Steven T. Hill Stroke Foundation

WE'VE LAUNCHED!

2009-09-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

We have launched our new website! Please visit the following link to get the latest update on Steven and the Foundation's events:

www.STHStrokeFoundation.org

Thank you for continuing to follow us!

Kelly

PREPARING TO LAUNCH...(!!!)

2009-09-24T14:57:00.001-07:00

2009-09-20T11:40:00.000-07:00

Here's some more of our golf supporters on the course!

And what a great picture of Lynda, Steven and Tanya taken today!

STEVEN HAS A SURGERY DATE!

We are thrilled to announce Steven's surgery date: on September 30th Steven will have his skull flap removed from his abdomen and reattached onto his head! Tanya's Mom, Lynda, has agreed to stay an extra week in order to manage Steven's after-care.

Mid-October, Lynda will return to Ogdensburg, NY and my Mom, Marilyn, will stay with Steven Mondays and Tuesdays, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays we will find a 12-hour aid to be with him. Tanya will work from home on Fridays.

Things are falling into place and Steven is continuing to make progress in all areas of his therapies. One of his new favorite things is doing puzzles! Please take a moment to send him a card, as he loves to get mail and hasn't received much in awhile.

Steven Hill

133 Blackstone Street

Bellingham, MA 02019

Tanya also encourages scheduled visitors on the weekends. Please email her to set something up: tanyahill1022@Gmail.com. Steven would LOVE to see some of his supporters!

IN THE PIPELINE

Our new website is on schedule to launch within a week or so! I will send an email announcement when it is official. I am so very excited for this much-needed new site. The Foundation has simply outgrown the capacity of this blog! I will still continue the blog, but you will need to visit the NEWS section of the new website: http://www.sthstrokefoundation.org/.

A big, huge, tremendous thank you goes out to the 3 very talented and giving individuals who have generously DONATED their time and efforts to build this site! Lori LoTurco, Matt Dyson and Kerri Augenstein. I am in awe of you all and am forever grateful for what you are doing for Steven and the Foundation! Thank you!!

SUCCESS!

2009-09-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

The 1st Annual Golf Outing was a huge success!

Approximately 80 golfers joined us at Stow Acres yesterday for a fun day of golf, all in support of Steven. (More pictures to come shortly.) A huge thank you to everyone who came and helped make this event one to remember. About 95% of the golfers were my husband's contacts through work and I am overwhelmed with how generous they all were despite not even knowing me or Steven. Dan, you did an amazing job making this event a success! I am proud of you and feel lucky to have you as my husband.

Special thanks go to the fabulous raffle girls - I don't know what I would have done without them and they were a HUGE hit. They jumped right in stuffing welcome bags for the carts and selling raffles and contests. They now know what a mulligan is, how to drive a golf cart (sort of) and how to cut and light a cigar. Another special thank you goes to Ed LoTurco who has been tirelessly working with us since June and was by our side again yesterday. Ed hasn't missed a Foundation meeting and is always ready and willing to do whatever we need. I am forever grateful.

The Stow Acres staff was excellent, and commented on how organized and fun we were, and how we were able to add a few new twists to the average golf outing. They also loved our "uniforms"!

I truly hope more of you will join us next year. I had more fun than I anticipated and look forward to the 2nd Annual event!

YARD SALE, TAKE TWO

Hopefully my Mom, Dad and I will see some of you at the yard/bake sale tomorrow. Jessie and I will be busy baking later today and we welcome you to swing by 11 Sherman Street in Lexington tomorrow for a coffee and brownie, and to browse the yard sale items. I will also have the (almost sold out) new fleece jackets and long-sleeve tees with me! Remember, the proceeds of the bake sale go to the Foundation! Thank you for your support!

Yard/Bake Sale

Saturday, September 19th

9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

11 Sherman Street

Lexington

2009-09-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

I have received a few emails indicating the change of yard sale date due to the rain on Saturday prohibited some supporters from stopping by Sherman Street to purchase a fleece, share in a coffee, and enjoy a visit with Steven's family.

Although the day was successful thanks to a couple generous donors, neighbors and family purchasing apparel, and hungry Steven Supporters who paid $20.00 for a brownie (thank you!), we were hoping for a better turnout.

Therefore, we will having ANOTHER YARD AND BAKE SALE on Saturday!

Mark your calendars:

Saturday, September 19th

9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

11 Sherman Street

Swing by!

EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER

As Steven says something new or reaches a new milestone, we all fill with excitement and celebrate the amazing progress he is making. However, we can't expect Steven to always have a smile on his face while working so hard day-in and day-out on climbing up his tree. There are moments of sadness, anger and frustration, and these times are so difficult that it's often easy to get stuck on them.

Steven had a rough afternoon on Saturday, and we were all in tears after hearing from Tanya what the day had been like. Steven seemed frustrated and down on himself, and was having a hard time communicating what he wanted or was feeling. Tanya was strong, and made sure Steven did not see her crying, and helped him focus on the positive by reassuring him that he is getting better! Depression goes hand-in-hand with this type of stroke, so we are trying to do anything we can to keep Steven's spirits up and stay positive!

"SWING" BY!

2009-09-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY, 9/13.

We hope to see you at our yard sale this weekend! It is from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Sherman Street in Lexington. In addition to all the good stuff we will be selling, there will also be yummy treats being sold by Jessie to benefit the Foundation.

Additionally, I will be selling monkey tees and hats, as well as items from our new winter gear collection, including the long sleeve, full-zip, fleece jacket you see Dan wearing in the picture below! ($45.00) I only ordered 24 of these in various sizes, so get yours while they last! Long sleeve monkey tees and sweatshirts with the logo embroidered on the chest are also available in limited quantities.

GOLF GOLF GOLF!

Did you see our HUGE, color ad in the Lexington Minuteman on Thursday 9/10 (page 10)? We still have a few spots open and we want to fill them! The weather forecast looks GREAT for next Thursday, 9/17, so send me an email and we'll save you a spot!

Steven continues to make improvements, and in doing so, continues to need your help to fund his rehabilitation. Tanya has been informed that once her mother leaves in TWO SHORT WEEKS, Steven will need 12-hour care daily, which will be approximately $1200-$1500 dollars WEEKLY, NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE. We truly appreciate your continued support!

"EVERYTHING SALE", NEXT SATURDAY, 9/12 (RAIN DATE: Sunday, 9/13)

2009-09-06T14:45:00.001-07:00

Please mark your calendars for next Saturday, September 12th (rain date is Sunday, September 13th)! From 9-1 there will be a HUGE multi-family yard sale in my Mom's neighborhood! Head over to Sherman Street in Lexington for some great deals. Lots of kid stuff, housewares and clothing!

Jessie (shown above) will be holding a bake sale also. Inspired by another Amesbury 4-year-old, Riley (you may remember me posting about her generosity earlier in the summer), Jessie is excited to make signs and spend all day Friday baking yummy things "to help Uncle Steven." Jessie fully understands that all funds raised will be given to The Steven T. Hill Stroke Foundation, and is proud to be helping her Uncle.

Also being sold: monkey tees and hats! And new to our collection: items for Fall, including long-sleeve tees!

STEVEN'S SURGERY DATE...STILL UNKNOWN

The appointment at BWH went well, however the surgeon is erring on the side of caution and not willing to set a date for the reattachment of Steven's skull piece yet. The veins are still quite traumatized from the effects of the stroke, and the surgeon does not want to risk any further complications. We were a bit bummed, but of course just want what is best for Steven. Tanya and Steven went for a walk yesterday in this beautiful holiday weekend weather, and she said he enjoyed it quite a bit!

HERE A MONKEY, THERE A MONKEY

Here is our latest little monkey! This is a picture of Noah Avery from New York. Tanya's sister, Becky, sends her son, Liam, to Noah's Mom, Jamie, for childcare. Did you follow that?! Jamie, we are happy to have Noah join our clan of Steven's littlest monkey supporters! Thanks for climbing aboard!

WANTED: SPEECH THERAPIST

2009-09-03T17:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Steven Supporters!

Steven visits the surgeon at BWH tomorrow and hopefully gets a date for the reattachment of his skull piece! We are all eagerly anticipating the news!

Soon after the surgery, Steven's insurance will no longer cover home care therapies. Steven will do a long commute to and from Spaulding-Framingham for his physical, occupational and speech therapies. These sessions are approximately one-hour each, and due to the distance of Framingham from Bellingham, all three therapies would be scheduled back-to-back.

HOWEVER, this is simply too much for Steven at this point. Each therapy requires physical strength and/or mental concentration, and 3+ hours in a row is too exhausting to be beneficial for him.

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR A FREELANCE SPEECH THERAPIST!

We would greatly appreciate your recommendations for an EXCELLENT speech therapist who would be willing and excited to work with Steven at his Bellingham home. Please email me at STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com with any leads and connections you may have. We truly appreciate your support in Steven's continuing care!

GOLFERS, THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE!

We still have approximately 50 spots available for golfers at our 1st Annual 'Strokes Fore Stroke' golf outing on Thursday, September 17th at Stow Acres Country Club. Please consider golfing in the beautiful September weather to help Steven! You do not have to be an expert golfer! The event is all about having fun, enjoying the day, and supporting Steven!

We have great raffle items, yet again. Some of them are a 'Wii' with sports bundle AND the new Tiger Woods golf 2010 Wii game, a 19-inch Vizio flat-screen TV, dinner outing for 10 at Flatbread Pizza in Bedford, and more! Prizes are awarded to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and last place. Breakfast is included, as well as a bbq lunch. One of the NINE golfing contests offered is a 50-foot putting contest for $5,000.00!!!

Response forms are on the right-hand sidebar, or you may email me at STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com. All major credit cards are accepted!

2009-08-31T07:12:00.001-07:00

WOW!

What an amazing experience to be on WBZ 1030 AM with master of talk radio, Jordan Rich. Thank you so much to WBZ and especially to Jordan for allowing us to share Steven's Story with the WBZ listeners and help continue to educate the community about stroke. Thank you also to Dr. Matthew Tilem from Lahey's Stroke Program (which received a "Gold" achievement award from the American Stroke Association) for adding his medical expertise to the hour-long interview (you can read a stroke story and see a picture of Dr. Tilem here: http://www.lahey.org/pdf/Medical/HeartVascular/MeetingtheChallenge.pdf).

The evening began when I picked up Tom Moore, Steven's former co-worker at Wellington and longtime friend and the person responsible for coordinating the interview, from his Derry, NH home. We spent the long drive into WBZ, both nervous, discussing our interview strategies.

