MERRY CHRISTMAS / video message!!

MERRY

CHRISTMAS

CHIE AND I WISH YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! WE HAVE TRIED TO RECORD A HOLIDAY MESSAGE FOR YOU ALL SO I HOPE THIS WORKS.

PARTY TIME !!!!!!!!

PARTY TIME ! ! ! ! ! !

COME ONE, COME ALL,

NEXT SATURDAY,
DECEMBER 29TH
FROM 2PM to 8PM

NOW THAT CHIE IS HOME WE WANTED TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO SAY "THANK YOU" TO ALL OF YOU, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR US.

PLEASE JOIN US AT OUR HOUSE:
1121 ATLANTA DR.
GARLAND TX 75041

CHIE IS VERY EXCITED ABOUT GETTING TO MEET MANY OF YOU, SOME FOR THE FIRST TIME! WE HAVE BEEN SO BUSY THAT WE HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO GET OUT AND SEE EVERYONE FOR A WHILE AND CHIE IS HAVING TROUBLE KEEPING UP WITH THE CARDS AND REMEMBERING EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING (ME TOO). WE WOULD LOVE FOR EVERYONE TO DROP BY AND SHOW HER JUST HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE BEHIND HER AND PULLING FOR HER, SO PLEASE DROP BY AND SAY HELLO, GRAB A DRINK, HAVE SOMETHING TO EAT, AND SPREAD SOME HOLIDAY CHEER. FEEL FREE TO BRING A DISH IF YOU LIKE.

RSVP AT CHIE118@HOTMAIL.COM

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SATURDAY

LET'S GO HOME!!

HOME SWEET HOME

TONIGHT TONIGHT,,

IM ON MY WAY




IM ON MY WAAAAYYYY.....

WE FINALLY MADE IT!!!!

AFTER A LONG AND TIRING YEAR AND A HALF, WE CHIE FINALLY RETURNS HOME! ITS SEEMED STRANGE LEAVING HER APARTMENT AFTER ALL THE TIME WE SPENT THERE. THINKING BACK ON ALL THE MEMORIES WE HAVE HAD THERE, ROOMATES, RA'S, BBQ'S, THE FIRST TIME SHE TRANSFERRED FROM HER CHAIR TO HER BED, KARAOKE, ETC... WE ARE GREATFUL FOR ALL THE HELP AND HARD WORK EVERYONE PUT IN FOR US. WE WILL MISS THE FRIENDS WE HAVE MADE THERE AND WILL KEEP IN TOUCH. MOST OF ALL, I THINK WE WILL MISS OUR FRIEND SHEILA. SHE AND CHIE HAVE SPENT THE LAST TWO DAYS CRYING TOGETHER AND HOLDING EACH OTHER AS THEY LOOKED BACK OVER ALL THEY HAVE BEEN THROUGH TOGETHER. SHE WAS A TRUE BLESSING AND HAS BECOME FAMILY TO US. WE HOPE TO SEE HER OFTEN.



WE CLOSE ONE CHAPTER OF OUR LIVES

AND OPEN ANOTHER.


HOME......

HOW SWEET IT IS ....

***CHIE IS HELPING ME WRITE THIS AND SHE WANTED TO SEND A SPECIAL MESSAGE TO EVERYONE,****

"THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME UP TO NOW. I REALLY, REAAALLLLYYYY APPRECIATE IT. I WILL BE AT MY HOME NOW SO PLEASE HELP ME CONTINUOUSLY AND COME TO OUR HOME. I GO TO HOME BUT THAT DOESNT MEAN I FULLY RECOVERED. I STILL CANNOT WALK AND I STILL CANNOT, LIKE, SEE PERFECT, OR EAT WITHOUT HELP. THEREFORE, KORE KARAMO DOZO ONEGAIITASHIMASU."

PS. "HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ANYTHING I CAN DO,, PLEASE ASK ME OR LET ME KNOW AND IM HAPPY TO HELP YOU."
THANK YOU

CHIE

Japanese Fall Festival / Akimatsuri (Dallas)

AkiMatsuri

The Japanese Fall Festival (Dallas)

** catching up **

Going way back to the Japanese Fall Festival. Chie really had a great time seeing everybody, Aya, Kat, Katsu, Keiko, Akiko, Ino, Tamako, Hiroe, Yasuko, Nakahashi, Yoshiko, Chika and just everyone. We arrived around noon trying to let her rest so she would not need to leave to early, or so I thought. She was so excited seeing everybody and eating all the good foods, for some it was her first time to see you since the accident and though it got a litte emothional at time it was very good for her. I figured she would be ready to go by around 2-2:30pm so I didnt purchase any raffle tickets like we normally do. I asked her if she was ready to go but she said "no no, we have to stay for the raffle." Two and half hours later she had finally had enough and was ready to go about 4:30pm.. She was tired and worn out just from trying to process all the emotions from the day. We thank everyone we met and helped us out during the day. We got some pictures and I think im going to let them do the talking for us on this. .

