Latest news on Ashlee Stokes

February 23, 2010

We have made it back to Louisiana and have started back in the routine of school & therapy.

We want to again thank Modesto Christian High School for the trip to Modesto, CA that we enjoyed tremendously.  We loved  every bit of the time we had at the school speaking to the students and getting to know some of you.  We have just started to read all of the letters written to our family from the students. Thank you all for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.

We also want to thank the Eschete family for opening up their home to us, and taking us to some of the most beautiful places on earth.  Thank you Marlise, Kayla, & Nerissa for embracing Ashlee’s story enough to want to share it with your school.  We love you & admire your strength and belief in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ashlee had her evaluation yesterday to start physical therapy again since her knee & hand surgery.  She will start tomorrow.  We’re hoping to start her back with horse therapy next week.  Ash misses the people and horse she used to ride, Sunflower.  She’s also getting a workout from a trainer thanks to Cross Gates Athletic Club in Slidell.  Ashlee loves her sessions, and her trainer, Sheri.

Look on the left under photos for updates of our trip.

P.S.  I forgot to mention something.  There was a question from one of the students, who asked what was Ashlee’s favorite movie.  When I turned to Ashlee to ask her, she couldn’t come up with one.  I think its because there are so many.  But I did want to mention that the Friday before her accident which was on Sunday….she had a sleep over with some friends, and they had watched “Finding Nemo” .  She loved that movie.  Her and her sister would repeat some of the scenes all the time.  If you haven’t seen it, I would suggest it.  There are so many life lessons in it, one of which Ashlee’s friends could not let her forget.  When Ashlee was still in the coma, her friends made t-shirts and posters for her to “just keep swimming”.  There’s a photo of three of them (on the left side of the photo page) when they came to the hospital to visit, showing their support with their “Dori” shirts on.  For those of you going through tough times…..remember to “just keep swimming”. 

February 17, 2010

What an awesome morning.  We were so touched by the warm welcome that was given by Modesto Christian School.  They included us in their chapel service that is a tradition at the school.  Ashlee’s friend, Marlise Eschete stood in front of the class of approx. 300 students and told the story of how she lived in Louisiana and was friends with Ashlee and our family.  The school showed the video made by Channel 13 for Teen Focus, and then Marlise got back on stage (in tears) and explained how this incident has affected her.  This beautiful young woman was incredible.  She even told them of the conversation her and Ashlee had the night before.  She was so touched when Ashlee told her she knows this happened for a reason and she is glad because her faith and family are stronger than ever.

We are so grateful to be able to be here to “make a difference”.  Love California! & Modesto Christian!

P.S.  We also love the Eschete family:  Chris, Theresa, Marlise & Anthony, who have been there for us in St. Tammany Parish and Stanilaus County.

Quote:  There is so much out of your control…..please choose to control those things that you can.   David

February 16, 2010

Happy Mardi Gras everyone!  We are celebrating in Modesto, California which is right outside of San Francisco.  We were invited by Modesto Christian High School which is where our good friends daughter attends.  They would like to meet our family and share Ashlee’s story.  We are very excited to be here.  We will be going to the school tomorrow, so we’ll let you know how it goes.  California is very beautiful. We visited Yosemite National Park yesterday.  What a remarkable place.  We were in awe of the mountains and all the snow.   We made snowballs and gave them to Ashlee to throw.  Ashlee has been having a great time. She is glad that we have been able to visit with our good friends.

January 30, 2010

We had the privilege of being invited to Pearl River High School’s pep rally on Thursday.  They were all so kind and welcoming.  We met with the members of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) right before the rally.  Ashlee was given some pom poms and was introduced to a screaming group of about 700 students.   The principal surprised us with a donation for Ashlee that was out of the goodness of the staff, faculty, and students hearts.  David said a few words on behalf of Ashlee and thanked everyone for embracing her and her story.  She raised the pom poms in the air and the gym got loud.  When it was over, someone yelled, “We love you Ashlee!”.

January 19, 2010

Went back to the doctor last week and had the pins removed from Ashlee’s left hand.  She was very brave and did great.  Its so good to see that hand open now.  She will need extensive therapy on it in about a month.  We can’t wait until she has full use of it.  She can’t either.  She has started back with speech therapy and doing fantastic.  People are able to understand her better and she’s talking more in sentences.  Another doctor visit we had indicated there’s a lot more work to do.  It has to do with her vocal folds.

Still keeping the faith!

December 31, 2009

Ashlee is doing great.  We went back to the doctor for a follow up and he removed the staples in her knee and wrist.  She will have to keep the pins in her knuckles for another 2-3 weeks.  Thanks to everyone for your nice Christmas cards.  We had a wonderful day on Christmas and look forward to a wonderful new year.  Our good family friend has come up with a new slogan for Ashlee.  ”ASHLEE WILL WIN IN 2010″

Be safe tonight and Happy New Year to everyone!

December 17, 2009 Ashlee’s surgery went great yesterday.  She was a real trooper! Thanks for the prayers.  She will be home recovering until she can start therapy again in 6 weeks.  To all the students and teachers, we hope you have a great holiday break.  We wish you all a blessed Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say it, rejoice!  Philippians 4:4

December 15, 2009 Last Friday we had the privilege of going to the Satellite Center - Digital Media Program in St. Charles Parish to view presentations from students who have been working on logos for “Ashlee’s Angels” designated driver pick up service.  They were awesome.  We were blown away at the time and effort put in by these students to produce such amazing work.  It is really going to be hard to choose.  We were contacted by the teacher who had heard of Ashlee’s story and offered their services for a good cause.  We can’t wait to get this service up and running.

Tomorrow we will be at Touro Hospital again for another surgery.  Ashlee is having surgery on her left hand and right knee.  Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers that all goes well.

Thank you all for your postings on this site.  We do read all of them, and it is nice to see what your thoughts are about Ashlee and the inspiring words for our family.  Thanks.

December 8, 2009 We had a great day yesterday.  We met with seniors from Brother Martin High School in New Orleans who were taking part in the Sudden Impact Program given by LSU’s Trauma Center where Ashlee was taken after her accident.  The Sudden Impact Program puts real life situations in front of high school students in order to promote safe driving and prevent a “sudden impact”.  We enjoyed being there to tell Ashlee’s story, answering questions, and talking to some of them on a one on one basis.  Some of them that cheer wanted to personally say Hi to Ashlee and let her know they were thinking of her.  Thank you for having us and choosing to “make a difference”.

We also were invited to Abney Elementary in Slidell.  Abney is Pre-K thru 5th grade and when the principal heard of Ashlee’s story, he asked the RAK club to set up a fundraiser for Ashlee.  RAK stands for “random acts of kindness”.  Two students from the group presented us with a check for their efforts and collections from students and staff.  Ashlee thanked them over the closed circuit television system they have in place.  What a great group of young people.  We sincerely appreciate your thoughtfulness.

December 6, 2009 I apologize for taking so long to give an update.  We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.  The weeks before and after had been crazy.  We spent ours in Disney World thanks to the LA. State Troopers in Covington.  We were swept away in a limo to the airport, and then picked up again on our return.  We had a great time!  You can view a few photos under “links”.  When I asked Ashlee if she had a good time, she commented that “we made good family memories”.  Ashlee definitely got all the love from the characters, Mickey, Minnie, and a bunch more.

We are going back to Brother Martin High School tomorrow for the Sudden Impact program.  We went last month and spoke to some of the seniors about the impact Ashlee’s accident has had on our family.  We will be meeting with another group of students and hopefully “making a difference”.

Ashlee is back in therapy until December 16th when she will have surgery on her left hand and right knee. The doctors will lengthen her tendons on her hand, and remove the calcification that has grown on her knee where she had a cut. Its what is called heterotopic ossification.  We hope to have her home the next day.  Please remember to pray for her that all goes well.  We are looking forward to her recovery and being able to use her left hand.

