Prayers for Eventer Charlotte M-S (Sportsfield Eventer)!lMAJOR update page 9!

[Weatherford]

I got this email from my cousins, Gro and Rosie Merle-Smith, regarding our neice, Charlotte. Charlotte is an up and coming top eventer, and also an active member of this BB - but, I don't remember her board name (sorry).

Your prayers and moral support would be appreciated by all!

Our niece, Charlotte Merle-Smith, was critically injured in an ATV accident this past weekend. She is in the Fairfax Hospital with her family there. Here is what her father wrote yesterday.....

>Charlotte is still in an induced coma and we don't know too much more than
yesterday. They are just now doing an MRI and that will take 3 or more
hours. Her response to any stimulation has been very limited due to the
sedation. On top of the broken neck vertebrae and 2 in her lower back she
has several cracked ribs. As I said yesterday the lower spinal injury is
significant and will likely mean she will never use her legs again. There
is concern about her neck injury and how that may be affecting her left
arm. Only time will tell about how much brain damage there is that deals
with speech and other cognitive functions. Tomorrow we will hear the
results of the MRI and then she goes into surgery to stabilize her back at
2:00 pm. Six hours at least. She is also on a breathing machine till after
the operation.


Rosie

[lunatic fringe]

How sad......wishing you all grace and strength in dealing with this terrible tragedy. :no::(

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

How sad......wishing you all grace and strength in dealing with this terrible tragedy. :no::(

I wish the same. So very, very sorry.

[piccolittle]

Oh how horrible... I hope she pulls through, and with flying colors.

She and that beautiful Cyrillic have been doing so well too... hopefully she'll be back in the saddle someday.

[Debbie]

Prayers and jingles for Charlotte. :cry:

[Luvmyappy]

Oh dear..Prayers to the family and loved ones in this terrible time.

[piccolittle]

I would definitely repost this in the eventing board as well...

[FrittSkritt]

OMG, that's horrible...... many prayers, Charlotte is a wonderful person and great horsewoman.

[Kimberlee]

{{{{Jingles and hugs}}}}

[Bluey]

Very tragic.:(
They really can do miracles today.
Maybe hers will be one more.:yes:

[strawberry roan]

Lots of jingles from Virginia!!

[doodlebugg]

Prayers, Prayers & more prayers going up for Charlotte & her family~ I hope that things turn out well for her~ Doodlebugg

[BelladonnaLily]

Praying for Charlotte and her family. I am so sorry.

[War Admiral]

Oh, my goodness, JINGLES and prayers to you and your family, Weatherford. I am so sorry to hear of this.

[Janet]

More jingles here.

I think I just saw her competing at Morven.

[Go Time]

Prayers to Charlotte and her family.
What a tragic thing to happen to such a fine young woman.

[eventgroupie2]

More jingles from VA - so sorry.

[mythical84]

I'll be saying prayers for her and her family.

[BigRuss1996]

OMG...this is terrible.... jingles for Charlotte!!!

Maybe someone can get her a carepage so we can get updates??

[Tackpud]

Prayers and hugs to Charlotte and her family. May they have the strength to endure the coming days, weeks, and months.

[J Swan]

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and patient. Fairfax is a wonderful hospital - rest assured she is getting the best care available.

[Rt66Kix]

Is the Rosie you mentioned also on FOL? If so, may I have permission to cross post this to that list? I know the people there would want to add their prayers, jingles and best wishes. If this is not the same person, please ignore.

Charlotte is on my prayer list, as well as the rest of the family.

[MSP]

Oh how tragic, It would be bad enough for anyone but to happen to someone with such a promising career makes it worse. Her name is everywhere on young rider and competition sites.

So sorry and I hope she fights her way back! Uber Jingles!

[Beverley]

Is the Rosie you mentioned also on FOL? If so, may I have permission to cross post this to that list? I know the people there would want to add their prayers, jingles and best wishes. If this is not the same person, please ignore.

Charlotte is on my prayer list, as well as the rest of the family.

Yes, same Rosie, good idea to cross post. Terrible news, we are all pulling for her.

[BasqueMom]

Texas-sized jingles!!

[CookiePony]

This is terrible. :( She and her family are such bright stars in the eventing community. My thoughts and prayers are with them.

[Duramax]

Thats awful to hear... :no:

A happy/funny note about Charlotte though... She was in Aiken this past winter/spring and we ended up being at many of the same horse trials. I have a dog named Charlotte who is always with me at shows and I'd say something like "Charlotte, Come!" and she would turn around and give me a puzzled look. I finally had to explain to her that she and the dog shared a name! :lol:

I hope she is ok, thats very unfortunate.

[Lori T]

Oh, so sorry to hear this. She is in my prayers.

[WNT]

I met her briefly in Aiken last winter, too. She was very nice and fun to be around. I hope for all the best for her and her family in a very difficult time.

Jingles and more jingles!

[Wanderluster]

Oh how tragic. Prayers and hugs to Charlotte and her family.

[Tiempo]

This is just awful.

my thoughts are with her and her family for a full recovery.

[Hazelnut]

PRAYERS, and the strength to endure the road ahead. Also one humble request for a miracle...

