tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65674975927384112092024-02-18T20:49:40.304-08:00Becky's DreamsA Journal of Becky Achieving Her Dreams!Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-27803055266889993112015-08-26T16:25:00.001-07:002015-08-26T16:25:14.634-07:00Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-453286182156388612013-04-16T12:43:00.002-07:002013-04-16T12:53:30.748-07:00The Worst Part? "Leaving!"<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Becky achieved 2 of her dreams in one trip last week! Seeing Elvis Presley and going to Las Vegas.</span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Becky has been a fan of Elvis Presley for years, watching him on YouTube, looking him up on the internet, buying shirts and other things with his face on them. She had been planning a trip to Las Vegas for several months and was delighted to learn that people often dress up as Elvis Presley and hang out in Las Vegas. She let out several of her trademark shrieks!</span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Becky left for Las Vegas last Tuesday. I accompanied her to the airport in El Paso to see her off on the plane. It was a typical Becky Adventure! We went up to the check-in counter with the luggage and told the ladies all the info about her wheelchair, destination, etc. They were very surprised to hear that Becky was traveling alone. After a few questions about her ability to do so, they asked her where she was going and she answered (shrieking) "Las Vegas!!!!!" They loved it. For several minutes, they encouraged each person who came to the desk to ask Becky where she was going. "Las Vegas!!!!!!!" The ladies had switched from being skeptical about Becky's ability to travel alone to being sorry they weren't going to see her arrive.</span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Next, we ventured up to security. If you have traveled, you know that the TSA people are typically very serious and look fairly miserable....especially the ones sitting at the podiums looking at i.d.'s. This TSA man was no different. When it was Becky's turn to show her i.d., he took it without looking up, asked her how she was. Becky gave him a huge grin and said "I'm fine....how are you? What's you name?" He stopped, looked down and broke out into his own huge grin. He answered that he was fine and doing much better now. He asked the magic question, "Where are you going?" "Las Vegas!!!!!!!" She went through the security area without a hitch other than the security people needing to take a little extra time to check her wheelchair. </span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">* Wheelchair travel tip * Make sure to wash your wheelchair thoroughly before traveling. Medications can leave residual dust or oil on the wheelchair and show up as illegal drugs.</span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The people at Southwest Airlines were terrific. They had their own concerns about her ability to travel on her own, but with a little reassurance, most were supportive of her trip. The assistant who helped me get Becky onto the airplane picked her up beneath her arms and I took her legs. We carefully moved her into the plane where the front aisle seat was waiting for her. There was a 30ish looking man in the middle seat sitting beside his young son. The man was visibly upset at Becky sitting beside him. He wanted to move to another seat. After he offered to move a couple of times, Becky looked at him and smiled. "What's your name?" "John". She smiled again and told him "I going to Las Vegas!" His shoulders relaxed and lowered, his face softened and he took a deep slow breath. John smiled at Becky. I gave her a big kiss and told her to have a great trip. </span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The steward was an experienced veteran of many years of flying. She called after me, "Wait! She can't do this. I don't think it's legal. Isn't this illegal?" I answered "Nope. She's flown by herself before. This is her 3rd trip." "Well, things change and I don't think this is legal now. I can't guarantee her safety! If there's a problem with the airplane, I can't get her out!" I tried to reassure her that we understood that and we're okay with it. "I fully expect you to get everyone else out if there's a problem with the airplane. If you have time, go back and get her. But I have faith there will be no problems...Have a great trip!" She had an assistant calling on the phone to someone with authority. He found out it was indeed legal. The stewardess was still not happy. Becky called to her and said "Have a great trip!". </span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">They did!</span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Becky arrived in Las Vegas and met up with the group of people she was going to be touring with. The next 3 days they went gambling, shopping, and sightseeing. She went to the Fremont Street Experience and loved all the lights, especially the light show of the ocean/fish/whales. She also went to the Bellagio and loved watching the water fountains dancing in time with the music. They went to a traditional Las Vegas show complete with tributes to the entertainers who made Las Vegas famous and showgirls. On the third day, they went to a comedy magic show and were given private magic lessons. Becky said she learned a card trick, but has yet been able to show it to me. </span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But one of the highlights of the trip was seeing two different men dressed up as Elvis Presley! "Two of them, Mom! Walking outside!"</span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When I asked her what was the best thing about going to Las Vegas, she said, "The fountains." When I asked her what was the worst part? "Leaving! I wanted to stay there!"</span></i></b>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-43734318231760335292012-12-09T14:14:00.000-08:002012-12-09T14:25:10.229-08:00Becky's Road to Recovery<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b>Becky has come a long way since her<span style="font-size: large;"> accident. She has started going<span style="font-size: large;"> to dayhab<span style="font-size: large;"> again<span style="font-size: large;">, although she does get very tired very quickly. She got the "green light" from her orthopedic doctor to start weaning away from wearing her leg braces during the day. She should be off the braces completely in another month<span style="font-size: large;">. Thankfully, Becky <span style="font-size: large;">has healed well enough to no longer need the heavy duty <span style="font-size: large;">pain medications that cause<span style="font-size: large;">d so many complications in her recovery.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the week<span style="font-size: large;">s and months since Becky's accident, she has touched so many peop<span style="font-size: large;">le<span style="font-size: large;">, brought happiness and gifts of peace to the <span style="font-size: large;">ones who have cared for her in the process of her recovery. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once example was a nurse<span style="font-size: large;"> assistant</span> at the hospital wh<span style="font-size: large;">ere Becky spent 10 days inpa<span style="font-size: large;">t<span style="font-size: large;">ient. This nurse assistant wa</span></span></span>s extremely efficient and professional as she took Becky's vitals, assisted with her bed baths, <span style="font-size: large;">etc. <span style="font-size: large;">But she was al<span style="font-size: large;">so very distant, almost cold<span style="font-size: large;">, as she <span style="font-size: large;">provided her services. Becky would try to talk with her each time, asking her how she wa<span style="font-size: large;">s...and always finishing the nurse<span style="font-size: large;"> assistant's visits with <span style="font-size: large;">"Thank you for taking care of me". The nurse assistant <span style="font-size: large;">would tell her "it's my job" and look at Becky funny as she walked out of the room. One night Becky<span style="font-size: large;"> scared us all terribly. She crashed.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was the night before she <span style="font-size: large;">was supposed to go home. Becky sudden<span style="font-size: large;">ly began breathing very rapidly<span style="font-size: large;">; her face was b<span style="font-size: large;">eyond pale<span style="font-size: large;">. The nurse assistant ran out of the room and got the nurse.<span style="font-size: large;"> Everyone thought that Becky was having an <span style="font-size: large;">anxiety attack. Then I felt her face and realized she had a fever. Th<span style="font-size: large;">at's <span style="font-size: large;">when everything fel<span style="font-size: large;">t dreamlike. Medications to lo<span style="font-size: large;">wer fever and flush liquids out of Becky's system wer<span style="font-size: large;">e pushed through the IV; her blood pressure was very low and her h<span style="font-size: large;">eart <span style="font-size: large;">rate slowed drastically. The doctor and all the nurses who had gathered were worried Becky had a blood clot going to her lungs. (It turned out to be p<span style="font-size: large;">neumonia). </span>The nurse assistant ordered the nurses to back away from Becky. She took over all the comfort measures to calm Becky and me. She worked with the nurse and they got the situation<span style="font-size: large;"> under control<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">This amazing<span style="font-size: large;">ly talented and capable nurse assistant came <span style="font-size: large;">back to check on Becky and tend to her needs the rest of the night...her night off. Later, when Becky started feeling better, </span></span>Becky took the nurse assistant's hand and kissed it<span style="font-size: large;">...thanking her again for taking care of her. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">The nurse assist<span style="font-size: large;">ant told <span style="font-size: large;">Becky "Stop, don't do that" and hurried to the door. <span style="font-size: large;">She stopped at the door and turned to me<span style="font-size: large;">, saying: "I used to do that. I used to kiss people on the hand and tell them thank you or I love you. But my family made fun of me for it<span style="font-size: large;">, so I stopped<span style="font-size: large;">.<span style="font-size: large;"> No one has done that to me in decades." <span style="font-size: large;">She had tears in her eyes. After that, the nurse <span style="font-size: large;">assistant was very warm<span style="font-size: large;"> and friendly with Becky<span style="font-size: large;">....actually, with everyone I saw her come into contact with. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Becky has the <span style="font-size: large;">gift of touching people<span style="font-size: large;">s' hearts<span style="font-size: large;">. We all do. Who knows how many people she touched with her loving nature, her gratitude <span style="font-size: large;">for their service, for their company. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span><i><b> </b></i>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-64409517154297053442012-10-09T12:06:00.000-07:002012-12-09T13:21:17.867-08:00Bumps In The Road<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">A couple of weeks ago, Becky had an accident in her home. She fell out of the Hoyer lift onto her feet then her knees. A Hoyer lift is a type of sling on a pneumatic jack system. A handle is pumped up and down to lift Becky as she sits in the sling. This is how she gets from her bed to her wheelchair; from her wheelchair to the shower chair; and back into her bed. It's always been an extremely safe method of getting Becky from one place to another. But accidents happen to everyone, even to people who have very careful, well-trained staff taking care of them. Becky fell forward out of the sling and onto the floor. She landed on her toes, bruising them badly. Falling this way also jammed the bones of her left leg together, breaking the femur about 1" above the knee. It broke in the pattern of a "T", causing lots of pain....but no bruising or swelling. Becky also fell onto her knees, breaking the knee cap of her right leg. This leg swelled up a lot and was very black and blue very quickly! </span></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Her poor caregiver was in shock just as much as Becky was. They were BOTH crying on the floor when another caregiver came in to see what was happening. Becky said she wasn't hurt and she had stopped crying. They picked her up and placed her on the bed, phoned the on-call nurse and then made a second call to 911. </span></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Becky went by ambulance to the hospital. She normally flirts and falls a little bit in love with men in uniforms, but not this time. She didn't start crying again until they got to the emergency room and she was transferred onto another bed. X-rays were taken of her right leg and the doctor suspected a fracture but was not certain. They decided to admit her into the hospital as a precaution. </span></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Thank goodness for very good friends and caregivers. Our friend, Sylvia, stayed with Becky through the day and night. I rented a car as soon as the rental place opened and drove like a maniac 5 hours to Las Cruces. Becky called me several times to check on where I was on the journey, crying through each conversation. By the time I reached the outskirts of Las Cruces, she insisted on staying on the phone with me and listening to me describing which street I was on, which building I had just passed, etc. When I told her I could see the hospital, she said a pathetic little "yay". We hung up so I could run up to the hospital. Poor girl had been crying for more than 24 hours straight with no break or rest. </span></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">I stayed with her for the 10 days she was hospitalized. It was quite the adventure.</span></i></b></span><br />