November 14, 2009 I don’t even know where to start.  What a remarkable time we had for Ashlee’s birthday.  We were surprised by an escort and limo ride to the church.  Ashlee’s friends came by early to get her ready so they were able to enjoy the ride as well.  It was pretty cool.  Thanks to everybody who showed up and gave Ashlee a hug.  She was so exhausted but hung in there till the end.  We all had a laugh when we saw Ashlee’s face when her sister, Meghan blew out her candles.  It was priceless.  We did, of course, re-light them so Ashlee could blow them out.  There was the awesome music by Zach Corbin, and the raffle prizes being called out.  We were glad some of the firefighters from District 1 showed up.  They presented Ashlee with a check from the “bootshake” that was a couple of weeks ago with the NHS cheerleaders and the Boyet cheerleaders.  Thanks to all of you for being there and for your support. Awesome group of people.  Thanks to all of the sponsors. We appreciate your generosity. Another exciting time was the live auction with the Saints items.  Thanks to Sean Peyton and the team.  Also special thanks to Drew Brees who signed a jersey especially for Ashlee and wished her a Happy 17th!  We are so thankful for our family and friends, Eddie Deckwa, who initiated this, his family, our Community Christian Church family, who came together to make this possible for Ashlee. This could not have been possible without them.  We thank all of the volunteers, and people who gave from their hearts & gave their time for Ashlee’s benefit.  She absolutely loved all of her gifts and pulling out the tissue paper to see what was inside.  We are forever grateful to all of you.  XOXOXO

We also received some fantastic news from the Louisiana State Police, Troop L, who have granted Ashlee a “wish” to Disneyworld.  Ashlee was only 8 years old the last time we went, so she’s really looking forward to this trip.  Thank you LA State Troopers!

Thursday night we were invited to the school board meeting where they acknowledged the outstanding people who have been a part of the “Teen Focus on Safe Driving” program for the past 5 years. They also acknowledged Ashlee with an appreciation award for sharing her story with hope to inspire students to make the right choices when driving.  They showed their support to us and our family now and for however long it takes for Ashlee to meet her goals.

November 5, 2009

Happy Birthday Ashlee! We are so grateful to have you with us today to celebrate another year of your life. Love, Dad, Mom & Meghan.

November 1, 2009

Less than one week away till the big birthday bash!  Ashlee is so excited and can’t wait.  We are definitely looking forward to seeing family, friends, and meeting new friends.

We are getting lots of good feedback from the video made by Channel 13.  This video was made for the Teen Focus On Safe Driving Program.  If you haven’t seen it, my awesome cousin who takes care of this site, put it in on the right side of this page under “links”.  Pass it along to any teenager you know.

Yesterday we had the opportunity to meet an awesome group of firefighters.  They held a “bootshake” for Ashlee and our family. The Northshore Cheerleaders, NHS cheer booster club, Boyet Cheerleaders and vice-principal were also there to help out.  Ashlee waved to the passer-bys and they would honk and wave back.

We are so thankful to our firemen for their dedication, and for those who showed up first when we called for help a couple of Fridays ago.  Ashlee had spasms that were the worst we had ever seen, and we called for an ambulance.  The firemen showed up and took care of her. Thank God after some testing and observation, she was okay.

Today on this beautiful day, we went to SummerGrove Farm in Folsom for the New Heights Therapeutic Riding fundraiser.  We met more wonderful people who give their time and energy towards a good cause helping children and people who have challenges.

Another blessing this weekend from a total stranger who drove all the way from the southshore to Slidell this evening to come see Ashlee and bring her a donation from him and his company.  Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

We are very grateful for all the blessings we have had and continue to have.

October 16, 2009

Only 3 weeks away until Ashlee’s Birthday Bash!  We hope you have marked your calendars.  Ashlee is counting down the days.

This past Wednesday we were invited to the Castine Center for the Teen Focus on Safe Driving Program which is now in its 5th year here in St. Tammany Parish.  Channel 13 (educational program) who are one of the sponsors of the program, followed us around filming Ashlee’s daily routine.  They put together a spectacular video of Ashlee and her story.  You can view it on the website www.stpsb.org (click the Channel 13 icon on the left), or by looking up their programming schedule and watching it on t.v.  David and I were allowed to speak to the students, so I informed them that Ashlee was on a mission.  She is wanting to get her story out to everyone because she doesn’t want this to happen to anyone else.  And hopefully, we can make a difference.

October 7, 2009

What an awesome time Ashlee had at the pep rally last Friday.  This was her first appearance at school and I think everyone was happy about it.  The principal spoke a few words to the students about how homecoming was a memorable time; not to take these times for granted.  Then he introduced Ashlee and I rolled her out to the middle of the gym floor in the center of the cheerleaders.  The students were all clapping and cheering for her.  She just put her pom poms in the air and took in all of the excitement.

After it was all over, she was greeted with hugs by so many.  Another exciting time was the homecoming dance.  Ashlee’s friends hung around her dancing and singing to her.  She kept up with them as best she could, throwing her arms in the air and enjoying every minute.  There were so many who came up to her and wanted to take a photo with her and giver her a hug.  It was certainly an exhausting night.

Her PT is going great.  She is now at 40% on the Lokomat.  Her balance and posture have definitely improved.  She impresses us every day.   Tomorrow we will be in Folsom again.  I’m sure Sunflower can’t wait to have her treat!

September 24, 2009

Ashlee has made a new friend.  She’s the horse named Sunflower that Ashlee has been riding.  We bring carrots and peppermints and she eats them up.  We have been 5 times now and Ashlee is doing great.  She keeps improving with every visit.  Whoever wants to join our cheering section and is willing to take a ride to Folsom, we would love to have you.

We got a visit from some of the Pope John Paul II cheerleaders.  They put together a fundraiser for Ashlee at their first home game and wanted to visit with us.  We really enjoyed having you and thank you very much for your visit and your support.  Come back again soon.  You girls are great!

We just got tickets for Ashlee’s birthday party celebration and “new” Ashlee bracelets.  These will be available from the above locations, as well as the P.O. Box listed above.  Please mark your calendars.  Ashlee is really looking forward to this, as well as we are.  A celebration for her life!

Ashlee is still working hard on the Lokomat machine.  Her PT has increased the speed on the treadmill and reduced the percentage to 45%.  That means she is doing the other 55%.  Speech is also coming along as well as eating. She asks for McDonald’s way too much!  She’s a big ice cream lover by the way.  If you come over, she may ask you to take her to get a frosty, or McFlurry.

Homecoming is this weekend.  Yes, our house did get rolled last night on White Wednesday.  Ashlee has picked out her dress and looking sooo forward to Saturday night, as well as the pep rally tomorrow.  She is going to dress in her cheer uniform and make an appearance.  I can’t wait!

I wanted to post this verse that I heard about recently.  We are still “believing in faith” and when things don’t always seem to go the way we expect them to….we pray and ask for answers.

“Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart”

Psalm 37:4.

September 4, 2009

We are still receiving letters of encouragement and support from people all over the state and as far as Canada.  We really appriciate your thoughtfulness.  It really means a lot to us.  We also got a visit from NHS baseball’s Coach Ruda and Coach Mauldin who came to give Ashlee a trophy from their 2009 State Championship win. It states: To our true champion, Ashlee Stokes.   Ashlee said she was “speechless”.  As most of you already know, Ashlee knows most of the baseball players who supported her during their game wearing yellow wrist bands.

More great news!  Ashlee started hippotherapy last week.  I know it has a strange name, but it is actually horseback riding therapy.   Ashlee has to balance herself working all sorts of muscles.  She is doing great.  I spoke to a couple who volunteered to help with Ashlee at New Heights Theurapeutic Riding Center, and they told me about their son and the progress he had made from his accident.  Its so great to talk to people who have such inspiring stories of hope and faith.

People have been asking about Ashlee’s big birthday bash since reading it in the paper.  Some information is at the top of this page, and as we get more, I will be sure to post it.  Ashlee is very excited about this, so please mark your calendars and come join us.

August 17, 2009 Thank you to all who reached out to us yesterday with encouraging words and support.  We had one call from a lady in New Orleans who had an accident 12 years ago.  Another person with hope for us.

Once again, Eddie of Eddie D’s Restaurant is organizing a dinner to benefit Ashlee and our family. The date is 11/7 and since Ashlee was in the hospital for her 16th birthday on 11/5 last year, she wants a Super Sweet 17th birthday party.  You can contact Eddie @985-847-1000 for more info.  I’ll update you on the details when we get them.

For those who did not see the article yesterday, here is the link:

http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2009/08/drunken_driver_couldnt_silence.html

August 15, 2009 Our schedule is busier than ever now that school is back in session.  Ashlee will have three teachers coming to the house besides her therapy.  Meghan has started 7th grade!  Wow how time flies.  We are very excited about the new computer Ashlee received from school to help her with communication and school work.  Its an eye gaze system.  Since Ashlee is still unable to use her hands, she will use her eyes to navigate through the computer.  Its pretty awesome.  We’re still in the beginning stages customizing it to fit her needs, but soon she’ll be up and running it on her own.  Ashlee is still doing great on the Lokomat.  She’s now at 45%.  Still working on balance, oral and fine motor skills.