[wctd]

So sad, I hope she recovers. *Hug*

[ddashaq]

Jingles and prayers for Charlotte and her family. :(

[Leahinsj]

Oh, Jingles from California! How sad.

Keep hope, a bad riding accident (horse flipped) left me in a 3 day induced coma. The doctors were very concerned about my condition, brain swelling, and were preparing my family for the worst.

I made a full recovery in a small amount of time.

Thinking of your family through this very difficult time.

[toeknee]

Jingling...I have seen her go a few times, her and her horse always seemed to have the best rides...classy and elegant. Sending the family prayers...

[Auburn]

Jingles and prayers for you and her family. Auburn

[Firefox]

Prayers from Maryland!!!

[pharmgirl]

Oh no! :( Many jingles!!

[Eventer55]

Lots and lots of jingles from Virginia.

[Lieslot]

Jingles and prayers. Let's hope she recovers well & soon!

[FairWeather]

I am so sorry to hear this, my thoughts go out to family, friends and of course Charlotte.

[bambam]

oh no! jingling hard for Charlotte
In my limited acquaitance with her, she has always been lovely

[NCtoCO]

I'm so sorry to hear about this. Charlotte and her family are in my thoughts and prayers.

[sidepasser]

Certainly hoping for a speedy recovery, she sounds like a wonderful young lady who is well thought of in the horsey community. Very sorry to hear of her injuries. Jingles from Ga.

[Platinum Equestrian]

I'm so sorry - I will keep her and her family in my prayers.

[LD1129]

Sending lots of jingles for Charlotte and family!

[ponymom64]

Charlotte and her family will be in my prayers.

[TwoPointTrot]

I know of this family through their quality horse sales only. Healing thoughts and prayers to Charlotte.
Fairfax is indeed a fine hospital.
e

[sharri13]

My prayers and well wishes to Charlotte and her family. Back in the days of Young Riders, Charlotte and I competed together throughout Area 1 and at the Bromont *. She is a wonderful, positive person who clearly has passion for horses and the sport of eventing. I always looked forward to seeing her at the events!

[Mary in Area 1]

Oh my God, poor Susan. Lots of prayers for her family, and of course for dear Charlotte. I am so upset. I've know this girl for 10 years. She is a gifted rider and won the inaugural Bit o'Britain young rider scholarship to train with Philip Dutton at 16! Please let this one recover fully...

[Skeezix]

Adding more Virginia jingles and prayers for Charlotte.

[BBowen]

Adding my prayers and jingles for Charlotte and her family. What a nightmare to endure. I hope that things are not as bad as the doctors think at this point in time. She sounds like a wonderful young woman from everyone's accounts.

[Tazzie]

Jingles for Charlotte and lots of {{{HUGS}}} for friends and family. :(

[monstrpony]

More jingles from here. How very, very sad.

[KPF]

More jingles from here in VA... I will keep Charlotte and her family in my prayers.

[chai]

I am so sorry. My prayers for healing go out to Charlotte and your family.

[wookie]

i have seen your dtr ride down south. always soaring to the top. my thoughts and heart are with you all. let us know what we can do...anything. lots of prayers!!!!!

[Trixie]

I'm so sorry to hear about this - best wishes for her recovery.

[RiverBendPol]

All of New England is pulling for you, Charlotte. Trees are turning, nights are crispy, pumpkins are covered with morning frost. The weather those of us in the North Country live for. You need to get up and come back to the comforts of home. All love to you, your Mum and the rest of your family.

[petitefilly]

{{{{{HUGS}}}}}

How awful, I hope she recovers. All the best to her and her family. "May the sun shine on your back again someday, and may all your rides be safe." Irish prayer.

[maxxtrot]

oh my. prayers and jingles coming from florida!!

[AppJumpr08]

Jingle Jingle Jingle!! How awful...
Here's to a quick and full recovery!!!! :yes::yes:

[Sobriska]

Prayers and jingles.

[UNCeventer]

Jingles! How old is she now?

Hoping for the quickest and best recovery!

[FairWeather]

Are they setting up a Care Pages Page?

I am so very sad for the entire family, and everybody who knows Charlotte. How absolutely heartbreaking.

[Fergs]

Sending my most heartfelt prayers Charlotte's way!! Having just heard my mom rave about what a wonderful person she is, I am absolutely stunned to read about this tragedy. :(

Here's to hoping she makes a full recovery soon!

[spooked]

How sad and tragic-sending jingles and prayers from Mass

[Miss Perfect]

Terrible news. My thoughts and prayers are with Charlotte and her family.

[FairWeather]

Any news?

[polarbear]

Bump
All my very best wishes...

[Jeannette, formerly ponygyrl]

So sorry to hear! Pulling for a strong recovery for Charlotte!

[TN Lilly]

Jingles from Louisa, VA.
I hope her prognosis improves considerably.

[MDLawGirl]

I am heartbroken to hear of her injuries. I will be keeping her and her family in my thoughts and prayers.

{Jingles}

[LockeMeadows]

Tons of jingles from the Locke Meadows family.