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Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-52084293383938999602012-09-17T13:25:00.002-07:002012-09-17T13:25:26.624-07:00Becky Loves Her Papa<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>A couple of weeks ago, my wonderful husband accompanied me to southern New Mexico for a visit with Becky. I'm going to try to describe the amount of excitement, anticipation and pure joy Becky expressed about her "Papa". </b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>During one of our nightly phone calls, Becky asked if Papa was going to be coming with me during my next visit. I told her "yes, he is" and was treated to a long, happy shriek lasting at least ten seconds. Sure, it's nice that her mom was coming to see her, but the REAL thrill was that Papa was coming. </b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>When Becky first met Frank, they formed an instant bond. We had gone to Frank's restaurant following a Special Olympics Bowling tournament. He treated her to a good supper and spoiled her with dessert. After eating, we loaded Becky onto her van...or rather, we TRIED to load Becky onto her van. The wheelchair lift got stuck in mid-air. We had a long wait for the "van guy" so Frank got into his truck and retrieved his Dallas Cowboys blanket (a truly coveted treasure). He covered Becky and tucked the blanket into her wheelchair. Becky felt so cared for and special...she talked about it for months afterwards. </b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Over time, she was much more interested in talking with Papa on the phone than anyone else. She'd call me and ask "how's Papa?". If she could figure out he was there in the room with me, it was all over. She HAD to talk with Papa. Sometimes it is a challenge to get Becky to talk and keep up her side of a conversation; but not with Papa. All of a sudden, she is full of questions and finding ways to make the call last longer. They have a fun little game at the end of their phone calls where they keep saying goodbye to each other - louder and louder, sillier and sillier. They both love it!</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Anyone who knows Becky knows that she is a terrific hugger. When Becky hugs you, you feel it for hours! We have all learned to have Becky hug us with her right arm so that we can eventually get away. If she hugs someone with her left arm, that person is going to be there a while. Becky always hugs Papa with both arms. </b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>So, back to our last visit... We arrived at Becky's home about half an hour before she was scheduled to get home from dayhab. We made ourselves comfy with me at her computer doing a clean-up and Frank sitting on the sofa in the living room. Becky came into the apartment and immediately saw my Sonic drink on the counter. "Mom!" She wheeled over to me at the computer and gave me a huge (right armed) hug. Lots of kisses were given and received. I told her to turn around; that's when she spotted her Papa. SHRIEKS! SQUEALS! "PAPA!!!!!!" Crazy driving into the living room followed by lots of (left armed) hugs. She didn't let him out of her sight until it was time for us to leave. As we were about to leave, Becky gave Papa a special gift. A stuffed bear wearing Dallas Cowboys uniform. Yes, they have a strong, very special bond.</b></i></span><br />
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<br />Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-3161421687948714942012-08-25T11:08:00.000-07:002012-08-25T11:12:32.992-07:00It's A Small World After All?<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<b><i>Becky's dream of going to Disneyworld is certainly well-timed. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>The state of New Mexico is making drastic budget cuts, like most states are this year. Unfortunately, the state of New Mexico has decided that cutting back on programs for the poor and disabled is a great way to balance their budget. How sad that our state leaders would go after citizens that are all too often "voiceless". Culturally, many of the people who are directly affected by these cuts do not complain, do not access their government officials via letters or emails; they tend to not be informed about forums or meetings to voice their objections. Despite having been involved in a very expensive lawsuit due to the way the state of New Mexico used to treat people with special needs, the state is cutting the budgets for people on the DD Waiver by 25% and in some cases up to 73%. </i></b><br />
<a href="http://www.sfreporter.com/santafe/article-5232-jacksons-legacy.html?current_page=1" target="_blank">http://www.sfreporter.com/santafe/article-5232-jacksons-legacy.html?current_page=1</a></div>
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<b><i>In Becky's case, we are expecting major budget cuts that will force the company that provides her residential care to group their clients together. Becky will no longer live in her apartment by herself; but will have a roommate. Because the company that takes care of her is so small, options for roommates is extremely limited. Luckily, Becky loves her future roommate. He is a 73 year old man. She sees him as a grandfather figure and loves helping his staff take care of him. She gets him drinks of water, tells staff what he needs next. He's a quiet man who needs help getting around. He and Becky often spend Saturdays & Sundays together at each others' homes. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Another way the budget cuts are going to affect Becky is through cuts to the Medicaid program for prescription drugs. Luckily, Becky is a fairly healthy young lady who takes few medications. But the medications she does take are very expensive. We are going to be challenged to find ways to give her the medications she needs while maintaining her already tight personal budget.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Of course, like almost everyone these days, Becky's personal budget will be greatly affected by the state and national economy. It's part of normal living. And like everyone else, Becky will be making choices in daily activities to help her stay within her budget. She'll have to choose which social activities are important enough to her to pay for the gas to get there....we're pushing for her to continue having an active social life by going to karaoke, bowling and out on a day every other Saturday, as well as church on Sundays. But because she also goes to Dayhab 5 days a week and doctor appointments occasionally, her social life choices may become limited. Her world may become quite small indeed. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Going to Disneyworld will expose Becky to new people, new parts of the country, and new experiences. It's very important that she sees there is more to life than what she sees every day. Her trip to New York City opened her eyes and her mind. She has become much more active online and has goals and dreams for her future. Becky has also decided to become much more active in her fundraising for her trip! She has been having me send out cookbooks that she made to some of her extended family members and is having a yard sale in September! She is also planning on selling pizza by the slice at her Dayhab.</i></b><br />
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<b><i>Any help she can get toward her goal of going to Disneyworld would be forever appreciated.</i></b><br />