Ashlee has always been a beautiful girl, both inside and out.  Very thoughtful, friendly, outgoing and sweet as ever.  But, she was the typical teen not wanting her Mom to sit and have lunch with her at school when I was there as a substitute teacher.  Now, she’s let her Dad and I know how much she appreciates us.  She told me the other day I was the best Mom ever.  Of course I don’t feel that way–but it was nice to hear her say that.  She’ll also say, “only a Mom could do what you do”.  She’s also one of the biggest Daddy’s girls ever!  We are so proud of her.

July 29, 2009 As most of you know, we were back in court on Monday the 27th for the sentencing hearing of the driver who caused Ashlee’s injury.  We are relieved this is over.  We want to thank our dear friend Allison for giving an impact statement.  You have been with us since the beginning and we appreciate that very much.  Ashlee and I were also called to speak.  I let the court know how this tragedy has affected our lives as well as Ashlee’s.  I told them we were very grateful to have her with us, but saddened by her daily struggle to get her life back to normal.  I also stated that I hoped that something good may come out of this and the other young lady realize her mistake and help someone else one day.  I asked Ashlee if she had anything else to add.  She whispered in her soft voice and said that she doesn’t want this to happen to anyone else.  She also said that our family has become closer than ever.  Her positive attitude is the person she was before, and who she is today.  We are so proud of her and will continue this struggle until our little girl has had a full recovery.

Yesterday was a very busy day.  Besides speaking with the reporters, we also had a visit from two Injury Prevention Program Coordinators with LSU Hospital.  They have a program in collaboration with the LA State Police called Sudden Impact (An Injury Prevention Program).  They choose a person every year, and use that person’s story to tell to sophomores of nine different high schools, and they chose Ashlee.  We are so excited that Ashlee’s story will continue to be told, and possibly, hopefully, change one person’s mind and prevent another tragedy like this from happening.

Below is the article from the Times Picayune on the court verdict:

http://www.nola.com/news/t-p/frontpage/index.ssf?/base/news-13/124884551391340.xml&coll=1

July 21, 2009 We just returned from Florida visiting our aunts, uncles, & cousins.  Also hanging out on the beach.  It was a great getaway which we all needed.  Meghan & I had evacuated last year in September to Florida when Ashlee was still in the hospital, so it is such a blessing to have Ashlee and her dad, David, with us this year.  Laying on the beach gave Ashlee some good ideas.  She said she wants to design bathing suits.  That is right up her alley considering what a great artist she was.

Ashlee went back to therapy yesterday.  She’s made lots of improvement with eating.  She’s asking lots of questions too, like, “has so & so come to see me?”  Most of the names I don’t know, but she’s thinking more and more.  She also asks what did she do to deserve this.  Its very heartbreaking, but I tell her bad things happen to good people all the time.  God has a reason.  She always mentions a book she wants to write.  “Family Strong” is the name of it.  Her physical strength may be hurt right now, but her spirit & sense of humor are very strong.

We go back to court on July 27 for the sentencing of the guilty party to the accident.  Not looking forward to it, so keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we once again have to face the past.

July 6, 2009 Hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July!  We stayed home and had some friends over, then David took Ashlee in the neighbor’s pool.  She had a great time.  It was an exhausting day for her.

I finally have her facebook page up and running.  Some of you have mentioned that you can’t find it.  If you search her e-mail address (ashstokes@charter.net)  you’ll be able to pull it up.  Please send a short message just in case I don’t recognize your name.

June 24, 2009 Time is just flying by!  Meghan started summer camp so she’s been busy, and Ashlee had started summer school.  We got 2 new teachers for the summer and they are just great people.  The math teacher has Ashlee working on geometry and the english/reading teacher is working on classic stories.  Ashlee is doing great with both subjects.  She still gets tired a lot, but does hang in there.  She’s also progressed on the Lokomat (walking machine).  She’s now at 50%, so she’s doing the other half of the work.  I watched her the other day and she is doing an excellent job.

Ashlee really misses her friends and appreciates the ones that have not forgotten her.  She had a special visit yesterday from a boy that remembered her from junior high.  It was a very nice visit.

Ashlee’s Dad had a wonderful Father’s day.  Last year we were in the hospital hoping and praying for Ashlee to respond in some way.  This year, our prayers have been answered.  Although she still has a lot of work to do to get her speech back, she is able to give her Dad a hug and tell him she loves him.  What a great Father’s Day gift.  We actually got away for the weekend and went to Grand Isle to Ashlee’s uncle Scott’s houseboat.  Ashlee enjoyed being around her little cousins who call her “Ashalee”.  She also loves the attention she gets from her aunts and uncles.

I have set up a facebook page for Ashlee.  It’s still in the beginning stages, but eventually, she’ll be able to use it herself.   We hope to be getting the computer from Assistive Technology which will allow Ashlee to be able to use it herself.  In the meantime, I’ll be posting updated photos and videos.

May 20, 2009 Congratulations to the Northshore Panthers baseball team and their victory as State Champs this past Sunday!  Way to go!  Wish we could have been there.  Ashlee was very touched when she heard that the team wore yellow around their wrists for her.  Thank you boys.

This Monday will be one year from the date of Ashlee’s accident.  We have had many emotions this past year but considering the severity of the accident and where we are now, we are so grateful.  Grateful for our daughter to be home; grateful for all of the new friends we have in our lives; and grateful to all of the new friends we have not met, but who continue to pray for Ashlee.

She will have a small break for the next week or so from the teachers who come to the house, but will pick back up again on June 1st.  She’s still going to outpatient therapy, and still working hard on the Lokomat.  We’re planning a trip to Florida in July, so she’s looking forward to getting on the beach!

May 8, 2009 What a sigh of relief.  We are glad that the trial is behind us, however, although the other driver was found guilty by a unanimous jury, we feel that there are no winners in this case.  We will pray that the other girl come to grips with reality and find herself and the Lord and begin a new life without harming herself or anyone else.

We will continue to prosper and walk with the strength of God knowing He will use Ashlee one day for her to speak to other young people and convince them not to drive under the influence.

I wish all of you mothers and grandmothers a Happy Mother’s Day!  I recently heard a mother say that you don’t realize how precious life is until something happens, and this is so true.  Make every day count.

May 2, 2009 Wow!  We are already in the month of May.  This is the month of Ashlee’s accident and the start of the trial this week, so we have a lot on our minds.  The District Attorney filed charges against the other driver who hit the car Ashlee was driving.  It’s hard for us to go back to that day.  We are focusing on the future and Ashlee’s recovery.  Please keep us in mind and in your prayers to give us the strength to get us through this.

Ashlee is still taking baby steps with her recovery.  She is now down to 55% on the Lokomat machine.  Still needs assistance when she walks, but is doing much better with her steps.  We are working with assistive technology and are getting a little closer to getting her on the computer.  There’s a new system out there called eye gaze where she can use her eyes to navigate through the computer.  Its pretty impressive.  We can’t wait.

Last weekend we went to the zoo.  Ashlee did great.  It was only her second time out in public.  I think she’s getting the hang of it.  We really did have a good time.  Family times have become very special.  Cherish every one of them.

April 21, 2009 We had a great Easter break week.  Ashlee still had outpatient therapy but we did have a couple of free days so we went shopping one day and had a visit from great Grandma who just made 94!  When I told Ashlee Grandma was coming to visit, she asked if she was bringing gumbo.  Ashlee didn’t forget that she loves Grandma’s gumbo.  We also had a doctor’s visit so we went back to Touro and went to visit our friends there.  They were so excited to see us.  Ashlee was really happy she got to see them too.  She’ll never forget her favorite therapists and nurses.

Ashlee is now at 60% on the Lokomat machine.  She is working really hard at this.  She wants to walk on her own really bad.  Whenever given the choice, she wants us to walk her instead of using her wheelchair.

We were watching the news the other morning and saw the story of the Central Park jogger who was attacked 10 years ago in NY.  She was in a coma and has since recovered and has been speaking across the country to “make a difference”.  Ashlee said, in her low voice, that this was a sign.  I asked her what was it a sign of.  She said for her to be able to “make a difference”.  She’s told us before that she wants to speak to people about drinking and driving.  We smile just about every day with her progress and we are just inspired that our daughter is struggling to get her life back to as normal as possible and thinking about what she can do to “make a difference”.

Thank you to our angels who sent Easter cards with special thoughts and wishes.  Same to you.