After surviving the scare of hundreds of bats flying out of the trees that lined the WBZ building directly above us as we walked in, Jordan quickly put us at ease with his smile, warmth and welcoming demeanor. Unexpectedly, Jordan gave us a tour of the WBZ studios. Imagine my surprise when I saw Barry Burbank, WBZ meteorologist, working inside his state-of-the-art weather center. Yes, he really has a Weather Center!

The interview began at 10:00 p.m. and Tanya called in from her home in Bellingham. Tanya did a wonderful job and told Steven's Story so poignantly. I was shocked when we went to the first commercial break to see that it was already 10:20! The time absolutely flew by.

Jordan went out of his way to continually include us all in the discussion and mention this website over and over again. I truly appreciate his dedication to spreading the word about Steven and educating the community about stroke.

He is kindly emailing me a commercial-free copy of the show, which I will promptly post here for those of you who may have missed it. To end an already fabulous evening, Jordan shared that he will personally be making a donation to the Foundation. I feel blessed to have met such a wonderful person, and to have been given this opportunity for Steven. THANK YOU, JORDAN RICH!

2009-08-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

LISTEN ON YOUR RADIO OR ONLINE...

Tonight at 10 p.m., tune your radios to WBZ 1030 AM for our segment on the Jordan Rich show!
To listen online...

Visit this page:
http://www.wbz.com/pages/6202.php
In the top right-hand corner, there is a red bar that says "LISTEN LIVE NOW". Click that and wait through a short 15-second commercial, then the show will start in real-time!

2009-08-27T16:41:00.000-07:00

As you can see, Salem the cat enjoys spending time relaxing with Steven on the living room couch... and Steven enjoys it too I'm sure!

TUNE IN ON YOUR RADIO...

A reminder that we will make our radio debut on Sunday!

This Sunday, August 30th, we will be the featured guests on the Jordan Rich show on WBZ 1030 AM. The show will run live from 10:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. We are honored and very excited! Talk radio fans will know this show, as it is one of WBZ's most popular! I was never a talk radio buff until now - no more just listening to "traffic on the 3's" for this monkey!

HOW IS OUR MONKEY DOING?!

One word: GREAT!

The therapists have all reported noticeable improvements each time they visit Steven! Tanya works with him outside of their visits, and all of Steven's hard work is continuing to pay off! Tanya's Mom, Lynda, comes from New York tomorrow and will stay with them for several weeks, up through when Steven has his next surgery to replace his skull piece. She will be a much-needed extra set of hands - and a skilled extra set at that as she happens to be a nurse! Steven has an appointment on September 4th, at which a date will be set for the much-anticipated skull surgery!

WONDERFUL ADDITIONS TO STEVEN'S MEDICAL TEAM

We would like to formally welcome and thank the newest additions to Steven's growing medical team. VNA Carenetwork has connected Steven with Connie (the nurse), Bonnie (the PT), Sandy (the OT), and Molly (speech). They are all wonderful additions and we are thankful to have them!

A LOOK BACK

It's hard to believe that it was just May 30th when Steven suffered his stroke. What a whirlwind summer this has been! It's easy to forget how serious Steven's situation was, and still is. I think it's important for us to continually move forward and stay positive about the future, but at the same time it is also important to remember how sudden this happened, and how Steven's life was almost taken from us.

With that being said, I want to remind you that Steven was enjoying a fabulous vacation in Jamaica when he unexpectedly collapsed into a seizure the morning they were due to board a plane home. They were staying at the Sandals Grande Ocho Rios, and Tanya wanted me to mention the incredible staff there, who tended to their every need, especially Brian Roper, and never left their side as they were transported to one hospital, and then another, and then onto a med flight to Aventura, Florida. They have continued to stay in touch with Tanya, calling every week while they were in Florida, and are genuinely concerned about Steven. Wow. People are amazing! Keep climbing Steven! We love you.

2009-08-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

Steven has continued to settle in at home with Tanya and his two cats. The therapists have been coming to the house and Steven continues to make progress with them. He has had a few visitors, which he has enjoyed (A reminder to email Tanya to schedule a visit: tanyahill1022@gmail.com). Tanya has been able to work from home, which has allowed everyone to adjust into new routines.

My parents visited today and found Tanya ripping up the hallway carpet. Sadly, their older cat, Tyker, has not been doing well, which I'm sure has added to Tanya's stress level, not to mention her already stretched emotional state. She has proved to be such a strong person through all of this, that I'm sure she will get through this as well. Hang in there, Tanya!

HEAT AND PIZZA

On Friday, my Mom and I spent the day dragging my two kids in and out of the car in the oppressive heat while we solicited local businesses for donations to the raffle at our upcoming golf outing. The kids were so good, and I was proud of my Mom, who was so nervous to ask people for donations that you would have thought I was asking her to bungee jump from the Zakim bridge. We donned our monkey tees and pleaded our case, only hearing one 'no' all afternoon. We received particular generosity at Flatbread Pizza in Bedford (near where Sun Microsystems used to be, on the Burlington line). Sean Toomey, the general manager, really showed us how wonderful people can be. If you eat there, please give a big thank you to Sean!

HERE A MONKEY, THERE A MONKEY

Here is Emily, Liam and Jenna, Tanya and Steven's nieces and nephew in New York. Thank you to Becky, Tanya's sister, for the super cute picture of her adorable monkeys!

ART, ART, AND MORE ART!

2009-08-21T07:40:00.000-07:00

There is another artist who has teamed up to support Steven by participating in the "Art in Australia" fundraiser! Please visit his collection and make a purchase!

http://www.redbubble.com/people/dawesy/art

PAYPAL IS HERE!

2009-08-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

You have asked.... er, more like BEGGED... and now it's here!

We can now accept your donations online through your paypal account or any major credit card! Thank you for being patient with me as I slowly get comfortable with all this technology!

Coming soon: online ordering of the monkey tees and hats (baby steps.)

2009-08-19T16:32:00.000-07:00

Steven had a doctor's appointment today at Brigham and Women's with a hematologist in the new Shapiro Center. They loved the doctor, and he is excited to be part of Steven's medical team. He will be closely following Steven because of his Protein C Deficiency and his long-term Coumadin use. If his Coumadin levels continue to be stable, his skull piece will be reattached mid-to-late September!

UP AND COMING...

A reminder to mark your calendars for our radio debut! We will be the featured guests on the 'Jordan Rich Show' on WBZ Radio 1030 AM, Sunday evening at 10:00 p.m. on August 30th. Visit his page on WBZ's website: http://www.wbz.com/pages/6202.php.

Our new website is also quickly emerging with an anticipated launch date of mid-September. When that happens you will need to visit www.STHStrokeFoundation.org to continue to follow Steven's progress!

I NEED YOUR HELP!

2009-08-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

In an effort to continue fundraising to help Steven, I am always thinking ahead. I would really love to organize the 1st Annual 'Strides For Stroke' Turkey Trot...but I need your help!

Friends of mine who are runners assure me that turkey trots are great fun, and there is a lack of one in Lexington! Since I have only run in one 5k in my entire life, I am starting from square one, and would love for some of you to help me!

If you are a runner, have experience organizing a race, or know someone - a person, a local business, or a running club - willing to help me, please email me! STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com . Thank you!

HAPPILY ADJUSTING

2009-08-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

I visited Steven today and I was excited to see him happily adjusting (back) into his home. Since Wednesday he has had busy days filled with visitors and new therapists.

A WELL-DESERVED PLUG FOR AN OUTSTANDING GUY

Steven and Tanya have a friend, Tom Moore, who also was the DJ at their wedding in October of 2005 and was our DJ and Host for "2 Nights, 2 Events" (for which he volunteered his time.) Those of you who were at either the Boston or the Lexington event will recall what an excellent job Tom did, and through his fabulous auctioneering he helped everyone "Monkey Up" for Steven!

Tom is also the person solely responsible for getting us onto the "Jordan Rich Show" on WBZ Radio 1030 AM on Sunday, August 30th at 10:00 p.m. This show is very popular and will give the Foundation and Steven some great exposure!

Well Tom has Monkey'd up, yet again! The VNA told Tanya she needed a banister installed for the front stairs, and Tom had already asked his cousin, Bill Gately of LAG Home Improvement and Excavating, if he was willing to help out - and he agreed! The banister was installed within 24 hours, and a safety bar in the bathroom too! If you need an awesome DJ, please use Tom! http://uni1pro.tripod.com/ . And Bill is located in Rhode Island, not far from the Massachusetts border: 401-692-0644.

COMFY AT HOME

Steven was sitting comfortably in the living room today, feet up, watching tv. He said he was thrilled to be home! After my 4-year-old quieted down from her temper tantrum (free entertainment, as I told Steven) we had a nice visit. Tanya got out and did some errands and Steven tried to answer my question regarding the big, oval, black thing next to me - "Is this a huge speaker or a huge cat-scratching post?" "Yes, No." He responded. "Wait a minute," we both laughed. "Is it a speaker?" "Yes," (shrugs his shoulders). "Is it a cat-scratching post?" "No." Hmm...he didn't seem to like either of my suggestions of what the big, oval, black thing next to me was. Sure enough, Tanya settled our comical miscommunication by letting me know that it was, in fact, a big, oval, black subwoofer. "YES!" Steven says, "OH!" I said.

Steven also counted to 10 for me while lifting his right leg up 10 times. He didn't want to do it, but Tanya and I wouldn't let him out of it!

Tanya reports that Steven's new therapists are excellent, and were impressed by the progress Steven has already made! And if things continue the way they are going, everything seems to be right on track for reattaching his skull piece by mid-September!

VISITORS?

We know you are all eager to see Steven, and he is eager to see you! If you would like to visit, please email Tanya at this email: tanyahill1022@gmail.com . Steven and Tanya live in Bellingham, which is down near the Wrentham Outlets. We respectfully ask that you limit your visits to approximately 30 minutes. Other than that, enjoy your visit!

HERE A MONKEY, THERE A MONKEY

Here is our latest monkey photo! This photo is of Jake, Steven's nephew (Tanya's brother Derek's son,) standing next to the Saint Lawrence River in Ogdensburg, New York (where Tanya is from) with the Ogdensburg-Prescott, Ontario Canada Bridge and Canada in the background. Looking good, Jake! Love the hat. ;)

A LONG-AWAITED HOMECOMING!