[Nski32]

Jingles from NY

[Nauset]

How scary! Jingling like crazy from Mass, please keep us updated. :cry:

[mythical84]

Still saying prayers. Any updates?

[Phaxxton]

Jingles and prayers from NY! How tragic!

[dunthat]

Bump

[Anne FS]

I hadn't seen this thread until the bump. Oh, I'm so very, very sorry and will pray for good news and that youth and strength prevail. God bless Charlotte and her entire family.

[Weatherford]

First, the full report from her father from a couple days ago:Hello all,
First of all we have to say thank you to all of you for the outpouring of love and well wishes for "Binky". We know Charlotte can feel the love and affection that is coming her way. She is such a great person and we all love her so much. Please keep the messages coming as we relate every single one to her each day and even though she is not awake, we know they help. They certainly are a help to Susan, Lizzie, Julia and me and we couldn't get by without your support.

This whole tragic turn of events was clearly not in anyone's plan and there is no preparation that can help one deal with all of this. One of the worst parts are never seeming to have enough information to really understand where things really stand for Charlotte. That is not saying that we aren't getting good care, we are. The staff here at hospital here is so wonderful and helpful. The nature of Charlotte's injuries is what is
making it difficult to get information.

Here is what we know at this point. Some of this is repetitive, but the list of supporters is growing. If anyone feels the need to share this with someone that knows Charlotte, please feel free to do so. She needs all the good vibes and thoughts we can all muster focused on her right now.

She was in an ATV accident in an area known as Mount Weather. That's where the President goes when he needs to be in a secure area. The EMT that responded to the call was the same trained to deal with the president, so she got the best care possible. She was unconscious and only breathing 2 breaths a minute when they rescued her and she was under the vehicle for the time before the EMT arrived. She was quickly moved to the compound landing zone and flown by helicopter to the hospital here.

Her injuries are severe and she is in critical condition at the trauma center. She has severe trauma to her head, a broken vertebrea in her neck, several cracked ribs and her spine was crushed at the T12/L1 area.

Her back was operated on Wednesday mid afternoon to realign that area stabalize the area that was damaged. That went very well and she has had a rod on either side of her spine secured with screws. The bad news here is that her spinal cord has been irrepairably damaged so she has lost the use of her body below the area of damage. I think it's about from your sternum down. I can't describe how much pain it causes Susan and I to think that she will not ride again.

Her neck and rib injuries we are told should heal accordingly and not cause too much problem.

Her head injuries are where we get a little sketchy again. She has has banged her haed to cause trauma to her brain. The MRI and other scans they do have not shown any obvious areas of major injury that they can say with definity that here is bleeding or here is a problem, etc. They tell us that the trauma appears to be in the right temporal lobe area and maybe some in the right frontal lobe. Nothing, as I said, is really obvious, so
they are only saying that she has had severe trauma and that only time can really tell the outcome. She has not had any significant bleeding or brain swelling, and in fact, as I write this they are removing the little pressure thingy that they had put in to monitor the internal pressure of her head. She is currently in an induced coma. As time progresses they will begin to wake her up to see if they can take her off the breathing machine. If she breaths on her own then they will remove the tube and go from there. She has not been awake or cognizant enough to follow commands, which she needs to be to remove the tube. If she doesn't have the tube taken out in a few more days they may have to put a trachial tube in her throat to allow the other tube in her mouth to be removed. This helps reduce possibility of infection. The hard part with her brain is that her recovery could be no more than now...meaning she remains in a coma, to something else short of what she used to be. The likelyhood of her having the same brain function as before the accident is remote and we can only hope for the best. We do know that it could be several weeks of waiting before she comes out of the coma and we begin to see what's up. Not an easy thing to hear, we know, but that's the reality of the situation.

We are working on dog therapy for all of us, and the PT folks are just now starting to come in and move her limbs around to keep everything as limber as possible.

So now you know what we know. We are getting a little better about dealing with this stuff because one just has to in order to get by and provide the support Charlotte needs. As I said before, please keep the love coming.

Many of you have offerred to do so many things for us and we are so, so appreciative. The fact is we are covered at home for the moment and Charlotte's immediate horse and dog needs have been graciously attended to. Thank you all. We are on a new life course now and will need help along the way and I can guarantee we will need all of you at some point, so keep that "If you need ANYTHING..." thought close at hand.

Here is the address that cards for Binky can go to:

Charlotte Merle-Smith
Patient, TICU, rm 6
INOVA Fairfax Hospital
3300 Gallows Road
Falls Church, VA 22042

PLEASE DO NOT SEND FLOWERS or PLANTS - they won't allow them

OK...that's all for now. I feel better when I write.

All our love and thanks,

Barton

[Weatherford]

Update from the 21st.

Hi,
So Charlotte is making some small headway.
She breathed for 4 hours on her own today.
She sort of responded by opening her eyes a little a few times.
Squeezed our hands and made a piece sign when asked to do so.

She is off the sedation but on very strong pain meds so very drowzy.
More tests to see how her brain is reacting and why her left arm/shoulder
are not moving much. That showed no apparent damage to shoulder and
pointed to her head as possible cause.

She is propped up in a more sitting position.