April 12, 2009 Mark 16:9-20  Rejoice!  The Lord has risen!  Happy Easter to everyone.  Hope you have a great day as we will and spend good quality time with your loved ones on this joyous day.

March 23, 2009

Friday night was the varsity cheer squad, end of the year banquet.  When we asked Ashlee if she wanted to go, her reply was, “of course”.  When the principal mentioned how delighted he was to have Ashlee with us, everyone cheered.  Ashlee was so proud to be included and raised her arm holding her award to show everyone how proud she was.  She even had to wear her panther paw necklace she got to therapy today.  The seniors also gave out their own awards to the sqaud and Ashlee’s was the “Dory” award because they said “she just keeps on swimming”.  If any of you know of the Disney movie Finding Nemo, Dory was the fish that always looked on the bright side of things and never gave up.  Thank you girls and parents for such a great night!

Mrs. Duffie called again to check up on Ashlee.  She’s our 81 year old new friend who came to Touro out of the goodness of her heart to visit Ashlee after hearing her story in the newspaper.  When I told her we would have to come visit her, she was so excited.

We’ve met with Ashlee’s new teachers…..all 3!  She’ll begin working on Civics, English and Math this week.  We’ll be quite busy.

March 12, 2009

Ashlee made the newspaper again.  This is the link to the story in The St.Tammany New on 3/4/09.

http://www.thesttammanynews.com/articles/2009/03/04/news/doc49ae92f57264d825052821.txt

The picture of her was taken a couple of days before the article and is the first published of her post accident.  Its taken this long for her hair to grow out and I don’t think she would have been happy with me showing her with no hair.  She says she wants to let it grow eventhough everyone tells her how cute it is.  Ashlee is now at 75% on the Lokomat machine.  I wish I could show all of you the video.  Her left arm spasms seemed to increase over the weekend and the doctor is trying to get them under control, other than that, she is doing great.  Her friend Shuler comes by at least once a week and they start joking with each other.  Its so funny to see.

I have to give a huge thanks to the sponsor and Northshore High varsity cheer squad.  One of the captains recently brought over a t-shirt from their national competition in Orlando that Ashlee would have been a part of….however, these girls have not forgotten their teammate.  They included Ashlee’s name of the back with the rest.  What an awesome group of girls!

February 25, 2009

WOW, this month flew by.  We are still busy with therapy and schoolwork.  Ashlee is still doing her best with whatever comes her way.  I’ve watched her as tired as can be, and her muscles spasm on her and she still keeps going.  She never ceases to amaze me.  She is surprising us just about every day with the things she is saying.  Just yesterday she told David she wanted a Coke.  He said he didn’t know if we had any cold.  Next thing we knew, she got herself over to the fridge in her wheelchair and opened it up.  This may seem like a simple thing, but for us its huge.  Ashlee is up to 45 minutes on the Lokomat machine at 80% for both legs.  That means she is doing 20% of the work.  They will keep increasing the percentage until she is doing it all on her own.

Today was Meghan’s 12th birthday.  Since the kids are out of school this week, I took her and Ashlee to the spa.  Meghan got the massage she’s been wanting.  This was a real treat.  I may have created a monster.

February 5, 2009

Well, Its been 2 months already since Ashlee has been home.  We’re slowly but surely getting into a routine.  Assistive technology is still in the works.  Ashlee’s school assessment is still going well.  I’m told it takes awhile.  The teacher will keep moving up the levels until she reaches where Ashlee left off.  Ashlee and I met with her therapists last Friday and went over her accomplishments and goals.  They say they’ve seen improvement in all areas.  We were put in contact with the right person who is helping with hand splints for her hands.  We’ve seen a little improvement with her tone and flexibility, but these new splints should make things a whole lot better.  We are so grateful to God for these blessings.  Its amazing the people David has been coming in contact with.  We’re also grateful for the continued words of encouragement sent to us by e-mail and cards, and for those of you still keeping Ashlee in your thoughts and prayers.  David and Meghan saw a young man in the McDonald’s drive thru with an Ashlee bracelet on.  When they told him who they were, he immediately asked how she was doing.  That definitely warms our hearts.  We know plenty of you are thinking of Ashlee every day.  I also recently had someone tell me that seeing our family makes her realize her problems are nothing compared to what we are going through, and makes her realize what is important.  This is by far the toughest challenge we are having to overcome.  Like Ashlee says: “Its the toughest challenge for anybody.”  We do believe that everything happens for a reason and as we continue to endure this challenge together, the positive impact and inspiration being shared is testimony of faith & love, and bringing families closer together.  David had someone share the smallest prayer in the world with him.  Only one word said three times says it all:  Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.

January 26, 2009

Another busy week.  Lots of assessments going on.  On Friday, we had a visit from Mrs. Maus who is a teacher who works with kids unable to go to school and another visit from an assistive technology person who will get her the tools she needs to get on the computer and be able to communicate more freely.  Her speech has gotten better, but not 100%.  We are really excited about these wonderful opportunities and Ashlee did a wonderful job on her first day!  Mrs. Maus gave her an A.  She was also put on the Lokomat machine again for the third time and tolerating it very well.  She exceeded the last time by going for almost 30 min.

Saturday was spa day.  Ashlee went and had a facial and massage.  I could tell she really liked it when she said she wanted to go back.

January 19, 2009

It has been a very busy exhausting week.  We apologize for the delay with the update.  We know how concerned everyone is and we appreciate that more than you may realize.  Ashlee has started therapy which we are very happy about.  The PT’s are working on balance and strength exercises.  We got to see Ashlee use the Lokomat machine today for the first time.  What an exciting opportunity she has to be exposed to the only machine like this in the state.  It will assist in all areas needed to help Ashlee walk again.  Ashlee’s OT, Shannon, is working on her left arm and hand, and the ST, Laura, is working with swallowing which is going well.  We’ve also been in touch with the school, so we have a great group of people working on getting her the tools she needs to get back into school work.

I asked Ashlee to try to relax one day and shut her eyes and think about her life before the accident.  She answered that she does all the time.  The simple things we take for granted like eating, walking, talking…..she is dreaming about getting back.  We have come to realize how important it is to live in the moment; thankful for every breath God gives us.

Happy Birthday to our angel, and Ashlee’s Nanny, Aunt Cindy.

January 6, 2009

Happy New Year!  We hope everyone had a happy and safe holiday season.  Ours was unusually quiet, taking care of Ashlee, and thanking God that she is home.  We are very fortunate to have such wonderful family and friends.  We are enthusiastic about this new year.  Ashlee will be starting hyperbaric oxygen therapy and outpatient therapy which will include PT, ST & OT.

Ashlee continues to make slow progress.  She is eating better now, although we still are working on the Big Mac and steak that she so desperately would like to eat.  She’s doing better with her steps and balance but still needs assistance. And, we are seeing more and more of her personality.  Her sister Meghan was able to make her laugh not too long ago.  Its not a loud laugh, but only a couple of sounds she makes that is so sweet.

I asked Ashlee if she had anything to say because I was doing her update and she said that she wants everyone to know that she misses them and that this is a really long dream.  — Its certainly a really long dream for us.  We miss her very much and can’t wait until she is better again.

December 23, 2008 Congratulations to the winner of the raffle - Vick C. of Slidell!  Surrounded by friends and family, we let Ashlee draw the winning ticket.  Thanks to all of you who bought a chance.  Ashlee is still receiving home therapy.  She helped pick out the Christmas tree and also helped her Dad and Meghan with some lights.

Some people have mentioned wanting to come and visit.  You can e-mail me at kvstokes@charter.net.  Hope you all have a Merry Christmas.  Count your blessings and don’t take life for granted.  Remember what is important, and God Bless.  Love, the Stokes Family. David, Karen, Ashlee and Meghan.

December 14, 2008

We have had an awesome week.  Ashlee loves being home so much.  She’s asking so many questions.  From what happened to her to what is my favorite season.  She has often said that this is a long, long dream.  It’s so hard to have to tell her that it is not.  Our hearts are broken with the pain and suffering she has had and is continuing to go through, but her spirit is still fighting.  She knows she will be better.  I told her that the principal wrote her a nice note on her site and that his daughter, who is a friend, continue to pray for her.  She says “that’s why I am getting better”.  I told her she is right.  That so many people are continuing to pray for her.  Today was an article in the Times Picayune about Ashlee.  I don’t think she realizes how thought of she is; but she will.