2009-08-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Hooray! Steven is home in Bellingham!

Tanya and her friend Rachael drove into Spaulding early this morning, and Steven was released around 10 a.m. After many pictures with staff and a tearful farewell, Tanya helped Steven into the car for the long ride home together. The last time Steven and Tanya were in their house together was before they left for their vacation to Jamaica, back on May 23rd.

Balloons, cake and 2 cats awaited Steven's arrival. Elation, excitement and enthusiasm for Steven and Tanya filled the moments that followed. Rachael brought Steven his favorite sub from Town Pizza and the kitties couldn't contain themselves and continuously jumped all over Steven. There is a collective sigh of pure happiness tonight, not just from Steven and Tanya, but from all of you who are reading this. I just know you have a smile on your face!IN A NEW TREE AND MORE BRANCHES TO CLIMB

I like to picture Steven as having jumped from his tree in Florida, to the tree in Boston, and now to this new tree in Bellingham. He will have a new support system, and many more branches to climb! We all are eagerly anticipating his progress now that he is comfortably back at home.

Tomorrow, the Visiting Nurses Association comes by the house to check on Steven and make sure the house is set up adequately for Steven's safety and comfort. We are giving the happy couple the day to themselves to adjust and settle in, and I'm sure do lots of snuggling on their favorite couch with the kitties.

Friday, Steven will get right back into the swing of rehabilitation. He will have visits from speech and physical therapists, and they are getting Lifeline installed in the house. Busy, busy, busy! Can you even believe that it has only been about 10 weeks and Steven is already at home, talking and walking more each day?! Take a moment to look through the pictures on this site to remember that Steven was "2 minutes from dead" as one of the doctor's in Florida told the family. He is truly an amazing person!

A POEM FROM A FELLOW MONKEY SUPPORTER

"New Perspective"

Hello there, world.
Life looks different from this angle
Hanging from this branch,
Upside down.

I once was on the ground.
Life was moving along in a horizontal pattern
With only slight vertical changes
So small I would hardly notice.

Now I mostly live vertically
Climbing from branch to branch
Making an occasional horizontal move
Such as when I swing from tree to tree.

With this tail of mine
I can hang here and take it all in.
A new perspective on leaves and life
In this tall, strong, tree

Familiar, unfamiliar, remember, forget
This perspective has me thinking
Perhaps upside down
Is now right side up.

-Anonymous

SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE!

2009-08-09T16:25:00.000-07:00

Today we gave Steven a small surprise party at Spaulding. He sure was surprised to see us all waiting in the cafeteria as Tanya wheeled him down. We had chocolate cake and banana monkey cupcakes (which, in full disclosure, came out looking more like dogs but were yummy nonetheless), and Steven opened a few presents. Steven's roommate, Don, joined us with his wife and a couple visiting friends (see picture below: Don is on the right and Carolyn is on the left -- You will notice that Don is wearing a Steven T. Hill Stroke Foundation hat, and Carolyn is wearing one of the monkey t-shirts!) Steven's Best Man and Foundation Board Member, Mike Cahalane, also helped celebrate. It was good fun and Steven was all smiles.

HOME SWEET (ALMOST) HOME!!

Steven is officially cleared to come home on Wednesday of this week! Tanya has received all the necessary information regarding his care and rehabilitation while at home, and she has made some home accessibility changes. It goes without saying that they are both very excited. I asked Steven if he was a little nervous, and he said yes, and they both know that there will be a period of transition in which they will get used to each other's routines. But those feelings of anxiety are far overshadowed by the feelings of elation that we all share.

Steven will receive at-home therapies for three weeks, after which he will need to travel to Framingham. The piece of his skull that was removed in early June to allow his brain to swell unimpeded, and which is currently stitched into his abdomen, is tentatively scheduled to be reattached mid-September, and will be done at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Steven will be thrilled when that happens because he will no longer have to wear his helmet!

The cards you have sent Steven at Spaulding cover absolutely every inch of his walls! He loves them all. Thank you so much for your continued support of him. Seeing how much progress he has made is just amazing, and how hard he is working inspires me to work just as hard at continuing to spread the word about this Foundation and Steven's Story.

I told Tanya that she is my number one t-shirt and hat seller: she has just about all of Steven's doctors, nurses and therapists in a hat and/or a tee! Brochures are being handed out right-and-left, and this blog address is being copied and pasted into emails to friends like crazy. I appreciate all the help and have learned not to say no when someone offers to help! If you would like a stack of brochures to hand out, send me an email and I will send some to you. We have blue brochures with information about Steven's Story and the Foundation, and we have green brochures which are specific to the golf outing (these are good to leave at local gyms and shops). Email: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com . I also have PDF versions of the golf outing invitation and registration form that I can easily email you, and then you can simply forward them to a WHOLE BUNCH of your golfing friends and co-workers! I thank you in advance for doing this! Email me for the attachments...

HERE A MONKEY, THERE A MONKEY

Here is our latest "Here a Monkey, There a Monkey" photo. It is of Rachel Bassick's son, Adam. She says that it is his absolute favorite, and that he would wear it every single day if she let him!

WHAT A DAY!

2009-08-06T14:08:00.001-07:00

Steven has been treated like a King at Spaulding today, in honor of his birthday! And he performed all sorts of monkey tricks, such as walking ALL THE WAY down to the gym from his room! Once there he did more stairs and practiced getting into and out of his bed.

Yesterday Tanya got certified to care for Steven in various ways, and she received a list of items that he will need for his home. Thanks to your generosity, those items will be covered and Steven will receive what he needs to live comfortably and safely at home in Bellingham. The nursing care and therapy he will need once there, however, is quite costly and a schedule is still to be determined regarding that.

Tanya had a wonderful sleepover with Steven at Spaulding last night! The happy couple were together longer than they have been since May 31st, when Steven suffered his stroke.

A BIRTHDAY MESSAGE

Please consider sending Steven a birthday message by signing his GUESTBOOK; the link is found on the right-hand column. While there, read a touching note my parents wrote to their son on his birthday. Happy Birthday, Steven!

HAPPY 34th TO OUR MONKEY

2009-08-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

As Thursday, August 6th nears, we sure do have a lot to celebrate! Steven turns 34 and he deserves every slice of cake, every pat on the back, and every rendition of happy birthday that we can possibly sing.

In honor of Steven's birthday, I encourage you to make a purchase from our 'Art in Australia' fundraiser, make a donation, sign up for the golf outing, or send Steven a card. All information regarding any of these fantastic options is on the right-hand column. We all thank you SO much!

And a big thank you to Rachael Bassick for coordinating and hosting a FABULOUS event in Bellingham on Saturday, all to benefit Steven. It was a huge success! Stay tuned for pictures.

WHO SAYS MY RIGHT ARM PROBABLY WON'T COME BACK?!

Not Steven, that's for sure! The doctors have been preparing us for little or no movement to return to Steven's arm. And if he would be able to move it again, it wouldn't be for a long time, they informed us.

Yet again, our strong and motivated monkey had another trick up his sleeve! Tanya was the first to witness him move it slightly over the weekend. She said it took tremendous focus and strength. I visited him yesterday and asked him if he could move it for me. He proudly nodded his head, then put all of his concentration into trying to move his arm. Not only did he move it, he lifted it up! WOW!

LET'S HAVE A CONVERSATION

Steven continues to excel in his speech therapy. As someone who only visits Steven once a week or so, I am always so impressed by the huge gains he's made by the time of my next visit. Phrases that were difficult for him to say, or that he just couldn't grasp, were coming out with ease yesterday, such as "thank you" "I love you" and "how are you". I also heard him say the alphabet, and count to 10 forward and backward.

I was absolutely astonished when Jessie said "Uncle Steven, I went to a carnival yesterday" and Steven automatically, without hesitation, replied, "Oh? You did?!" I couldn't believe it! I asked him to write Tanya's name on his white board, and he did it - easy as pie for this monkey.

Tomorrow is the night that Tanya will stay over at Spaulding with Steven, in one of their 'functional living apartments'. They are both very excited. On Sunday we will all go in and bring Steven a cake and some presents.

Thank you for your continued support. I am really enjoying getting your "Here a Monkey, There a Monkey" photos and will continue to post them on here. As always, be sure to scroll down for past posts that you may have missed. Thank you! -Kelly

STEVEN THANKS YOU

2009-07-31T16:01:00.000-07:00

In the column to the right there is a video message from Steven to all of you! (It is at the top, under 'a video message from Steven'.)

DID YOU KNOW...

...that Steven's 34th birthday is August 6th?! Yesterday in speech therapy, he sang the whole 'happy birthday' song without someone singing it to him prior! Here's an idea: Purchase a framed print from our "Art in Australia" fundraiser (link on the right-hand column) for yourself in honor of his birthday, or purchase one of the beautiful cards from the Steven-inspired series and use it to send Steven a birthday card!

MORE "STEPS" FORWARD

2009-07-30T05:10:00.000-07:00

My Dad and I visited Steven at Spaulding yesterday and were able to watch him at a physical therapy session. Steven did 10 minutes on the bike, then showed us how he's learning to wheel himself around in the wheelchair using his feet to move him forward. Then the therapist took him into the stairwell and he walked down 6 steps, and then back up! It was amazing to see. The therapist said she was barely even assisting him. He was working so hard - even I was sweating just watching!

Tanya reports that the speech therapist does not want us to accept the thumbs-up, thumbs-down method of communication anymore - that Steven should instead be encouraged to use his words "yes" and "no". He's also very good at saying "I don't know". When I got there yesterday, Steven even said "Happy Birthday" after a bit of coaching. Tanya worked long and hard with him on that one, and it was so special to hear. I also got a birthday card in the mail from him, signed "Love Steven" and a heart. I will scan it in and post on here. What a better way to spend my birthday than to be able to witness Steven do those stairs and hear those words!

LOOKING AHEAD

Next Wednesday, Steven and Tanya are staying in a "functional living apartment" at Spaulding. It's like a little apartment right on Steven's floor, that simulates how life will be like when Steven comes home. Tanya is very excited, and I'm sure Steven is too! The latest release date for Steven is set for August 12th, however that date could change. Although we are excited at the prospect of him returning home, we are also cautious and anxious regarding the level of care he will continue to need - meaning that he will require all his therapists to come to the house, or we will need to arrange for special transportation to-and-from therapy sessions, in addition to him needing near-round-the-clock nursing care.