Her grip is so strong she could crush walnuts in her bare hand.

Small, but steps all in the right direction. We are tired but getting
along OK with all of your love and support.

All our best,

Barton and all the Merle-Girls

[bambam]

Thank you for the updates.
My prayers and jingles continue for Charlotte and her family.

[pegasus209]

Sending prayers and jingles for Charlotte and her family and friends. Courage and hope!

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Just prayers and the biggest jingles ever for Charlotte and her family.

[Steif]

All our love, prayers and jingles to Charlotte and her family during this tragic time. Such a lovely girl with her shy smile and competitive spirit. We are all here for you... whatever you need.

[ctanner]

Prayers and good wishes to Charlotte and her family.

[Fergs]

Thank you so much for the update. We'll continue to keep Charlotte in our thoughts and prayers!

[Reds-n-Greys]

Prayers for Charlotte and her entire family.

[dwblover]

Oh my, prayers to you all. I just keep thinking of that NFL football player who was recently injured. They thought he would be paralyzed, but he had a miraculous turn-around. Here's to hoping the same for Charlotte.

[monstrpony]

Continued jingles and warm thoughts for Charlotte and those around her.

[FairWeather]

Thank you so much for the update.

[Phaxxton]

I believe in miracles, so I'll keep praying for one!

And the jingles from NY are still coming! :yes:

Hugs, prayers, and jingles for Charlotte and her family!

[BBowen]

Sending all the jingles, prayers and love that can be mustered for Charlotte, her family and friends. I realize that she is still critical, but it sure sounds like there are some small steps of progress.

[ponybreeder]

I am praying for Charlotte and the whole family. Reading this thread has left me with tears running down my cheeks. One second in time and life takes a new course. Barton, I can tell how strong you will be for Charlotte yet I cannot tell you how sorry I am that your family is going through this.

[SLW]

Adding my healing prayers to your family during such a tough time.

[doodlebugg]

Prayers to Charlotte & her family~Thank you for the update~ I will keep praying evryday & night that Charlotte makes a recovery~

[In The Gate]

Big hugs and continued jingles. You sound so strong in the face of such a heartbreaking situation. I'll be crossing my fingers that you see a steady improvement.

[Acertainsmile]

Healing thoughts and many prayers going out for Charlotte..hoping for the best possible outcome to all of this.

[NRB]

sending hugs, prayers and jingles to Charlotte and her family.

[javma]

Many prayers for Charlotte and her family during this time--thinking of you all and hoping for steady improvement with each day.

[myguyom]

To the family and friends of Charlotte, know that I and my family are praying for you all. Faith can move mountains, and I believe strongly in the healing power of prayers. Your dear Charlotte is young and strong, and with so much suppport, love and prayers being sent her way, she will make it through this difficult time. Any accident is tragic, but when it affects one so young and full of life, it makes it all the more heartfelt. Jingles to all, and God Bless!


"....The Lord replied....my Precious, Precious Child, I love you and would never leave you. During those times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints in the sand, it was then that I carried you..."

[Wanderluster]

This update left me incredibly emotional and I type with tears steaming down my face. Miracles do happen and my daughter is living proof. Thanks to the advancement of medicine and a strong commitment to prayer healing can transform the unimaginably broken to whole again. You will be in my prayers.

[mbj]

Prayers for all of you from Unionville.

[Platinum Equestrian]

What a beautiful letter from her father. She sounds very lucky to have an amazing support system in place and ready to help. Hugs and prayers from Florida.

[annikak]

Oh..:cry:.I feel so for everyone-sending jingles and prayers everyones way.

Thank you for the updates- I check this thread everytime I log on.

[denny]

When my brother was 20, he was hit by a car, and was in a coma for 80 days, so I can have some understanding of what you are going through. Lots of prayers and well wishes from Vermont for Charlotte and all her family.

[FlightCheck]

and more thoughts and prayers from Florida.

[411]

Sending more prayers and positive thoughts for Charlotte and her family from the sunshine state.

[Jazzy Lady]

Lots of prayers from Ontario!

[FoxChaser]

Jingles from the Whitestone Farm crew here in Kentucky!!

[4Martini]

Thinking healing thoughts in Colorado!

[Weatherford]

I will continue to post updates here AND I will be starting a Care Page shortly.

Prayers appreciated and the family sends big thanks!

[cinnabar]

and hoping for continued good news.

[toeknee]

...still jingling and praying...

[The Pie]

jingling like mad from Ontario.

[tntpony]

JINGLES galore, and a daily prayer!

[Weatherford]

Her care page is

charlottems care pages (http://www.carepages.com/ServeCarePage?cpn=charlottems&extrefid=tlcinvite)


Please post your thoughts and prayers there, as here. I will be keeping both sites updated.

thanks!!!

[dunthat]

weatherford.

thank you for creating the carepage.

[Bluey]

Prayers and good wishes to Charlotte and her family.
Hopefully time will help her heal well.:(

[myboyludy]

Jingles and Hugs.. Many prayers...

[Dressage62]

Fairfax is an excellent hospital.
Major jingles from Maryland.

