what you MEANT
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Adventures In Babywearing Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 11:32 am
:: BLUSH ::
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Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
Ha!
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Lisa @ Crazy Adventures in Parenting Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
Haha Steph!!!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:23 am
We miss her too. I’m so glad to hear good news.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:24 am
Can you tell her, we are reading her piece for the Expressing Motherhood show in Los Angeles this weekend. Jessica is reading it (although I begged for them to let me! Since after all I have the BOOBS to carry the piece)……..but tell her we are making a DVD and will send it to her asap!
Love love love…
Marcy
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:25 am
Love to all of you, this is wonderful news. You are so good with updating and I smile when it pops up in my reader.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:26 am
Somehow I knew Ralph would come through with a surprise. Awesome update.
Keep it up, Anissa! xoxo
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:29 am
I wish I lived closer for many reasons but especially now. I would love to visit…but unfortunately it’s a long way from Toronto! But I’m thinking of you guys and look forward to reading your updates. I’m so amazed by all that you have accomplished and how far Anissa has come since this began.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:32 am
Woo hoo! You don’t know me, and other than several twitter conversations and some e-mail exchanges, Anissa doesn’t either. We were supposed to get together one night when Janet and Heather Spohr were in town, but it didn’t pan out. That being said, I’m not creepy, I live about an hour away and am willing to donate time to help. Same for the sis. I think the first time she saw an actual picture of me was on that video, other than that I was a revolving avatar. My point is, I don’t know how much my appearance will help jog any memories, but I’m sure we have enough of a history online together where we could have some kicks and stir up some memories. Your call. You need volunteers, I’m volunteering. Let me know.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:33 am
Great progress! I’m in the area and available to help Anissa a few hours a week!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:39 am
I can’t even type the excitement that is radiating from me! This is amazing news! I’m working on getting something together to send over to Anissa!!!
This is just awesome!
And Ralph… You ROCK! That is just awesome that you sent her something! I’m sure she was super excited about that!!!
Peter… thank you… for keeping us updated.. you are an amazing husband! Can’t wait to hear the next update!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:53 am
It is so nice to read of Anissa’s progress. Great job both of you. It would not matter if I lived close by because she would be like, “who the heck are you?” I did not start mommy twittering until the day after she had her stroke. That day was a QUICK intro for me into the mommy social media world, I am so glad she is recovering.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:55 am
I would offer help in a heartbeat, but I’d have to show up with 3 little kids 6 and under and that wouldn’t help anyone.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:56 am
So happy to hear the good news and, even though I’m sure it’s a long road, she is really showing us all what she’s made of.
And Ralph sent her something? That is beyond awesome. Glad it made her day too.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:59 am
That is such good news for all of you. That Ralph…he seems like such a nice guy. Although saying, “Hang in there,” sounds a little (okay, a lot) cliche, it’s my hope for all of you that you can Hang in there. Fight the good fight and all that jazz. Looking forward to following Anissa’s writings once the order of it all is restored. Because it will be restored. It will.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:02 am
What incredible progress. It sounds like you are bringing in the troops at just the perfect time!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:04 am
I had to giggle at Steph’s comment above!
I am so happy to hear both you and Anissa were able to get your geek on!
What an amazing update! Go, Anissa, GO!
xoxo
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:24 am
The husband is out of town next week (Jan 10-15) so I just rattle around the house anyway. I would have to bring the toddler - Anissa met him in September at TAMC.
Husband is then out of town again in February … would have to look at dates. Same deal with the toddler, where I go he goes.
Remember my slightly rusty degree in speech pathology is just sitting here waiting some use
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:31 am
Something from Yoda and Ralph? That’s great! All I can do from out my way is send a little cheer , encouragement and good vibes your way, but I’m doing it.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:38 am
I can’t believe it’s been 49 days. I’m sure you know the days, hours and minutes, but it’s amazing how much time has passed. And Anissa is kicking ASS! What a great update.
Not to mention a package from Ralph??? Score.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:48 am
I’m always inspired when I see how someone’s strong will can help heal the body!
Still sending prayers!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:48 am
Congrats on the progress. I will keep praying. It is all I have to offer, but I can pray for you all and her healing many times a day. God bless.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:56 am
That package must have been incredible
Great to hear updates!!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:57 am
I’m not close enough to lend *actual* help but I am here in DE cheering and praying and helping to spread the good news every time you post.
