Message from Maria:

I recently ordered a custom “service harness” for SAM. I am really excited to get his new harness as this will allow me to feel SAM as he moves. Sam is overcoming many obstacles in his training…being a small dog is not an issue because Sam doesn't know that he is a small dog.

My mom and I have been asked to speak at many companies this month. For example, we were speaking to Waste Management in Bremerton. We had never been to this location before and when I asked Sam to take me to the door…..he did! When I asked him to turn right and left…..he did!. Sam loves our speaking engagements. He usually has a few words of his own to share. That is way he is a “must have CAV!”

We both feel honored to be asked to speak and share my story. I feel that it is important to lend a personal story to this kind of road hazard. It helps to educate others on Why it is so “Important to Secure Your Load.” We ask that everyone step out of their comfort zone and report an unsecured load or tell your neighbor or family member about what can happen to others if loads are not properly secured. Washington State Patrol has recently added an ICON to their website. You can report an unsecured load by giving the license plate, location, and what was seen. WSP will follow up with a letter to the vehicle's owner letting them know that they were seen with an unsecured load.

Speaking and sharing my story has given me the opportunity to use my degree in Speech Communications. After these speaking engagements we feel exhilarated because people care enough to listen and that in itself is some kind of justice to know that we may have helped others to be safe! We also get an opportunity to hear their stories. This kind of road incident happens more often than people think. Often times they are not reported as unsecured load incidents.

If you think it would be helpful to have my mother and I speak at your company to educate your employees….please leave a note on this website. Happy Holidays and BE SAFE!

- Maria

Maria just had another surgery on October 13th, Friday the 13th!  Some of the metal plating in her face, had migrated and come up through her eye socket.  Maria had been in quite a bit of pain for several months, while trying to wait for a surgery date.   Finally the day came…the surgery only last 1-2 hours.  The metal was pushed back under the skin and her plastic surgeon even took some time to reduce the bone on the bridge of her new nose.  Her plastic surgeon is such a wizard! It has only been two and 1/2 weeks since the operation and you can’t even see where the incision was made on the bridge of her nose.  Maria is excited and relieved that the metal in her eye has been removed.  She will now be able to get refitted for her prosthetic eye. 

On Friday, we had the opportunity to have another ambulance ride.  Maria was having very bad chest pains.  We drove to the Renton fire station, where it was determined that she should probably go to the hospital.  We spent half the day in Overlake ER where she was treated by some wonderful doctor and nurses.  We are still not sure why she is having chest pains but they seem to be a little better.   This was the first time, since the incident, that Maria asked to go the hospital.  She was scared!

Maria and SAM are doing very well in their “service” dog training.  Their current goal is to get SAM to guide Maria around objects in their path.  He is doing a great job of learning his job.  I particularly want to thank Barnes and Noble, Lowes and Costco for being great training grounds for Sam and Maria.  A custom guide harness is being designed, for SAM, in Oklahoma.  We are hopeful that it will be finished in the next month or so.  This new harness will make it easier for Maria to feel what SAM is doing.

Maria’s birthday is approaching….she will be 27 on Halloween!

Be safe out there…please tell others to “Secure their Load”!

-Robin

It is with great sadness that we report another death due to an “unsecured load!” There are no words to express our sadness for the family that was left behind without a husband and father. The incident took place on Friday when a driver lost some metal shelving on I-5. The driver of the car behind him did not have a chance. Every week Maria and I meet with companies to share her story with the hopes that everyone who hears the message will take a moment to share her story with others. We ask that everyone, step out of their comfort zone, and tell someone you see, hauling an unsecured load, to secure their load.

-Robin

Maria and I have some exciting news! Maria and her little Cavalier SAM, both just passed their Delta Society therapy test. They are both qualified now as a therapy team that can go into hospitals. Maria wants to be able to volunteer in the hospitals so she can help ease the fear of children who may be scared. As Maria’s mom, I was so proud of her because both of them received all excellent and perfect scores on their final test. They are now moving on for SAM’s service training. Sam really enjoys his job and guides Maria to the door, car, gate and on walks. He is truly a big dog in a little package.

Last month, Maria attended and participated in her first speech with me. We were invited to speak to Foushee Construction’s Annual Safety Banquet. There were 150 construction workers in attendance and it was such a great experience for Maria. You could have heard a pin drop as she got up to speak and answer questions. Even Sam attended and had a few words to say. Needless to say I was again a very proud mother that Maria now wants to join me so that she can help educate the public so that this type of incident may not happen to others.

Thanks to all of you who have supported and prayed for us. It has truly made a difference in our lives.

-Robin

Greetings to you all out there. I wanted to let you know there has been some media attention for Maria lately as her accident anniversary is again upon us. Can you believe it has been 2 years?!

Maria has come along way since that day, both physically and emotionally. Her mother and family have also had many changes and adjustments to make since then. There is a new article written by Robert Jamieson in the local paper this weekend (view this article), and Kathy Geortzen from KOMO channel 4 in Seattle has done a follow up interview that will, I believe, be televised today. You can visit their web site for more information. (http://www.komotv.com/)

Both of these interviews give a good description of how Maria is doing and what she wants for the future. I invite you to take a look.

Best to you all!

-Sherry

I wanted you all to be aware of the recent tragic unsecured load accident that happened in Tacoma yesterday. We have included this story on our home page, or you can view the entire story on the KOMO website for January 24, 2006.

Another bit of synchronicity: Robin was in Olympia all day yesterday testifying before the Senate and House committees about the Victim's Crime Compensation part of the law passed last year. After hearing of the incident, she was able to ask them to make the Victim's Crime Compensation retroactive for this little boy. Keep your fingers crossed!

We appreciate you joining us in sending our support and prayers to the Harmon family at this difficult time.

Happy New Year to you all!