[bambam]

still jingling for Charlotte and her family in DC
made me sad yesterday to see her name listed in rider times for this weekend :(

[witherbee]

Praying for Charlotte and her family. It's unimaginable that life can change in and instant - especially when you are having fun and doing something you love. Charlotte sounds like a strong girl, and sending prayers that she overcomes all obstacles with the help of her friends and family.

[Badger]

Adding my prayers and best wishes for Charlotte and her family.

[Fergs]

Thanks for the continued updates and link to Charlotte's Care Page. I'm still praying and jingling for her like crazy!

[Weatherford]

From her parents

We'll work on an update tomorrow,but Charlotte does make small improvements each day. Yesterday, she moved from Neuro ICU to an intermediate care floor, and even smiled (crookedly, but still a smile) today.

Thanks, too, for the additional notes below--we continue to be amazed at how many people have offered support and hope.

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Charlotte - keep the good work coming!!!

[Steif]

Wow, that's great Charlotte. Keep squeezing those hands and smiling. We are jingling like mad.

[canyonoak]

adding jingles, jingles and prayers, jingles and good thoughts for RECOVERY!

Lighting a candle!

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/enter.cfm?l=eng

[Weatherford]

From her parents:

Saturday 27 October
Much has happened in the last two days and we are pretty much exhausted
from the activity. We came in early to see Charlotte yesterday and she was
very awake compared to all the previous days. She was opening her right
eye and keeping it open for periods of time and occasionally also had her
lazier left eye beginning to come into play. She continues to move her
right arm and when it was unencumbered by any restraints to keep her safe,
she would reach up to her head and scratch her hair and forehead where her
cuts were healing. In fact she very quickly removed the remaining pieces
of tape placed on her wounds when her stitches were removed. She made a
sign that she was hot and we gave her a washcloth and she promptly began
to rub her face and head. She seems to be gaining a sense of her body and
is clearly uncomfortable in her neck brace. She spent a good part of the
day trying to remove it and trying to make sense of all the tubes and
wires attached to her. She did manage to set off several alarms a few
times by using a blanket to cover her stealthy removal of electrodes
monitoring her vitals.

With some great steps also comes the beginning of the phase we know will
be very painful for Charlotte; learning about what has happened to her and
how it will change her life. She spent some of the day today, now Sunday,
exploring her body. She would feel about her head and we would tell her
what she was doing and what part of her body she was touching. I have to
say that we don’t think she can see very well and what we thought was
tracking may have been more of a reaction to sound than sight. Sometimes
she reacts as though she distinguishes things and other times not. She
will touch her left arm and hold it or move it around with her right and
pinch here and there in an exploratory way. She has even tapped and
grabbed her thigh and is clearly wondering why she can’t feel it. We tell
her what we can, but the true reality of what has happened is still ahead
for all of us and especially Binky. She will fall asleep and wake a while
later and sort of go through it again.
Keeping in mind Charlotte’s condition, here are a few high points:
• She smiled about 5 times today
• She had her hair washed
• She scratched her neck under the brace with a foam toothbrush
• She figured out how to unhook her arm in the middle of the night
She has a ton of friends and all of you that are supporting her, and us,
are such an important part of the healing. We thank all of you and
appreciate all the love that is enveloping us right now.

That’s all for now…
Barton and the Merle-Girls

See also her care page: charlottems

[annikak]

JIngles to Binky and her family during this tough transition.:cry:

[mbj]

What fabulous parents she has!!!!!!!!!
My heart goes out to the whole family, as do my prayers and fervent jingles.

[ctanner]

That's great she's improving.Thoughts and prayers with her and her family.

[quiza11]

Charlotte, stay strong! We are all praying for you!
love, jaclyn buseck

[Hazelnut]

Prayers for Charlotte and her family and all of the caregivers and medical staff. Take care of each other just as you are taking care of Charlotte. It is great to hear there is progress. Here'sto strength to handle each day as it comes.

[Weatherford]

Update 10/31/07 Charlotte is ready to leave INOVA Fairfax; the doctors feel she’s
progressed enough to go to a rehab hospital. In fact they think the sooner
the better. We’re looking into some possibilities and hopefully will have
her moved within a few days. She’s showing us more capabilities every day.
At times, she astounds us, like today when an old friend was visiting and
she took his hand and started thumb wrestling—something they had done in
college. She can write a bit, the only way she can communicate right now
other than sign language, and wrote that she wanted my pants—she’s ready
to get dressed and leave! The physical therapists have her sitting up,
and are working on balance and strength, especially trying to get more use
out of her left side. The speech therapist is helping her learn to talk
with the trach tube in place, but so far she hasn’t had the strength to
move enough air through for sound to come out. We are thrilled by each
small step she makes, and daunted by how much work lies ahead.
We were able to go to Mt. Weather and thank the rescue team who helped
Charlotte. They answered some of our questions about the accident, and we
were relieved to learn that they had reached her within minutes with
oxygen and other life support. It was a scene played out over and over
around the world each day; grieving yet thankful parents or friends
thanking the brave men and women doing their jobs, which happened to be on
this particular day saving the life of our child. It was a very surreal,
emotionally tough, yet helpful and healing time. We will be forever
grateful to the Mount Weather Rescue team.
We continue to be amazed and warmed inside by the outpouring of love,
concern, prayers, and help everyone has offered. Thank you all so much.
While it might seem to you that you aren’t doing enough because you can’t
physically be here to help or it seems too small a gesture in the face of
adversity, please rest assured that we feel it and that it is this
outpouring of love that gives us strength and keeps us fueled for the days
ahead. Our family thanks you from the bottom of our heart.
Since we are getting ready to transfer Binky to a more specialized
rehabilitation hospital, it might make sense to hold on sending more cards
till we have the new address. That might be by tomorrow, and we will post
it immediately. We are not sure of how the forwarding system works here
and we want all of your well wishes for Charlotte to reach her speedily.
In addition to the Care Page set up for Charlotte, there is a face book
page called “we love Charlotte” that has taken on a life of its own.