ENJOY.......

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!!!!!

Chie and I would like to wish everyone a happy thanksgiving!!!!!!!!! We have so much to be thankful for this year and all of you are at the top of our list. We do hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving with lots of Turkey, Family, Fun, and if it's not asking too much a win for the Cowboys!
Thank you all for giving us one more great day!

Chie and David

Prelude to: Much Catching Up

Much Catching Up

Its been almost a month since Ive updated everybody and I am truly sorry. It has been a pretty busy time for us as basketball season has started and keeps me at school until 6pm most days and trying to squeeze in last minute appointments in preparation for Chie's return home this December, so bear with me. This may a be a bit long, but Ill try to break it up into several posts for you.

As always, we would like to thank you all for your continued support. We really cant thank you enough for all the cards, visits, food, donations, phone calls, videos, books ,, and the list goes on.

Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You

Keep 'em Coming!!!!

Chie looks forward to every little thing and as many of you have seen,, the smile it brings to her face is priceless!

(*****Those of you who got Thank you cards or did not get Thank you cards, Or got thank you cards with someone elses name on it; " Gomen ne, sumahenna." I have no idea what happened. I spilled a drink and found like, four cards behind my desk, two got returned in the mail, and I dont know what to say,,,,,,, Im gonna have to take a mulligan on that one. I have tried to rewrite them all, so I hope you can forgive me.)

Chie remains in good spirits and is Genki most of the time. She is eagerly anticipating her return home, which will be just before Christmas. She gave me specific instruction to let you all know her new phone number and address and to tell you to call and come visit when you can. As ordered, here it is:

972 926 4150 home

1121 Atlanta Dr.

Garland Tx 75041

She will remain in outapatient therapy Monday - Friday returning home each evening. And YES, I will now begin to check the home phone for messages. Seriously, I usually dont get home until 11pm or later and I look at our answering machine flashing 0-0-0-0-0, so I never even knew we had call notes or whatever it is, and I dont know about all of you, but it seems like we get about a million sales calls. Its insane!! If you need to reach us you will probably have better luck trying my cell @ 469 363 6611.

****We Will BE Late!!!!!!

if we are doing something with you or meeting you, Let me just go ahead and tell you we will most likely be LATE. I do have a solution though, if you don't mind helping me out here. Please just tell us it or whatever we may be doing is 30 minutes to an hour earlier than it really is. For example,, if we are supposed to go to the movies at 5pm, tell us the movie starts at 4:30pm. This would be a great help to us and all parties involved. Im not saying we wont still be late but I think it will greatly increase our chances of being on time. Sorry for the inconvenience.

I think a lot of it stems from the fact that she is rushed and pushed so hard during the week that when the weekend comes she wants to do things at her pace. I know she keeps a pretty full slate during the week with therapy, visitors, chores, tutoring, etc... She has made it very clear to me that I am to make no plans without her O.K, ON THE WEEKENDS. I sign her up for outings and such and it may sound fine during the week but come Saturday, "I wanna go home." Ive gone round an round with her and it gets me no where. She's gonna do and make me do exactly what she wants to, ON THE WEEKENDS. i guess I see where she is coming from because she is rushed in the morning and has to hurry to get the bus on time. They push her at clinic all day, then she comes home and has to do her chores and visit with company, go to the store, movies, dinner, etc.. And she just does not like being rushed constantly, so when the weekend comes she wants to do what she wants, when she wants, and at her pace. She has cancelled her tutoring and Piano lessons so her schedule is clear. ICC, we mean no disrespect and wish we could go more often to see you all. I know she had a wonderful time at the ICC a few weeks ago when we went. She sang with the choir/band and had a great time visiting with everyone and getting to meet so many of you, but it is like pulling teeth to get her to go. She runs me ragged trying to get her out of the house, lets put on our socks! NO, not those socks the other ones. where's my chip chap, could you get me a drink? No No,, I dont want ice in it cause its already cold from the fridge, will you take me to the bathroom?, can I brush my teeth? She is such a character I can't help but laugh. Im sure its lots of fun for her watching me run around like a chikcen with my head cut off, but it takes some work to get her moving on the weekends. " Is my clay in my backpack??!!!!????"