I received a wonderful surprise last week, when Maria came home from the eye clinic with both her new hand-painted eyes. They are beautiful brown eyes! I had forgotten how long and black her eyelashes were. I am still in shock as to how beautiful she looks with her new eyes.

Sam, Maria's therapy dog, goes almost everywhere with her now. He is very dedicated to her and seems to be catching on to his job. He will sit at her side for hours, waiting for her at the doctor's office. Some days retail shopping is in order and Sam is a professional shopper at Nordstroms. One of his favorite hangouts is Starbucks. Sam stands only 12 inches high but he is serious in his quest to guide Maria.

-Robin Abel

Maria's most recent eye surgery went well and she is now recovering. The surgery took longer than normal because she had some metal plates that were pushing into the eye socket area. They were shaved down and the prosthetic eye was put in place. It will be 6-8 weeks before we know if the surgery is going to be successful. There is always a chance that an infection could set in or her body could reject the eye. Your prayers are appreciated!

Maria was very brave both before and after the surgery. She continues to amaze me with her ability to put up with so much pain and still be optimistic. The implant has given her right eye shape again and in 6-8 weeks she will have a hand painted contact put in place over the prosthetic implant. I have been told that they appear to be so real that most people can't tell the difference.

On another note, I have been asked to speak at the Governor's Health and Safety Conference this month. I feel that this is an important opportunity to share our message to secure loads.

Last week, I talked with a friend of mine from Utah. I was stunned to find out that her son had almost lost his life in a road debris accident when someone lost a chair in front of their truck which went through their windshield. The truck rolled down Peasley Canyon and was totaled. There were serious injuries but all survived. Just hearing her story gave me the strength to continue to share our message about unsecured loads and even more determined to make this a NATIONAL LAW.

Thank you all for your support and prayers!!!!!

-Robin Abel

Hello to all of you and I hope you are enjoying your summer. Robin and Maria are taking some time off this summer to enjoy themselves and relax.

Maria is really getting into making jewelry these days and spends many hours each week creating some very beautiful pieces. Thanks to all of you who have sent in your old discarded jewelry pieces, she is really having fun. She is also feeling encouraged lately to work on her independence. She is practicing with her cane and learning how to be more self sufficient. She has been spending time with close friends and her spirits are high.

Robin has also been able to take some time during the day for herself lately. Their garden is looking beautiful and the puppies are enjoying the hot weather and swimming in Lake Kathleen. With the recent beautiful weather they have also had the opportunity to take their barge out a few time to get in some fishing.

Much work has been done over the last month by many dedicated people. The newly formed Maria Federici Foundation has connected with local and national organizations and government agencies to help create educational material and offer helpful information about unsecured loads. The Washington state dept of ecology has some helpful resources available and I encourage folks to visit their website and see the new video that was made about the hazards of unsecured load and littering. To view this video visit the DOE site http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa/litter/ and click on the video link. There is also a helpful brochure you can download, the link is just under the video link.

We applaud the Department of Ecology's efforts and encourage you to let them know your thought on their important work.
You can email them at: litter1@ecy.wa.gov

Have a safe and happy summer.

-Sherry P

Much time has passed since I have sent an update. Maria has been doing better the last few weeks. Her headaches have been much better and she is busy working on making jewelry. Maria has always been a very talented and creative artist. Right now she is making bracelets and working on a design for a necklace. Her bracelets are made of old discarded jewelry pieces.

Maria and I attended the Medic One Foundation annual event. Maria's story was one of two stories that were shared with all medics and firemen. What felt especially good to Maria and I was that the celebration was about the medics and firemen who saved her life and not just about us. Maria made four bracelets for the silent auction and all of them sold immediately. Maria was so proud that she helped raise money for the Medic One Foundation "It felt really good to be able to give back to others." If anyone wants to donate some old jewelry that she could take apart, we would be very appreciative.

you can send your jewelry to:
Maria's Miracle
c/o Robin Abel
4004 NE 4th Street # 322
Renton, WA 98056

We are taking long walks again, now that the weather is better. We are up to 3 miles and it seems like the MOM is wearing out first! Maria's dog, Jorja, usually goes with us and even Jorja is losing weight; so I guess that our workouts are doing their job.

All of you probably know that the Governor signed our HB 1478 on May 13, 2005. Both Maria and I and Sherry attended the ceremony. It was a very special time for us. We had a private meeting with the Governor before the signing. The Governor led Maria into the conference room and when she was done signing the Bill, Maria was given the pen. It felt like a little piece of justice, having the Bill signed. We are now working on taking this Bill to the Federal level.

We are looking for a Volunteer Coordinator to help set up several committees comprised of our volunteers. No one has offered to date and we have so many wonderful people who have volunteered to help and we would love to have their assistance. Would anyone like to take on this position for a minimum timeframe just to help us get up and running? If you can help, please contact us at icanhelp@mariasmiracle.com

Thank you all for all the support, prayers and words of encouragement. I hope that all of you realize how much this support means to us. The days are often long and lonely and after many months this situation "wears out" friends. Your words of encouragement mean a lot to us. Thank you.

-Robin, Maria's Mother

Maria and her mother Robin are taking a break from the limelight now. There are so many people and organizations reaching out to them and they are very happy, grateful and excited to make some real changes on the issue of unsecured loads. But for now. Rest is necessary.

A wonderful article on the front page of the LA Times (the Los Angeles Daily Newspaper) I wanted to share this with you all. Maria was very please how the journalist Thomas Tizone, told her story.
You can view the entire article at this link: LAtimes.com

Here is a small selection of that story...

"... Local news media described it as a freak accident. Pictures of a photogenic Federici — with wavy dark hair, expressive eyes and an easy smile — ran in newspapers and television broadcasts as police sought help in tracing the origins of the board.
Tearful friends and family described Federici as talkative and full of life, driven and slightly sassy. At 5-foot-3, she was a sparkplug of energy, tough enough to hold her own with strangers but vulnerable with friends. She was widely adored.