Twelve-hour nursing care, in itself, could be as much as $1500 PER WEEK, likely not covered by insurance. Other expenses on the forefront of our minds include home reconfigurations such as a handicap-accessible shower and grab bars. I mention this simply to remind all of you that Steven's journey to recovery continues, and the road is long. Your support so far has been amazing, and I truly hope you continue to spread the word about Steven's Story, and consider participating in one of our fabulous fundraisers in the near future. See a list of upcoming happenings below...there is something for everyone!

WHICH IS FOR YOU?!

2009-07-28T16:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, Steven Supporters. There is a lot going on right now, and there is definitely at least one thing from the list below that you can participate in, so take your pick!

1.) Local benefit for Steven at the Patriot bar in Franklin - great music and lots of raffles! Limited tickets still available... email jrbassick@comcast.net for ticket information.

2.) "Art in Australia". Purchase art and support Steven, now through October! Click on this link: http://www.redbubble.com/people/innovativevisions/journal/3494336-revealed-life-is-like-a-monkey

3.) "Strokes Fore Stroke" golf outing, September 17th. Invitation with further details and the registration form is found on the right-hand column.

4.) "Here a Monkey, There a Monkey". Where have you travelled in your monkey tee? Send me a picture to: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com and I will post it here!

5.) Monkey tee and hat sales: Travelling? Purchase a monkey tee and hat to take along and capture a photo! Ordering information is on the sidebar - I will happily ship to you! (P.S. we may even have bracelets for sale in the near future, stay tuned!)

6.) Artists: if you are interested in having your art shown at a future event, I am in the process of scheduling a "shwanky" event that will have an art focus. Email me if interested: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com .

7.) Musicians: I am in the process of investigating the possibility of creating a Steven-inspired CD, comprised of musicians who will generously donate a song for the CD. Email me if interested: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com .

8.) Writers: I would love to create a poetry book of sorts that is Steven-inspired. Please email me your poems, any type, any length, for inclusion: Email me if interested: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com .

UPDATES AND MORE...

Tanya has given me some great updates that I will be sure and summarize and post tomorrow, after my visit with him.

Also, my parents submitted a little note for you all that you can find by scrolling down.

Lastly, I sent an email out yesterday. If you didn't get it and would like to be included in future emails, join our mailing list by emailing me: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com

ART IN AUSTRALIA...

2009-07-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

Our latest fundraiser originates in Australia, but allows all of us here in the States to participate in it too!

Craig Goldsmith is a co-worker of Steven's at GMO, but is based in Australia. He has generously set up a special series of his art that is Steven-inspired, and all profits made from sales between now and October will be donated to Steven's Foundation!

Read more about Craig, view his pieces, and support Steven by clicking here:
http://www.redbubble.com/people/innovativevisions/journal/3494336-revealed-life-is-like-a-monkey

Thank you!

A NOTE FROM MY PARENTS...

2009-07-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Steven Supporters:

We would like to give everyone our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all the help, support, and prayers we have received. We don't know why this happened to Steven, but there must be a reason God chose him for this.

To Steven's friends: we had no idea Steven had so many friends that care so deeply for him. We now consider all of you part of our family. If we missed speaking to you at the events, we are sorry, and hope to see you at a future event soon.

To our family: we are so proud to have a family that is so willing to help. Family is everything, and we thank you all for your support.

To all the members of Steven's Foundation Board: we know all the hours and hard work you have put in, and we can't thank you enough.

To Tanya: the month we spent in Florida was hell, but I feel it brought us even closer. Thanks for hanging in there with us. Better days are coming!

Kel: we don't know what to say. You know how very proud we are of you. Setting up this Foundation for your brother has been incredible. With two small children and a home to run, we know the long hours you have put in on this. (Thank you Dan for your patience!) We can't wait until Steven is well enough to realize what you have done for him. He will be so proud of you.

Again, many, many thanks to all. Enjoy every minute with your family. Keep the prayers coming.

We love you all, Steve and Marilyn (aka Dad and Mom)

MORE WORDS

2009-07-26T05:01:00.000-07:00

Steven has shown more improvement in using some words. They are not always the right words, but we are encouraged that he is trying to communicate. For example, when we were leaving him the other day, he said, "Hi" two times in a row, but was pointing behind his bed. My Mom figured out that he wanted his light off so he could take a nap.

His best words are "Hi" and "Bye" and "I love you". We are working on "I AM...." phrases, as well as the words "Yes" and "No". Something interesting I noticed is that every time he tried to say the word "Yes" to me, he would say "Y". So it made me think (and I have no experience in this realm, so it's all speculation) that maybe he is picturing the letters Y-E-S in his head, and he's saying the first letter, "Y", because he can't remember that it makes the "Yuh" sound. It's amazing to learn how the brain works.

More detailed updates to follow this week after I visit him. For now, I encourage you all to continue sending in your "Monkey Here, Monkey There" pictures of you in your tees, and send Steven some mail to his room at Spaulding! The address is on the side bar.

2009-07-22T04:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Kate and Craig Goldsmith for submitting the first "Here a Monkey, There a Monkey" photo. Our monkey tees have made it all the way out to Australia! This picture shows the 2 Steven Supporters with the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background. Where have you gone in your monkey tee? Send me your photos: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com

Speaking of photos, I know many of you have discovered the Foundation's YouTube page, where there are now 3 slideshows playing. To access the page, you can click on our monkey friends above, or there is now a live link on the right hand column that says "Photo Slideshows" which will bring you directly to the page.

A MOM, A SISTER AND A LAPTOP

I visited Steven yesterday with my Mom and we set up the laptop to play the slideshows from the events (more on the laptop shenanigans later). He loved it! Every now and then he would laugh and give the thumbs up to certain pictures. We would point out who we met and knew the names of, and he would nod and give thumbs up - he remembered everyone!

To prove he truly knew who all the people were, he did this monkey trick for us...

During the slideshow from the Lexington event, we came across a picture of someone neither my Mom nor I recognized. So we squinted in at the picture and I announced, "nope, don't know her" and Steven energetically gave the thumbs up and nodded quickly. "You know her Steven?" Again, the thumbs up and nodded. I looked more closely to see if I could read the name tag: Charmaine Nichols. Then it dawned on me that I have had several email exchanges with Charmaine regarding monkey tees, and I remembered that she did, in fact, work with Steven - I just didn't get a chance to meet her at the Lexington event. So I said, "Charmaine!" and again, Steven, still nodding and giving the thumbs up, now gave me a big smile.

He is so touched that all of you came out to support him. I told him stories of friends who drove far distances to be there - one friend from high school who Steven hasn't seen in years and years, even drove his motorcycle down all the way from Meredith, New Hampshire. He was all smiles and had a permanent 'Thumbs-Up' the whole time.

LAPTOP SHENANIGANS

One thing I have realized since starting this Foundation is that I am grossly out-of-touch with the technological wave. I was fairly well-versed prior to my daughter's birth in 2005. However being out of the workforce for nearly five years has left me several steps behind and I am sprinting to catch up.

That being said, after showing the slideshows on the laptop, I attempted to log on to the internet. What a fiasco! Lots of error messages and notes about the lack of connectivity. As I was getting more and more frustrated, I turned to see Steven shaking his head and rolling his eyes. Yes, this is your sister and mother trying to run the laptop here. Please be patient.

Steven turned the laptop so it faced him more. He reached up to the keyboard and his fingers hovered over the 'Z', the 'S', back to the 'Z'. Then he put his hand down, even more frustrated. I could tell that he knew what I needed to do to get onto the internet. So I started to read him all the error messages that came up on the screen. Steven would indicate yes or no to me by shaking or nodding his head. "Click here to connect?" (Nodded head YES). "It says I need a code." (Shook head NO).

Sure enough, I needed to log into Spaulding's server, and it was giving me about 5 choices, and I kept choosing the top "secured" one. Steven reached out and pointed to the very bottom one. So I thought - okay, let's try it - although I was wary because that was the only one that said "unsecured" with lots of warnings. Lo and behold, I was on the internet immediately. I was all smiles and saying thank you, and Steven continued to shake his head and roll his eyes, as in - "it is painful to sit here and watch you attempt to use the laptop." Steven, I won't bring it in again without a strict tutorial beforehand.

MONKEY FACES

I had my baby, Daniel, with me (of course - we're working on this bottle thing though!) and Steven had a great time seeing him! I turned around for a minute, and when I turned back I caught Steven making all sorts of funny faces at the baby. It was just too cute not to share with you all.

"BYE"

Steven's first word to me when I asked him to say something was "BYE". Hey, I'll take it, and listen - I'm not going anywhere so let's work on "Hi" shall we?!

All joking aside, Steven is working SO hard on his speech therapy. I was able to watch an hour-long session with his therapist yesterday. It was amazing! I heard him say all sorts of things like: I AM HOT, WAKE UP, THANK YOU, and his favorite, I LOVE YOU. The therapist is excellent and she was able to determine yesterday that most of his speech problems revolve around the use of his tongue. When she asked him to stick his tongue out, it took him awhile for his brain to be able to connect that signal and actually do it. But when he finally did it, he kept it out there, gave us all a big open-mouth smile, and nodded his head laughing. We were all in hysterics. The old Steven is definitely still there.

The gains Steven is making are huge. I am so proud of him. It was hard to leave him yesterday, and we have all been witness to him breaking down and crying. It is hard to watch, but I told my parents that we can't expect him to be happy-go-lucky Steven all the time. The fact that he's having a range of emotions is good. It will help him work even harder, and shows that he cares!

Before I left I made sure I got an "I LOVE YOU" from him. I love you too, Steven!

PICTURES, PICTURES, PICTURES

2009-07-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

I am just beginning to organize all the photos from the 2 events. Check back often, as they are sure to change!

My Dad has offered to email anybody interested in higher quality images of individual pictures. Just email him at: steve.hill@verizon.net and indicate which picture(s) you are interested in.

STEVEN'S STATUS STILL PRECARIOUS

2009-07-18T04:24:00.000-07:00

Steven was taken to Brigham and Women's Hospital yesterday because he has had a low-grade fever for a few days. He was scheduled for a follow-up brain CT scan anyways, so they just made a day of it and sent him to the ER for a full work-up.

The good news is the CT scan showed improvements! His brain swelling continues to go down and things are looking more 'normal'. A scan of his lungs showed no blood clots - also great news. The bad news, however, is that an ultrasound showed another large blood clot in his right leg. Steven is on the blood thinner Coumadin, and his blood thinness/thickness (called his INR) needs to be checked everyday. Too thin (high INR) is dangerous in terms of internal bleeding. But too thick (low INR) leaves him at-risk for blood clotting. It is very tenuous and needs careful monitoring.

