Archive for the ‘Guest Posts’ Category
- In: Guest Posts | Niika Posts | Photos
- 4 Comments
Dear Supporters of Gabe ~
Like you, I’m following Gabe’s progress from a distance, as I’m at Rasa Ayurveda in India for about 10 more days.
On Friday, I opened my email a to find a note and photos from our good-hearted helper, Suzy, who accompanied Gabe for another visit to prosthetist Jon Batzdorf on Tuesday.
“It was a beautiful day today seeing Gabe move forward.
Here are some photos of Dr. B melting the fiberglass sockets with a torch to create the best fit to Gabe’s thighs.
Heating up the Torch
Dr. B was able to instantly make adjustments to this walking device for Gabe by applying the torch, bending it gently and cooling it with a rag.
Applying the Fire
He did this a couple of times trimming off extra fiberglass from the Stubbie to not pull at Gabe’s skin and be most comfortable.
Dr. B is very serious about his work, kind, knowledgeable. Glad you guys found him ~ definitely a blessing!
Very First Steps on Stubbies
Taking some steps on the Stubbies brought Gabe great joy.
(Note – The “feet” on the Stubbies turned the opposite direction that feet are normally to counterbalance Gabe’s body. So interesting!)
A Major Milestone in Gabe's Recovery!
Gabe borrowed some loaner crutches, shortened to about 3 feet, and he is so excited about ambling about.He’s planning all the places he can now get around better with these devices.
This must be like having your child take his first steps all over again for you and tough to miss, but glad you can see these photos now!”
I am really proud of Gabe for continuing to move forward, day by day, making his doctor appointments and arrangements, even while I’m necessarily far away for a bit. Thanks so much to Suzy for writing and sending photos! And we are TOO grateful to Jon Batzdorf for his kindness and wonderful abilities, of course!
I have much more to share in the next few days… And perhaps Gabe will find some time to post also.
Stay tuned!
With love,
Niika
- In: Announcements | Guest Posts | Niika Posts | Photos
- Leave a Comment
Celeste, Erin, Pat & Gabe - chillin' at the bagel place in Somerset, NJ
As Gabe and I were unpacking in California, our devoted NJ people carried on without us, coming thru once again with fantastic support for Gabe! We’re so grateful to Celeste, Ralph, Pat & Chris and the yoga community for holding a very successful Garage Sale for Gabe!
As the above photo shows, just a few days before we left New Jersey, Gabe and I came to the yoga studio to say hello to Celeste, Pat and Erin. (Erin is another great supporter who spent time in the hospital with Gabe and delivered food and pots and pans to us when we really needed it!)
We miss you all, and would have loved to have been right at the sale on the big day–to help, to give our thanks and to greet Gabe’s wonderful supporters. THANK YOU ALL for your astonishing love and care, and for all your time and effort to help Gabe. Every single quarter counts toward building Gabe’s future, and we are tremendously grateful.
Since we couldn’t be there in person, we were so happy to recieve Celeste’s account of the juicy sale details, captured in her email thanking everyone who pitched in:
Last weekend was the big Garage Sale weekend! I want to thank all of you for your donations of money and/or stuff for the garage sale. We had donations from about 15 households- thanks, thanks, thanks. Your kindness and generosity made it all possible.
On the big day, we had tons of “stuff” of all sorts- from lawn mowers (2), to baby blankets, to candles. It took me about 4 hours to get it all out of the house and garage, and bring it out to the driveway to sell!! We had 3 large tables, and 3 smaller (card table) size tables, and they filled up several times over- people bought stuff as we put it out, and some waited while we finished unpacking!
The end result is that those $.25 to $.50 items do add up. Our final total was $575.00 in sales and $200.00 in donations ($50.00 of which was a belated donation from Pat Migliore’s photo fund raiser), for a total of $775.00. yeah!!
Celeste showing off her yoga moves in a hat Niika donated for Gabe's sale!
Celeste, continued….
We hope to raise some more $, as we have a few items to sell on ebay, and a few items which I will put out in my driveway for sale (if it ever stops raining).
I want to send out extra special thanks to my husband, Ralph, for his generosity in helping me, and to Pat Migliore and Chris Chism for staying with me during the sale and working unstintingly in the humidity without complaint.