As her relatives pleaded for people with information to come forward, news of similar incidents came to light.
Days before Federici's accident, Claudia Avila, 43, was fatally struck by a 34-pound metal plate on Interstate 95 in Florida. A few weeks later, Michael Hall, 43, was killed when he rolled his SUV trying to avoid a clothes dryer on Interstate 75 in Atlanta.

Frustrated by their inability to bring charges against the driver, and with full support of the King County Prosecutors office, they lobbied lawmakers to pass a tougher law on debris-caused accidents. They testified in the Legislature, telling Federici's story. The lawyers recruited sponsors, and with almost no debate, legislators approved the Federici Bill on April 14, 2005. On that day, two carpoolers were killed on the Golden State Freeway in Los Angeles when a metal freight container coupling crashed through their windshield.

The Washington bill, awaiting the governor's signature, makes it a crime to fail to secure a load that results in bodily injury. Conviction could bring up to one year in jail and $5,000 in fines. The person injured would also have access to a state compensation fund for crime victims. Gerry Forbes, author of the AAA Foundation report, said it would be the most stringent law of its kind in the nation. "If it makes people take a few extra minutes when they go to the home improvement store to lash objects down securely," Forbes said, "it could save lives — in particular, the lives of the people driving just behind you."

Abel says her daughter has recently become deeply depressed: "Like she's just realizing." But on this day, Federici seems glad for the company. Her demeanor suggests someone who doesn't want you to feel sorry for her." ...Read more of this article.

Bill 1478 Passed by Washington State Legislators!

This bill not only increases penalties for failure to secure a vehicle load on a public highway, is also makes that failure to secure a load in the first degree (which causes harm or death) a gross misdemeanor making it possible for victims who are harmed eligible for assistance under the Crime Victims' Compensation Act.

Robin and Maria spent the entire day at the Washington State Senate session to make sure to keep the pressure on legislators to pass the new amendment. Although most everyone agreed that the bill will have very little votes against passing. To have only 1 day left of this session and the bill not to have been addressed was too much for them to ignore. Many well written legislation just doesn't get voted on because there are so many items to be worked on during the session.

We all so appreciate everyone's support in passing this bill. The Maria Federici Foundation has been in contact with many other states with support and interest in bringing this bill to their state legislators.

You can learn more by going to the WA state site: or view our home page.

YEA!

It is amazing how quickly time is passing and equally amazing to realize all that has happened in the last year.

I apologize to everyone who looks to this page to find out how Maria is doing in your continuing support of her and this very important issue. Initially the hope was that Maria would be able to take on this outreach and update page and use it to connect with all of you to keep you current with the events of her life. It seems that this will not be possible at least in the near future. This is somewhat of a disappointment to not only those of you who are genuinely interested and invested in Maria and her story, but also for all of us close to her. She is well and learning new ways to get on with her life, but healing happens at its own pace and we can only support that schedule.

Maria has been able to work creatively with a friend and neighbor Diana, on some beautiful mosaic stepstones, and this she really enjoys. She is happy to work out with her therapist, and is enjoying her home life and puppies. She does deal with pain much of the time but on her better days, she is very articulate and laughs and has fun.

She has also been connecting with many journalists and some Washington state agencies to support much needed changes in how we as citizens can understand the importance of securing loads. Many of these connections are very important to her and the newly established Maria Federici Foundation.

There was another unsecured load accident (not Tragic , thank god) in the Seattle area a few days ago. To learn more about this you can follow this link; http://www.komotv.com/stories/36179.htm We are all very grateful that no one was hurt, but it is just another example that things need to change. If you want to help, sign up on our volunteer page.

Our temporary site for the Maria Federici Foundation will be up and running on April 11, 2005 at www.fearnoloads.org. Visit us there to find out about the work that we and other important agencies and individual are doing.

                      Warmly,
                      Sherry

Yesterday was an inspiring day for those of us who traveled down to Olympia with Robin and Maria. They were in our state capital to show support for a new bill that was developed from language the Maria Federici Foundation had given to Norm Maleng (the King County Prospecting Attorney.) He and has staff helped to acquire a sponsor in the State Senate and House of Representatives for this bill.

To start the day, Maria and Robin had been called by the local news agencies to set up time for them to speak with them before the senate hearing. For about an hour, Maria talked with many television reporters and really did a amazing job. There were many reporters in the hearing room once we all got inside and seated. After Robin's testimony, a testimony from Norm Maleng (who sat beside Robin), and the testimony from AAA Foundation's representative, the Senate Judiciary Committee immediately voted in favor of the bill. It's now getting the fast track. Lawmakers say it's the least they can do for a young woman who's shown so much courage and strength.

The media has again been so supportive and kind to Maria and Robin and have written some great articles and compassionate television reports. To view some of them click on the links below.

http://www.komotv.com/stories/35413.htm
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/komo/kel_federicic_022305.shtml?searchpagefrom=1&searchdiff=0
http://www.kingcountyjournal.com/sited/story/html/186622

To learn more about the new bill, visit the following link.

http://www.leg.wa.gov/pub/billinfo/2005-06/Htm/Bills/Senate%20Bills/5457.htm

Now Maria and Robin will take a few days and rest up. They have both been very busy lately and need some time for themselves.

It again has been a long time since the last update. Robin, Maria's mother, has had to look into working again now. She is also collaborating with some close friends on Companion Bills about unsecured loads, which will hopefully go through the Washington State Senate and House of Representatives this session. At the same time work is being done on the creation of The Maria Federici Foundation. She is continually trying to help herself and Maria deal with their day to day lives. Needless to say, her extra time is limited.