I hope I have the honor of meeting Anissa one day in the not too distant future.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:20 pm
While this is no Yoda message, or instructions on how to wax on/wax off…. me and 52 families got together and made a litttle ditty called the “Give Anissa a Hand” project.
You are more than welcome to pull the link off vimeo and host this where ever you want. In fact, anyone can.
It’s just that awesome.
(disclaimer repeat: this is no Yoda. This is not Ralph.)
But it’s our way of saying Don’t Worry, about a thing.
http://davidandtracie.com/2010/01/04/the-give-anissa-a-hand-project/
Keep rising, guys.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:27 pm
this is all so wonderful! Continuing to pray for her full recovery and strength!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Great news! I’m too far away to offer much, but I have been and will continue to pray.
PS Speaking of geeking out - maybe remind her that Caprica starts in 16 days? woo hoo!
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mayhewp Reply:
January 7th, 2010 at 10:07 am
I did.
She said it would be my fault if she weren’t home by then.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
As soon as the baby is done nursing (1-2 months away) I am planning on spending at least three days up there. HUGS and squee for Anissa!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:39 pm
I am so… gah, I don’t even KNOW!… in love with this update - so much awesomeness contained in one update!
I’d give anything to be closer. Or have a time traveling machine. Let’s go with the time traveling machine because oh the possibilities!
Keep on keeping on, Mayhews! You’re all still in my thoughts and prayers. <3
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:40 pm
YAY! So glad to hear Anissa is doing better
Wish I could take off work to come down there and help out - anything else us faraway people can continue to do?
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
This is such GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!! Anissa is AMAZING!! Get stronger lady, you are really missed. You all are in my thoughts and prayers everyday. God Bless.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
I would be happy to help as I can. I live in Snellville (east of Atlanta, near Stone Mountain). Let me know via invite if you’re interested in my coming to visit with her for a bit — or if there’s something else I can do.
So you know, I don’t know Anissa well (we met at Blissdom), but we are Twitter friends. I’m fairly sure she would have recognized (will recognize?) my avatar (it’s me wearing devil horns; I’m RamblingReba). We talked on Twitter the day before her stroke.
I’m happy to help.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
Awesome news! I wish I lived closer I would be there in a minute. Will continue to pray every day from where I am and send my love to all of you.
Ralph you are awesome!
Anissa, gonna miss you in Nashville, Blissdom was my first conference and thats where I met you at the now infamous room 704 party
Won’t be the same without you.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
all I can say is WOW!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
90 minutes of therapy is SO great.
She’s on her way.
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mayhewp Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Today was well over 2 hours….AND she conned a cup of coffee out of the therapy team.
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Katie (Overflowing Brain) Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 2:04 pm
She’s ready. She’s so ready.
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Becky Reply:
January 6th, 2010 at 2:56 pm
That’s FABULOUS! Go Anissa!!!!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
We miss her TOO!!! I so wish I could come out there and spend time with Anissa.
I love hearing her updates. Thank you SO much for including us, Peter. It is so, so appreciated.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
So, so so happy with this update! Anissa YOU ROCK!!!!!! Love that she is conning stuff from the therapy team!
I sent out a card for her today. Love that Ralph sent her something too! Pure Awesomeness!
Love to all! God bless!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
Is there anything from Seattle Anissa would like? I wish with all my heart I could come and help with the therapy. You are absolutely on the right track that she needs rest and help with therapy (be it cognitive, speech, physical.) Her endurance is amazing to me at this point. Because remember she’s not really moved in over a month or eaten real food in over a month. So she’s not just battling the reconnect that has to happen between her brain and her nervous system but also simple muscle atrophy as well. Anissa is amazing and God is amazing.
Amen hallelujah
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Holy crap, he sent her a package? Ralph Macchio is AWESOME!
Go Anissa go! I can’t stop smiling over this update. Fanfreakintastic!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 4:01 pm
I, like so many people, didn’t get a chance to know Anissa, virtually or really, until 49 days ago. And yet, I still think of her every day. I’m awed by her strength and determination. I’m awed and moved by your strength and determination.
This was an awesome update. Awesome! YAy!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 4:16 pm
Ralph Macchio for the WIN!