After being on Coumadin for awhile, it's possible to become 'stable' and have INR levels checked only every few days, once-a-week, bi-weekly, or even less often than that. But many small factors can interfere with INR levels, including what Steven eats.

Spaulding had moved to checking Steven's INR only every 3 days, and sure enough, his INR dropped from 2.9 to 1.6 in those three days - 1.6 is too low. Doctors at BWH presume this is when he developed the blood clot.

He is back at Spaulding now, and they will go back to checking his INR every day. Other than being painful, there are no other major dangers, doctors tell us, because of the procedure Steven had done in Florida in which an umbrella-like filter was placed in a main vein which would serve as a catch-all if any whole or part of a blood clot tried to make its way to his heart or lungs.

VISITING MONKEYS?

I continue to receive emails asking if Steven is ready for visitors at Spaulding. First, let me just say that I applaud your eagerness and I completely understand the hard-to-contain excitement at the prospect of being able to see him.

Now that Steven is making gains in communicating, the time for having visitors is nearing. It will ultimately be Tanya and my parents' decision, and I'm sure Steven will have a say in it also. I assure you that as soon as he is ready, I will make a big announcement by posting it on here, with specific information regarding visiting hours.

For now however, please just be patient for a bit more. He's almost ready, and has been enjoying hearing the stories and seeing the pictures of all of you cheering him on!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

2009-07-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

A HUGE thank you to all of you who supported us by coming out to the events these past two nights! They were a big success and a ton of fun! It was just so amazing to see how many of you are supporting Steven, cheering him on as he continues his climb to the top.

I have some great pictures to share with you all! I will be posting them this weekend on here, as well as the latest Steven update, so check back!

SILENT AUCTION WINNERS

If you think you may have been the highest bidder on an auction item, but you left before the winners were announced, shoot me an email. You can settle up with a check or credit card. Thanks!

HERE A MONKEY, THERE A MONKEY

I've received many emails from people, so excited to have their monkey tees and hats.

I even got an email from a co-worker of Steven's from GMO, who works in the Australia office! I shipped her out a couple of tees, and she promises to email me a picture! (Can't wait to see it, Kate!)

So here's my thought - send me your monkey tee pictures! We will keep them in a "monkey supporters" photo album on here. It will be our version of the Travelocity Roaming Gnome!

Hey GMO-ers... do you all have your tees and hats on today at work, as promised?!

Email: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com

Monkey hugs to all...
-Kelly

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL WEEK!

2009-07-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

Finally, the rain has gone away and the sun is shining, just in time for our 2 events!

I hope this inspires you all to mosey on over to Brandy Pete's in the Financial District for a drink with us on Wednesday at 5 p.m. Bring your friends, maybe win some great prizes, and support Steven!

If Lexington is more your style, then join us at the Knights at 7 p.m. for a fabulous evening out!

MOST COMMON QUESTIONS I HAVE RECEIVED THIS WEEK

CAN I PAY AT THE DOOR?
Yes! ($25.00 Wednesday at Brandy Pete's, $35.00 Thursday at the Knights-Lex)

WILL YOU ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS AT THE EVENTS?
Yes!

I ALREADY PAID, DO I NEED A TICKET TO GET IN?
No! You're on a "already paid" guest list and will be able to get right in!

As always, feel comfortable to email me: STHStrokeFoundation@gmail.com or call: 978-834-6274.

BIG GOALS

2009-07-11T18:23:00.000-07:00

Today Steven walked about 30 feet with a cane (and assistance from the therapist)! He was exhausted afterwards, but Tanya reported that he was excited and confident. He has been indicating some pain in his knee, and sure enough, an x-ray showed some mild arthritis. On top of everything else - poor Steven! He is such a trooper. The schedule the therapists have him on is grueling - they have big goals for him! Wheelchair?! Not if they can help it!

Steven also showed more progress communicating yesterday. Tanya wrote "Hi Steve" and then Steven wrote "Hi Tanya." Wow! I couldn't believe it. And she asked him what the name of his cat was and he correctly wrote "Salem." It seems he still cannot answer more complex questions though. For example, he was desperately trying to communicate something he wanted before my parents left two nights ago. Again, the charade-style 50 questions game began. My Mom said Steven is such a good sport - never getting annoyed at my parents for consistently guessing WRONG. He just shakes his head and laughs silently (remember the 3 fingers, Steven...).

They tried having him write what he wanted, but he couldn't. They even had him try to point to what he wanted, but he couldn't do that either. Well, thankfully, they figured it out after quite awhile. He wanted his bed to be moved closer to the window, and to sit up a bit, so that he could enjoy the view. What a well-deserved request that was.

SOME FAQ'S RE: THE 2 EVENTS THIS WEEK!

What time should I show up?
Wednesday, 5 p.m. at Brandy Pete's - Financial District
Thursday, 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus (Bedford Street) - Lexington

I've sent in my payment, do I need a ticket to get in?
No, you've been put on a guest list, and will be able to stand in a faster line at the events and just get right in!

Can I pay at the door?
Yes! However we prefer if you email to let us know you plan to attend so that we may plan the food accordingly: STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com . You will be placed on a separate guest list.

Will you be selling shirts and hats?
Yes! T-Shirts are $20.00 (adults), $15.00 (children), and hats are $15.00.

What fun stuff are you planning?
Here is a short list:
At the Boston event, there are FOUR big-ticket raffle items, worth more than $2,000.00 combined! Raffle tickets will be sold for $10.00 each, or 4 for $35.00.
At the Lexington event, there will be more than 15 raffle items, 35 silent auction items, and 3 big-ticket items!

Will you be accepting credit cards at the event?
Yes!

If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to email me!

STEVEN WRITES!

2009-07-09T12:56:00.000-07:00

Great news!

On a whim, Tanya wrote Steven's name on a piece of paper, then gave him the pen. He copied what she had wrote! She tried it again - this time writing "I love you". He wrote it right back to her! My Dad was in tears when he called to tell me.

Since then, we've tried different "tests" to see if he can communicate by writing, or if he can read. The consensus is no at this point. But when Tanya asked him to draw the letter 'Y', he did it. So maybe he knows his letters, but he can't do the phonics and put the letters together to make a word. Still, we are thrilled!

SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!

I am so excited to see many of you next week, and thank you all in person for following along on Steven's journey so far.

If you haven't sent in your response card, but know that you are coming, please email me at STHStrokeFoundation@Gmail.com so I can put you on a separate guest list and you can pay at the door. If you don't want to wait in line to pay at the door, you can call me with your ticket and credit card information: 978-834-6274.

YOU ALWAYS NEED SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEAD...

I remember my dance teacher, Thelma Goldberg of The Dance Inn, Lexington, always saying this when costuming us for various dance routines. I guess she hammered it into me so well that I live and breathe it to this day... because I felt a tremendous need to have Steven T. Hill Stroke Foundation hats!!

I received the order today, and the hats are great! They are super comfy - I wore mine all day today, and I usually can only stand a hat on my head for an hour or so. All of the committee members 'oooh'd and 'ahhh'd over them today at our planning meeting. They will be sold at both events for $15.00 - a steal when you see how 'vintage-meets-chic' they are!

FOUNDATION'S LONG-RANGE GOAL MAY BE REALIZED EARLIER THAN EXPECTED

2009-07-07T03:31:00.000-07:00

This morning I ask you all to extend your prayers to Trisha Kinnealy and her family.

Trisha is a Lexington resident, and a Foundation committee member. She has worked tirelessly on the upcoming events and has been willing to do anything to help Steven.

Yesterday, Trisha had to fly to San Juan, Puerto Rico because her Uncle David had a massive stroke. He was moved to a major hospital in San Juan where doctors performed an emergency surgery to relieve the pressure in his brain. He is still not awake, but Trisha told me "I know from watching your brother that miracles do happen."

This story is so similar to Steven's. It is a reminder that life is fragile and that we need to continue on our mission to grow this Foundation and help not only Steven, but also other stroke sufferers. When these 2 events are over next week, the journey doesn't end for the Foundation. When Steven gets better 3- 6- 12-months from now, this Foundation will not stop raising money. Steven's journey to the top of his tree will cross paths with other branches, where other monkeys are on their own journey to the top. New seeds will be planted and help grow our Foundation Tree big and strong, with a massive, central, supportive trunk, and it will have many supportive branches for other monkeys to swing to.

This has been one of my goals from the beginning, and I have reminded all of you supporters that any funds raised that Steven does not need will go to directly benefit other stroke victims. By reaching out and helping more than just one person, the Foundation can qualify for 501(c)3 (non-profit) status, which would greatly increase our ability to raise funds from corporations and through corporate matching gifts programs.

I truly hope you will stay with me on this journey. Our Tree has only just begun to sprout...

A "STEP" IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

2009-07-06T05:23:00.000-07:00

Steven is adjusting well to life at Spaulding. There is a white board in the hallway which lists all the various therapies and patients' schedules for each day. The nurses, doctors and therapists are all wonderful and keep Steven very busy! By the time we arrive for visiting hours, he is usually exhausted and just wants to take a nap.

With the good weather this past weekend (finally!), we got Steven outside for the first time since his stroke in Jamaica, May 30th. He shook his head that he didn't want to go, but my parents took him out anyways on Saturday, the 4th, and they watched the hundreds of boats parade into the harbor. Tanya took him out again yesterday, but still, he wasn't very happy about it. We think he doesn't remember the outside - he needs to get used to it perhaps. Or maybe it's just too over-stimulating. We aren't sure.

The physical therapist got Steven up and standing on Saturday, and even had him take about 4 steps holding onto the handrail. Of course, she had to move his right leg for him, but he was able to help move his left leg. Nervous Nellie Mom was right by his side, proud yet cautious, the whole time. We do have some pictures of this amazing moment, but Steven has his helmet on (he must wear it at any time that he is out of his bed) and he seems not to like it very much and perhaps wouldn't want the pictures to be publicized. I, however, think he looks GREAT, helmet and all. And this, of course, is just another fact of his near-death injury (the neurosurgeon in Florida told my parents and Tanya that Steven was "4 minutes from dead"). For now, I suppose my descriptions of these momentous events in Steven's recovery will have to suffice!

"1 FOR YES, 2 FOR NO..."