Maria is dealing with her daily struggles and is working through her emotions about her situation. She has had some new folks coming to spend time with her and to get her involved with life again. I know that she and her mother are working very hard to try and get their life back on track and that as you can imagine is challenging to say the least. Maria, I think, just wants to get back to a 'normal life'. What that normal life will look like... only time will tell.

They each have intended to update this page, and I know they want to connect with you all again very soon. I am proud that they are making it a priority to take care of themselves.

Tomorrow is the anniversary of Maria's accident. She prefers to think about February 23 instead, the day when she made the unconscious decision to live. She calls it her new birthday. I know there will be many of us thinking about her tomorrow. Lets make sure we remember all those in our lives that we love so much. Let them know!!

Grateful blessings to us all.

Happy, healthy and prosperous New Year to you all!

Maria had surgery over the Christmas holiday. You could say that Santa gave Maria a new nose for Christmas! She also had work done on her temples, some screws and pins removed from her jaw, and lastly they worked to lessen some of her scars. To avoid more scars some bone was taken from her skull and the actual procedure was done through the scalp incision. Needless to say Maria has approximately 100 staples from ear to ear across the top of her head. This was a very invasive procedure and I am very proud of Maria and her scense of humor throughout it all.

Thanks to all of you who have reached out to help us, making it possible to afford a private nurse to come and help Maria (and myself) during the daytime for the first few days after the surgery.

Most of the swelling associated with the surgery is down now and I am hopeful that Maria will be able to get back to her rehab and workouts soon, which will help her to regain her strength.

As some of you know, Maria had a song written and recorded for her, Maria's Song. We would like to have it played on the radio to share this beautiful message. Does anyone have a contact within the radio industry that could help?

-Robin, Maria's mother

I wanted to quickly let everyone know that Maria came through her last surgery with flying colors! She is doing well and on the road to recovery!

Today Maria goes in for her next surgery. She and Robin could use all the prayers possible. They will probably be in Harborview hospital throughout the Christmas holiday and then home to recover.

Maria and Robin are grateful that her recovery has progressed to the necessary level that the surgery today can happen. It's amazing to think all this has happened in such a short time (9 months!) I'm sure it has not gone quite so quickly for Maria who lives in her body 24/7. I am so proud of these two ladies and all that they have come through.

Robin was interviewed on KOMO 1000 yesterday, and if you would like to hear it you can click on this link.

Merry Christmas!

I am feeling very 'portly' lately, maybe that has something to do with the amount of morning mochas I have had over the last few weeks. I wish I could afford my personal trainer 24/7 so I could fix this 'portly' state.

Mom was asking me this morning to describe my headaches. I will try to explain. Each day the headaches are different, but most times they start out the same, as a slight rumble. I mostly just try to ignore them as much as possible, but of course when I am tired or upset, they get to be hard to handle.

This week, on one of my better days, I made a veggie lasagna and homemade pizza with a pesto/alfredo sauce, delectable veggies, artichokes hearts, asparagus and olives for my mom. What can I say.. The pizza went fast so it must have been pretty good! I love to cook so much! It makes me so happy when I feel well enough to cook.

-Maria Federici

King County is asking for your opinion about proposed legislation (Maria Federici bill) and I am asking that you take a moment to express your opinion . It is a brief and easy process. To view this page, go the the address below, and look in the "What's your Opinion" box on the left hand column. I believe this will only be up for a few days, so you quick response would be much appreciated.

http://www.metrokc.gov/exec/

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! We shared Thanksgiving dinner with our neighbors. We had chicken, asparagus, scalloped potatoes, two small lobster tails (to share) & fruit custard for dessert. We started with a mimosa toast. "A lovely cocktail."

I gave Sam-I-am all by myself today, in the kitchen sink. He was shampooed, rinsed and massaged, and I even cleaned his eyes. (Cavaliers, his breed is a bit weepy) Needless to say the "Prince" is sitting on his throne (the couch) to dry in the sun. (Cavaliers are also famous for really enjoying being pampered!)

Mary Swift of the King County Journal wrote a wonderful piece about being thankful. She commented on what Maria is thankful for this year. (read the story) Their photographer was present at Maria's birthday party and snapped a photo (I am told) of me at a happy and gleeful moment.

We, Robin, (my mother) and I especially want to thank everyone for standing by us.

-Maria Federici

My birthday party took place on Thursday, November 4th. It was held at Club Medusa, my old workplace. I was very sick before and during the limo ride to the party. Within a half hour I began to feel better, because I got to meet with all my friends and dance, dance, dance! Once I got on the dance floor, I danced almost every dance with my aunt Liz and many of my friends. I had a good time at my party and was glad my mom encouraged me to go even though I felt so bad at the start of the evening. We unfortunately had to leave with the Limo before I was ready to go though and I even missed the birthday cake. As we were leaving everyone joined in and sang happy birthday to me! I was a TIRED lady when I got home and crashed immediately.

The next day my mom and I got to do something special for the two of us. We added a 1 year old female golden retriever to our little family. Her name is Sky. All of the other dogs greeted her exceptionally well and she already fits in beautifully.

Thankfully, I have had several hours over the last few days without my usual headaches. It doesn't sound like much but the relief even for a small amount of time is so wonderful.

More good news, my next major surgery is scheduled for December 23rd. Both mom and I are relieved to get this one over with. My plastic surgeon will totally reconstruct my nose, temples and upper lip. They will also work to lesson the scars on my cheek and throat. While we may have to spend Christmas 2004 in the hospital, getting this done now, especially the nose, is the best gift I could receive.

I want to share with you some wonderful stories the local press has recently done. The links below will take you to these stories.

-Maria Federici

Robert Jamieson, Jr. has written another very moving follow-up column on Maria Federici in today's "Seattle P-I"

"Law would strengthen road-debris penalties"

Halloween is coming and then the election. I just don't know what to say about that. I'm not sure for instance that I believe my vote really makes that much of a difference, to deal with the pain and try and learn about all the issues and make an educated vote, its too much for me right now. I don't think I would not vote for bush if I did.

