Laura had another great weekend and continued her progression over the past few days. At this stage of her recovery, Laura’s accomplishments are impressive. We know that you want some specifics on her recent progress, so we have them. She has started to open and close her fingers on command to make a fist and release the fist. During therapy, oftentimes Laura is sat up on the mat. We were told of the major improvements that she has made in this area. The ease at which she sits and the overall control of her body has improved significantly. In one case, Laura’s face became “buried” in the shoulder of one of her therapists. In an instant, Laura picked her head up and shifted into a new position to enable nasal breathing. We were told that this one act signifies a substantial level of brain functioning. She had to move her head back, which has been a difficult proposition of late.

After being sent the application multiple times, Laura and I are applying for the Crescent Fund grant through the Tri-Delta organization (Laura’s sorority). To apply, we needed letters of referral from professionals who could explain our needs and the reasons that we are applying. Our wish is that you could read these letters. Without sharing the names of the authors, we can share the message. The letters were all different, but contained many similarities. These letters all described the seriousness of Laura’s injury and how not much hope was initially given. They discussed Laura’s incredible determination and will to reclaim her life. Furthermore, these letters are a testimony to God’s miracle and the fact that none of these authors expected Laura to be where she is now. From the beginning, we were told how important these months are in Laura’s recovery (especially months 6-12). We are approaching the 6-month mark, which will take place on the 15th of January. We all know how far Laura has come. Imagine what is in store over these upcoming glorious months!

This process and the nature of traumatic brain injury are long, arduous, and demanding both physically and mentally. We all want Laura healed quickly and fully. Laura occupies a place inside many of us. We all have a void due to this temporary loss. Some of us have more substantial voids than others, but these voids do exist. Giving the temporary loss and the extreme length of time of the process, loneliness can be a substantial foe. One of the beauties of trusting and maintaining faith in the Lord is that a new perfect relationship is formed. We may have moments of loneliness in the physical, but our Spirit and Souls are fixed on the Truth. When Laura is completely healed by the miraculous powers of that same Truth, this tragedy and the overcoming of it will become pure victory. Every aspect of this journey will have brought glory to God and light to the World. Be proud of Laura’s short-term accomplishments, but be fixed on the long-term reality.

WHEN THEY WERE ALONE, HE EXPLAINED ALL THINGS TO HIS DISCIPLES. (Mark 4:34)

We love you,
Jeff and Laura Laughlin.