We are trying to develop some form of communication with Steven, as we are so eager to understand him and we can tell he is growing increasingly frustrated with his lack of speech. On Thursday of last week, my parents implemented the "raise 1 finger for 'yes', 2 fingers for 'no'" system. It seemed to be working.

Before they left, however, Steven was clearly trying to communicate a need with them. My parents played a long guessing game, charades-style, and Steven would rapidly hold up 2 fingers, "no... no... NO!!!" They couldn't figure out what he wanted. Finally, they realized he was sweating and hot, and wanted his fan turned on! One finger shot up strong and quick, "YES!!!!" The three of them, Steven included, were laughing hysterically. They reported that even Steven let out a bit of a guttural sound.

When I saw him the next day, we recounted the story with Steven, and again, he was all smiles and shaking his head, as if to say "Gosh, you guys are trying so hard, but you just don't get it!" I lifted my fingers and told him, "Steven: 1 for 'yes,' 2 for 'no,' and 3 for 'leave me the hell alone Mom and Dad!'" We all laughed.

I'M NOT MONKEYING AROUND... THE T-SHIRTS ARE SELLING FAST!

2009-07-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July everyone! Yes, I have spent this day working on the Foundation and its upcoming events, much to the dismay of my husband, who insists I take tomorrow "off" and head to the beach (rain, please stay away!)

I will update about Steven soon (after such a long day, I am unable to produce a coherent update). But for tonight, I must let you know that the monkey t-shirts are selling FAST!

I have received many pre-orders (to be picked up at the events, as well as ship-to orders), and people who happen to see me, my husband, or my parents wearing ours around have even asked about the blog and are interested in ordering them! I am not exaggerating when I say I am almost SOLD OUT of some of the sizes and colors already!

YOU KNOW YOU WANT ONE!

Show me that I should order more by placing your pre-order NOW!

How? 2 ways...
1.) Call me at 978-834-6274 (you may leave a message - it's my home phone answering machine). or...
2.) Email me at STHStrokeFoundation@gmail.com with details

I need some pertinent info as well as your order request (see right-hand column for details).

Orders will be set aside at the events, if you are attending. Otherwise, you can add $2.50 to your order and I will ship it to you.

LEXINGTON EVENT ATTENDEES: Be mindful that this event occurs AFTER the Boston event... meaning even more t-shirts will be gone!

STEVEN ALL SMILES AT SPAULDING!

2009-07-02T17:36:00.000-07:00

Steven got settled into Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston yesterday, July 1st. That's exactly one month since he had his craniectomy in Aventura, Florida. You can see in this fantastic picture of him, that his head is caved in a bit where the skull has been removed. That is good! It will sink down even more, doctors tell us. And where you see what looks like swelling just to the side of that, it's actually just his brain kind of bulging out, since it doesn't have the pressure from the skull bone to keep it in place. All of that will be gone once his skull gets reattached, which will be two months from now. In the meantime, Steven has to wear a green helmet while doing all of his therapies. He absolutely hates it, and you can definitely tell!

ONE HAPPY MONKEY

Almost immediately after being moved to Spaulding, Steven began to beam out these huge smiles for everyone! I think he really knows that he is in a good place, and he is ready to show us how much improvement he is planning on making! Tanya reports that the staff has already been incredible, and the food is even pretty darn good! And who wouldn't be happy, with that million dollar view of the Zakim Bridge right out the window?!

Steven had his first long day of therapy today, and it wore him out! He will sleep well tonight for sure! I will visit him again tomorrow and I can't wait. I am sure that you all will understand that we are still requesting that only immediate family visit Steven. Once we get a better of sense of how much he is understanding, and perhaps when he is able to communicate better, then we will welcome all of you supporters with open arms! Until then, consider sending Steven a piece of snail-mail. The address is in the column to the right.

FRUSTRATION AND TEARS...A GOOD THING?!

It has been a long week for Steven. It was just six days ago that he flew back up here. Was in the ICU first at BWH, then to the step-down floor, and now at Spaulding. New doctors, new faces, more tests upon tests upon tests! And now a rigorous therapy schedule on top of it all. Steven has been showing us signs of frustration. It is hard to watch sometimes, because he can't tell us what he is thinking or what he needs. Your heart just goes out to him.

And for the past few nights, Steven has even gotten emotional when Tanya has gotten up to take her long T ride home to Bellingham. He has cried, reached out for her hand, patted his bed for her to come and cuddle, and even put his arm around her. How can something that brings tears to OUR eyes just hearing about it, be a good thing for Steven?!

The neurologists got excited to hear that he is frustrated and emotional. Why? Because it means he's understanding, and that he's caring, and that - just maybe - he remembers who Tanya is. Can you imagine your life changing in an instant? One minute you're on vacation with your husband, celebrating life. The next minute, your husband doesn't even know who you are, and wonders why you're at his bedside day in and day out. Sure, Steven's life has changed completely. But Tanya's has also. The same can be said for my parents and me. And really, if you're reading this, your life has changed in some way or another also.

Tanya: You are an amazing person. You never once doubted your love, as you stood tall next to Steven, and held his hand through every twist and turn. You haven't once faltered in your unconditional support for him. You didn't give up hope, and you surely won't now. Steven knows who you are. He loves you. You are an inspiration.

MONKEY TEES ARE IN!

2009-06-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

Get a monkey t-shirt and support Steven!

Be sure you get the size and color you want -- Order now by emailing or calling me!

PRE-ORDER & PRE-PAY FOR YOUR T-SHIRTS, PICK THEM UP AT EITHER EVENT. Why wait in the t-shirt line and risk us selling out of your preferred color!?

Or, if you are unable to make it to the events, I will ship you the order for an extra $2.50 S&H.

Child sizes, Small (6-8) Medium (10-12) Large (14-16), $15.00
Adult sizes, Small-Medium-Large-XLarge (Small only available at the events-unable to ship at this time), $20.00

Colors: Violet, Navy and Sand (beige)

Add $2.50 for shipping & handling.

CREDIT CARD TRANSACTIONS ONLY for orders taken by email/phone: STHStrokeFoundation@gmail.com / 978-834-6274

Please indicate quantity, size, color and either ship-to or pick-up at event (specify which event). I will also need your CC number, expiration date, 3-digit code on the back, and billing address.

(Thank you to my husband and daughter for being my t-shirt models!)

A VISIT TO BIG BROTHER

2009-06-28T16:07:00.001-07:00

I was able to visit Steven for the first time today!

He has already been moved from the neuro ICU, to the "step-down" neuro floor at BWH. He shares a room, but he has the view out the window, which is nice. Dan, my husband, watched Jessie (our 4-year-old), and I took the baby (Daniel, born 3/13) and picked up my parents on the way in.

Steven had a smile for me! I like to think that he genuinely knew who I was, but as my parents and Tanya have tried to explain to me for some time now, it's really hard to tell. I brought him a picture of the two of us, and tried to help him make the connection. Tanya was there, and her mother is staying with her right now but chose to stay in the waiting room, as to not overwhelm Steven on his second day back in Boston. (Side note: We Mothers [and Fathers] are amazing, aren't we?! We would truly do anything for our children - even if it means coming all the way from upstate New York, just to sit in silent support in a waiting room for hours on end, or stand bedside from morning to night, worrying over every last detail, being patiently available for whatever might be needed).

I told Steven how good he looked, and how proud we all are of him. And I meant it! He really did look well, and he continues to make progress every day. He holds his head up, and will focus on you, as if he is actually understanding what you are saying. And sometimes, it is clear that he does. For example, if you ask him to lift his (left) arm, he will! But at other times, the words just don't register in his brain. When a neurologist stopped in and asked him to open his mouth, he wouldn't. He just looked at the doctor, and gave a very respectful smile and nod.

YOU GOT A WHAT?!

I wanted desperately to connect with Steven, and for him to give me some sign that he was understanding what I was saying, who I was, and why we were all there. So I showed him my fancy shmancy new BlackBerry. Well, I think it's fancy shmancy at least, because I never really thought I'd need to own one - but recent events have proven otherwise, and I am now completely obsessed with it.

So I took my (pink) BlackBerry out of my bag, and showed it to him. I told him all about it, and how I didn't really quite know how to use it yet. He stared at it, studied it, then looked back at me and kinda rolled his eyes, lifted an eyebrow and shook his head. I'm guessing he doesn't like the color.

I hope to visit him again soon, and I just know he'll have made even more progress! We hope to get him into Spaulding as soon as possible, where he will receive extensive, consistent therapies, 7 days a week. An interesting fact I learned today was that when the speech therapists first begin working on teaching him to speak again, that they will first teach him how to sing! How lovely, a signing monkey! Music to my ears.

HI-TECH GOODS FOR A HI-TECH GUY

I want to begin mentioning some of the amazing raffles we will be giving away at our events mid-July. How would you like a brand new Wii? Or maybe a flat screen t.v.? I hope you will leave the computer this instant and send back your response card (or print it out from the column on the right)!! Thank you!

-Kelly

AN ANGEL FOR OUR MONKEY

2009-06-27T05:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome home, Steven!

As many of you watched on the channel 5 news, Steven came home to Boston last night!

Thanks to the original broadcast by channel 5 two weeks ago, Angel Flight contacted the news station and obtained our information, and has been in talks with us and Blue Cross Blue Shield ever since! Angel Flight is an organization staffed by a group of volunteer pilots, that provides med flight services for individuals across the country!

Late last week, the doctors gave the 'okay' to fly home, given several conditions. One is that Steven needed to have a special helmet since his brain is still exposed. Another is that Steven needed to become mostly independent of all his attached wires/machines. Currently, he is still attached to his heparin drip - and this is only for a bit longer when they are able to regulate his coumadin (blood thinner) at a therapeutic level.

Angel Flight picked Steven and Tanya up from Aventura Hospital around 7 p.m. last night. Tanya reported he had a good flight. Steven was sad to leave the doctors and nurses he had grown to know well at the Florida hospital. For all he knows, he has lived at the hospital his entire life, and the staff there was his family. The Flight landed at Logan, and turned off onto a special, private runway, generously offered to Angel Flight for use last night. Steven and Tanya were then whisked away via ambulance and are currently at Brigham and Women's neurological ICU.

We do not expect Steven to stay too long at BWH. Our goal is to get him transferred to Spaulding Rehab as soon as possible. Given his placement in the ICU, in addition to the fact that he is still non-verbal, leaving us unaware of how much he actually understands at this point, we respectfully request that there be no visitors. We do not want Steven to be overwhelmed or confused. Your silent support is booming loudly to all of us, and we truly appreciate everything you all have done so far! We look forward to the day when Steven regains more of his memory, and is in more of a stable state to receive visitors.