Thank you all,
Charlotte, Susan, Julia, Lizzie and Barton

[Fergs]

Awesome news!! Charlotte and her family are still in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for the continued updates!

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

My continued thoughts and prayers for Charlotte and her family.

[Holly Jeanne]

Just saw this thread. Many prayers coming from KY!

[ctanner]

Great news.Thank you for posting Charlotte's progress.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

[lunatic fringe]

...at the strength of her parents' words. As a parent, I can only think I would be a basket case in a similar situation. I hope they know that their strength will help her be strong and recover as much as possible. May the Lord grant you all continued strength. Your family is in my prayers.

[Janet]

Keep the good updates coming!!!

[BBowen]

So happy to hear of Charlotte's improvement. Hope she has an easy move to the rehab facility. Sounds like she is a fighter. Continued prayers for her and her wonderful family. How thoughtful of them during this trying time to everyone informed of Charlotte's progress. God bless them.

[marta]

didn't post until now.

charlotte and her family are in my thoughts daily.

i'm also impressed with their strength and love for each other.

continued jingles from jersey!

[RiverBendPol]

Charlotte's moving to Boston for rehab. Yay.

[Hazelnut]

Happy to hear Charlotte is heading to rehab...prayers and thoughts go with her. Embrace the challenges that lie ahead.

[Arcadien]

Healing thoughts & support being sent from NJ. Wishing each day brings you all a bit more to celebrate. Hugs,

Arcadien

[SLW]

What remarkable progress in 3 weeks given the extent of the injury. Charlotte is full of fight & grit. Continuing to send healing prayers to her and her loving family.

[Weatherford]

From her father Hi,
This is a quick update in the Binkster. Charlotte will be moving to
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston(125 Nashua Street, downtown)
on Monday morning by air, where she will work on rehab from her brain and
spinal injuries. This is an excellent hospital and we have family close by
for additional support. She ought to be settled in and getting ready for a
ton of hard work by Monday evening. Probably will be 8-10 weeks or so at
this location and then, depending on her progress, either closer to home
in Vermont or wherever is best...we'll cross that bridge later.

She is very demanding and snapping her fingers for us to do this and that,
which is usually translated to get me out of here. So she is progressing
each day and is ready to go to the next step.

We will post address and her visiting schedules as soon as we know them.
That's it for right now.
All the best to you from all of us.
Barton and the Merle-Girls

[Weatherford]

Long update from the family


Hello,
Charlotte is entering a phase in her recovery that will evoke many
different emotions from her, us (her family), and those that have come to
know and love her as friends. In fact we all have had strong emotions
surface every day since her tragic accident. But this is a little
different and I will try to explain what I mean.

Charlotte's brain injury from the trauma to her head was severe enough to
have her doctors keep her in an induced coma for nearly two weeks.
Awakening from a comatose state is like a computer rebooting from a hard
crash. The emergency recovery program goes into action and wakes the brain
enough to begin its self diagnostic check and restarts the parts that are
ok to do so. It might skip something it feels is not important at the time
and then go back and check it again later. In Charlotte's recovery process
she is only part of the way through this "reboot", which could take some
time. She passed through the first vital phase at INOVA Hospital in
Virginia and the doctors have continuously said she will likely not
remember any of that first part as she was not awake enough.

Now she is at The Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boston and she is
undergoing a thorough assessment of her condition to tailor a program for
her recovery that concentrates more on her brain injury first. Each day we
hear information from the doctors, or see charlotte do something new, that
is great we feel relief, happy, ecstatic, etc. And if the news is not then
sad, angry, depressed, etc. It is a roller coaster for everyone.

Here's what has recently happened:
Charlotte decided it was OK to begin moving her left arm and hand and
surprised everyone by going from barely moving her fingers one day, to
lifting and moving her arm from her shoulder, moving at her albow and
wrist and flexing her fingers the next.

She has started a rigorous physical therapy routine to stimulate her body
and to get strength back in the parts that are currently working. She has
sat upright in a wheelchair with assistance a few times, and though
wobbly, is making progress.

She has also made progress with her trach tube set up. She would mouth
words and write things to communicate. With a modification to the tube she
is able to pass air more normally through her throat and vocal chords and
yesterday she spoke on her own for the first time.

She has some feeling lower in her body than before. The doctors are
curious about that and are trying to understand more.

