Homeward

6/14/2023

What an extraordinary journey it has been... a reality that surpasses even the wildest of dreams, as Ellen now reflects upon most mornings.
_

May 6th, 2023…It was an ordinary weekend, deliberately planned to be less eventful than usual. Ellen has always had a deep passion for adventure and loves exploring the great outdoors – we were thrilled to try bike-packing with our new Utah friends! Little did we know that on May 7th, her life would take an unexpected turn, changing everything in an instant.

As Ellen pedaled along, a sudden jolt sent her crashing to the ground. It was a freak accident. The impact left her with a serious injury, later diagnosed as a traumatic brain injury (TBI). She was swiftly airlifted to the nearest hospital, leaving all of us devastated and uncertain about her future. The initial prognosis suggested that she might never regain consciousness. There are no words capable of appropriately describing the confusion and anguish of our early moments at the hospital.

For two grueling weeks, Ellen fought for her life in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). We clung to hope, praying fervently for her recovery. We celebrated every single movement and breath. Despite the bleak predictions and medical assumptions, her invincible spirit began to shine through. She exhibited remarkable strength and determination.

Miraculously, Ellen gradually emerged from the depths of unconsciousness, her mind awakening like a delicate flower. She was then transferred to the neuro unit, where a dedicated team of doctors and nurses tirelessly worked to aid her recovery. We will forever be grateful for her care teams. Their unwavering commitment, coupled with Ellen's own unwavering spirit, propelled her forward, allowing for small yet significant progress.

Each passing day brought astonishing improvements. Ellen's cognitive abilities sharpened, and her motor skills gradually returned. Our family and friends stood firmly by her side, offering unwavering support and encouragement. Together, we witnessed the extraordinary power of love and resilience.

After spending around 10 days in the neuro unit, Ellen was deemed ready to embark on the next phase of her recovery: inpatient rehabilitation. She was transferred to the 11th floor, where she would receive intensive therapy and support. The road to recovery proved challenging, but she faced each obstacle with unwavering determination.

Over the course of two weeks in rehabilitation, Ellen's progress was nothing short of remarkable. The therapists marveled at her unyielding perseverance and her burning desire to reclaim her life. Day by day, she relearned basic tasks, fought to regain her balance, and steadily improved her coordination.

Ellen's determined spirit and incredible progress inspired the entire rehabilitation team. Time seemed to blur as days turned into weeks until finally, the day arrived when she was ready to leave the hospital.

It was a day filled with unrestrained joy as Ellen was discharged, roughly five weeks after the life-altering accident. Her journey has been immensely challenging, but she is emerging from it stronger, more resilient, and with an unshakeable enthusiasm for life.

Her remarkable recovery stands as a testament to the strength of the human will and the transformative power of prayer, love, and community. Thank you all for holding Ellen in The Light.

And so, Ellen and I are now embarking on yet another chapter, filled with gratitude for each day and a burning desire to make a positive impact in the world. Determined to continue Ellen's rehabilitation, we are heading to an outpatient facility close to our family in the Midwest, ready to embrace this next chapter with renewed vigor and a profound appreciation for the gift of life. Together, we will face whatever challenges come our way, supporting each other and cherishing the journey ahead.

In time, Ellen hopes to return to work and resume the joyful aspects of life that the accident temporarily put on hold. We both eagerly anticipate future runs, engaging creative design sessions, cherished moments with friends and family, and the heartwarming reunion with our beloved puppy, Juni. We deeply appreciate the ongoing thoughts and prayers as Ellen continues her outpatient rehabilitation.

While Ellen still faces challenges with her eyesight and cognitive stamina, she is making remarkable progress considering all the circumstances. Her unwavering determination and personal drive for success have always propelled her to extraordinary heights, and I have no doubt that she will persevere through the next few months of healing. We remain hopeful and grateful for the support and encouragement we have received along this journey.

With Hope and Love,
Jacob & Ellen