Therapy is going well.  We’re still working on walking.  Balancing is the challenge, but getting better.  Eating is getting better too.  We have a long road ahead so please keep us in your prayers.  As Ashlee said, that’s why she is getting better.  One of the therapists mentioned this week that he saw a couple of his daughter’s friends with an Ashlee bracelet.  They go to a different school and they are thinking of her.  How great is that!  All of the love and support that we still continue to receive today–we can’t express our gratitude enough.

December 7, 2008

What an emotional day on Wednesday December 3rd.  We have been looking forward to this day for a very long time.  Our baby is home!  We are so grateful for this day.  Although Ashlee still has a lot of healing to do, we know in our hearts that she will succeed now surrounded by her family and friends and all those who love her.

We want to thank the Touro team very much for your love and compassion for Ashlee.  You are a special group of people who we will never forget.

There has been a steady stream of visitors since Ashlee arrived home.  It has been great for her to be surrounded by her friends, who we know she has missed very much.  More and more of her personality is coming back.  We’ve heard so much more from her these past couple of days, we are just so happy with each new thought she has.

This week she will start with home therapy.  We’ve met the 3 new therapists and they all seemed very enthusiastic to work with Ashlee.  We are very excited about the new chapter we are about to begin.  Having our family together again is just the beginning.

Philippians 4:4-7

November 28, 2008

We hope everyone had a great day yesterday for Thanksgiving.  Our day went terrific.  Thanks NHS varsity squad for the beautiful signs at the house.  What a wonderful surprise for us and for Ashlee.  When we got Ashlee home yesterday morning, she wanted to go to her room.  So, we walked her up the stairs and she laid in her bed awhile with Meghan.  Meghan and Ashlee are very close and Meghan has been wonderful with Ashlee’s care.  She’s been very helpful this week being at the hospital with me and helping in anyway with Ashlee’s therapy.

We actually got to sit down as a family for the first time in over 6 months.   All we can think about is what a blessing with all of the progress that Ashlee has made.  We look forward to her continued progress and are ready for the next chapter that God has planned for us in our lives.  We got good news this week that Ashlee will be coming home on December 3rd.  She will have home therapy at the house for a few weeks and then she will start outpatient therapy.  We are extremely excited to be able to have Ashlee home with us and are ready for the journey yet to come when Ashlee can walk back into Tulane Hos., Kindred Hos, and Touro and kiss and hug all the nurses and staff that took care of her.

Our reading for yesterday fit our day perfectly.  “Nothing is impossible with God”  Luke 1:37

November 21, 2008 

We’ve reached another milestone!  Ashlee had her PEG tube removed on Wed., and the swallow test went great.  She’ll start getting liquids on a trial basis.  It’s a start. 

We had training day yesterday, learning to get Ashlee in and out of the car for next week.  She’ll get a day pass for Thanksgiving and get to come home for the day.  She says she can’t wait. 

(Psalm 71:20) Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again. 

November 14, 2008 
Last Saturday turned out great!  Ashlee had lots of friends come by, sing her Happy Birthday, and reminisce about all their good times.  They would tell her a story and ask her if she remembered.  Thanks everyone.  I know she can’t wait until she can make more memories with all of you.   
Ashlee is just amazing us.  She’s starting to initiate her thoughts more and more. Today, she told me “I love you” without me saying it first.  Her PT mentioned that she is now telling them what she wants and how she feels, and they love it.  It was too cute to see them fanning her and giving her something to drink because she said she was hot.  Yesterday I realized her appetite was back.  I was giving her oatmeal at 7:30 at night when she said she wanted something to eat.  ST mentioned doing another swallow test to see if we can begin thinner foods and liquids.  They also test her comprehension by reading a paragraph and asking her questions.  She remembers more than I do!  Lauren, the student ST said that she is going to miss Ashlee.  She just loves working with her.  OT is still going great.  Donna says Ashlee is continuing to get stronger and will be walking one day. Ashlee is taking steps with a walker that you place your arms in horizontally, and she requires little help, until she gets tired.  
 We called a couple of her friends last night and her eyes lit up.  She misses being with them very much.  I look at her and see God’s miracle at work.  It is such a blessing for her to have all of the love and support from everyone.   
 We continue to see God touch people through her, as we anticipate the day we can get our family back to a sense of normalcy.  She is truly a miracle.

November 7, 2008 
What an awesome day we had on Ashlee’s birthday.  We can’t thank the Touro staff enough for how caring, and considerate they are.  Also, the group of LSU nursing students who joined in on the fun.  Britney said she loved being around Ashlee.  Special thanks to Reggie & Courtney, Ashlee’s entertainers.  They are actually terrific helpers who work with the therapists, but put on a little show for Ashlee with their singing and dancing.  Great job guys!  Ashlee did a great job helping to open her gifts and even blew out the candle on her cake!  We found out that they had been practicing for the big day.
We had another inspirational visitor today when the nurse brought in a young man who said Ashlee’s room was his room about 4 years ago.  He said she had it decorated a lot nicer than he did, and we all laughed.  He introduced himself to Ashlee and told her she was going to get better and be okay.

November 3, 2008 
 We are so proud of Ashlee.  She’s continuing to try her best even when she’s so tired she can’t hold her eyes open.  She’s always been that way though, so we don’t expect anything else.  Her speech therapist and aid Chris & Laura are amazed at her progress.  They say she’s one of the hardest workers they’ve ever worked with.  Donna, her OT is still seeing progress.  Ashlee is now using her right arm more and more.  She’s still working on getting her fingers to do what she wants.   Physical therapy is getting better and better. Still working on taking steps and head control.  Eating is still a work in progress just because she gets so tired, but when she’s on a roll, she eats very good.  We keep telling her we can’t wait to bring her what she would like to eat, like chinese food, and she replies with “me either”.
  All the talk this week is about Ashlee’s birthday on Wednesday, 11/5.  If anyone wants to come by next Saturday the 8th, between 1-4 to say Happy Birthday, you are more than welcome.  We’re still at Touro Hospital in New Orleans, 1401 Foucher on the 6th floor. W614

October 27, 2008 
What a great weekend.  When I told Ashlee that her Dad was coming to stay the night with her in the hospital Friday night, I could tell she was happy.  she raised her arm up as if to say “Yeah”.  He also stayed Saturday night as well, not leaving her side all weekend.  He loved hearing her whisper “Daddy” in the morning when she woke up.
Ashlee had a couple of friends from Lake Castle come to visit on Saturday.  She went to school there in Madisonville for 4th, 5th, & 6th grade.  Right away they wanted to know if she remembered them and asked her if she knew their names, and she did.  They were sooooo happy.  They filled her in on what has been going on and talked about old times.  I know she just loved having them there.  Thanks girls!

October 21, 2008 
I’ve been asking Ashlee to let me know what she’s thinking, and ask her if she has any questions, but she’s been saying nothing, or no.  The past couple of days though, she’s been coming out with what’s on her mind at the time, which is great.  Today, Ashlee came back from PT and I was told she did excellent.  She is getting stronger on her left side and starting to use it more and more.  I asked her what she wanted to do, that I could take her outside for a bit.  She says, or what?  I told her we could finish watching the movie that we started yesterday, and she chose the movie.  After a little while she got tired, so I put her back in bed, and as I was putting the wheelchair away, I heard her call for me.  “Mama”  That was the first time she has called out for me.  I asked her what she wanted, and she said she wanted to go outside.  So….back in the chair.  We went outside on the deck area for a little while and enjoyed the weather.  Later on that evening I brushed her teeth, and told her I needed to get some floss so I could floss her teeth.  She said I also needed a mirror.  I asked for what?  She said, so she could see herself.  I told her I would bring her a mirror.
Several of you have been asking for the “Ashlee” bracelets.  We just got more in.  See Cindy’s comments under Fundraiser link.

October 17, 2008
Ashlee continues to put a smile on everyone’s face.  She’s begun to speak in sentences, although hard to understand at times.  She is totally aware of her surroundings.  We were watching the movie “Grease” one late afternoon and I asked her what was Danny Zuko’s real name.  She said “John”.  I asked her what was John’s last name, and she said “Travolta”.  She is doing remarkably well with Speech therapy, comprehending and retaining information that they read to her.  Eating regular food is going pretty good.  Sometimes she gets tired, but is trying really hard.  Same with Physical therapy.  They are working with her motor skills and she’s giving it her best.  One day she told Natalie, the PT that she was wearing her out; but every day when Natatlie comes in her room and asks her if she’s ready to go walk, she says “yes”.  That’s our girl.  Strong and determined.  
I told Ashlee that I couldn’t wait until she was better to be able to come home and she said “me either”.  She asked about her dog, Remy.  I let her know we would bring him to see her soon.  She’s now giving kisses, and says “I love you too”.  