Anyways, Hopefully she will relax a bit once at home. We would like to have a get together once she gets home and have you all over to the house, maybe around the 29th of December, let me know how that sounds to everyone. I know its close to the holidays so if you can tell me what you think we would appreciate it.

Ok, well, this is one and in the next one Ill begin updating on what she has been doing recently. Sorry i ran out of time. Its almost 6am and she is gonna get me for being late because I said I would come early and if I am too much later Im gonna hear about it ALL DAY,,, ON THE WEEKEND!

Thanks y'all, Ill get another posted today!!!

A New Best Friend

A NEW BEST FRIEND

Chie has recently been enjoying the company of a new best

friend at clinic. They have had a good time together in classes and Chie has finally found someone who views their circumstances and current situation in an equally positive light, maybe even a tad more, as Chie is able to turn to him for a boost when she gets down. Someone to point out all she has and how far she has come and to remind her to hope for future progress just as he hopes for his God to bless him. It is just great to see them get along and talk an joke. They went to the fair together and had a ball even though they didnt ride any rides, but for good reason. when Chie was asked "How come you ain't been on any rides chie? I know you ain't SCARED!!" Chie explained "No, i'm not scared but since only have one day, better to just eat." and eat they did, sausages on a stick,, funnel cakes, ice cream, turkey legs, lemonade, and of course, Fletcher's Corn dogs. All that and a bathroom break and we were headed home. Since we aren't so young anymore; I can call that a success. The weather was nice and atmospere was ,, well , fair ( yes, im aware that was pretty cheesey).

Anyways, moving right along. We had a BBQ the other night that allowed us all to get out and enjoy some of the cool fall weather that has rolled in. I think it was good for everyone as we relaxed for the evening, making jokes and watching as the meat grilled up over the coals. Chie got nervous her friend would forget so

she took the liberty of letting him know that if he forgot, she was gonna kick his ---!! But , he said he was comin' and he did with his meat marinated and ready to go. Chie was sooooooo happppy!!! Everything went off without a hitch and it was one of the best nights weve had in a while.

A Brief Roomate

Chie had a new roomate briefly, for only two nights. She was younger, just out of highschool and in much the same shape

Chie was in the beginning, so naturally Chie took a liking to her right away. She was pretty scared and im sure still in shock but thankfully she has her father right by her side to help her feel secure and safe. They have since moved to a new apartment to get settled in but Chie is already working her magic. Sheila told me that they were worried about the girl not being hungry and not eating. Nobody could get her to eat. Then Sheila told her father and everyone else to hang on just a second that she wanted to just try something real quick. She rolled Chie into the room and told her that she would wait outside if she needed her, then closing the door leaving the two alone. After a few minutes Chie and her roomate were ready to come out. Chie, hungry as usual, was ready for dinner. They then asked her roomate if she was hungry or might want to try and eat something. She gave them the thumbs up sign and finally began eating!!! IT was another great moment for all of us. Chie wasnt happy to see her leave because she knows she needs her help.

-We are hoping she will be back soon.

Practice Makes EASY

Hello again to everyone and thank you so much for the continued support. Chie has really been doing well lately. She seems to be in good spirits and marching full steam ahead. She has been good about pitching in around the house with laundry, cleaning the table after eating, dishes, brushing her teeth,and continuing her home exercise routine (Good Job Lovey!). She has even helped out at our house on the weekends, much to my suprise!! And I can tell you why, she promises this every weekend but is usually too tired or she has to prepare for her tutoring lesson or she is thirsty, bathroom , socks, blanket, and it goes on and on; point being she never gets around to it (LOL). Fortunately for her,, I can relate. So, this weekend I expected the same even though she had reminded me twice that she was going to help this weekend. When I arrived Saturday morning, there she was looking as beautiful as ever and trying to be sneaky, as she sat in a DRESS I bought her one Christmas. I asked if those were her work clothes for today, but she is good and told me not to worry, she had a change of clothes in her back pack to work in....Im impressed and it seems she is getting back to normal more and more each day. Ican smile easier each day. I am so proud of Chie for working so hard and I am so thankful to all of you who are helping to make it possible.