You may continue to use the Foundation address, found to the right, for communication for Steven. Be assured that everything I receive, I pass directly on to Tanya and my parents!

I encourage you to consider signing his Guestbook! This is found in the column to the right also.

WHAT NEXT?!

This is still just the mere beginning of what will surely be a very long journey. I am thrilled to have you all following along the route so far, and I hope that you will continue to support Steven. I just know that the progress he will be able to make now that he is back in Boston will surely surprise and excite us all.

Steven's rehabilitation will be long, intense, and precarious. His medical bills are sure to be astronomical. Some of the items we anticipate needing to be funded include a wheelchair, a wheelchair van, handicap-accessible renovations to his home, extensive therapies, etc. These are just some of the near-future items I can think of off the top of my head. There are likely to be more!

FUTURE MONKEYS, SWING TO OUR BRANCH!

REST ASSURED:

Any funds raised that are not directly used by Steven will be used to help other young stroke victims.

This Foundation is here to stay! I promise to run this Foundation for as long as I live! My hope is that Steven will get better, and I will be able to grow the Foundation and reach out to help others in Steven's situation.

I envision annual events such as the ones mid-July, and an annual golf tournament... and I know that not too long from now, Steven will be attending these events with us, giving encouragement to the other families the Foundation will be supporting!

So please, continue on this journey with us. Watch our monkey continue to climb. Someday he'll reach the top, and will look down and be so proud of all of us!

WELCOME HOME, STEVEN!

2009-06-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

Hooray! We have our monkey back home in Boston!

Be sure to watch Channel 5 at 11 p.m. tonight!

We are all tuckered out after a long (albeit exciting) day. I promise to update on here tomorrow with all the wonderful details!!

-Kelly :)

A SCARY SETBACK

2009-06-24T18:43:00.000-07:00

The doctors did an ultrasound today on Steven's legs, just to be sure there were no clots. Well, there was a clot there, and it was in one of his deep veins. Thank God they even did the ultrasound! Since Steven is still non-verbal, he was unable to tell us that he had a pain in his leg, which would prompt an ultrasound. I give his current doctor(s) credit for ordering a pro-active test. It very well could have saved his life today.

The doctors immediately ordered a STAT CT scan to be sure the clot hadn't already broken off and traveled to his lungs. Thankfully, it hadn't. They then ordered a STAT surgery in which the doctors inserted an umbrella-like object into his vein. Basically, they enter through the leg, and thread up this umbrella-like object to just before his lung. Then they open the umbrella part - which will catch any clot or piece of clot that breaks off and tries to travel to his lungs. It will stay in his body for the rest of his life. It's such an amazing procedure.

HANGING FROM HIS TAIL

I picture Steven as a monkey hanging from his tail right now. He's eager to show us his newly-learned 'tricks' and even shares a silly smile with Mom, yet he's in a very precarious position, poised to fall at any moment. This image is fitting, given the t-shirt that Dan (my husband and Steven's brother-in-law) and I designed has this very image on it. (A note about the t-shirts, since I've had MANY requests!: they are due to be delivered any day now and will be for sale in limited quantity via email requests to STHStrokeFoundation@gmail.com, and in large quantity at both Events.)

Hang on, big brother! Swing up to the next branch!

VIDEO

2009-06-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

As promised, the newest video, featuring Steven eating and drinking, is posted at the very bottom of the right-hand column. Get ready to smile... enjoy!

MAKING CONNECTIONS

2009-06-22T17:28:00.000-07:00

It has been 3 weeks (3 weeks, 2 days to be exact) since Steven had his stroke on May 30th. It seems like longer than that. Less than one month! I am so proud of how far Steven has come in such a short amount of time. In another 3 short weeks, (3 weeks, 2 days to be exact,) we will be gathering in support of Steven for the two, fabulous events we have planned. I sincerely hope to meet you all there, to personally say thank you for following me on this journey into Foundation-hood, and for caring enough about Steven to visit this blog, read these words, and share your support.

Today Steven really made noticeable gains in his ability to feed himself. My Dad has some amazing videos (to be posted soon) of him taking the spoon from Tanya and putting it into his mouth, over and over again. And each time, it's seemingly faster and more confident. He also has rediscovered his love for milk, which, according to Tanya, he has hated for as long as she has known him, but that he loved so much when he was growing up, my parents considered buying a cow for the backyard.

He is using his head more too, nodding slowly up and down, and shaking it side to side. This is particularly important since we hope to eventually be able to communicate better with him. Unfortunately he is still not speaking. This is not surprising since the frontal lobe of his brain sustained the most damage, and that is where one's language and speech center is found. Steven has been spending his days aquiring newly-remembered skills and looking at pictures on Tanya's laptop. By dinner time, he is exhausted, since all the therapists have typically been by to work with him, he's usually had some tests run, and he's worked hard all day trying to re-learn skills.

It is true what the doctors have told us from day one: it will be a long road. But from what I have seen this past week, Steven's doing about 150 in a 55 mph zone, and doesn't plan on slowing down anytime soon.

WATCH OUT! FALLING MONKEY!

I remember when I was in about 1st grade or so, and Steven was in about 4th grade... maybe I'm completely off with that timeline, but such details do not matter in this story. Steven and I shared a bedroom. He had "totally cool" bunkbeds. Naturally, I had the less-cool bottom bunk, being the younger one.

In the middle of the night, Steven - yep, you guessed it - fell off the top bunk, SPLAT! right onto the floor. It was LOUD, and woke me right up. My parents ran into the room before I could even sit up in bed. There we stood, the three of us, just staring down at Steven - STILL ASLEEP. My Dad simply picked him up and put him back into the top bunk (apparently not worried that he may fall out again). We couldn't believe it and laugh to this day when we recount the story.

Unphased, feathers not ruffled, just another night in the life of Steven... perhaps this 'tough-but-relaxed' attitude is helping him handle his current situation. We are seeing such great progress now, but eventually, Steven will tumble and fall. We know this. We have prepared ourselves for it. We have built an amazing foundation of support around him. But knowing Steven, he'll probably be thinking, "What? I fell? Oh. Thanks for telling me, but let's move forward, shall we? Go ahead, put me back in that top bunk!" After all, the view is better up there.

MONKEYS OF ALL AGES

2009-06-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

This morning I was able to witness a touching moment, courtesy of one of Steven's littlest supporters...

Riley, age 4, held a bake sale for Steven, at her parent's yard sale in Amesbury, MA. Riley is the daughter of Katie (Fowler) Dougherty, someone Steven graduated with from LHS. Every little bit counts, and to see Riley's big smile and her homemade sign and yummy baked goods really showed me how good people are. What a great lesson to teach your children. Katie and her husband plan to match whatever money Riley made today. Thank you for making me smile so early in the morning!

OUR MONKEY CLIMBS ANOTHER BRANCH

2009-06-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to write today's update!

Steven is sitting up in bed, and ate yogurt and drank water! The doctors removed his brain draining tube also. The OT and PT both visited Steven and said he did wonderfully. I just got word, two minutes ago, that they even just removed his feeding tube!!! Wow! It has been a long, successful day for Steven. I'm sure he will sleep well tonight (as will all of us after receiving such great news about his progress).

Be sure to check out the new video, showing Steven working with his physical therapist. The link to the video, "Making Progress", is at the bottom of the right-hand column.

LIL MONKEY SIS TO BIG MONKEY BRO

I was able to talk to Steven yesterday. My Dad put me on speaker phone. Of course, I only got through 2 sentences without breaking down, but they told me he turned his head to my voice as soon as I started to talk. I was sure to tell him how many fans he had back home, rooting him on.

MONKEY-ISMS?!

With all this terrific progress, I can't help but ponder what Steven's first words may be, once he is able to speak again. Maybe, "Why did you make me watch Regis & Kelly on the t.v.?" or "It took you long enough to shave me!" I wonder what all you Monkey Supporters think?! Share your possible 'monkey-isms' in Steven's guestbook, or send an email to the Foundation. God knows we could all use a smile and a good laugh.

DONATIONS, DONATIONS, DONATIONS!

My new favorite thing to do is eagerly wait for the mail carrier to come and then run out to my mailbox and see what the Foundation has received. I am overwhelmed by the support so far! Thank you all for the kind notes you enclose. I read them all and keep them in a special place for my parents and Tanya, and eventually Steven, to read and cherish. Again, thank you all.

-Kelly

INVITATIONS ARE HERE!

2009-06-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

The invitations for "2 Nights, 2 Events" are here. Please see the PDF files to the right to view the invitation and response card. If you are not on the Foundation's mailing list (get on it!!), you can print out the response card and send it in with your check to get on the guest list. If you are on the Foundation's mailing list (thank you!), you will receive a printed invitation in the mail by early next week.

I encourage you all to forward the invitation to your friends and family. But be sure to RSVP fast by sending in your response card, because we are sure to sell-out BOTH events!

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG, GET AUTOMATIC UPDATES...

Simply scroll all the way down to the bottom of this page, and click on "subscribe to". Follow the directions by entering your email address, and voila! (Thank you, Lori, for pointing this out to me. I think it will be helpful to other technology-challenged folks).

AND THE GOOD NEWS SPREADS...

You can clearly see that the news of this Foundation and Steven's Story are spreading quickly. Simply google "The Steven T. Hill Stroke Foundation" and it is evident! Thank you again to everyone who has shared this amazing story with your friends and family.

The Channel 5 news story was done beautifully, and we thank reporter Amalia Barreda and her team for capturing the emotion behind the story, as well as all the pertinent details regarding the Foundation. Hopefully this is a connection that will continue as Steven progresses in his recovery.

A MONKEY NEEDS HIS FRIENDS

A dear friend of the family recently wrote me an email, and shared this:

"You know when it comes to primates (monkeys), their interdependence as a social group is key to the survival of any individual. Indeed this is an experience that reminds us all how much we are in need of 'community.'" How true. Thank you!

WE'VE MADE THE NEWS!

2009-06-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

All of you Steven Supporters!!

Be sure to watch WCVB-TV, Channel 5 News at 6:00 p.m. tonight!

Thank you to Foundation board member, Lori LoTurco, for her hard work getting the attention of a major local news station!