October 11, 2008   
We have been so excited the past couple of days with Ashlee’s progress.  Ashlee has been using more words and she is getting better control of her lips and tongue.  She’s using her right arm more and getting stronger with her left side, although still pretty weak. 
We were so thrilled when her friends showed up yesterday.  They caught the end of the PT session and were able to see Ashlee stand with her therapists help and even take steps.  They even did a couple of cheers for Ashlee.  We put her back in bed and the conversations started.  The girls had plenty to tell Ashlee and she was just listening and responding with “really” and “wow” and even told Jen, “you can do better than that” when Jen told her what her interim grades were.  The girls even got hugs & kisses and “I love you’s” when they left. It was a great moment.  It will only get better from here.  Keep up with your prayers.  God is listening.  Faith is a powerful thing.
Someone gave me a beautiful card, and I want to share the words:  He has a way of bringing out the best within the worst.  The moment we stop worrying and choose to put Him first, and if we do, He’ll pull us through and help us find the door that opens to the very thing that we’d been looking for.  

October 8, 2008
What a blessed day today!  To hear Ashlee use her voice and say words is a miracle, but Jesus is still healing her and giving us miracles every day.  Ashlee had a great day with therapy, and the therapists were raving about her.
I got a call from one of the teachers at NHS who knows Ashlee from Student Council. She told me all about the students & faculty who participated in “Links of Love” for Ashlee.  I wanted to thank you all and let you know how much we appreciate your generosity and thoughtfulness.  We are keeping the links for Ashlee to see.  She also wanted me to know how much of a kind and nice person Ashlee is, who never said a bad thing about anyone.
By the end of the day, we put her down in bed for the evening and she was very relaxed after I gave her a mini-facial, and I was showing her some of the things in her room that her friends made for her.  One was from a NHS cheerleader that is a drawing of them doing a stunt with different cheers and words they use.  I would ask Ashlee if she knew those words and I would point and she would read them.  I had the biggest smile on my face.  Her voice is still not clear and sometimes she will talk low and whisper, but I understood her.  I showed her a teddy bear that has a bracelet wrapped around its leg and told her that one of her teachers brought that for her.  I told her it was her math teacher and I couldn’t remember her name.  I really couldn’t.  I heard Ashlee say Mrs. Maggio.  That was right!  It was Mrs. Maggio. I was so happy.  Even Ashlee was remembering things I couldn’t.  I then asked her if she knew what today was.  She knodded her head and said no.  I told her today was Wednesday, October 8th.  I asked her if she knew what holiday was in this month.  She knodded and said no, so I reminded her that we are in October and its at the end of the month.  She then told me Halloween.  I asked her what came after Halloween.  She said her birthday.  I asked if she knew her birthday and she told me the month and day.  Her birthday is November 5th.  I asked her if she know how old she would be and she knodded and said no.  I told her she would be 16 and if we couldn’t have her big celebration then, we would do it as soon as we could.  Ashlee had big dreams for her 16th birthday party.  I was so happy I let the nurse know what was happening. She came in her room and asked Ashlee what year she was born.  Ashlee answered correctly with 1992.  I let her know how proud I was of her and that so many people were praying she gets well soon.
We miss Ashlee and her lively spirit very, very much.  It was definitely a blessed moment.

October 2, 2008
The swallow testing yesterday went great.  Ashlee will now start getting regular pureed food for lunch today. I’m sure she can’t wait to be able to bite into a Big Mac!
Ashlee has been making sounds, or moans at times and we’ve been working with her to get some words out.  We’ve recently heard her say yes, or no, and one of the therapists heard her say a number.  Well, David came by the hospital on Tuesday and was leaning over Ashlee giving her a big hug.  He whispered in her ear “I love you”.  He heard her hum three syllables and looked at her and asked her if she said what he thought.  She was looking at him and did it again, “I love you”.  It was not as clear as you and I would speak, but the message was clear.  What a miracle.  Faith, Hope and Love:  the three most powerful forces in the universe.
Romans 5:1-5  Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.  And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.  Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Tell someone you know that you love them today.

September 27, 2008
Ashlee is still showing us that she is fighting this injury.  She’s been doing great with nodding her head either yes or no to answer questions from the nurses and therapists.  She will even let them know when she wants to be left alone.  Isn’t that funny.  Natalie, the PT cracked up.  She’s very impressed with Ashlee’s determination.  I told her that Ashlee is a fighter and won’t give up.
Yesterday I was sitting next to her while she was lying in bed and she was moving her right arm up.  She’s really working that arm.  I asked her if she wanted to give me a hug and leaned down in front of her and her arm slowly made its way around my back.  I was then stuck because she didn’t move it away.
I wanted to let everyone know how good it makes us feel knowing those of you out there who wear your “Ashlee” bracelets.  Meghan and I were going to the store and stopped at a red light.  There was loud music coming from the car next to us.  I looked over and saw a young man with an Ashlee bracelet.  Meghan and I were really happy.  Thank you everyone for your support!

September 24, 2008
What a great day yesterday!  As soon as I got to the hospital, I got a good report from the ST (speech therapist) that Ashlee did great when they gave her some applesauce.  She took about 10 small bites.  They will do a test on her next to see if she’s able to swallow properly.  If all goes well, she’ll start eating regular food.  She really enjoys when her Grandma Rose lets her taste a green apple sucker.   
Some of her friends came to visit the other night and they were all excited when Ashlee would knod her head in response to some questions they were asking.  They,of course, filled her in on all the latest school news and homecoming.

September 20, 2008
The week started off slow but Ashlee started to perform at the end.  She’s turning her head more, gaining strength in her legs by helping the therapists when they stand her up or move her.  She’s continuing to use her right foot to answer questions and being pretty consistant on her good days.
On Friday, David took my place and was with Ashlee.  He assisted with her therapy session and was able to stand right in front of her and look her straight in her eyes which he hasn’t done in awhile.  He came home and told me he asked Ashlee a question and she knodded her head in a “yes” motion.  I was really surprised, so when Meghan and I went to the hospital today, I asked her to knod her head yes, and then no, and she did.  Thank you Jesus.  She is still making those baby steps.  Thanks to all of you as well, for your continued thoughts and prayers.

September 12, 2008
Ashlee has had good reports this week.  She’s continuing to take steps and even pedal movements on a stationary bike.  These are all wonderful achievements.  The most exciting has been the report from the ST, Chris, who said he was establishing some purposeful communication.  I was so happy when I asked Ashlee if she could see me, and asked her to blink her eyes tight the way I was showing her.  She did it!  We also had a good day yesterday when I asked her to do it again.  She blinked her eyes tight like I asked.  I keep telling her she is in the hospital because she was hurt really bad.  I also tell her what a strong girl she is and to not give up because I know how hard it is for her to understand what is happening.  I also let her know how so many people are praying for her to get better and that we all miss her very much!
May God bless and be with all of you in Texas during Hurricane Ike.
Karen

September 7, 2008
What a week!  We hope that everyone and their families made it through the storm safely.  Ashlee and I were well taken care of at the hospital.
Our family is very grateful for the continued prayers and support from all of you.  Ashlee is now more alert than ever.  She is still not communicating but she is following commands and making purposeful movements.  On Friday, 9/5/08, the therapy team came in after Gustav.  Ashlee was able to move the parallel bars instead of the lift gate as she went through her therapy session.  The difference between the lift gate and the parallel bars is that she is supporting more of her own weight in the parallel bars. Natalie and Donna were working together holding Ashlee upright as she stood up began taking steps.  She is doing really well with her right leg and her left leg is beginning to imitate movements/steps. The therapists were very pleased with this improvement.  We continue to thank God for this miracle.  Ashlee will continue to improve.
David

August 31, 2008
Ashlee continues to impress her therapists.  She was taking steps with her right leg on Thursday and Friday with some help from Nathalie, her PT, and a lift machine which helps her to stand.  She is also making an effort to chew and swallow.  She is continuing to smile.  She is more alert than ever.
Today was a day of evacuation due to the hurricane.  David was allowed to stay with Ashlee while Meg and I evacuated to Florida.  Please be safe!  God bless you and your families.  Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone.

