It all started in the dark, early morning of 11/19/09 - a Thursday last year. A policeman pounded on my door, woke me up and left me with a scrap of paper - an ER number to call 2 1/2 hours away where Matt was fighting for his life. I know that I did not understand the full gravity of the situation at the time. Either his doctor was selective about the information she gave me or I just chose not to believe that it could be that bad. She told me they were sending Matt up to Dartmouth for surgery and that I should meet him there.
By the time I got there, he was already in surgery and I still had no idea what had actually happened, so when his surgeon finally came and talked to me was when my world turned upside down. He said that Matt's accident was really bad and that if he lives, he might never walk or talk again. He had suffered a serious skull fracture above his left ear which had caused a blood clot that they had to remove. Then it became a waiting game - I saw Matt once that afternoon for a few minutes and then later that night when they finally moved him into the ICU. I didn't take any pictures when he was there because I didn't want to remember, but I've found that I will never forget how he looked the first time I saw him - all the monitors, tubes and bandaging. It still seems unreal.
Now fast forward a year (if only that was actually possible) and as you know he's walking and talking and showing no signs of slowing his progress. I know that we would never have come from that low to where we are now without everything everyone has done for us along the way - from the first group of visitors at Dartmouth to the cards, comments, thoughts and prayers we still receive today. Thank you for everything that you do - we are truly blessed to have you all in our lives.
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Tony and I have been thinking about the two of you a lot this week. Linda was beginning a new job and Dave was with Tony in the Adirondacks when the call came. I remember thinking how fortunate they weren't in Iowa!
ReplyDeleteWe are so impressed with the strength you and Matt have shown in facing these difficult times. You've both done a wonderful job and all your friends and family are delighted to see Matt's progress.
We raise a toast to the two of you!
Gail and Tony
Matt and Keri,
ReplyDeleteWow what a year you two have had! I can remember that call from Kirk. Our prayers went out to you two and your family.
We are so proud of Matt for all his determination and hard work. We are proud of you for all the resources you found and utilized..But we are so proud and happy of the love and support you have gave each other, and living your dream and making it happen!! Congrats to you. May each year get better and better.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving..we have so much to be thankful for.
We also raise a toast to you!
Mark and Deb
Hi, Matt and Keri -
ReplyDeleteWow, a year. You have been so determined and have worked so hard, and you are beating the odds one right after another. You go!!
Ditto on the toast from Mark and Deb!
Dear Matt and Keri
ReplyDeleteThe anniversary of the accident falls -in some strange ways- together with the annual board retreat of the BD Association.
I remember the fateful phone call from Keri before I was to take off for the airport. I quickly realized its seriousness and without thinking changed my plans to be in Dartmouth. In Dartmouth, I talked to the members of the board and informed them on a regular basis of Matt’s condition. Matt's struggle became a presence on the retreat and he was held in everyone's thoughts and prayer. It was noted that Matt’s presence deepened the collaborative spirit of their work during those three days.
This year, before the retreat started, the board took a moment to remember where Matt was last year and how far he has come. We expressed our gratitude for Matt’s recovery, and I was asked convey this to you.
I very much look forward spending Thanksgiving with you guys,
Go Matt!
From Wisconsin,
Jean-Paul
You two are always in our prayers. Glad that the progress is not slowing down. What a year. We think of you often. Kate, Eric, and Gedion
ReplyDeleteMatt and Keri: You are in our prayers daily and we are so thankful for the progress you have made.Keri- You are such an inspiration to us for your bravery and strength through all this. God bless you both and enjoy your thanksgiving. Uncle John and Aunt Carol
ReplyDeleteThe Internet hasn't coooperated with recent attempts to post a comment but I'm feeling good about today. Thank you for taking us through the year, Keri and for sharing the great Thanksgiving photo. We are so thankful that the story has unfolded the way it has--and that there are more good chapters ahead.
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