One of the injuries to her brain that the doctors are dissapointed to see
is the injury to her basal ganglia. Actually the problem is that one can
only see indications of this type of injury on scans versus the injury
itself. It makes the diagnosis of the outcome basically impossible to
predict. It is also an area of the brain that deals with higher, more
perceptive and complicated thought processes so we are concerned about
this news. The doctors are working on understanding this more and doing
everything they can to promote the healing, and we are dealing with the
uncertainty that this brings with respect to Char's recovery to her former
self and spirit we all know and love. We know she will not be the same, we
just don't know how.

So that's it...keep the cards and well wishes flowing. She loves pictures,
too.

Her new contact info is:

Charlotte Merle-Smith
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
8th Floor
125 Nashua Street
Boston, MA 02114

A few thoughts on visiting and communication with Charlotte:

- Visiting is encouraged but please call first, (802-734-1888) to see if
she is busy doing something. Also check on the hours...roughly 1:00pm to
8:00pm.
- If you are sick in ANY way please don't visit, wait till you are
better.
- Charlotte is not the same as before and is going through some really
tough stuff. Please understand that she might not even remember you or
something she did with you. When you see and speak to her communicate with
respect for who she is and where she is both physically and mentally.

All the best,
Charlotte's family

[Hazelnut]

It sounds tough on everyone...prayers for strength and continued improvements. And the wisdom to save energy for the challenges ahead.

[Louise]

I will continue to pray for her.

[Longspot]

Major jingles.

[annikak]

horrible situation for all- her parents are amazing- their sharing information and encouraging everyone to see her- and know that it's different, but still important is very impressive. I am continually amazed with their updates.
Many jingles heading her and their way.

[ctanner]

Good wishes flowing to all of you.
Thanks for keeping us updated.

[Phaxxton]

Still keeping Charlotte, her family, and her friends in my prayers!

[monstrpony]

Ditto what annikak said; these are very special, very strong and good people. What a blessing to this otherwise grim situation. I wish them all the best that can be, and the strength they will need to get there.

[sugarvfk]

What a tough young lady! Lots of strength and good vibes for Char and her wonderful family. I can't imagine how I would handle this if it happened to one of my children.

[Sandbarhorse]

The brain is truly amazing with regard to what it can and does do to heal and re-route what even neurologists can't fix or understand. I pray that this is the case for Charlotte. It takes time, but it happens,please don't lte them or Charlotte lose faith (says the woman with a titanium plate in her head).

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Still jingling!

[Weatherford]

MAJOR update and photos on her Care Pages (http://www.chronicleforums.com/Forum/www.carepages.com) (charlottems)!!

She dictated this to her father: Update Thursday November 22nd , 2007
Thanksgiving Day

Hello everybody. I think the circle of support that I have is incredible and it really pushes me. I’m not gonna lie, I’m in a lot of pain, which I do not wish upon anyone, but I’m getting better at therapy and I’m getting pain killers which makes it easier. Right now I can talk and chew food. Today I ate a ton of pasta and fruit and jell-o and ice cream and soup. And that’s just one meal, I’m stuffed. Hospital food has been difficult but I learn to deal with it. I think regular food would be too hard on my stomach. My mom and sister Julia sat next to me while I ate it.
In OT I do things that prepare me to do things on my own, like sitting up and getting out of bed by throwing my legs off the side. In PT I have to go to the gym all the time where we practice things like sitting up, which believe it or not is difficult. So is rolling over to get up. In Speech Therapy I work on remembering, groups, and putting things in order, which is really hard because it relies on a short term memory which I don’t have. My mom comes with me to almost every therapy which is nice because she kicks me in the butt and makes me do the work they ask me to do. Things get hard for me when I’m physically and mentally tired. I’ve been to Group Therapy where we introduce ourselves in a circle and tell about where our name came from and explain if there is any story behind it, which has been fun for me because I have a serious story behind my name. In Art Therapy we played with clay, and I made a little horse jumping over a barrel.
I’m also learning to use the electric wheelchair. Instead of driving around the aisles of the hospital today, Mom, Dad, Erin Nunnink and Jason Flattery walked around with me while I circled round and round the care center on paths. I was able to look out on the Charles River. That’s good because I can go faster outside and use second gear.
I wish everyone happy Thanksgiving. I didn’t eat any Thanksgiving food but I’m ok with that because I got to spend the time with my family. And I’m thankful for all the success I’m having.
Love,
Charlotte

[UNCeventer]

yay! good news! that is fabulous!

still jingling!

[marta]

this is amazing.

[Hazelnut]

Getting outside must feel great.

Hang in there,physical therapy is no picnic. It takes true dedication (which we know you have).

Blessings to you, your family, and the staff assisting you!

[millwrightmomma]

Keep on pushing the envelope girl. :)

There is no shame in not being able to do something, but in not trying to do something. (i broke my back and neck)
Lots of jingles from Canada

[DeeThbd]

That has me sitting in tears here at work.
THAT is what thanksgiving is about.
THAT is courage.
Dee

[Bluey]

Sounds like those PT people have a trier on their hands.
It is hard work to get better, but you got to do it.
Looks like you get a gold medal for it.:cool:

Good for you! :)

[SLW]

Well said DeeThbd, I agree.