A REAL TURNING POINT

A real turning point came for Chie when she sat down to have breakfast with a coworker of mine and former test pilot for the US military forces. Mrs. Mary Green, a sweet lady who looks no different from you or I came to see Chie and share her story about an unfortunate situation she went through several years back. Mary began her day like any other and she remembers it tht way right up to being strapped into the cockpit of a new jet that she was to be testing that day. Her memory stops there. All she knows is that something went wrong and they went down. LIke Chie, many of her memories like those of what happened that day had to be learned by others who told her what happened. She came out of the crash alive but in dire straights suffering 106 broken bones and though wearing a helmet she was told by her husband and his friend that "it looked as if the cap of her head had been knocked off, but the doctor picked it up blew the dust off and put it right back on." Jokingly adding "That's why she has dirty thoughts!" It was a devastating accident and she went through every doctor available until they said they could do no more. Fortunately, her doctor told her that there was on man, a student doctor. She would not like him. He knew that for sure, but he was a good doctor, very good, the best in his class. If she was willing he could arrange for him to see her,, She was willing, still with some fight left in her. She said he came in looking like he'd been at the bar all night, messy hair, beard, looking like a hippie. Her doctor ws right, she did not like him. Each day he arrived setting two one pound dumbbell weights on the end of her bed and proceeding to tell her about sighting of her husband having dinner at the restaraunt and necking away with some pretty little blond he was with and how he had forgotten about her and moved on. She knew in her head, that it was impossible because her husband was out of the country on business and duties, but her heart would not let it go. “Jealousy is what drove me “ She explained , Even though her mind knew it not to be true her heart pushed her onwards. She said that he made her so angry one day that she reached down to pick up that weight and throw it at him. It didn’t go far , pretty much just rolling off the bed onto the floor, but she said that as soon a she did that, her doctor turned around looking her straight in the eye and said “You see? You can do it, If you want.”
She wanted to get better and she did with a lot of hard work and the support of her husband she never gave up and made a miraculous recovery. She spent the next two years in a hospital bed getting her balance and learning to walk and a total of five years in the hospital before finally going home to stay.
Chie and I congratulate you and have the utmost respect for you and your recovery. You provided Chie the inspiration to push on at the time she needed it most. It meant so much for her to hear that she is not the only one who cries or considers less than desirable alternatives to her situation, and to hear how that you did it through hard work!!! And your husband’s support really clicked with Chie. She still speaks about your story and it was less than a week later she turned and told me that she now , has a goal to -
To Be Independent
Thank you

I HAVE A GOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I HAVE A GOAL

I am happy to report that Chie seems to have taken to a new light. She seems to be in good spirits. She told me the other day, "I HAVE A GOAL. MY GOAL IS TO BE INDEPENDENT BY THE TIME I GO HOME IN DECEMBER." Sounds like winner to me and I know, with the love and support she has been shown by all of you, she can do it! It made me cry to see what a trooper she is. Attitude is everything hers couldn't be better. She gives no less than a hundred percent everyday, something few can say though we all strive to. Extraordinary, in every sense of the word.
Lets help her keep things positive while she tackles this next goal!

So much of this recovery is due to all that you contribute, the letters, the food, company, conversation, donations, and the love and care you give her that can only be felt. I just again wanted to let you know how much it means to us and that it does not go unnoticed.
Thank you with all our hearts



In Recent News

Chie had a visit from a Buddist Monk who came and spoke to her. She really enjoyed it and enjoyed learning about the beliefs she had been raised with. It was good for her to hear his views and how they deal with some of lifes setbacks and difficulties. She has a tremendous respect for their ability to view things in such a positive light and it seems to have worked as this was the turning point for her to getting back on the upside things. We feel blessed to have had him take the time to care about her life and future so much.

Grapevine Grapefest
We spent a wonderful Saturday going to the Grapevine Grapfest with our friend Akiko. Thank you for taking us. Chie enjoyed the wonder weather and getting outside, the sounds of live bands, peole talking, a taste of wine, and the dances performed. We had a good time gettin out and doing something fun. It was just what we needed to give us a boost. She was rather tired but I think she felt it was worth it.


OTSUKIMI
It was a wonderful night under the moon last Thursay at the Aroretum. We arrived late, AS USUAL, but didnt let it damper our night. We watched the big and beautiful harvest moon rise up about the horizon as we drove eastbound to get there. Once there we made our way to the big and full floating moon surrounded by happy voices, applause and music. It was nice to take some time and lay out on the grass. Chie really really really loved the music and harp player. With her piano experience she knew every note played. I watched as she hummed along with it swaying her head, Im sure remembering old times and causing her brain to tap into all that is there, just waiting to be found again. Then came the Haiku session where we all spent time racking our brains to come up with one. Not too easy for us even though we were given several excellent examples by other visitors. 5 - 7 - 5 , statement about the season. Stumped us for a while but we did manage to muster one up each and for Sheila our assisstant who motivated us all to help her come up with one for her. Unfortunately we ran out of time to share it with you all. Once we got it , we played with it, or rather Chie and Akiko did until it made fun of me ,,, maybe, ,,, I got a little lost with all the renditions, so you will have to ask them if they remember.
Another wonderful evening to say the least.