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<br />Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-75879667643279662462012-08-05T10:35:00.000-07:002012-08-05T10:35:35.617-07:00How Disneyworld Can Help Independence!<span style="font-size: large;">My daughter, Becky, has cerebral palsy and uses an electric wheelchair to get around. Her ability to talk with her family and friends is an ongoing challenge for her but we discovered a wonderful way to help Becky communicate better! <b><i>Travel and adventure!!!</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Becky is a very happy, friendly young lady but has huge challenges in independence. She grew up relying on others to complete all her self-care such as dressing, grooming, and for many years, even feeding. With much work and therapy, Becky was able to learn to use utensils to feed herself, help put on tee shirts, and brush her own hair and teeth. But all of those tasks take an enormous amount of effort and energy. Thank goodness for her loving and attentive staff at Milagro de Vida and Angelcare of Las Cruces, NM. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Last year, Becky went on her first independent adventure with Hammer Travel when she went to NYC. The process of getting ready for the trip, fundraising, and telling everyone about the trip brought Becky out of her shell. She eagerly talked to whoever would listen, telling them about her trip to the Today Show, meeting Jon Stewart at The Daily Show, going to the statue of liberty, and going to a Broadway show. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We've seen a difference in Becky since her trip. She is braver, more adventurous, and willing to try new things. And she talks so much more! She calls me every day to tell me what she did that day at dayhab. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, today I asked Becky a few questions about her upcoming trip to Disneyworld. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Me: Becky, what are you wanting to do most when you go to Disneyworld? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Becky: I want to see characters. I like Goofy, Mickey, and Donald Duck. My favorite is Tinkerbell. I love her.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Me: What is your favorite Disney movie?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Becky: Hmmmmmm I don't know. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Me: You used to love Aladdin. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Becky: Yeah, but not anymore. I love Tinkerbell movies now.</span><br />
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<br />Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-63010309324133477552012-08-03T08:17:00.000-07:002012-08-03T11:19:38.999-07:00Disneyland Dream<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Wow! It's been such a crazy, busy summer! </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Becky has decided she wants her next trip to be to Disneyworld! She is excited to go away on her own again and meet new people. Becky loves making new friends, trying new things.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The trip she is wanting to go on is:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://hammertravel.org/destinations/orlando-disney/">http://hammertravel.org/destinations/orlando-disney/</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>January 27-February 2, 2013</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>So here we are again, raising money for her trip! The Paypal button on this blog goes to her account and every penny will be used for Becky. Thanks for helping us spread the word!</b></span><br />
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<br />Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-44043203926601193732012-02-29T09:28:00.001-08:002012-02-29T09:29:42.378-08:00Becky and Robbie's Night Out<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Becky called me last to tell me all about her evening with her long-time boyfriend, Robbie. They went to karaoke at the ARC. They talked with their friends who were there and had a fantastic time catching up on all the chisme (gossip). </b></span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Then they got busy dancing to the music. Becky loves to dance in her electric wheelchair, using her joystick to move side to side and twirl around. But her favorite way to dance is to hold onto Robbie's hands as they sway to the slow, romantic songs. Sometimes he will lean down to let her put her head on his shoulder as they dance.</b></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>I keep encouraging her to sing at karaoke, but she would rather dance. Becky has a sweet singing voice that makes everyone smile. But, actually, she makes people smile no matter what she's up to!</b></i></span>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-22481701154969388112011-10-12T17:37:00.000-07:002011-10-12T17:39:01.454-07:00On Becky's List of Things She HAD To Do in NYC...Go to The Today Show<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Becky had a blast in New York City! </b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b> She got to actually live her dream!</b></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC03s6GSKpPAcE2KZUowKjC7_XKX0BVQwJGDRxtyTN1Bltg-TwZzGAMlgE2WuL7iOyKYvHBP_uYJr3Irm_vQvUSK4dvgk_NR7kYVsnPdZBYZ_UXFBeknDxlK91hW970YFMEpuCux3X-Y4/s1600/topofrock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC03s6GSKpPAcE2KZUowKjC7_XKX0BVQwJGDRxtyTN1Bltg-TwZzGAMlgE2WuL7iOyKYvHBP_uYJr3Irm_vQvUSK4dvgk_NR7kYVsnPdZBYZ_UXFBeknDxlK91hW970YFMEpuCux3X-Y4/s320/topofrock.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<i><b>Becky and her new friends got up very early in the morning to prepare for the big show. Even though she took a couple of light jackets & a sweater with her, Becky had to bundle up with blankets & other people's coats while she was at The Today Show. She's used to the warmth of the desert and the dryness of the desert air. New York City's humidity makes that cold go deep into her body! </b></i><br />
<i><b>When they first arrived at Rockefeller Center, there were only a few people there...so they were able to get a good spot in order to see the hosts and anchors of The Today Show. As more people showed up for the show, they came over to Becky and her friends to greet them. Becky also makes lots of friends everywhere she goes. All of the travelers with Hammer Travel had made signs the night before. Becky's sign said "I Heart U Mom". </b></i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAylKYczGFRrhfIy0UvA-l1FCQxu_daOhBL5-7b97Zb2hD92p_0-D3CTXt_KDihuaQ3rF5gY2wdO9QFmgqqJzz6S2kuuIIiJ9wGhDMUJKJRiX6ezSKnHxCvxbi5JX0DMjqJ_vMrl-EMf8/s1600/316260_10150351664528744_329009293743_8168646_2111412318_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAylKYczGFRrhfIy0UvA-l1FCQxu_daOhBL5-7b97Zb2hD92p_0-D3CTXt_KDihuaQ3rF5gY2wdO9QFmgqqJzz6S2kuuIIiJ9wGhDMUJKJRiX6ezSKnHxCvxbi5JX0DMjqJ_vMrl-EMf8/s320/316260_10150351664528744_329009293743_8168646_2111412318_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i><b>Al Roker came out first and did a weather report. After the report, he came over and talked with Becky and her friends, shaking their hands. Later, more of the hosts and anchors came out and took the time to greet Becky including Matt Lauer and Ann Curry. When asked who was cuter, Becky said, "Al Roker, he was neat". Who was the funniest one? "Matt Lauer". Who was the nicest one? "Ann Curry". </b></i><br />