Since my computer has been installed and I have started lessons, I have typed two sentences even thought I really can't type. My personal trainers is great. I just got hair cut and color so I feel prettier. Long car rides make me sick and dizzy, rides over about 20 min. are just too much for me.

The Sons of Italy had a dinner /roast in my honor recently. Because of the long car ride and long evening, I had a very difficult time being positive and polite during the dinner. I was getting chills and pain all night, and I didn't get to speak after they presented me with the honor. It was loud and uncomfortable and my head pain was overwhelming. I felt very sick the whole time but I tried very hard to be nice. I appreciate their intent, but it was a difficult experience, it was so very hard on my head/body. Inside my head feels like someone is continually blowing up a balloon in my head. More and more pressure. I don't know what to do about it and I'm not sure how long I can take it.

I try and stay positive and do things that make me happy. I want to cook more but I am feeling to bad to stand and do it. (or do the dished like I'm sure my mom would appreciate sometimes.) Robert Jameson came to dinner the other night. He was fun and lively and we really had a good time. On the evening of my birthday, October 31st, I will dress up to give out the candy to at my door.

Still lighting up my life is my little pup, Sam I Am!

-Maria Federici

I'm sorry for the delay in the updates. Maria has been feeling real bad lately and is unable to update this page as she intended. I thought I would let folks know so that they would not think she has abandoned you.

Maria's pain has been increasing again the last few weeks and she has been back to see 2 specialists to discover the problem and get her some relief. Maria it seems is now really understanding her situation and it often makes her so very sad. I hope that folks continue to reach out to her and that her friends who have kept connecting with her continue to do so and any other friends that have stepped back will again come forward and call or visit her. She really does need this to keep her positive and strong.

Can any of us truly imagine what she is feeling?!

I am asking you personally to reach out when you can and just say hello. Let her know what is going on in your life, give her something else to think about. Let her know you care. It means SO MUCH!!

-Sherry Palmiter

We had a good vacation at Long Beach Washington. When I got home from vacation, my neighbor had built a custom desk for my new computer system. My desk feels beautiful and mom says it matches the old cabin pine. I will take two computer lessons a week and hope to be proficient in the next month or so. My computer will help me attain my goal to go back to school for my masters. In the mean time I am considering exploring massage therapy. My goal with massage therapy is to work specifically on car accident victims to help relieve a good amount of physical discomfort. I know from personal experience how much it can help.

I don't know if I mentioned this before, but I have a superb personal trainer that comes in the morning. These workouts have helped me to relieve some of my headaches and dizzy spells. We have graduated from occupational therapy this week also. Freeing up some time in my busy therapy schedule.

On another lovely note my puppy Sam-I-am is still lighting up my life. Sam has a very happy smiling attitude. He's a chipper dog. Making him a great companion for me. If he were a man not a doggy I'd marry him. He's just so cute.

I hope to post an update again in a few days. Take care!

-Maria

Hello again everyone. I will do my best to keep up with updates at least once a week. It's important to me to connect with everyone when I am able. I hope that throughout my recovery and after upcoming surgeries, that I will have the ability to continue with these updates.

My mother Robin and I are enjoying a quick getaway to Long Beach Washington. One of the best parts of this holiday is spending time with some close girlfriends that have come to be with me here at the beach. I consider myself more than lucky to have my friends that have stood by me throughout this whole ordeal. It means so much. Just being able to visit, walk on the beach, cook, sing and dance together, reminds me of what my life used to be like. We are on our holiday for next the week, with several more friends and my family committed to visiting.

While in Long Beach, we plan on visiting with the local police department so I can introduce myself and share our vision to raise awareness to the problem of road debris accidents and unsecured loads.

My pups, Sam-I-am and Jorja, are both here with us, but poor Beau is back at home staying with friends. He has injured his right back knee. It's too difficult to keep him from running and playing hard on the beach which would only make him suffer terribly afterwards.

I hope to post an update again in a few days. Take care!

-Maria

Wow, it's amazing to realize that it has been an entire month since the last update! Please understand that Maria, and Maria's mother Robin are working very hard and doing the best they can to heal and get on with there new life. There is now a group of individuals working with them to facilitate change when it comes to the issue of unsecured loads, at the same time that they are juggling Maria's busy therapy schedule. Time goes by so quickly when your schedule is so full. The gratitude felt towards every person who has supported and contributed is as always very deeply felt. Again, thank you.

This update comes directly from Maria:
"I've been back at home for 4 months now and being at home, a place that I have lived most of my life, is really helping me mentally, physically and emotionally. Besides my other therapy, I am working out 3 times a week, which is helping tremendously with the headaches and dizziness. My new puppy Sam-I-am, and my other dogs, Beau and Jorja have really been such a big help in my recovery. We all love and need each other, its like having siblings. I want to mention how appreciative I am when people approach me when I'm out at the mall or grocery store. Their delicate and warm thoughts really make me feel so wonderful. I hope that more people reach out and connect with me in that way. It really makes me feel so good. Overall I am mostly a happy camper and my smile is working better these days!"

We are all working very hard to make something positive from this tragedy. Bringing more attention to the problem of road debris accidents and better awareness to the proper ways to secure loads. It is our mission and our passionate quest. If you can and want to offer your help or support, please sign up on the volunteer opportunities page.

It has been a while since we have had an opportunity to write an update. Does it seem to you that time is going faster than it used to? Do you know the saying "No news is good news"? You could say that it is true in this case.

Thanks to all those who look to this page for an update on Maria and write in on the discussion page. We read all of these entries to Maria every other day. It seems she can now understand and remember these messages. Sometime in the future, we all hope (including Maria), to have Maria herself respond to these messages. She is so pleased to hear from you, it really helps her stay positive!