This is really excellent news. And I would but I could visit Anissa, but being from Philadelphia it would be quite the trek! That said, what does she want? And I tell you what if you told me you wanted Philly Cheesesteaks shipped in for you and her (and the kids too) so that it was her first solid meal I would happily oblige.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 4:31 pm
Feeling so much joy, then I just broke down in tears. I am saying to my self why, it’s just overwhelming when I think of how amazing this all is. How strong the love and power of prayer is. It’s had to consume all of it at once sometimes.
Thank you God for the miracles, keep em coming. O:-)
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 5:32 pm
I wish we knew each other and I wish y’all were still in Florida (I’m in Orlando) because then I actually COULD volunteer to help (I’m an O.T. by profession). But alas, we don’t know each other from a hole in the wall and we’re several hours apart by car. So once again, the best I can offer is to say that I’m just SO PROUD of Anissa and all the progress she’s making. 90 minutes of therapy yesterday, 2 hours today, WHO KNOWS what tomorrow can hold.
Also I’m SO GLAD she was able to get onto Facebook. We’re not friends there so I can’t see the postings, but even that is another little baby step towards getting her “real life” back.
And I agree…Ralph Macchio totally ROCKS!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
wow, this is great! Dying to know what Ralph Macchio sent! : )
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 6:47 pm
Such GREAT news! Wow Ralph Macchio?? Bet she was thrilled at that!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 8:09 pm
My heart smiled when I read that she stood. Amazing! So relieved to hear that she is healing, however slowly.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
I am pretty sure you guys are out of my reach here in Denver, but I would definitely help if I could. Let me know if I can. aimee at greeblemonkey dot com
Otherwise, thanks for the updates and the site is fantastic.
After you guys are all past this, I may want to talk to you about stuff my company does (health education web sites) and a grant project we have been pursuing for patient advocates.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 9:37 pm
Anissa, you rock, plain and simple. This update is awesome. So glad to hear all these great updates lately. Prayers continue for all of you.
So cool that Ralph sent Anissa a package, how sweet of him.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:05 pm
If I weren’t so goshdarned manly, it would be tears that would be flowing down my cheeks right now. Fortunately, it just so happens that I got something in my eye. And in my other eye.
Keep fighting. We’re all pulling for you.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:15 pm
Pete I’ve set up a group for Anissa on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#/group.php?gid=208781414441&ref=ts and we have 117 members so far, so if you want to send out a message or invite to a lot of people at once then let me know and I can do one through group messages! Great to hear she’s doing so well!!!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
I’m another person who has not yet met Anissa but has been touched by her wit and now inspired by her amazing strength (and yours, too)!
I want to help but I’m miles away with two very young ones…do you still want any other DVDs? Could you use some munchies or restaurant gift cards for people who come to help?
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
Just when I think she can’t suprise the breath out of me this time, she does it. Again. So incredible!
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
Yeah Anissa! Peter, I too am a stranger friend but have had your family in my prayers since day 1. I am happy to volunteer if you need help. My dad, who recently came out of a coma, is actually being transferred to the Windy Hill L-TACH facility this week so we are all about rehab in our family right now. I would be honored to lend a hand in any way you need.
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:43 pm
I’d love to come help. I’m about 1.5 hour away, but I don’t mind at all.
“…we pray constantly for you…” - 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
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on Jan 6th, 2010 at 11:46 pm
So very encouraging!!! I commented before, but I had a friend who had a severe brain bleed last year and she is fully recovered now (back at work as a district attorney and everything), but her recovery went very much like this. Two steps forward, one step back. But the good days you see, you WILL see more and more of this. Her brain is very tired, but her endurance will build up. She has a bumpy road ahead, but there IS a road there! She WILL get there!
And way to go Ralph!! (And whoever got that together.)
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 12:50 am
Yes! Way to go, Anissa!!
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 1:34 am
Hi!
I’m working on a photo/video message for Anissa. My goal is to email it to you by Friday. I just saw and had dinner with Anissa in September at TypeAMom and we’ve met in real life before that and chat on twitter, etc. but still not sure how much she’d remember me? I guess it depends on the day.
Anyway, I’d totally be up for putting together a DC to Atlanta blogger roadtrip to help out! We’d be ready to work, but I bet we could make it fun too! Anyway, you have my email in the comment form so invite me to the website group and I’ll see what i can do!