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<i><b>After the show was over, Becky and some of the other Hammer Travel friends went to the Top of the Rock. Becky had chosen that as one of the places she wanted to be sure to see. She was simply blown away with how high she was. In her hometown of Las Cruces, NM the tallest building is 4 stories tall....she could not believe she was 70 stories in the air. Since there is a thick plexiglass wall around the edge of the building, Becky could see all the buildings in Manhattan and down to the street. "It was crazy". </b></i><br />
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</div>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-43626009005075129212011-10-04T20:35:00.000-07:002011-10-04T20:35:52.829-07:00Update: Becky's Exploring All Over ManhattanBecky has been having such an amazing time in NYC! She went to Central Park yesterday and buzzed all around...really enjoying her freedom and independence! Then she went to the Guggenheim Museum.<br />
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Tonight Becky and her travel group went to see Wicked and were trying to get autographs after the play was over....I'm looking forward to hearing all about it!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1.proxy05.twitpic.com/photos/large/414892077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s1.proxy05.twitpic.com/photos/large/414892077.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-55232304738848596742011-10-04T08:33:00.000-07:002011-10-04T08:33:14.478-07:00Tuesday & The Today ShowBecky and her new friends from her travel group and Hammer Travel are visiting The Today Show this morning. They had to get to Rockefeller Center by 6:30 EST so I'm sure she was awake several hours earlier in order to get ready in time. Knowing Becky, she was likely squealing as her Hammer Travel staff got her dressed and prepared for the day. <br />
I got up to start watching The Today Show at 7am and was thrilled to see a glimpse of her as the camera panned across the crowd early in the first hour. She was holding a sign and wearing a pink hat; but what made her easy to spot was her smile! I even heard her trademark squeal! <br />
Here's a pic of her sign.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/316683_10150343768618744_329009293743_8125210_1118477347_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/316683_10150343768618744_329009293743_8125210_1118477347_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-45562429812210527692011-10-03T19:08:00.000-07:002011-10-03T19:10:46.105-07:00Pizza in NYC with FDNY on the side<i><b><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">Becky's brother, James Wilkinson, lives in NYC. He and his girlfriend, Rachel invited Becky and the entire travel group from Hammer Travel to John's Pizzaria on Times Square. </span></b></i><b><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">www.johnspizzerianyc.com</span></b><i><b><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}"> Jim showed Becky how to eat pizza New York-style: folded and it ended up being the easiest and best way she's ever eaten pizza! Guess she's a natural-born New Yorker at heart? Becky saw margaritas on the menu & yelled out, "I have my i.d.!" lol....she ended up drinking virgin.</span></b></i><br />
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<b><i>Jim, Becky and the entire travel group were walking back to the hotel in the rain and noticed the local fire department had their doors open. They all went inside and were treated to having their pictures taken with the firemen and trucks. Jim reported there was lots of flirting with firemen done by all the ladies of the group.</i></b></span><br />
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<b><i><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">More to come tomorrow! It's The Today Show early in the morning! Look for her behind Al Roker! </span></i></b>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-16044818090881369012011-10-03T13:38:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:40:36.073-07:00Becky Is Living Her Dream!!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m626/Susan77429/2011-10-02083615.jpg?t=1317671436" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://i1135.photobucket.com/albums/m626/Susan77429/2011-10-02083615.jpg?t=1317671436" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<i><b>Becky flew to New York City yesterday...starting her adventure in independence in grand style! </b></i><br />
<i><b>American Airlines staff were awesome and certainly went the extra mile as they upgraded her flight to first class. She even got a window seat!</b></i><br />
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<b>When Becky was a young girl, she had severe scoliosis of her spine. This caused her to sit slumped over to the side and limited her ability to view the world outside the car windows. When she was 12, she had surgery to place rods in her spine. This was a very complex surgery and she had life-threatening complications during the procedure. Afterwards, she had to lie flat on her back or on her tummy for six weeks. Therapy that included stretching and weight bearing followed and was quite painful for her. But of course Becky never complained.</b><br />
<b>It was finally time to go for her first car ride during the follow up visit to the surgeon. After going a few blocks down the road, I asked Becky if all the pain and struggle was worth it. With her trademark huge smile, she squealed, "Yes! Now I can see out the windows!" </b><br />
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<b><i>So, this week, Becky is looking through all kinds of windows, breaking through the "glass" and embracing the world she's longed to experience. </i></b><br />
<b><i>Thank you to all of you who have given so much of yourselves to help make this happen!</i></b><br />
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<i><b>I will be updating the blog often....every time I hear from Becky as she is on her trip. Pictures and longer stories of her experiences will follow after she gets back home on Friday.</b></i>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-59283365412407352882011-10-02T17:55:00.000-07:002011-10-02T17:55:13.576-07:00Becky's in New York City!!!!!I will post all about Becky's trip to New York City with frequent updates starting tomorrow. <br />
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She landed at LaGuardia airport this evening and it's raining...but she's looking forward to meeting her new friends and going out for supper in Manhattan as they get to know each other.<br />
All the details will have to wait though....this Mom is exhausted and has to rest!Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-68110428279084143232011-08-30T20:21:00.000-07:002011-08-30T20:21:38.218-07:00Relief for Becky, Thank Goodness!<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Happily, we found a way to give Becky relief from her very painful wrist. She is getting more and more exicted about her upcoming trip to New York City every day. Today we heard from the wonderful people at Hammer Travel as they updated us on the plans while she is in the Big Apple.</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>I can't talk about all the details yet, but I can assure you, it's going to be a very exciting, very rewarding experience for Miss Becky.</b></i></span><br />