We also have the new "Volunteer Opportunities" link on this site. We are setting up a foundation to implement changes to create safer roadways, and need all the help we can to get this underway. There are a number of kind folks that have already signed up to help. Our new volunteer coordinator is setting up a system to connect with those folks. Thank you so much, you can expect to hear back from her soon.

Maria and Robin had their first outing on the little lake that they live on yesterday. They were treated to a ride on their neighbors motorized floating barge with a BBQ dinner and gentle cool breezes. It was a great treat, and Maria didn't get seasick!

Maria is grateful when her friends check in on her or call just to say hello. She has so many things she has to do that aren't necessarily fun, it really picks up her spirits to just be a regular person from time to time and just visit without necessarily talking about her accident or her situation. Make sure you all keep it up!

Maria's health is improving daily. I think that it has alot to do with her attitude for sure. She is very busy with therapy appointments that consume most of her week. She has been working aggressively on opening her mouth and stretching those muscles. This will help to facilitate a greater variety of foods that she can enjoy. Although she is improving daily and her attitude is positive, I don't want you to assume she is fully recovered or that she has no problems or pain. Maria rarely complains. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

After a busy week, Maria has had some much needed, quality 'down time' recently. The weather has been beautiful, if not a bit hot.

A couple of weeks ago, Maria said how much she missed direct physical contact. She loves her dogs Jorje and Beau very much, but really wanted to be able to cuddle and hold them when she felt lonely. Well it didn't take long for her needs to be met! A kind soul and close friend of the family donated money to buy a new small dog of Maria's choosing. Robin and Maria looked into what kind of small dog would fit best into their life and be the special friend Maria hoped for. Sam-I-Am is his name and he has exceeded Maria's expectations. Robin herself is so moved by how this new member of the family has really brought Maria to a new level of happiness. She has someone to care for, to personally connect with and love as her own. It makes a real difference on those days when Maria just doesn't want to face another day, and then she is encouraged by this sweet loving pooch. Its uncanny how animals can truly understand their job and Sam-I-Am seems to completely know that Maria is his responsibility. He is VERY aware of where she is and what she is doing. He seem to know just when to climb into her lap and when to leave her alone. He is just as mellow and calm as his much older, and bigger new sibling dogs. Maria and Robin are so thankful to that 'special someone' that helped make Sam-I-Am possible for Maria.

Robin was so proud of Maria during her recent live interview on the local show Northwest Afternoon. She handled the whole interview with grace while answering the sometimes difficult questions. Maria said she felt very comfortable and that everyone treated her with dignity and respect. She even managed to do it all in 3" heels. "Ah, to be young again.." -Robin

Robin had an opportunity to meet with Don Stevenson on the John Wayne trail to wish him good luck and a safe trip. Yesterday began his first leg of the 100 mile journey, blind folded (with support) across the Cascades. This is his 2nd walk to help Maria. Thank you to Don and all the other folks helping to raise awareness about Maria, her story and to the problem of Road debris accidents.

It has been a long time since we have had an opportunity to do an update. Thanks for your patience. Maria has had many opportunities in the last few weeks to meet with reporters. Maria has been wanting to talk about her experience and with the recent interest with the AAA Foundations study on Vehical Related Road Debris Accidents, she is ready and able to reach out now.

The most recent article prepared by South King County Journal, (Sunday's addition) was a nice to surprise for Maria. Robin and Maria were at the grocery store when a fireman stopped Maria to say HI, give Maria a hug and give her encouragement. He had just finished reading the article about Maria with his family that morning. Please know how much Maria is positively effected by the compassion she is shown by others, it meant a great deal to her.

On the medical side, we just located a new eye surgeon for Maria. We are putting any eye surgery off until October/November so that Maria and her mom can enjoy some of the summer months. We are very happy with this new doctor. He is one of the only doctors who have asked Maria how she felt about losing her eyes. We learned alot from our visit and feel comfortable that he will take good care of Maria.

We just received a note and donation from MGM Construction Services in Sumner. We wanted to share a portion of that letter with you.
" We wanted to let you know that your story has taught us a very valuable lesson. In the past our main concern has been about littering the streets with our debris, not realizing just how dangerous hauling can be." "Forevermore, we will think of you every time we fill up our truck." "...and we will give our loads the "Federici Seal" which guarantees us that nothing will fly out of our truck. We are sorry that you had to go through so much pain, but sometimes that's what it takes to change the world, which you have done. Thank you."

Thank you, MGM, so much for your prayers and your desire to heighten awareness. This hopefully will help to encourage others to follow your "Federici Seal" example.

This morning, CBS television, and The Early Show, showed the recent interview with Maria about her story.

For some reason, Local CBS stations decided NOT to run the story that ran nationally. It was a 4 minute spot that was very clean and poignant. For those of us locally following this story, who support and care about Maria, who were unable to see this interview, you can go to the Early Show web site to see the spot at http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/07/13/earlyshow/living/main629212.shtml

After connecting with KIRO, They stated that they intend to run the story today during the 5pm news.

I know for myself, as the web designer for Mariasmiracle.com, I will be expressing my disappointment directly to our local CBS station immediately, from the following KIRO site to their News Comments section! http://www.kirotv.com/contact/index.html?treets=sea&tml=sea_9am&ts=T&tmi=sea_9am_1_11000007132004

This has been a very busy and productive couple of weeks. Maria continues to recover from her latest surgery and is getting stronger and more clear in her thinking. Its been so great to have her close friends and neighbors around to visit her and stimulate (and exercise) her mind. Her grandparents are in the area for the summer (their usual summer long visit) and so the family has really taken the opportunity to continue to offer their love, time and support to both Maria and Robin.

