Rose's Story

Sometimes in our lives we dream lofty dreams, as we look out into our uncertain future. We believe no mountain too tall to climb. Getting the perfect job, buying a first home, and being in love are dreams coming true.

On October 26, 2009, Rose's dreams were coming true. She was headed home for a job interview she had been waiting for since graduation from college; the offer on their first home had been accepted (2 doors from her mom and dad's.) Then in a split second a tragic car accident changed their lives forever. Rose spent almost a month in Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital's Trauma Center. Her Mom, Dad and Aunt were by her side 24 hours a day. Her doctors, nurses and caregivers were wonderful. Everyone around her was amazed by her determination, beautiful smile, positive attitude and happy spirit.



With the help of friends and family, Rose was able to return to her small apartment in Santa Cruz to continue her recovery process. Someone has been with her at all times since the day of the accident. Each day she gets stronger and able to do more for herself. Her abdominal wound is healing, as are her ribs, clavicle and crushed feet. It has been hard for her to be either in her TLSO brace or flat on her back in bed for so long. It has been a little over 3 months, and she is finally able to stand and walk a little, as long as she wears her brace. It will be a happy day when she gets to take her first shower, or is able to put her own socks on. She goes back to Santa Rosa in a week for further tests and to meet with her neurosurgeon. We are hoping she will be able to avoid back surgery, but she has been told that a through-and-through fracture of the L3 vertebrae is a serious break. Her left foot and right arm may also require more surgery in the future. As the body works to heal, the bills become a daunting issue.

Rose has always had exemplary credit, and for the first time in her life, she finds herself in serious debt. The woman who caused the accident may be uninsured. Since Rose's graduation from college, her jobs have not offered medical insurance and she has not been able to afford private medical insurance. So far, no public assistance has come through, either. Many of Rose's friends want to help her. So we are planning a fund raiser to help her out and a way to make direct donations, for those who prefer. We hope you will be able to help, too.