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Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-72350503434056027452011-08-15T12:42:00.000-07:002011-08-15T12:42:38.755-07:00Another Stumble Along the Road<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3eNslVrnK1KGsxJHGthrLuxg-95FciZM2I0YL0J9MXfaYtcRo1h6fWewwV8yLXVgfZezIMEMfb9D9mezTunUw56BMY15CyP7q8-eCCl597Cu-Pnk0wCn_vEG10q9P7jfrP8dFfil9C0/s1600/266614_2253749223596_1244251984_2705263_145504_o%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" naa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3eNslVrnK1KGsxJHGthrLuxg-95FciZM2I0YL0J9MXfaYtcRo1h6fWewwV8yLXVgfZezIMEMfb9D9mezTunUw56BMY15CyP7q8-eCCl597Cu-Pnk0wCn_vEG10q9P7jfrP8dFfil9C0/s320/266614_2253749223596_1244251984_2705263_145504_o%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><strong><em>Becky has been having lots of pain in her right wrist. After going to the orthopedist, we've discovered her scaphoid bone (one of the wrist bones) is displace and causing lots of discomfort. She is such a courageous, patient lady. Becky only complains about the pain in her wrist when it's really bad at the end of the day. Unfortunately, Tylenol isn't relieving the pain and she is unable to take anything stronger or even ibuprofen due to increased liver enzymes in the past.</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>One of Becky's heroes...Dean Palma, OTR...made her a wrist brace to help relieve some of her pain. Her doctor recommended some pain patches, but Medicaid will not pay for the medicine. Thanks alot, New Mexico budget cuts! </em></strong><br />
<strong><em>The orthopedist recommended surgery to fuse her wrist so we have been playing the waiting game with all the different players involved in getting it scheduled. "No, I haven't gotten a scheduled date yet...I need the referral first." "Yes, our office faxed their office the referral already". "No, we still haven't gotten the referral" "Yes, I'm sure we already faxed it." "Okay, we'll go ahead & make an appointment for the pre-surgery consultation but if we don't have the referral before the consultation, it will be cancelled" "I just know we have faxed the referral!" </em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Luckily, another one of Becky's heroes, her nurse Sarah is going to physically go watch the fax being sent for the surgery referral. Her surgery will be done in Albuquerque at the UNM hospital...probably some time soon after she gets back from trip to New York City.</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Becky was SO worried she would not be able to go to NYC, she is extremely happy to find out the trip is still on! (Her mom was worried too). </em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Happily, it is all working out. And here we are in the middle of August....time for Becky to get her monthly visit from her mom!!!!!! I'll get there on Friday & leave on Monday. Get ready to party Becky! We have lots to do to get ready for the trip! </em></strong><br />
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<em></em></strong>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-46838610883592195122011-07-13T10:06:00.000-07:002011-07-13T10:06:47.848-07:00Hot Summer Fun!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5hiEpVZeKemNTg_FvEOH0sXrL3PXv1BZsCcCEUASz_-eoEhjs0yZLwtmMLbvqMhKSohR2qTKeyiCzqihVZhSSz55c6BSH2PTs-cHweIxtcQK415un5-Y_ZHHHGVH5BfwDB0lDxeW6B8/s1600/278265_2253761503903_1244251984_2705274_1337792_o.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
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Becky and I had a beautiful long weekend!<br />
Becky lives in the desert southwest so we're pretty used to it being hot, but this is ridiculous! We've had temperatures as high as 108 degrees. But it's a DRY heat :) Being in a wheelchair makes it more challenging to tolerate the heat for Becky. She can't really adjust her posture or position in her chair on her own. Thank goodness her chair tilts back so she can get some relief from sitting in the same position hours at a time. Can you imagine? What if you had to sit in a chair and never wiggle around, never adjust your legs, arch your back or even adjust how much weight you are putting on your behind?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAH0tK95U0Mi1y53Q33_f1mVmak4tHlhxXhdk1HiHKg8XtTQwrxDR7A4c7fDHk-j_bzwkM9TLBH12E8XaMIfi3792MjQFbg6qA0jVYsJ7eOr3EcB8lzwcNlrhrJ-L7y5A0BSRwxd7E6E/s1600/272448_2249626680535_1244251984_2698537_216787_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAH0tK95U0Mi1y53Q33_f1mVmak4tHlhxXhdk1HiHKg8XtTQwrxDR7A4c7fDHk-j_bzwkM9TLBH12E8XaMIfi3792MjQFbg6qA0jVYsJ7eOr3EcB8lzwcNlrhrJ-L7y5A0BSRwxd7E6E/s320/272448_2249626680535_1244251984_2698537_216787_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5hiEpVZeKemNTg_FvEOH0sXrL3PXv1BZsCcCEUASz_-eoEhjs0yZLwtmMLbvqMhKSohR2qTKeyiCzqihVZhSSz55c6BSH2PTs-cHweIxtcQK415un5-Y_ZHHHGVH5BfwDB0lDxeW6B8/s1600/278265_2253761503903_1244251984_2705274_1337792_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>On Friday, Becky was surprised and excited to have her sister, Corey, and her niece and nephew come from Santa Fe to visit with us. Of course in Becky's world, Friday has been Bowling Day. She meets several of her friends and they train for the Special Olympics bowling tournament. But this time, she had more competition from Miles and Maggie! It was their first time bowling. Grandma did her best to teach them the basics of how to bowl...including the "granny-style" of rolling the ball down the alley. Maggie was far more interested in the ball return machine but Miles even got a couple of spares! Bowling was followed by going out to eat as a family and were very happy that Becky's roommate and her caregiver joined us as well. We love gathering around a table of food with lots of talking, laughing and the fun of wrangling children. Our family times are our favorite times. Back at the apartment, the kids put on a little performance of singing and dancing, trying their best to get lots of applause from their mom, grandma and auntie. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5hiEpVZeKemNTg_FvEOH0sXrL3PXv1BZsCcCEUASz_-eoEhjs0yZLwtmMLbvqMhKSohR2qTKeyiCzqihVZhSSz55c6BSH2PTs-cHweIxtcQK415un5-Y_ZHHHGVH5BfwDB0lDxeW6B8/s1600/278265_2253761503903_1244251984_2705274_1337792_o.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5hiEpVZeKemNTg_FvEOH0sXrL3PXv1BZsCcCEUASz_-eoEhjs0yZLwtmMLbvqMhKSohR2qTKeyiCzqihVZhSSz55c6BSH2PTs-cHweIxtcQK415un5-Y_ZHHHGVH5BfwDB0lDxeW6B8/s320/278265_2253761503903_1244251984_2705274_1337792_o.jpg" width="240" /></a>Two-year-old Maggie is big enough now to climb up on the wheelchair and snuggle her auntie. Becky hugged her and kissed the top of Maggie's head...she was so happy! Miles is 6 and a half and likes to sit on Becky's lap as she drives the wheelchair. He tries to sneak in a little drive time himself too. Becky was in her hospital-type bed when everyone came to hang out with her. No problem, that just made for more adventures as the kids climbed into the bed and they all took turns going on "rides" moving the back and feet up and down. Corey and the children went back to Santa Fe late that afternoon. It sure did leave a large quiet space behind.<br />