Last Thursday, July 1, CBS television, and The Early Show, flew here to Washington state to interview Maria about her story. They are interested in Maria's story and how it relates to the recent AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety's research analysis released last month containing surprising findings about road debris related accident statistics. Maria was strong and coherent. We all look forward to the airing of this interview and hope that it reflects the caring attitude that the entire CBS crew expressed during its taping. Look for it on CBS's The Early Show on Tuesday, July 13, 2004 from 7am - 9am.

Saturday, July 10 marked two events that directly effect Maria's healing and her attitude about her situation.

First, the local news stations and newspapers reported that after months of reviewing the case, prosecutors say the man will not be charged with hit-and-run. King County prosecutors say they don't have enough evidence to warrant charges against the man. The maximum penalty the man can receive is an $82 fine – a minor infraction for failing to secure his load. This is obviously disappointing to loved ones close to Maria. Maria herself is struggling to understand it.

On the same day, Maria's plight has continued to move strangers to offer support. Federici has friends she's never met - like Don Stevenson of Auburn, Wash., who started walking 200 miles Saturday morning to Mount Rainier from Auburn and back to support Federici. See the item on the home page for more information about Don Stevenson and the For Maria's Sake event.

The Maria Federici Foundation is currently being set up to address the vehicle-related road debris (VRRD) problem. Information about this foundation will be posted as it becomes available through this website.

Yesterday Maria had an appt. with her plastic surgeon and there is some concern that she may have a blood clot where the surgery was done in her mouth. If this is the case, she may need an additional surgery to remove it. Please keep your fingers crossed that she won't have to have this surgery as the first was a VERY invasive surgery with months of rehab ahead of her to get her mouth fully functioning. Maria also has another appt. to get a second opinion on her eye surgery. While there is no hope of restoring her eye sight, it is our intent to preserve as much as we can in the hope that future technology might offer a possible option.

The local grocery store in Maria's community held a very successful garage sale the weekend of June 11th. Raising in excess of $2000 to help Maria. The community support and effort has truly been amazing. Thank you to everyone involved! (Barb, I personally am so sorry to have missed announcing this sale prior to the event, on this website. -Sherry)

Maria is adamant about continuing her education and getting her Masters in Speech Communications at the UW. She feels more than ever that she can offer a unique voice to insure that this type of accident doesn't happen to someone else. "All Maria thinks about is other people and I couldn't be prouder of her!" -Robin

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Saftey's latest research analyzes the VRRD problem and offers ideas for prevention and education. Visit their site for more information. http://www.aaafoundation.org/home

Maria is back home now recovering after her latest surgery at Harborview. She is very happy to have her feeding tube gone. She can now concentrate on her mouth through rehabilitation, helping to heal and strengthen it.

The weather has been beautiful on Lake Kathleen, and it's great to have Maria home where those who love her can care for her. She also has some extra help (as does Robin) with a lovely gal who comes in a couple days a week for a few hours to spend time, facilitate her rehab and generally help Maria with whatever she needs. It a blessing to have her help.

Maria and Robin are so loving and supportive with each other, one can only imagine what a huge adjustment this is for them both. I'm sure that each of them could use some extra prayers to help keep up their strength and positive attitude throughout Maria's healing.

Maria has her next surgery tomorrow at Harborview.

It is amazing though that for most of her day she is happy and talkative and is looking forward to warm summer days on the lake. We all appreciate you patience with these recently sporadic updates, but things are starting to settle down now and we should be able to connect with you all more regularly. God bless you.

Maria came home to stay last Friday. Robin and Maria have had adjustments to make, but they are both so pleased to be together and at their lovely Lake Kathleen home. Her dogs Beau and Jorja have been sticking very close to Maria's side "Now that I have moved home, physically, mentally and emotionally... I feel so much better" Maria said yesterday.

On Saturday and Sunday they took the walk around the lake with the dogs. This is no small feat for Maria as it is about a mile long walk with half of it through the woods with lots of uneven terrain. Her endurance was good, she and Robin laughed and really enjoyed themselves.

We are working hard to get Maria's mouth working and open more. She has her next surgery scheduled for mid June. She has been eating much more since being home. She is eager to get her stomach tube out and to be able to everything normally. As it is now her mouth opens only about 1/2 inch so eating is a slow process with many tiny bites. She is still unable to chew.

Maria is beginning to understand that she is blind (and remembering it) and has some very sad moments. "I don't understand. I really thought it was all a bad dream. What am I going to do now? How will I work?

It is amazing though that for most of her day she is happy and talkative and is looking forward to warm summer days on the lake. We all appreciate you patience with these recently sporadic updates, but things are starting to settle down now and we should be able to connect with you all more regularly. God bless you.

Yesterday, Maria learned how to properly use her sightless guide cane. A wonderful woman from the blind association came to provide Maria and the staff at Good Sam, sightless guide mobility training with Maria's new cane. It was amazing how well Maria understood how to use it with only a half hour of training. She was able to find her way down the hall with little assistance. We then went to a local park and enjoyed a stroll along the pond. Maria was able to recognize the sounds of the ducks quacking and splashing. We had a good time together and it was fun to see her have some freedom and independence.

On the medical side, Maria will need to have her right eye removed and a prosthetic eye implanted next month. The surgeon will also make some modifications to her left eye, reshaping it. Her arch bars (braces that are stapled through her gums into her jawbone) will also be removed. Only time will tell if Maria will be able to retain her teeth.

Maria now seems to really understand that she is blind. Yesterday, she mentioned that she would like to use her Speech Communications degree to speak to school age kids talking about her experience and how one can still be successful in life after loosing one of their senses. She continues to amaze her mother with her wonderful and accepting attitude about her situation, even though pain is with her every day.

Maria is eager to respond to folks who have reached out to her on this website. It may be very soon (with some help of course) that you will hear directly from her. Thank you for your continued support, your prayers and wishes DO make a difference.

See you at the special Benefit tonight. Click for more details!