And again, thanks to all of you for your donations, which made this possible!! — Celeste
—
I also received this lovely email from Katherine, one of many who contributed “stuff” to the sale for Gabe. Thank you to ALL who cleaned out closets and made hard choices to help raise funds for Gabe! —
Dear Niika,
Celeste and Pat, with Chris’ support have been wholly dedicated to making a difference in our little Centerspace Community as the news of Gabe’s accident profoundly impacted so many. His (and your) tenacity and amazing spirit through it all have been just inspiring.
I am so lucky to teach at the studio with such giving and generous women. I’ve been out of town, and a bit out of touch, for a few weeks with family (thus missing the hard work of the sale!!). It was my pleasure (and admittedly a little ‘over’ attachment to stuff) to donate many of my daughter’s old belongings to help with the fundraiser.
I look forward to hearing more via your blog about your (and Gabe’s) progress and new/renewed life! Feel free to share my gratitude in any way you see fit! You are an amazing woman, with an equally amazing son.
Peace and blessings, Katherine
Niika & Gabe at the bagel place, with the gang - feeling GRATEFUL for all the love!
- In: Guest Posts | Niika Posts | Photos
- 1 Comment
It’s very encouraging to notice people moved to engage in life more directly, after encountering Gabe and his situation. It certainly helps Gabe and I both feel that all he’s been thru can have value for others. Life is clearly NOT a dress rehearsal… And what’s life all about–anyway–if not allowing ourselves to be reborn, over and over into more strength of heart, purity of mind and love, love, love?
Here’s a beautiful email that came today from a woman who’d come to me seeking self-knowledge thru Ayurveda last year:
Hello Niika!
I’m writing to let you know I’ve been sitting here with tears stinging my eyes for the last half hour watching Gabe’s videos. He is a miracle. So many other people would just fold in on themselves, but not your son. He’s like a ray of sunshine.
I don’t know if you’ll remember, but I am the business manager for a Harley-Davidson dealership. When we met last year for a consultation we discussed my horrible job and my lunatic, abusive boss. You told me that the stress was detrimental to my health and that I should strongly consider leaving.
I have found recently that many of our customers and people whom I’ve come to care about have been injured or killed in motorcycle accidents. Logically, I know I’m not responsible for their choices involving motorcycles, but I still feel despair knowing I helped them make the decision in some small way. I understand people will create their own paths. When it comes to motorcycles, I just don’t want to be a part of it anymore. Seeing Gabe smile through his pain, really strengthens my belief that I don’t belong here and should work harder toward creating my own happiness.
During our final phone consultation, you asked me if I had made any progress in leaving my job. I hadn’t made any real progress at that time and I remember you were disappointed. I know now what the real issue was… I was afraid. I was afraid of losing my security, of moving forward and taking a chance, but most of all I was afraid of failing.
After watching Gabe tackle a set of stairs without fear, and seeing your complete love and faith in him, I realize that the only way to be true to myself is to at least try to create a new path for myself. Our time is short, sometimes shorter than we know. I’m getting married on October 2. I will use the start of my life together with Michael as the beginning of my next journey.
You and Gabe are an inspiration! I will be sending my thoughts and prayers your way.
With love,
Melanie
- In: Daily Update | Guest Posts | Niika Posts | Photos
- Leave a Comment
Dear Friends-
Thank you for your patience while blog posting has been delayed. Gabe and I have been busy relocating to California… More on that soon, but FIRST–the BIG NEWS!
Emily & Catherine
Gabe was staying at the home of his friend–Catherine–when the accident that cost him his legs occurred. While the tragedy and difficult emotions that surround a situation like this may have estranged another family, Keith, Nancy and Catherine have been present and supportive thru Gabe’s recovery, and tell us they’ll always be there for Gabe…!
Along with another friend from Gabe’s high school–Emily–Catherine organized a fantastic fundraising night for Gabe at the Old River House Restaurant in Clinton, New Jersey this week! Gabe and I hated to miss this beautiful expression of care and support for his recovery. I can tell you, we are truly missing our New Jersey people right now!
With the funds raised, Gabe is truly one “step” closer to walking on prosthetics!
Right this Way...