Just know that YOU are doing an amazing job being a husband, an advocate for Anissa, a father, and reporting it all back to us :).
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 2:17 am
Anissa,
I am insanely jealous that you got a personalized package from Ralph Macchio. Save it forever! Glad you are making such good progress. :o)
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 5:45 am
What great news. Go Anissa!
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 8:38 am
I just love seeing a Hope4Peyton e-mail in my inbox. It seems like I get to open and read such amazing things each time.
It is so exciting to hear how great Anissa is doing. Of course roller coasters, but the fact that you are getting the “ups” with what she went through is truly amazing.
Anissa - Keep rockin girl…you are doing fantastic (although the frustration you must feel being trapped in a body that isn’t working the way you want it to must get overwhelming at times.)
It was also so cool to see that Ralph Macchio sent you something! How sweet is he? (I think a visit from him should be next!….hint hint Ralph Macchio!)
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 8:55 am
I loved seeing your update on facebook Anisaa. Peter I am here in Atlanta and have been waiting for the opportunity to help out. Just let me know when you need me and I am there. My schedule is very flexible.
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Oh Anissa I am so proud of you–staying strong and fighting to get back to where you want and need to be–with your family. And as for you Peter..she is so lucky to have such a caring and loving husband to search out the help and love that she needs in this hard time ahead. I wish I could come down there to help..but I have a 10 month old that requires my constant attention–and I am nursing her still..so that isn’t an option for me now. I would love to come visit this summer sometime and visit! I need to see Anissa–it’s been way too long! Love and continued health to you all…xxoo
Celeste
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 10:29 am
Such awesome news!!
We are planning to come through ATL in March, but when I know more, I’ll let you know.
I wanna make sure I get my turn to smoosh my face in your ample cleavage. You know. Like friends do.
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
I started following your story after “The Bloggess” posted something about Anissa’s recent stroke. Since then, I’ve managed to read through all of 2006 and a lot of 2007. I am amazed at the strength of your family. The love and support that you have between you is inspiring. Best wishes for a full recovery for both mommy and daughter.
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 8:11 pm
When I was around 3, my best friend’s mother had a stroke, she struggled with it for a while (had to relearn to talk and walk, etc) but now you would never know if she did not tell you. I just want to remind you that people do recover and live full active lives. I tripped across this blog just after Anissa had the stroke and I think your family is so strong and caring. Anissa is amazing. She has the will to triumph. Keep pushing. If there was a way I could help I would. all my prayers and good thoughts Sarah
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on Jan 7th, 2010 at 11:19 pm
If I didn’t have my co-sleeping 2 and 4 yr old so dependent on me, I’d jump a plane and come. But right now, I don’t think I can swing it. I soooooo wish I lived closer.
I’m praying and thinking of Anissa constantly. It was so wonderful to see her Facebook post.
And awesome about Ralph sending something. Too cool.
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 1:06 am
wow! this is great news. Praying for a speedy and full recovery! Praying for more good days!
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 3:55 am
I live in California, I don’t even know you guys, except for this blog, but I would fly out there to help you! I check everyday to see how Anissa is and I think that she has done something so amazing….to teach people, in this cynical world, that when a group of moms, dads, strangers that don’t even know you, can all come together and help to heal someone! It’s amazing and so inspiring! Is there anything I can do/get here for you guys IN Los Angeles?? Have lots of music connections…. with love, amanda railla
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 8:31 am
I would love to come and help, but as I’m a “newish” internet stalk/friend,(ignore those kids and hubbie that can’t seem to find anything in my house without help, Mommmmmmm where’s my?) I’ll continue my internet reading and healing thoughts for the time being.
I just wanted to say what a fabulous world it is when making updates to FB is a stepping stone to Anissa’ healing. hugs and continued prayers.
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 4:10 pm
Peter, I know you don’t know me from a hole in the ground, but please tell Nissa that her Canadian Redneck adores her and wishes like mad she wasn’t stuck up North held hostage by freaking reindeer so that she could come fondle Nissa’s boobs. Er, I mean, help with therapy.
I’d be there in a heartbeat if money allowed.
I’m so thrilled for all of you that she’s doing so well.
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
Oh how I wish I lived much closer than I do.
I was so excited to see the FB posting. It really made my day. Anissa is so strong. It’s so wonderful to see her progress.
