October 10, 2009

We want to thank all of you who have called expressing continued concern for Larisa. Her immediate and extended family are so grateful for loving and caring friends.

Due to swelling and not being able to take x-rays it is difficult to assess each injury accurately. The doctors are addressing each area on a day to day basis.

Today Larisa underwent surgery to make beginning corrections to her foot. The surgeon indicated that the condition of the her foot was not as bad as they had anticipated, she's off on the right foot!

They cleaned out her stomach, but it is not closed due to swelling. It is covered with a large piece of tape and a drainage tube out the side. Chantel said she noticed that the pump had stopped working on her drainage tube. A nurse got it fixed and told her,"Good call Mom." Chantel replied, "I've got nothing else to do but sit here and look at her."

Larisa had a CAT scan today and her head and neck look good. Some small fractures in her lower back, but pelvis/spine separation was not as bad as one doctor had originally told her. He told them it would have to be repaired with bolts at a later date. The Lady Dr. who looked over the scan today, did not see any signs of separation only small fractures. Larisa will wear a brace for a period of time. Her back should heal on its own, but it will be painful. Chantel asked that we pray for her back.

Overall a encouraging and hopeful day. Tomorrow will be a big day, she will be undergoing major surgery. The surgeons are going to try to address as many of the injuries as possible. Their main focus will be her femur, pelvis and hip bones. Depending on how she does, will depend on how much they will be able to do.

We will continue to pray for her strength and the skill of the doctors.