Catherine’s mother–Nancy–emailed right away, to tell us all the details of the amazing event. See her words below…– Niika
The girls did a wonderful job with the The Festival on the Water on Tuesday night! Nearly 200 people came. The outdoor patio on the river was packed!
Two bands played including Keith’s jazz band. (The musicians were Keith Goellner, Chris DeVito, Jason Caws, Preston Ambrose, and 3 members of the Glen Gardner Fire Station 12.) Emily thanked the many supporters, especially Shop Rite, which donated 100 hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls and soft drinks.
Catherine mentioned how hanging up posters to advertise the fundraiser throughout nearby towns brought strangers commenting: “I know Gabe.” ” I heard about him.” “My friend knows Gabe.” “I worked with Gabe.”
He’s pretty much a local hero!
Clinton Rescue
Catherine also thanked the Clinton Rescue Squad who helped Gabe the day of his accident, and Jorge–the brave and kind ex-firefighter who stopped his car to save Gabe’s life by tourniquetting his leg and phoning for help. David Shoemaker was there also, the passenger in the truck whose family attended.
Tricky Tray!
So many good souls helped to make the event successful. Gabe’s friends Carly & Dana work at the restaurant, and worked their tails off grilling burgers, serving customers and doing the late night clean up.
Lot’s of business owners donated value to help raise funds for Gabe! Clinton Office Supply printed event posters. Tricky tray raffle donations came from many generous businesses, too…! Shop Rite, Hollywood Video, High Society Salon, Balic Winery, Old River House Restaurant, Cracker Barrel Restaurant, Avon Gift Basket from Bonnie Monninghoff and an I-Hop Basket from Mr. & Mrs. Rogge. A local photographer, also donated a photo portrait session ! Cynthia’s Tannning Salon donated a 5-session gift certificate. And JJ Scoops Ice-Cream gave free cone coupons which were added to the tricky tray baskets.
John Connors, owner of Old River House Restaurant was shocked at the event’s success, and agreed to make it an annual event.
Besides all the fun we had, $2,514 was raised to go toward Gabe’s healing and eventual progress onto prosthetic legs!!! Also, many people who were not able to come also agreed to contribute on-line or mail a check.
I’ve received many e-mails this week, praising the spirit of the event and it’s purpose.We all want to be part of something positive, and know we can make a real difference to someone. This was expressed frequently…”we came out tonight because it’s for a good cause.” The event was truly a celebration of Gabe’s life!
On the Water
We’re thankful to be surrounded by a loving community of supporters and we’re already planning for the next fundraiser–
Next time, we’re shooting for double digits!!
Love, Nancy
For a peak at more event photos taken by professional photographer Kathleen Carroll, see this site:
- In: Guest Posts | Movies | Photos
- Leave a Comment
Cake Walk for Gabe...
Family and friends—including plenty of folks who have yet to meet Gabe but are looking forward to the moment!—gathered on Saturday for a Secret Cat concert and benefit party in Healdsburg, CA that raised … drum roll please……more than $1,300 to
help pay for Gabe’s needs!
Cousin Vrinda Serves Cool Drinks
Gabe’s cousin Lati and her mom, Melinda, and their fabulous family put together the amazing event with two great bands, tons of luscious food, the thrill of six cakewalks, and a raffle. My favorite moment: watching Melinda dance in the hot sun, while Lati’s band played. How cool to have a mom who can rock out to her teenage daughter’s music! And with good reason. Lati’s band is awesome.
Cousin Rachel MCs
All of my friends were hoping to win the grand prize of the raffle: a Secret Cat show. In the end, the winner was Lati’s grandpa!
John & his daughter, makin' things good!
To see many generations gathered on a summer’s afternoon–I think we spanned the ages of 3 to 76–was a joy in itself. That we were all gathered to celebrate Gabe’s life and offer our support was spectacular.
Gabe's Grandparents
Gabe, the home team is rooting for you, big time!
California Fun for Gabe
And three cheers for all those Misuraca girls, and John and his girls too, of course–their hard work made the day supremely fun for all the rest of us, and their kindness permeated the air. What a sweet gift of generosity they’ve given us all.