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Keep updating on the progress. It’s really wonderful to hear that there are some breaks in the clouds. Thinking of your family….
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on Jan 8th, 2010 at 11:37 pm
Hi there-
Please know that you are going to get a package with lurve from me very soon—-I was waiting till after the holidays to send it. I love these updates, big love from the very cold Midwest is flowing your way, daily. Wish I could be closer to help.
xoxoxox
Michelle
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on Jan 9th, 2010 at 11:27 am
this post fills my heart with joy!!! unfortunately with a nursling i’m unable to travel and help, but i will be sending money as i can! anything to get you guys through this! ((HUGS))
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on Jan 9th, 2010 at 9:42 pm
Working and nursing keep me close to home (and since I started following this story post-stroke, it might feel a little creepy for a stranger to show up in Anissa’s room!), but if there comes another point that you need things that can be worked on or sent from afar, please post it. I check this blog daily updates and have been so inspired by the strength and hope of your family. In a way, it’s been a ministry to me, and I’m grateful for that.
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on Jan 9th, 2010 at 10:00 pm
Anissa doesn’t know me so showing up in her room would be creepy, but for what it’s worth we are thinking, hoping, praying for her in DC. It seems like she wants and needs to get her a– out of that bed and home. Can that happen - home therapy? Another thought is that I can send a “Team Anissa” picture in front of the Wash Monument. Is that inspiring? Not quite as inspiring as a package from Ralph, but it’s that best we can do from DC!
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on Jan 10th, 2010 at 12:56 am
Just want you both to know that I’m thinking of you every day, squealing with all this good news and pulling for the long days ahead. I fell in love with Anissa on twitter and admired her from afar at BlogHer
Wishing, with so many others, that I was closer to Atlanta.
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on Jan 10th, 2010 at 7:54 pm
It’s been a couple weeks since I’ve checked to see how Anissa is doing. The progress she’s making shows 1000% determination and I am in awe of her. Kids, you have a amazing superwoman for a mom. God bless you all.
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on Jan 11th, 2010 at 12:50 am
So, so happy! Still sending all the power and warm energy your way that I can.
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on Jan 11th, 2010 at 3:19 am
Can you email me what part of town the hospital is located so I can see if it’s nearby? Would love to help out and so glad that Anissa is kicking butt! You go mama!
Jennifer
mami2mommy@yahoo.com
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on Jan 11th, 2010 at 6:21 pm
So freakin’ fantastic to hear progress. Can’t volunteer time but I will continue to send prayers!!
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on Jan 11th, 2010 at 8:17 pm
I’m no stranger to Anissa and happen to be passing through Atlanta from Gulfport, MS on my way to Nashville on Tuesday, February 2. I would be more than happy to come to Atlanta the weekend before (Sat Jan 30- Mon Feb 1) and put in some time.
Anissa knows I have a nursing new baby, but I have friends I can stay with and who can take care of her during 2-3 hour windows while I entertain Anissa with phrases like “My uterus shut down when it realized it missed its last chance at Ralph Macchio seed.” Ahem.
Email me and we can work out details. I’m Anissa’s editor at Blog Nosh Magazine, am proud to call us friends, and I promise she knows me well.
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on Jan 12th, 2010 at 1:28 am
Yeah - Lots of love and hugs. Keep up the great work Anissa - we are all rooting for you!
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on Jan 13th, 2010 at 12:09 am
Such wonderful news to read that Anissa is doing so well. You go girl, hang in there and keep on fighting. Praying for a complete recovery
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on Jan 14th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
Thinking and praying,
hoping the work is balanced with the joy and peace.
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on Jan 29th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
I know that I’m a completely random person - who came across your wife & her story (via @shaunaglenn & @aiminglow) just as all of this was happening to your family. but for the past few months, I feel as though I’ve gotten to know you all a little bit - and, even though I never met Anissa, I’m certainly keeping her in my Ts & Ps.
That said, when I initially read this post, I wasn’t sure how I could help (being from Nebraska & all). BUT I will now be attending a conference in Atlanta from Feb. 21-24 and would just like to throw it out there that I’m available to help. Even if it’s just been a long day & you need someone to pick up dinner or run another errand - I can be there.
E-mail me if you’re interested. But, with me being a stranger and what-not, I COMPLETELY understand if you don’t take me up on the offer. I just would have hated myself if I didn’t put it out there!
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