August 24, 2008
Thanks to everyone who came out yesterday to the Olde Ice House Restraurant on Front Street. It was a beautiful day, not to mention the great food and music. It was very nice to meet people that I did not know but came to show support for Ashlee.
Special thanks to Bill and staff of the Olde Ice House, St Tammany Jr High Cheerleaders, and Harvey Jesus and Fire.
Karen

August 22, 2008
Ashlee is back in therapy. They really mean business here on the 6th floor. She’s recovering well. Still very swollen from surgery, but no setbacks. Still moving forward.

August 20, 2008
Yesterday was certainly a blessed day! Ashlee started to open her eyes more and more each day off and on, but yesterday when she started to come around after surgery, she opened her eyes the biggest we’ve ever seen. We had tears of joy. We’re unaware of what she’s thinking or what she’s able to see, but it was still great to see those big, beautiful eyes of hers.
There was a CAT scan of her head and neck done after surgery. The results given today showed everthing looked great however her neck fracture is still healing. She’ll continue wearing a soft collar for a few more weeks.
Today will be a much needed day of rest.
Don’t forget about the fund raiser for Ashlee at The Olde Ice House Restaurant (1398 Front St, Slidell) this Saturday - August 23 from 1 - 4 p.m. We’ll see you there!

August 19, 2008
The surgery went good. Ashlee is doing well. She will be back on the 6th floor in the rehab unit by Friday.

August 13, 2008
According to a CAT scan of Ashlee’s chest, there was a small patch of pneumonia. She will begin antibiotics and hopefully get better soon. Surgery is rescheduled for 8/19 if all goes well.

August 12, 2008
As of yesterday afternoon her surgery has been postponed as a precaution. Ashlee has a stuffy nose with a low grade temperature.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” Psalm 37:7
We wanted to clarify ourselves with regards to a recent posting. We mentioned that Ashlee is kicking a ball. She is; however, it is very slow. The therapists are supporting her sitting up and ask her to kick the ball that is placed in front of her. She slowly moves that leg to “kick”/”move” the ball. Just one more little step toward recovery.

August 9, 2008
What a busy week… Meghan has officially started 6th grade. She likes both of her teachers so that is a good sign.
We drove back and forth to the hospital in the evening so we did not always see the therapists. Family members were also there with Ashlee in the late afternoons when things slow down.
Nathalie, the PT, said she figured out that Ashlee likes a challenge. She would ask her to do something and hold it to beat the previous time. We know Ashlee is very competitive so this is working out very well. Chris, the Speech Therapist (ST), said he has been asking Ashlee to give him a cheer kick. He said she has been pretty consistent kicking the ball. She also loves cheer so anything having to do with that is sure to get a response.
Surgery is still scheduled for Tuesday, August 12 around 10:30 a.m. We are praying that the Lord brings Ashlee through this successfully.
We want to thank the coach and cheerleaders from Salmen High School who made the carwash a success along with friends, parents, and teachers of Ashlee. Everyone continues to touch our hearts with their giving spirit. We love you!

July 31, 2008
I had the opportunity to be involved in Ashlee’s therapy session yesterday. The OT, Donna, asked me to sit in front of Ashlee as she was supporting Ashlee on the bench. Donna put Ashlee’s arms around me and I felt her relax. At that moment I was able to give her a hug which I haven’t done in a long time. Then I had her hands in mine and asked her if I could kiss her hand if she could move it toward my face. She started to move her hand upward very slow. I helped her the rest of the way, then I kissed her hand and teld her she was my princess.
Ashlee has a second surgery scheduled on 8/12/08. The doctors will replace the part of her skull that had been removed from brain swelling and pressure. She will remain at Touro and shortly after the surgery, she will return to rehab. A CAT scan of her neck showed the fracture was healing well and may only need the soft collar for 2 more weeks.
Starting this weekend we will be going home and driving back and forth to the hospital. School is starting on 8/8/08 for Meghan. It will be very difficutl for us with Ashlee not there. The girls always brought life and laughter to our hom, not to mention the occasional drama (if some of you know what I mean).
We also want to offer a sincere thanks to Mrs. Jacobs, Mrs. Euper, and their staff at the Hampton Inn on St. Charles Ave. Their kindness was above and beyond anything we expected.
David

July 28, 2008
Ashlee has graduated to a soft collar. We’re still hoping to get rid of it altogether. Maybe soon.
It was a slow, but good weekend. Only Occupational Therapy (OT) for about half an hour on Saturday. Holly, the therapist, came and told us that Ashlee did very good with following her commands. It was her first time with Ashlee and she was very excited with her responses.
We miss Ashlee very much even though we see her every day. I mentioned last week that she started making sounds. Saturday, I was talking to her and telling her I can’t wait to get a hug from her. I put my arms under her shoulders and gave her a hug. She made a sound. I told her I could hear her and she did it again. I motioned David and Meghan to come by the bed and told her they were there to make a sound for them and she did it again! We were so happy.
Meghan left yesterday. Back to her friend Vivian’s house for one more week. She’s such a big help with Ashlee. She takes good care of her sister.

July 23, 2008
The thought of all the support witnessed by me at the benefit for Ashlee was incredible!!! Words can’t describe our thanks and appreciation to all who attended and made this event possible. We can’t wait until Ashlee can see the photos and videos taken.
Yesterday, the doctor took her trach out. Breathing is now all on her own through her nose and mouth. Another small step in the right direction. Next, we’re hoping that her neck is healed within the next week to be able to get rid of the collar.
Abby, her speech therapist gave good news today about a reaction Ashlee had to the smell of pink grapefruit lotion. Abby was thrilled! Yesterday she was moving her right foot and toes. Natalie, her Physical Therapist (PT) is thrilled as well. Ashlee has been doing very good with the standing machine. It will lift her to a complete standing position where she is being supported but holding up her own weight. We’ve even been hearing her make sounds when we move her, or when she coughs. The little things that make us smile
Testimonies of hope continue. We had a visit from Justin who was such an inspiration to us. Also, last week Ms. Duffie came from NO East to pray for Ashlee. Ms. Duffie is 81 years old and came in the room clutching Ashlee’s newspaper article. She told us that nothing was going to stop her. She said that Jesus sent her to pray for our daughter. She said that as children of Christ, Jesus sends us to support each other. Another visitor named Scott came to visit on Saturday. He had been in Touro rehab back in 1989. He and his mother came with prayers and hope for Ashlee.
We’re still by Ashlee’s side, continuing to pray and have faith. Meghan is enjoying her summer; not looking forward to school in a few weeks. She is looking forward to being home with us.
Lots of hugs and kisses to all. God Bless!

July 20, 2008
The Spaghetti Dinner & Raffle Fund Raiser for Ashlee was a HUGE success! Thank you to ALL of the sponsors, friends, and family members who made this event possible. Thank you to everyone who supported this event. This goes to show how many good people are out there. We had a great day! Special thanks to Community Christian Church, NHS Cheerleaders, Eddie & Karen, Renee & Mike, Mindy, Danielle, Billy & Melissa, Kerry & Denise, Stanley, Lisa, and the many volunteers! Our entire family truly appreciates everything you have done to help in Ashlee’s recovery!
Congratulations to Amber of Slidell who was the winner of the riding lawn mower!!!
cindy

July 17, 2008
Another week has gone by and Ashlee is still showing some improvement. Some days better than others. She is moving her arms quicker in her therapy sessions. The therapist is working on her legs now too. She has lifted her head and turned it to the left in response to the therapist trying to get her to look at Meghan’s picture. Ashlee is a strong girl and we know she is trying really hard.
Tomorrow the doctor has decided to try and wean her from the trach. This is a big step and we hope Ashlee will conquer this next step with flying colors.
This Saturday is the spaghetti dinner benefit at Community Christian Church. Friends and family have been working really hard to make this a success. We appreciate the support from everyone involved. Meghan can’t wait to work her position as the dessert server!
Just recently we saw the advertisement for a movie that the NHS Cheerleading Squad participated in as extras. Ashlee and her friend, Allie, were put in an opening scene that we hope will make it in the movie. The movie will be played on August 2 at 8 p.m.. The name is “The Fab Five” - The Texas Cheerleading Scandal on the Lifetime Channel.

July 12, 2008
Well, tomorrow will be the 49th day since the accident, or only 7 weeks. It feels like an eternity to us. Every day that goes by, as hard as it is, we are inspired by reading the bible. We also enjoy reading the books that were given to us. Everyone reminds us that God is good. We are strengthened by the pure signs from God that seem to tell us that everything is going to be alright.
As tough as this may be to have our lives turned upside down, we could not get through this alone without the support and prayers from all of you. We are touched by the fundraisers for Ashlee, donations out of the goodness of your hearts, our family, friends, and their families and friends, and all the good people we have and have not met. Thank you ALL. We really appreciate all of you from the bottom of our hearts.
We have heard so many inspiring stories of families and people coming together closer than ever because of Ashlee. We know that one day, we will be together as a family again and will be closer than ever as well.
We are about to begin a new week come Monday and will keep you informed of any new progress. In the meantime, keep us in your prayers and give a big hug to your family.