FOREVER AND A DAY

Forever and Day --


'''' ''' ' ,,, ,, , is just how long it feels like Chie has been in clinic. She wants so desperately to get out and has such a hard time dealing with others leaving before her when she knows that they arrived after her. She was beginning to wonder, would she ever get out? Well, it appears her prayers have been answered and the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is in sight!!! A date was set and looks like she'll be comin home for Christmas!!!


Still skeptical she doubts whether she will REALLY be coming home or not, since she was told september once before, , , but forgetting we were fighting to stay longer -+-__+-. Well, it sounds great but opens a whole new set of worries for both her and myself. She knows I cannot take care of her all by myself so it is a bit frightening as we search for a plan. It's too early to say what we will do right now but we will be gathering ideas , resources, making adjustments to the house in preparation.

Japanese Cuisine

IN other recent news, Chie lost 7 pounds last month and her cholestorol and tryglycerides are normal!!!!!!!!! She dropped down from 130 to 123 pounds and for the first time in four months, she has her lab work back to normal and lost a fair amount of weight. The nursing director was really happy with the change the dietician had made to her diet.. you know, she lowered the carbs, and cut back on butter, and of course switched from sugar to splenda ??? -I about fell out of my chair with laughter!!! I had visions of the last meal we ate that Sheila cooked, It was Deep Fried Chicken quarters, Macaroni and Cheese, and spinach, Juice for Chie, Coke for me, NOW, HOW COULD ONE NOT LOSE WEIGHT EAT SO HEALTH CONCIOUSLY?? I wasnt about to let anyone take credit for all your great cooking. I explained it was due to the fact that she was back on her old diet of japanese food and how we can take one bento and make dinner breakfast and a little bit of lunch out of it. "Theyre really healthy people" I told her. She thought and finally agreed that 7pounds seemed a bit much for the changes made by the dieticians, Especially since we have never followed it, nor has anyone else. So, to give credit where it is due,, I thank you all for you hard work and great cooking, keep it coming!!! She loves it!!!!!!!! I can do curry rice ,, but you can only eat so much cury rice, you know? I really do appreciate it, from Akiko at Ichijo to Sakamoto at TEI TEI, and all in between , keiko, keiko, keiko, akiko, megumi, kazuko, kunisawa (A true bachelor's bento, hope your wife made it home safe, lol),
THANKS THANKS THANK YOU


Weve been to the dog park a couple of times on the weekend. She still just loves to hold and hug them and love them. Everybody at the dog park is very kind to us when we go talking and showing us their dogs. We saw all kinds , baby pomeranian, jack russells, mini greyhounds, catahoola, , , its really nice for her to see them. so thank you to the owners of Connor, patches, cinnamon, carlo, Winston etc... I wish we could get one but still , chie is wanting an AKITA,, wonderful ,, what are they the biggest dog known to man?? Well, maybe we will see one on the 30th at the fall festival, then she can see its too big!!!! Lets hope,, Never know,,, Hope to see you all there and as always,
We are indebted for your Support
Chie

Recent Activities

RECENT NEWS

Chie has enjoyed seeing everybody when you stop by, and when you drop off japanese treats. Finally, I can go a week without hearing Okonomiyaki. I thought I was never gonna find anyone to make okonomiyaki!! And the funny thing is, I dont ever remember her eating it much in japan. What has she been up to?? Not a whole lot, visiting with friends during the week and pretty much trying to take it easy on the weekends.

We did have a couple of highlights though. She has been asking to go to a sports event for some time now (that's what inspired the race night), so in the mail she finally received tickets to see the Mariners VS Rangers. We went on Saturday the 25 with hopes to see Ichiro but he was not playing. Saiyaku ne, we did get to see Johjima though and enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. She had peanut, nachos,and a hotdog!!!!! Plus, the Rangers actually managed to pull out a victory!!! It really made her feel good to get out and get to do something big!