ALSO:

Look for this Lexington Minuteman article in tomorrow's paper!

http://www.wickedlocal.com/lexington/news/x124632077/Lexington-native-suffers-stroke-on-vacation

MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO

2009-06-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

Today was HUGE for Steven. My Mom, Dad and Tanya bought a white board, and have been drawing things on it to start helping Steven make reconnections. For example, they will draw a big letter A, and then show it to Steven and keep repeating "A, A."

My Mom, on a whim, drew a circle and showed it to Steven. Then she handed him the marker. Incidentally, she handed him the marker backwards, and Steven quickly flipped it around in his hand so it was ready for him to use properly. He then proceeded to draw circles! Don't forget, this - on top of everything else - is with his left hand, and Steven is right-handed!

Wish you were there to see this? Check out the video in the column to the right, at the bottom. (Thanks in no small part to my father breaking his phone and having to purchase a new one that does video just days prior to Steven's stroke, as well as Foundation Board Member, Lori LoTurco and her technology-guru co-worker, Matt, who was able to upload it here!)

MONKEY SWINGING ABOVE HIS BED

Tanya's sister, Becky, was able to go down to Florida from upstate New York over the weekend. She bought Steven a stuffed monkey, and they all thought, why not - and hung it above his bed with an elastic band. Today my Dad stretched the monkey down and put it into Steven's hand. Although Steven already had his therapy ball in his hand, he reached two fingers around the monkey and held on tight. After he let go, it popped right back up and swung above him for a bit. My Dad repeated this one more time with the same result.

Steven must love that monkey, because the next thing he did surprised everyone: he reached up and grabbed the monkey himself and pulled it down! What a day full of accomplishments for Steven. I am so proud of him!

MEDIA COVERAGE

On a side-note, we have been actively pursuing various media outlets to help us spread the word about Steven and this Foundation. Keep your eyes peeled for articles in the Lexington Minuteman, and Bellingham Bulletin, and you might even see Steven's Story on the news someday in the near future!

2 EVENTS IN 2 DAYS

Invitations for "2 Events in 2 Days" are going out tomorrow. If you are on our mailing list you will be receiving either a written invite, or one via email. I am fully confident that both of these events will SELL OUT! To officially get onto the guest lists, you must RSVP by mailing back your response card and check, or mailing a note indicating which event you will be attending and how many of your friends will be tagging along, accompanied by a check for the appropriate amount.

Checks should be made out to:
The Steven T. Hill Stroke Fund
and mailed to:
The Steven T. Hill Stroke Foundation
12 Merrill Avenue
Amesbury, MA 01913

Credit Card payments WILL BE ACCEPTED by calling 978-834-6274.

EVENT DETAILS

Wednesday, July 15th, 5:00 p.m.
@ Brandy Pete's, Financial District
$25.00

Thursday, July 16th, 7:00 p.m.
@ Knights of Columbus, Lexington
$35.00

MORE BRAIN SWELLING

2009-06-13T17:51:00.000-07:00

Today we realized that this is going to be an emotional roller coaster.

Just when you think the good news is going to just keep on coming... the CT scan today showed more brain swelling. They put him on some new meds, and will do a repeat CT scan tomorrow. He was tired today, with no new monkey 'tricks' for us.

MONKEY MEETS MOUSE

Today my Mom, Dad and Tanya brought him a computer mouse (picture to the bottom right). Something with which he is very familiar! He played with it in is left hand quite a bit. Still, however, the blank look in his eyes.

I keep a couple pictures of Steven on my desk now, for inspiration and motivation to keep on spreading the word of this Foundation. People ask me how I have accomplished so much in such a short time, and the answer is easy for me - it's right there on my desk.

Please, please, all you Monkey Missionaries, continue to spread the word! I truly hope to see many of you at the upcoming events! (I envision a line at the door... so many supporters and not enough space. How wonderful that would be!)

-Kelly

MORE ACTIVITY!

2009-06-12T16:13:00.001-07:00

I am so pleased to write that title...

Today Steven showed us that he is truly a monkey! He kept reaching up and scratching his head... his staples itch! The nurses kept telling him to knock it off, but my parents and Tanya just laughed because they couldn't help think of the now well-known monkey metaphor associated with this Foundation and Steven's progress.

In the newest picture in the column to the right, you can see him holding a blue therapy ball that the physical therapist brought in for him. He plays with it in his left hand, but his eyes still do not seem to focus on anything or anyone, and we remain unsure if he is even aware of where he is right now, or who the people are in the room with him. This, as you can imagine, is just so hard to take for my parents and Tanya.

There is also more activity with the Foundation! Thanks to all of you "monkey missionaries," Steven's Story and the Foundation/Caring Bridge website (www.caringbridge.org/visit/steventhill) are being passed around like wildfire. Every day I receive more emails from people wanting to be on the mailing list, and more and more donations are coming in! I cannot thank you enough for all of this. I am truly looking forward to meeting you all and thanking you in person. This will happen soon enough... the first two events are right around the corner!

Look for tickets to the events via email or snail mail in your hands by mid-week next week!

-Kelly

2009-06-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

MAIL FOR THE HILL'S?

Many of you have asked where my family can receive mail. See mailing address on the column to the right for sending cards to my parents, Marilyn and Steve Hill, Tanya Hill - Steven's wife, or Steven himself. Thank you!

2009-06-11T04:58:00.000-07:00

SAVE THE DATE!

Two events to support Steven are quickly approaching! Both are sure to sell-out, so mark your calendars now! Choose one to attend, or come to both!

Formal invitations to be sent out shortly. Are you on the mailing list yet?!
To get on the mailing list, send an email with your contact information to STHStrokeFoundation@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 15th 5:00 p.m.
@ Brandy Pete's, Financial District
http://www.brandypetes.com/
$25.00

THURSDAY, JULY 16th 7:00 p.m.
@ Knights of Columbus, Lexington
$35.00

Both events will include a raffle, silent auction, music, food and fun! We will also be selling the much-anticipated MONKEY T-SHIRTS!

Ticket information to follow...

As always, your support has been incredible. Please continue to spread the word about this blog and feel free to pass around Steven's Story, "Life is Like a Monkey" found in the column to the right.

From one monkey to all of you.... THANKS!
-Kelly

Steven's Story

2009-06-08T17:46:00.000-07:00

Steven’s Story

“Life is like a monkey…”

This is a phrase used by Steven that I never paid much attention to. The phrase can be ended numerous ways, none of which I ever really thought were funny or useful. Now I see this phrase, (and Steven’s unique take on monkeys,) as a poignant philosophical view of life as we choose to live it. More on this later, but first I must tell you Steven’s Story.

Steven T. Hill was born and raised in Lexington, Massachusetts, where he was surrounded by loving parents, dear friends, and an ever-so-annoying little sister (that’s me!). I can honestly say that Steven was the most caring, ever-present big brother that a sister could hope for. I watched adoringly as Steven grew into who is today: a compassionate, fun-loving, talented young man. A whiz with computers, Steven also enjoys spending time with his wife and nearby family, playing with his two adorable cats, working on his cars, jamming on his bass guitar, golfing with friends, and traveling.

On a recent trip to Jamaica in May 2009, Steven woke up one morning not feeling so well and complaining of pain in his right arm. He suddenly collapsed and had a seizure, and was rushed to a nearby local hospital. With the onset of a second seizure a few short hours later, doctors realized that Steven’s health was deteriorating fast and that they were not equipped to deal with such a major trauma. He was quickly transported to a larger hospital in Montego Bay, where he was given a CT scan. The scan showed that Steven’s brain was bleeding heavily. Doctors knew he needed to be transported as soon as possible to a major hospital in the United States. At this point, the right side of Steven’s body was already paralyzed.

Steven was transported to Aventura Hospital in Florida via med flight at midnight that same night. With his wife, Tanya, by his side the whole way, Steven quickly drifted into unconsciousness. We didn’t realize how serious his condition was until the next morning, when doctors shared with us that Steven’s case was ‘extremely critical,’ with every passing minute more precarious than the next.

Steven, at the young age of 33, had had a massive stroke. However, due in part to a rare blood condition known as Protein C Deficiency, he specifically had what is called a Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST). CVST is a rare form of stroke that results from a blood clot of the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain. This meant that Steven’s brain was both bleeding and clotting at the same time.

As it turns out, Steven’s case is very rare, unusual, and incredibly severe. The doctors needed to relieve the swelling of his brain, somehow clot the bleed on his brain, and at the same time thin his blood in order to get rid of the clot. Steven has had several major medical procedures, including a hemicraniectomy, where doctors removed a piece of his skull so that his brain could swell without restriction. This piece of skull is stitched into his abdomen, and will be reattached at a later date. His condition is still very tenuous but doctors do feel he is making slow but steady progress in the right direction. He must remain down in Florida until he is stable enough to be transported back home to the Boston area, which will likely be four to six weeks.

We remain optimistic, and hope that Steven will eventually make a full recovery. Steven has many supporters and people who love him, and with the anticipated success of this Foundation, he will have the financial means necessary to help him on his long journey back to life, as he knew it.

Which brings me back to that phrase: “life is like a monkey”…Steven has always been ready for life’s adventures as well as its challenges. He’s always willing and able to swing from one hardship to the next roadblock, and he eventually finds a way to climb up to the top of it all and enjoy the view. To this I say, “Steven, you are now truly that monkey. Climb like hell and surprise us all!”

Welcome!

2009-06-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

I am excited that you are visiting this blog for Steven. In light of all that has occurred in the past week, the necessity of having a means of mass communication, such as this one, has proven inevitable. You will also note that I have created a Foundation in Steven's name. The Foundation is not only to honor Steven, but it is also a critical need at this point: we must begin collecting funds to support his slow, but steady, rehabilitation.I hope that you will check back frequently. I will be diligent about posting updates on Steven's progression back to health.

I am also in the process of planning the Foundation's first fundraiser! I hope you will keep your calendar flexible, as this first fundraiser will be within the next 4-6 weeks. Why so soon? Because we need to get Steven home! The doctors have confirmed that Steven will need to be med flighted back up to Boston when he is stable enough to do so, and we are hoping that will be within the next 4-6 weeks. Cost of a med flight from Florida to Boston? Around $15,000.

I am actively working on other fundraisers that will occur once Steven is home. One to look forward to is a golf tournament in September!

Please send me your contact information if you would like to be placed on the Foundation's mailing list.

Send an email to: STHStrokeFoundation@gmail.com with your contact information.

Other things to look for in the near future will be Foundation t-shirts and hats. These will prove to be quite stylish, I promise! And of course, all proceeds will go directly to Steven's benefit!