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On Sunday, Becky and I had a nice indoor picnic since it was way too hot to be outdoors. The menu included fried chicken and wine coolers. Becky enjoys an adult drink once in a while and is only able to have them when I visit due to company policies of her caregiver staff. That keeps her safe and she doesn't mind since she views having a special drink as one of our special rituals between mother-daughter. So after lunch and a wine cooler, Becky was chillin' as she reclined in her chair. We had such a relaxed visit. I can hardly wait for our next visit in August! Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-81615388123699339582011-06-05T15:59:00.000-07:002011-06-05T15:59:20.192-07:00So Much Has Happened!<i><b>Since the last time Becky and I blogged, alot of things have happened.</b></i><br />
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<i><b>Becky went to Albuquerque last month and competed in the Special Olympics state games. She won gold medals in both of her wheelchair slalom races!!! She traveled to Albuquerque with a couple of her younger staff persons and spent two nights in a hotel, visiting with her friends and going out to eat at different restaurants. It's always a big treat for Becky and she loves trying new foods. She's a very adventurous and curious young woman. Of course, the best part of the trip was the big dance after the olympics were over. The dance is held under a big tent with a deejay and competitors from across the state of New Mexico. Becky loves to get there early as possible and has to be one of the last to leave!</b></i><br />
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<i><b>Becky's cookbook was completed so she has been selling the cookbooks to her friends, staff & therapy professionals. The cookbooks are selling for $10 and contain about 16 recipes donated by her care providers, family and friends. Becky will use the money from the cookbooks for spending money when she goes to New York City.</b></i><br />
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<i><b>Becky has also been spending time online researching places she wants to visit during her trip to NYC including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Broadway. She has gotten to be an expert at communicating through Skype with me and the rest of her family. It's been a godsend as a way to stay in touch. </b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVtWHOyePl_LVznrYBWK-4uw57DoWK7bLLxzyy23gkMAs4ZHqMxzPYBqGLxOp0JDKA9xVNdILy12WptM1X-GUZ1ki8gH4NQY3GeFWp2xCwH8q6ENr5R0YD-_TfA6w2HAHxHWiZSIPr60/s1600/204946_2042056211403_1244251984_2457476_3245646_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVtWHOyePl_LVznrYBWK-4uw57DoWK7bLLxzyy23gkMAs4ZHqMxzPYBqGLxOp0JDKA9xVNdILy12WptM1X-GUZ1ki8gH4NQY3GeFWp2xCwH8q6ENr5R0YD-_TfA6w2HAHxHWiZSIPr60/s320/204946_2042056211403_1244251984_2457476_3245646_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-63972217236237713262011-05-09T12:37:00.000-07:002011-05-09T12:37:31.049-07:00Weekend at Becky's<b><i>Becky and I spent a wonderful weekend together again. </i></b><br />
<b><i>On Thursday evening, I rode the bus from El Paso to Las Cruces which is a short trip of about 30 minutes. Way cheaper to go by bus at $3 rather than driving when gas is so very expensive. Becky & her caregivers picked me up at a little cafe near the bus stop and we went to her apartment. Becky and her roommate, Melissa, have made their apartment so nice and homey. Melissa has 2 parrots that make just enough noise to let you know they are alive. Becky loves the birds too. So Thursday night was all about catching up on gossip and figuring out what was on the agenda for Friday. Becky and Melissa have become very close and are like sisters.</i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQD0_aMtCMHvHTaVqP3vfkGK_B3Lo7_Ua-fqILCjaMP5PBo_BQi19MI7cX8jtwNgNgNe_1O4ToZGoy7oD_xL17huReYUn6GKbqvZdwwmvpJtFRuCNhmyyHbtUD9yqw0-IH__-6JxxO9mM/s1600/Photo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQD0_aMtCMHvHTaVqP3vfkGK_B3Lo7_Ua-fqILCjaMP5PBo_BQi19MI7cX8jtwNgNgNe_1O4ToZGoy7oD_xL17huReYUn6GKbqvZdwwmvpJtFRuCNhmyyHbtUD9yqw0-IH__-6JxxO9mM/s200/Photo2.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><b><i>Becky's house has been designated an "awake" house by her residential care company. That means the staff does chores around the house while the girls sleep i.e. laundry, mopping, cleaning, etc. That also means that I no longer sleep on Becky's sofa when I crash at her place. So, I took come cushions off the sofa & made myself a bed on her floor. She was happy because it felt like a slumber party. lol...it also felt like my rear end was destined to be on the floor between the cushions. Luckily, one of her staff brought over an air mattress for me on Friday night. </i></b><br />
<b><i>Friday, Becky went to Sunland Park, NM to the casino with her friends from Dayhab. She was very very excited and determined to win some $$$. And she didn't do to badly. She took $20 and came home with $5....better than I usually do at the casino. </i></b><br />
<b><i>My agenda on Friday was an appointment with my rheumatologist who has an office .6 miles away from Becky's apartment. I walked the .6 miles...downhill...and was so pleased with myself. Lupus has been rearing it's ugly head lately and I've been taking physical activities very slowly. I got good news from the doctor...no new or additional drugs! WooHoo!</i></b><br />
<b><i>My good friend, Lesley Maguire, took me to the local printing company and we got Becky's Dream Cookbook set up and ready for printing. It should be ready for her to start selling next week!</i></b><br />
<b><i>Lesley had such a brilliant idea when she came up with the cookbook project. Thank you so much, Lesley! Becky will use the money from the cookbook for her spending money when she goes to NYC! </i></b><br />
<b><i>Becky had her regularly scheduled bowling practice for Special Olympics on Friday night and wow, did she do great! One strike after another! She made the highest score on her team with a 278.</i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg815htI2UFVrbK6-cptVpy-Klfz-_9C-F9nSdXNn-HUDDbW4rCcR-PORJZ2RWSTkkglK5t9tE0ERx17o7X9J6jIb_BdTOvE6UHDM2fPHMSPb-XGenzFGQ7D-nFgqkf4m6xG2ckrOXoxQs/s1600/Beckster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg815htI2UFVrbK6-cptVpy-Klfz-_9C-F9nSdXNn-HUDDbW4rCcR-PORJZ2RWSTkkglK5t9tE0ERx17o7X9J6jIb_BdTOvE6UHDM2fPHMSPb-XGenzFGQ7D-nFgqkf4m6xG2ckrOXoxQs/s320/Beckster.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><i></i></b><i><b>Saturday I woke up in the middle of a full blown Lupus attack so I stayed in while Becky went grocery shopping & then on her date with Robbie. Seems that walking .6 miles was too much to ask of my body this time. So instead of spending Mother's Day with Becky, I had to go back to El Paso where I could take my meds and crawl into bed for a couple of days. </b></i><br />