She finally got out and helped water the yard as we all pitched in to do yard work. One mowing, one watering and one weedeating. It was group effort and the yard is looking good. Chie did pretty well watering except that she seemed to do much better at watering Yuri and I than she did at watering the grass. No worries though, it was hot enough that we could appreciate the cool water. She also got some time to visit with our neighbor and pet one of the dogs in our neighborhood. Good community activity for her. Her piano is improving as well. She is only doing scales but I am hearing her become more and more focussed each time she tries. Then last Saturday we celebrated our Assistant Sheila's Birthday as she turned 21, AGAIN!!!!! It wasnt much of a celebration but we tried to do what we could. She has been a life saver for us and we are so lucky to have her. We love ya Sheila and thank you for all your hard work. (Chie will be a bride's maid in her wedding this coming march!)

She is a bit depressed still from the extended stay and the constant frustration and difficulties of everyday routines, so we have been laying low on the weekends and taking some time to reflect. It is just so very hard for both of us to peer into our futures and not become overwhelmed with emotions. Chie is tryiing to stay strong and I too for her just as you have for us, Thank You All.

We did all get out in the yard a couple of weeks ago

Writing and Races and Tongue Twisters!!! Aug 20, 2007

We made it through another wonderful weekend. We were not quite as busy this weekend, so had some time to kick back and relax. We had a nice sit down dinner Friday while her roomate prepared to head home for the weekend. Chie was worried that her roommates two little girls might be hungry so she invited them to try some pasta, and sure enough, they were hungry. We sat and visited with her husband about tatoos. He has several and while Chie thought they were interesting I think she is going to hold off before getting any of her own.
Chie called Friday night late to tell me that she wanted to write this weekend!!!! I told her that it would not be a problem and set up her writing station so it would be ready for her saturday. When she began writing Saturday she was absolutely amazed at how much she had improved. She wrote her name so well, I wish you all could have seen the smile on her face. It was worth a million dollars!!! She was so happy and proud of herself it made us both cry a little, this time I can gladly say, they were tears of happiness! After napping she felt bored and was giving me the third degree about how we had not done anything (perhaps she didnt realize she had only been up for two hours between naps). Never the less, she sought excitement and was ready to do something. I quickly finishe up the lawn and ran to get Sheila and we were off the Devil's Bowl Speedway to watch some races! It was a good time and lots of excitement since we were sitting front row! Unfortunately our good friend Brad aka "Scooter DeVille" was not racing but we will catch him next time. It was a late night and we didnt make it in till after eleven. Sunday was filled with more naps after brunch at Po Melvins. Our waiter who always took care of us no longer works there and Chie is none to happy about it. I get drilled every Sunday about where he is and why he isnt there etc....Now she isnt sure we need to go every Sunday. She is a character. Thankfully, she was able to get Udon, her favorite food, at Keiko's that evening. We had a great dinner there and enjoyed Rajit's delicious cooking. We had a lot of fun doing her Japanese tongue twisters before showering up and hitting the sack. If you are visiting you may want to do a few with her (they are on her lamp in her room).
We will update you soon.
And I will post some pictures of her with our family and friends!
DAVID


***It has been a bit of a difficult time for Chie recently as she sees her new friends leave from clinic it makes her feel a lonely. It is often difficult to see the progress you are making. This tends to make her feel sad as though she is not progressing. She has a difficult time realizing that most of the clients are only discharging because there insurance benefits are being cut. I try to explain that most are only moving on to another rehab facility somewhere else closer to there homes, as many come from all over the USA to be here, and that she is very lucky to be able to stay. When I explain this to her it makes sense but she forgets and gets down on herself. We are working on controlling our emotions and carrying ourselves with grace and dignity in a lady like manner in counselling. We want her to realize that she is a beautiful person and when sitting calm and composed, you would never know that she had been in an accident. It is very important that she see that she is a beautiful woman with a beautiful heart not just to others but to herself. Chie has been putting up a fair amount of opposition to this idea so we could use your help. When you see her or send letters perhaps you could mention some of her qualities that make her the unique individual she is. We would greatly appreciate it and it would really help to boost her spirits.

Donations

******DONATIONS******

Currently, All those contributing to Chie's recovery will receive a TAX CREDIT.

Donations are a real life line for Chie's recovery

As many of you know, much of Chie's recovery has been made possible by her supporter's donations. The insurance and medical bills have reached levels that exceed the families income. Without the support and kindness of individuals like you the cost of Chie's recovery simply could not be afforded by the family.

Donations may be made in conjunction with the ICC

Make Checks Payable to : The ICC

Memo(BOTTOM LEFT OF CHECK): Write "FOR CHIE BLUMENTHAL"

MAIL TO : CHIE BLUMENTHAL

cc: THE ICC

70 MAN-O-WAR

FAIRVIEW , TX 75069

TAX CREDIT- In order to receive your tax credit please include your Name/ Business Name along with the return address. Upon receiving your donation, the ICC will issue your tax credit slip to the return address designated with your donation.