Day 34 – Rollin’…. (Jessica writes)
Posted on: June 13, 2009
- In: Daily Update | Guest Posts | Photos
- 1 Comment
So David is here, and I’m takin’ off in a little bit. Gabe was ready to escape today, so he popped into his wheelchair for the first time in days and we went outside into the fresh, rainy air. Under his own steam, he rolled all over the place, swung by the café and snagged a slice of cheese pizza, and rolled back. Today’s pain level is a 3 out of 10; cool.
I’m going to miss Gabe; he is good company, and believe me, you never know WHAT he is going to do next. There isn’t a doubt in my mind that after he gets thru his upcoming surgeries and healing, he’s going to blast through rehab with record speed and be off to his next big adventure.
Gabe and David break out....
Jess and Gabe
Another good day (Jessica writes)
Posted on: June 12, 2009
It’s 7 pm, and Gabe hasn’t needed to nap all day. He’s getting sleepy now.
The epidural came out this morning. So far so good, and it meant that Gabe got to put on a t-shirt and shorts, the first clothing he’s worn since he’s been here. Aaaahhh.
Gabe says he is feeling pretty ready to try being on his own at night here. So far, there has been a family member or friend with him 24/7 since day one, but now he has less anxiety and is feeling a bit more control of his situation.
I had a sleepover with Gabe last night – cool. We stayed up late and ate pizza, while Gabe watched a couple of his million movies. He likes the ones with the “Jersey Boy” producers, set in Jersey, his hood. The language is a little wild for his old Aunt Jessica, but I can hang. The night went well; despite a med change that is always hard to tolerate, Gabe managed to sleep several hours, almost straight through.
This morning, one of the docs came in to check vitals, and Gabe mentioned that the pain, although still very tough, is slowly easing day by day. The dressing change on the right leg this morning was Ouch!!! though. Mornings are hard anyway; waking up usually includes a visit from the evil Depression Fairy until we get revved up a bit and have some protein.
Fun visits are forthcoming: David Tart arrives late Friday night, and Don is most graciously coming back in a few days for a week! The visits are definitely the best medicine – short or long, keep ’em comin’!
p.s. Good news – during today’s dressing change, everyone said the right leg looks good to go for a skin graft – yeah!!! Any day now, as soon as the plastic surgeon can do it. Maybe even tomorrow.
By the way, the left leg is essentially already almost completely closed, and is healing nicely. 🙂
Once everything is closed up and had some time to secure and settle, Gabe will be transferred to a nearby rehab facility affiliated with this hospital, where he will have a roommate or two and will work out like mad everyday to get ready for his new, independent life.
Today’s Visitors (Jess writes)
Posted on: June 10, 2009
- In: Guest Posts | Photos
- 7 Comments
Gabe and Sean play Ultimate Fighting Champions!
while Niika gets a looonnngggg foot massage from Lilavati….
Late Night Notes…. (Jessica writes)
Posted on: June 9, 2009
I arrived this evening from CA to find Gabe joking with two of his buds, and a basketball game, baseball game, and video game playing on three of the many screens in the room. I’ll be here for four days to help where I can and give our Niika a break; more troops are incoming as of Friday….
When you actually see Gabe in the flesh, it is comforting – whatever we imagine is somehow more horrible than the reality, although the reality is very intense and tough, absolutely. What strikes me when I am around him is that he is very present, in a healthy way, in his situation – Gabe isn’t hiding from it; he’s running the gauntlet. We can be very proud of him. All the waiting for surgery and progress is grueling and disheartening, but the boy is marching forth.
He is moving around much better now, needing his epidural less, tolerating the dressing changes and other violations more easily. He is more comfortable during time spent on his belly now, and wants to try the chair again tomorrow. No fever lately, and some good news yesterday – the new “infection” seems to be another, innocuous fluid, so that’s GREAT. We’re waiting to see if that means surgery is forthcoming.
Gabe’s room is awash in cards, pictures, a million DVD’s, and giant bags of candy (FYI: Gabe is off sugar for now as it supresses the immune system.) He has the corner suite, with windows on two walls. This wing is fresh and new, very homey. Books are not Gabe’s thing, but he likes gadgets and fun toys.
Tonight he has a nice EMT guy staying with him, giving Niika a good night’s sleep. His name is Matt and he’ll be on deck a couple of nights a week for now.
Gabe's Alive 
Recent comments