<b><i>Becky is so empathic and caring. She called to make sure I was doing better, to see if she could help somehow. She is a stunning example of how people who have many challenges in life are often the ones to extend their helping hand first.</i></b>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-33201871356937625412011-05-04T15:56:00.000-07:002011-05-04T15:56:21.482-07:00Becky's Going for Her 1st Independent Adventure into the World!<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Well, it's happening!</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><b><i> Becky is going to NYC with the help of Hammer Travel from Oct. 2 - Oct. 6, 2011. She'll be touring the city with a group of new friends that have various disabilities and several very capable, well trained staff members from Hammer Travel. </i></b><br />
<b><i>Becky's dream is coming true due to the help of several key people and many other new friends. The donations all began with my nephew, Becky's first cousin, Matthew Roessler. He donated money after reading Becky's blog and got us all excited about the possibilities that we could actually make this adventure happen. My first cousin, Scott Robison, was very creative & playful in his generous and surprising donations. And the brother of Becky's godfather who passed away years ago, donated to her efforts. One of my very good friends from Field Kindley High School, Lynn Bastian Morrow, made a large donation and encouraged my other friends on Facebook to do the same. </i></b><br />
<b><i>Becky's brother, James Wilkinson and her sister, Corey Taylor gave large amounts to help their sister in her efforts to be independent....they have never let her down and have always lifted her up!</i></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">My heart was moved deeply when a very special friend of mine who also has a chronic illness, Brenda Jones, made a large donation. Her donation was just one of many made by people who have chronic illnesses such as Lupus, Fibromyalgia and MS. It moved us greatly that people with health problems of their own were often the mostly likely to help Becky. </span><br />
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<b><i>Then a very special person surprised us all. Rory Albanese, executive producer and writer of the Daily Show with Jon Stewart contacted me and asked for more information about Becky. He then donated the remainder of the amount needed for Becky's New York City trip. His generosity simply overwhelmed us. Becky has been watching the Daily Show and clips of Mr. Albanese's comedy online every since! </i></b><br />
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<b><i>We are extremely thankful for these people and the many others who have helped us financially, encouraged us with their own efforts, and those who have pledged to continue helping Becky. Becky is planning on completing her cookbook project and selling the cookbooks so that she'll have spending money when she hits Manhattan! </i></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Again, THANK YOU ALL!</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-69675898554145359252011-05-02T12:17:00.000-07:002011-05-02T12:17:09.711-07:00Becky's Dream Closer to Coming TrueWe're so proud of Becky! And the good news is: We made the down payment on her NYC trip this morning! Woo Hoo!<br />
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Thank you so much to all the friends, new friends, and family who helped us reach this part of her journey.Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-20710504688153071412011-04-28T14:54:00.000-07:002011-04-28T14:54:46.552-07:00When She Was Small<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahboLMsVxSQ6yhZW7rk5vKuhKoCi1RN8Flc0GMUPKXuHd1eiulXi8fW00RUF7J22yyaSVEPnfOBateNGfPeO039n1FO4QGwWU4RcUB7SfOSJy9DaOiQc9F-BY50N_Cu9TiixWL-4xezw/s1600/170727_189222874429301_100000247696485_648494_6200123_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahboLMsVxSQ6yhZW7rk5vKuhKoCi1RN8Flc0GMUPKXuHd1eiulXi8fW00RUF7J22yyaSVEPnfOBateNGfPeO039n1FO4QGwWU4RcUB7SfOSJy9DaOiQc9F-BY50N_Cu9TiixWL-4xezw/s320/170727_189222874429301_100000247696485_648494_6200123_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Becky has an older brother, James, and an older sister, Corey. They have always loved her dearly and admired her determination in life. I found this picture of them taken when Becky was about 2 years old. She was out of her casts and able to crawl by pulling her body forward with her right arm. Much of Becky's day was spent playing on the floor where she had much more mobility and freedom. Her brother & sister brought her toys and played with her, "chased" her and wrestled with her. She loved pretending she was a ninja and a Power Puff Girl. Corey & James started out letting Becky win the games, but as she grew stronger, Becky held her own and had a powerful "karate chop".<br />
I guess she was always a superhero kind of girl!<br />
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<span id="goog_149055082"><span id="goog_857600025"></span><span id="goog_857600026"></span></span><span id="goog_149055083"></span>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6567497592738411209.post-37752666355830724622011-04-27T15:12:00.000-07:002011-04-27T15:12:38.668-07:00Connecting with her World<i><b>Becky has been having a wonderful time getting her new apartment all organized for her electronic gadgets. Every evening, Becky plays on her computer. she uses a large mouse that is adjusted to her touch. She also has a modified keyboard that is color coded and has larger keys to make things easier for her. Becky helps with writing this blog, monitors it, goes on her Facebook and chats with her friends & family. Becky's sister, Corey, got her set up with a reading program on her computer to improve her reading skills.</b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNFFUjOJsCQ3WBCEa04HevJqmDKQJzs8niMboeZs_T8Nw6bL4o461ItBEZzXw1H-vbHhLtrYPbtA5ufLOxmMD0A6d5EUZVzaTdd8ALQ5YMhSmkI_psL0-TYiX__g30iRwSOcGUyuj2JI/s1600/Photo1529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNFFUjOJsCQ3WBCEa04HevJqmDKQJzs8niMboeZs_T8Nw6bL4o461ItBEZzXw1H-vbHhLtrYPbtA5ufLOxmMD0A6d5EUZVzaTdd8ALQ5YMhSmkI_psL0-TYiX__g30iRwSOcGUyuj2JI/s320/Photo1529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i><b> Becky loves listening to music on her computer too. She is very skilled at getting on YouTube and cueing up her favorite singers. Becky's favorite music to find online includes Elvis Presley, Billy Ray Cyrus and Miley Cyrus. Of course, she's also a humongous Justin Bieber fan! We try to go to concerts pretty often both in Las Cruces and in nearby El Paso. She swooned over Ricky Martin, 'N Sync, and Kenny Chesney. More recently, Becky rocked out to Kelly Clarkson when she was in Las Cruces.</b></i><br />
<i><b>Becky's tastes in music have always been very eclectic and ranged from Spanish music to country music to rock and roll. She also enjoys listening to gospel music once in a while. For her birthday, Becky received a CD audiobook of Twilight so that she can read along as she listens to her favorite story. (She's Team Jacob).</b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdKCppsG49HYts_VVGQO1_ODa2zsTyvqnGhW3_4h1y3aNuqD0cztNTc0SMiwbVG0DgE1FvH0dMxkWnvRep1kf6YXvb-2s4N64aS4ujgK7aYt0ZAaAfmILKXyN06NCYiGH5IeywKQlfRs/s1600/Photo1532H.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdKCppsG49HYts_VVGQO1_ODa2zsTyvqnGhW3_4h1y3aNuqD0cztNTc0SMiwbVG0DgE1FvH0dMxkWnvRep1kf6YXvb-2s4N64aS4ujgK7aYt0ZAaAfmILKXyN06NCYiGH5IeywKQlfRs/s320/Photo1532H.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Susan Wilkinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972152387475581876noreply@blogger.com1