We Thank You All For Your Continued Support and

Look Forward to Seeing You Soon!

Legs 100 % Healed!!!

Well , we visited our doctor in Ortho. She was super happy to see new pictures of Chie's once broken leg that is now 100% healed. She was pleased that it had healed so wellsaid the leg looks fantastic and all the pins are in alignment. Chie was happy to hear it.
Chie has done really well over the last month and improved in lots of areas. She rode the bike for 2.3 miles and was able to stand unsupported for over 5 minutes! This is a really big accomplishment for her therapists were very proud of her. She is getting stronger and stronger with her walker everyday.

AUG. 5 2007

Well, its been a long and trying week. Chie had to deal with a lot of emotions this week as two of her friends from the clinic were discharged. One was a friend who she really took under her wing and was trying very hard to comfort and encourage during these early stages of his recovery. We have been working on controlling our emotions and realizing the affect it has on others when we have outbursts. This week was a real test with two people being discharged. At times it was more than she could handle. We had to leave early a couple of times and redirect to different activities to avoid upsetting ourselves and others, sorry if we missed anyone visiting.
On a lighter note, we were able to have some great fun this week as well. Chie enjoyed some fresh pears brought by her roommate from her house in east Texas as well as some blueberry muffins made with fresh blueberries her friend Akiko picked in Tyler Texas. She enjoyed all the bentos this week brought by friends and says thank you so much to everyone for the Oishi bentos.
Friday she was suprised by a visit from her Sister in law and niece and nephew!!! We are spending the weekend visiting with them. Chie immediately noticed our niece, age 13, was struggling for attention at this difficult age and named her "Princess for the Day." Chie told me it was important for her to feel special and so we did what she wanted for the afternoon. We took her to the Japanese market and got her some of her favorite foods that she cant find on the plains of New Mexico where she is now living. Then we went for a shopping spree at the mall in search of some Black Converse shoes that she has wanted. Our niece found her shoes and Chie managed to find a beautiful new dress she just had to have for her big night of Karaoke with Akiko and Keiko. After a quick nap two old friends dropped by and fired up the grill for a BBQ. Chie was excited about eating steak and veggies while visiting with her old friends.
Saturday night we met Keiko and Akiko at the Karaoke box and sang sang sang. Chie was really suprised at just how many songs she could remember. It was a great night and we thank you girls for taking us. It really brought back a lot of memories for Chie and good times she used to have. She is eager to go again soon!!!
Today we had our usual breakfast at Po' Melvins and then showed our family around Chie's apartment. Chie really enjoyed explaining all of her pictures as a child to our niece and sister. She said she really noticed now, the value of pictures and said she wants more of them from when she was little. Now we are down for a nap before showing the family around one of her favorite places , the dog park at Whiterock Lake.
Thank you all for your continued support and we will upadate again soon.
DAVID

EYE SURGERY

Chie did have eye surgery earlier this month and is doing just fine. It was a thirty minute procedure to straighten her right eye. There were no complications and the doctor said he was very pleased with the results. Her eye is cleared up now. Her eyelid droops down a bit still and we will look at having cosmetic surgery to fix it in September. Sorry not to have told you sooner but the surgery came fast, about two weeks from our first Doctor visit!!

CHIE UPDATE JULY 26

HI Everyone,
I know its been a long long long time since I have had a chance to email but Im finally getting to it. Summer has not been very relaxing at all, but we're alive and Chie is healthy so I can't complain. She has really enjoyed the rally of support brought on by the Japan America Society's story in their newsletter that our friend Keiko wrote (arigatogozaimasu) and the ICC. Thank you all sooooo much. She is happily back on her native diet the majority of the time and enjoys visiting with all her friends both new and old. I remember when one of her first visitors called to come see her. Chie had never met her before but was so excited. she hung up the phone and told me her friend was coming, then repeating "my friends" to herself several times louder and happier everytime she said it. Its times like that when you see just how much it means to someone to have a friend when they are down. PRICELESS!
She remains in good spirits and continues rehab everyday putting forth nothing less than 100%. Progress seems slow at times but little by little we will get better. ONe of her doctors gave her a real boost by pointing out all she can do now like, sit up straight, calm, relaxed, controlling her tremors in the arm and head, her improvement in speech and memory, movement in the left arm and hand, and strength throughout her arms and body. These were all things she could not do when he first saw her in late December. We were both pleased to hear that. He went on to say that when he first looked at her case he felt discouraged to see the multiple tears and sheering to her head, but now looking at her progress he felt it was actually a good thing. If all the damage was to one area and it did not heal then there would be notning for him to do. It would be a done deal. Seeing her now it appears that all of her injuries are healing to some extent so the potential for a better recovery is there. Unfortunately, our brains are not known for speed when healing. All of our brains heal at the same rate and its a slow process, 12 - 18 months usually, but we are still seeing good signs and improvement so we keep working to see just how far we can take it.
She still has her selfless character and strong desire to work as she helps and counsels others at the clinic every chance she gets in an effort to provide them with a little comfort and assurance that they are alright and will get better. In addition to that she has begun tutoring one of her friends in Japanese. He is an outstanding student and makes Chie very proud each week. In return he helps to get her playihg the piano again. Its quite discouraging for her to go from her level of play prior to the injury to where she is now. We're hoping this will kind of wake up that left arm and hand, finger memory the pianists call it. She is starting with scales and did much better last week than the week before so let's hope for best!
I will get back with another update soon.. IM new tothis blog bit and am still learning so I hope to update you all more often .. Ill finish soon , but now i have to run to Chie's and suprise her! Talk to you soon and thanks forall your continued support
DAVE