[luveventing]

wow- what amazing courage and strength. That sort of determination when faced with such a traumatic injury really makes you think twice about the things we complain about. What a wonderful example Charlotte has given us. Congrats on the progress and keep on going!!!

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Charlotte - you go, girl! Ain't no stopping you now!!!!

[J Swan]

That has me sitting in tears here at work.
THAT is what thanksgiving is about.
THAT is courage.
Dee

:sadsmile:


Keep working, Charlotte. We're thinking of you.

[SportsfieldEventer]

COTHers are amazing! I have recently been discharged from Spaulding Rehab in Boston to my parent's home in Vermont. I am doing really well and it was awesome ro read this post. I am still in a wheelchair because my right leg doesn't want to play, but I am looking forward to keeping horses in my life. My mom, Susan, will have to do the competing side of things, but I will become the official support team. I have decided to put my knowledge of the sport into organizing competitions and I will start by holding an inaugural jumping derby at High Wind Farm in northern Vermont. My support team is so encouraging, including Jan Byyny who is my friend and was my employer and now the caretaker/rider of my horse, Cyrillic, and dog, Layla. It was great to read about all of your kind words, please visit my carepage for current updates, it is called charlottems. If anyone gets bored this winter, come see me! Its boring in Vermont! Also, I am going to be teaching a lot this summer at my mom's house. She has an awesome ring with show jumps and a XC schooling course through prelim.

[TheJenners]

YAY!!! Look who's here!

[bambam]

so good to hear from you and that you are home!!!
You are one tough and impressive lady
I hope to see you not too far in the future coaching students at an event!:D

[mbj]

Great to hear from you and wish you the best with all your plans. You are an inspiration, and you also totally rock!!!!

[The Prince]

Yay! So glad to hear from you and that you continue to do well!

[BuddyRoo]

So happy to "hear" from you. Good to see that you have plans....and lots of them! I wish you the best on your continued road to recovery.

[RydArab]

Very glad you're feeling better. Your positive spirit is so inspirational.:)

.................................You go girl....

[FrittSkritt]

Yayyyy Charlotte!

[Lucassb]

Charlotte, it's awesome to see you back posting here :) Keep kickin' on!!

We won't be up to VT until the Manchester Summer Festival shows... but if you're still bored by then, come on down and hang out with us. We'll have a blast :)

[zagafi]

YEAH!!! Talk about an indomitable spirit. You go, Charlotte!

[ESG]

Gooo, Charlotte! Please continue to keep us updated. :cool:

[Platinum Equestrian]

COTHers are amazing! I have recently been discharged from Spaulding Rehab in Boston to my parent's home in Vermont. I am doing really well and it was awesome ro read this post. I am still in a wheelchair because my right leg doesn't want to play, but I am looking forward to keeping horses in my life. My mom, Susan, will have to do the competing side of things, but I will become the official support team. I have decided to put my knowledge of the sport into organizing competitions and I will start by holding an inaugural jumping derby at High Wind Farm in northern Vermont. My support team is so encouraging, including Jan Byyny who is my friend and was my employer and now the caretaker/rider of my horse, Cyrillic, and dog, Layla. It was great to read about all of your kind words, please visit my carepage for current updates, it is called charlottems. If anyone gets bored this winter, come see me! Its boring in Vermont! Also, I am going to be teaching a lot this summer at my mom's house. She has an awesome ring with show jumps and a XC schooling course through prelim.

Congratulations on your amazing recovery. We're all so proud of you. Keep up the great work.

[Janet]

What GREAT news!

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

How wonderful to open up Off Course and see you here!!!

[millwrightmomma]

Way to go Charolette. If you eventually cannot ride, there is always cross counrty driving :D........definitely not for the faint of heart!!!

Keep kicking butt girl :)

[SportsfieldEventer]

driving has crossed my mind...I just have to see how much my body is in for.

[clivers]

You're an inspiration Charlotte! In fact, you ROCK!!! Welcome back :)

[Anne FS]

What wonderful, HAPPY news to read your post, Charlotte!

So glad to get this news.

[lunatic fringe]

I've been wondering about you! Glad to hear you are so brave and strong! When tragedy strikes, there are two kinds of people: those that rise above and go on and those that, eh, don't show their better sides. I know it's been hard; you are such an example to others! Kick on!!!!

[marta]

so great to see your post.
best wishes to you.
and if the leg doesn't want to "play" perhaps you could try driving?

[sidepasser]

Congrats to you - glad to see you are have plans for continuing with horses. It sounds like you are going to have a busy spring what with teaching lessons and organizing events. I am glad that you've made a good recovery so far and hope that it only gets better with time!

Best wishes to you,
Sidepasser

[annikak]

fantastic! I echo the others here- you are amazing!!! Glad you are home~!~

[LockeMeadows]

Hey,
This is Rachael. One of my friends (Jason Burns) is the Medic that cared for you after your accident before Air Care flew you out. I pray all is going well and we would love to know how you're doing!!
Rachael