July 9, 2008
The past 2 days of therapy have been good. There was improvement in some areas yesterday compared to Monday. Even today, small improvements. We’re grateful for the little things.
Ashlee continues to open her left eye slightly and will sometimes slightly open the right. She’s still giving us smiles every now and then. It seems she likes the sound of velcro. Whatever it takes. We love it when we see a smile!
Meghan has been in Texas with one of her best friends having a great time. She tells us every day to tell Ashlee that she loves her and us too.
David and I are still standing by one another, carrying one another, and giving thanks for our Lord’s healing hand through this difficult time.
Quote from Julius Richter: The burden of suffering seems to be a tombstone hung around our necks. Yet in reality it is simply the weight necessary to hold the diver down while he is searching for pearls.

July 5, 2008
On 7/3/08, Meghan came to spend the day with us. We started out in Slidell at Meghan’s end of camp summer show at St. Lukes Church. Meghan and her friend, Ashton, were part of a dance routine and danced to the song, “Pocket Full of Sunshine”. They told the audience that the song was dedicated to Ashlee because she always has a “pocket full of sunshine”. After the show we spent the day together. Meghan came back with us to the hospital, then we spent the night together at the Hampton Inn courtesy of Mrs. Jacobs. Thank you Mrs. Jacobs for a great night.
Yesterday on 7/4/08, Ashlee’s team was still hard at work. It was nice to hear from Natalie and Abby, her physical and speech therapists, that Ashlee has improvements from day 1. We watched her therapy sessions. Abby used sound, cold, and touch. Nathalie and Marie took Ashlee to the gym for physical therapy, stretching her really good. She spent more time sitting up and doing very well.
Ashlee is dressed in her NHS cheer t-shirt, comfortable pants, and her cheer shoes today, so David and I took her outside for a little while until the pulse oxygen machine started buzzing because of a low battery. She had a little physical therapy today, and tomorrow will be a day of rest.

July 3, 2008
Today is the first full day at Touro. We will never forget the love, hope, and compassion we felt during our stay at Kindred Hospital. We certainly have made more friends for life.
Now we are just across the street on the 6th floor in the Touro Head Trauma Rehab Program. It is time for Ashlee to move on to her next challenge. The team at Touro is excited to have her. We can feel the positive energy and the sheer will to succeed displayed by them all.
Today Ashlee got a real shower and will begin to wear her own clothes. She was sat up in a wheelchair for a while and tolerated this very well. We continue to be by Ashlee’s side constantly. She knows we are there.
A sincere “THANK YOU” from Karen, Meghan, and I goes out to all of you. We expect a miracle for Ashlee and thank God for his word.

July 2, 2008
On the road to recovery… Ashlee is now at Touro beginning rehab. Touro is located at 1401 Foucher St, New Orleans (across the street from Kindred Hospital), Room 616. Visiting hours are Mon - Fri 4-8:30 p.m., Sat 12-8:30 p.m., Sun 10-8:30 p.m..

June 27, 2008
Ashlee continues with the “baby steps”. She gave us a couple of smiles this week. It was so awesome to see! She’s moving her arms more than ever, also moving her head slightly and will even grip our hand very tight. The therapist sat her up three times this week and she did very well. We are certainly blessed to have all of the continued support and thoughtfulness!
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” Psalm 55:22

June 22, 2008
We have been welcomed with opened arms here at Kindred Hospital. There is a very good therapy plan which consists of three different therapists. It has been a slow weekend however the therapists will start to sit her up to increase more stimulation. She continues to move, yawn, and even open her left eye slightly. Our girl is showing us she is fighting. We thank God every day for her progress and continue to pray for the Lord’s healing power!
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

June 18, 2008
Ashlee was moved today to Kindred Hospital , 3601 Coliseum St, New Orleans. She is in ICU. Visitors are allowed between 8 - 10 a.m., 2 - 4 p.m. and 6 - 8 p.m. There is a parking garage on Foucher Street.

June 17, 2008
Ashlee’s doctors did an assessment yesterday and gave her a good report of improvement. She was taken off of the little oxygen she was being given. Her eyes have not opened yet but she continues to move her arms and yawns alot. We can’t express enough gratitude for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers, those who have come to visit, and the many comments posted on the website … which bring tears of joy. Ashlee is touching people everywhere in different ways.
We are possible moving tomorrow to Kindred Hospital, 3601 Coliseum St in New Orleans. There Ashlee will begin some stimulating rehab therapy.

June 13, 2008
Today Ashlee is breathing without the assistance of the ventilator. She is receiving a little boost of oxygen. This is a huge step which we are very grateful.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5
Give extra hugs and kisses to your children.

June 12, 2008
A friend of the family, Chris Eschete, wrote a song for Ashlee. To see the lyrics and listen to it, click Ashlee’s song under Links on the right side of the main page. Clicking that will open a new page with the lyrics & at the bottom, there’s an option to play or download the song. You’ll also hear the song start to play automatically after a few seconds once you open the Song page.

June 9, 2008
Ashlee is showing us some progress. We saw her move her mouth, arms, legs, and toes. Today she coughed. She is still connected to the ventilator but only for assistance. Although she is still in a coma; at times she responds to voices. The latest CAT scan showed much improvement.
We believe and have faith that Ashlee will recover. Thanks for your continued prayers and support.
“We walk by faith not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7

June 4, 2008
The monitor that was measuring Ashlee’s Internal Cranium Pressure (ICP) was removed last night. The doctors scheduled an MRI today. The response to Ashlee’s recovery has been phenomenal. Several people have asked about making donations. An account in Ashlee’s name is setup at Central Progressive Bank (CPB). Anyone can go into a CPB branch and make a deposit into this account. If you experience any problems, please contact Christian Fajone at (985) 705-0097. If you do not have access to a CPB branch, you may send donations to Ashlee Stokes c/o Cindy Wilson, P.O. Box 101, Mandeville, LA 70470. If you have any pictures that you would like posted to the site, please send them to cinnyv@yahoo.com.

May 30, 2008
The CAT scan that was done yesterday showed a small decrease of swelling of Ashlee’s brain. Ashlee has been on medication to keep her sedated. Today after meeting with Ashlee’s doctors, a decision was made to decrease the medication. It could take a few days for the medication to be out of her system. Please continue to pray for God’s healing power.

June 6, 2008
Our precious Ashlee is still sleeping. The MRI confirmed that we have a long road ahead of us so please continue praying for a full recovery.

June 1, 2008
Thank you for your support and prayers. We are extremely touched and grateful to all of you. Ashlee is still making slow progress. Although she is still in a coma state; she is showing us some responses. We are being told these “baby steps” are very good news so keep praying. God is listening.

May 28, 2008
Ashlee is in stable condition without any negative incidents today.
We want to start by saying how much we appreciate all the support and love from everyone. We are so grateful for your continued support and prayers. The compassion and consideration is beyond anything we could have ever expected. The word, “Thanks” doesn’t even begin to show the deep appreciation that is in our hearts. Please continue to pray for our angel.

Love,

David, Karen, and Meghan

On Sunday, May 25, 2008, Ashlee (age 15) was in a serious car accident which caused a head trauma. She is currently in a coma. The doctors and nurses are fabulous. They are taking great care of her at Tulane Pediatric Hospital where she is in the ICU.

Lord, I need mountain -moving faith today because there are situations in my life that loom large like mountains and I can’t begin to move them. But I believe in You and Your power on my behalf. Surely, my faith is as big as a mustard seed. Take what faith I have and grow it into a giant tree of faith so that I can speak to the mountain-sized obstacles in my life and see them moved. Thank You, Lord , that with You, nothing is impossible.

Story:

Slidell teens recovery slow, support still pouring in Fundraiser planned to help family with medical expenses

For the family of Ashlee Stokes, even the slightest cough is a reason to rejoice.

‘€œThey told us it would be a very long road,’€ said Ashlee’€™s mother, Karen Stokes. ‘€œEvery little movement is another step forward.’

 http://www.thesttammanynews.com/articles/2008/06/18/news/doc48582afd85884639421396.txt