HERE WE GO

1, 2, 1, 2 ARE WE ROLLIN' ???
WELCOME EVERYBODY
TO
CHIE'S NEW BLOGSITE!!!!!
HELP CHIE AS SHE BATTLES BACK DOWN THAT LONG AND TEDIOUS ROAD TO RECOVERY
FOR GATHERED SUPPORT, UPDATES, AND NEWS


Well, after much time and much support from the ICC (Thanks) I am going to give this a try in hopes that it will allow me to update everybody with a little more frequency than my current rate of update.

A MUCH DESERVED THANK YOU
Let me begin by saying thanks to so many of you for all your help and continued support without which Chie and I would not have made it this far. We are just over the year mark and when I think back one year ago and who was there and who helped me keep my sanity, gave me direction and the support to push on at a time when I was so lost and overwhelmed with shock and emotions. I break out in tears just thinking about it but do want you to know it is not forgotten; Our families here and in Japan. My sister,Bao and Steph for all the long evenings at the hospital, Trotta and Mel, Lauren, Bubba, Kev, Rosetta and all the McCreas, Catherine for the essential, Mike at Campissis, Bill from After Hour Services for home repair and making sure we had light and could use the bathroom when relatives flew in, Delton for the advice, Friends old and new for the long hours on the phone in the middle of the night, from BT up on the Alaskan North Slope, Timmy way down under in Oz, Petey in England, JOJO in Osaka and frends all over the world thanks for the ear, The Richland Family Noelli, David, Bao, Kathy, Flor, Pablo, Babs, Mary, Diane, All, all of you at Richland for the auction and all that you do, the Aschners /Sitrins for the many wonderful meals and rock solid support, Kayla for gathering support, OPAQUE for the musical support Nicholly Craig thanks, Ricky for the clothes, Hiroe & Aunt Pammy for the long luch visits to Kindred, All KINDRED STAFF and DR PERIJOC, the stars at Silberstein, Debbie and Ron at the STring Bean, Tamako and Ino at Ino, Masudasan Sensei for Osechi Riori and her students Keiko and Akiko for giving us our second wind, Japan America Society, Akiko & YurIka at Ichijo for our steady japanese diet (anta ichiban yo), Kazuko and ... uh.. ger.. main... RAYMOND! Keiko Shimoida, the kind staff at Po' Melvin's, Chubby's, Sheila Mayfield, Ernestien, New Orleans & Laura at CNS who are worth their weight in gold, Tim & Kaori, Jean Antoine, Yukimi, Noriko, Barry& Jun, Yasushi, Yoshi, Saori at Develop, Ayami, Gonchan, Hattasan. the Coker's, Julia Keith, Tim & Kaori and all continuing to come, AND the ICC for getting this going and giving us a breath of hope.
There is really no way for me to put in words how much it means and how greatful I am for all that you have and are doing for us. As I have said before, it is the kinds hearts of people like you that we owe this recovery to. You are our heroes. We are eternally indebted to you for making this possible.
Thank You,
David Blumenthal.

1, 2, 1, 2 ARE WE ROLLIN' ???

WELCOME EVERYBODY

TO

CHIE'S NEW BLOGSITE!!!!!

• HELP CHIE AS SHE BATTLES BACK DOWN THAT LONG AND TEDIOUS ROAD TO RECOVERY
• FOR GATHERED SUPPORT, UPDATES, AND NEWS