Maria and her mom Robin had a great weekend together. Robin picked Maria up at noon on Saturday and brought her back to there lovely place on Lake Kathleen. Maria slept all day (7 hours), sleeping through visits from several friends. Later that evening she was more awake and she and Robin had some good conversations.

Sunday, they woke early & walked over to visit the neighbors. After a nice time together, we decided to go for a walk with our dogs and Beau Jorja got to visit with their Golden Retriever pal, Thunder. It was a walk of just under a mile before Maria was ready to take a break. Family and friends came to visit in the afternoon and Maria had fun joking and chatting. (All of this is so good to refresh her memory and stretch those 'brain muscles'. Throughout her illness Maria has been so fortunate to have such loving and supportive friends and family around her.

We have all been very busy and involved with Maria and her recovery. It has been difficult to update her condition regularly. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

We are all so grateful for good days, and today was one of those days. Maria spent the day at her home on Lake Kathleen, with Robin, her mother and Jorja and Beau her lovely dogs. She had close friends visiting for several hours and Maria seemed to be so happy to have a somewhat normal day. Fresh strawberry/banana smoothies, and juicy gossip quenched her thirsts. It was tough when it was time to go back to Good Sam, but she and Robin talked about how if she can keep up the hard work, it won't be too much longer that she can come home for good.

This weekend a wonderful benefit was held in Burien at Kennedy High School. The champion professional pool players, Mike Massey, Johnny Archer, 'The Hat' Rich Geiler, 'The Man' Dan Louie, and 'The Rifleman' Buddy Hall were all on hand to use their great talents and skill to reach out to help Maria. Everyone had a great time and the generosity of all that attended helped to raised much needed funds for Maria's care.

Maria is now out of isolation as her infection seems to be gone with the latest round of antibiotics. No more gowns and gloves for anyone! She has 7 classes scheduled through out the day, this is a tough schedule for her, but knowing that even if we feel they are pushing her, its not a bad thing.

Maria was able to do well on the latest math testing and did so without hesitation. She was very skilled in math, although worked very hard to get her good grades. We are also doing physical therapy to assist her jaws in opening, now we can only get a tongue depressor between her teeth. This process of getting her mouth strong and working will take a considerable amount of time, and slowly working through the pain caused by that is tough for Maria.

Maria is now settled at Good Samaritan. It was determined the day she moved that she had a bacterial infection and is now being treated in isolation to keep the staff from coming in contact with the infection. This means we all need to wear gowns and gloves for the time being. Maria has a round-the-clock nurse's assistant at her beside. This is a wonderful relief for her family and friends who have been scheduling their time to keep someone with Maria. Now we can be visitors and not just caregivers.

Maria's new daytime nurse is wonderful and Maria just loves her. She calls for her by saying, 'where's my sweety?'. The staff has been keeping her very busy, having 5 rehab sessions each day. Yesterday, she even peddled a stationary bike for 10 minutes. A BIG accomplishment for Maria.

Robin was able to confidently take off Saturday, rest up, play in her garden, spend time with friends and even connect with a local group of volunteers (The 8 amigos) to thank them for all their help and brainstorm with them for new ways to help Maria.

Susie, Maria's aunt has been by her bedside almost everyday and the two of them have gotten even closer than they were before. Aunt Susie makes sure that Maria is always comfortable, stylish and keeps Maria primped and manicured, as we who know her realize, that is very important to Maria.

It has been a very busy time lately. Maria has been having trouble with fever lately and Harborview has been giving her tests to try and find the source of this on-and-off fever. It is extremely difficult for her family and friends to see Maria in such pain and discomfort. She continually begs to come home and to make the pain go away. She seems to go in and out of acceptance/understanding of her situation.

She is set to be discharged from Harborview today, to be transferred to Good Samaritan in Puyallup, WA. This facility is eager to assist Maria on this next stage of her recovery. As you can imagine, this new setting and new schedule is keeping Maria's family and friends very busy. There have been many people reaching out to offer help to Maria and Robin lately, they truely appreciate your patience if they have been unable to respond in a timely manner. You know their time and thoughts are where they need to be right now.

Robin would like to share some very beautiful articles published in the Seattle PI (our local Seattle newspaper) written by her (new) dear friend, ROBERT L. JAMIESON Jr.

Please take a moment to read these articles which will give you a clear update on Maria and the loving, generous community that shares in your support. Thank you, and god bless.

From brink of death, Maria fights back (April 12, 2004)
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/jamieson/168958_robert14.html

Seattle reaches out and gives Maria shelter (April 14, 2004)
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/jamieson/168700_robert12.html

We are all still reeling from the amazing benefit sponsored by Club Medusa on Monday, April 12th. There was an incredible outpouring of compassion and generosity towards Maria. Many people who did not even know Maria, but heard about her story, felt compelled to attend this event. It was truly a celebration for Maria's independence. It is overwhelming to imagine just how to thank all those people who attended, contributed and volunteered to make it all possible.

A genuine, sincere thank you to you all!

We will soon have an additional page to share stories and photos of this event.

I know all of the thoughts and prayers for Maria also make a huge difference. Robin, Maria's mom is sure that God has interceded on Maria's behalf and is guiding her on each step of her recovery. There must be an amazing plan for her life.

Easter Sunday was a very special day for Maria. The sun was out and the day was beautiful and as a special treat for Maria, Robin brought Beau, Maria's Golden Retriever to visit her at the hospital. We had a wonderful visit and Maria was delighted to be able to pet and talk with Beau! He was also happy to be with Maria and was on his best behavior. He stayed with Maria for hours and was very attentive to her and made sure to get out of her way, like a perfect gentleman. "This was one of the best Easter holidays that I have been able to share with Maria." -Robin, Maria's mom

Tonight is the benefit celebration for Maria Federici sponsored by Club Medusa, with all proceeds including wages, tips and of course the money raised through the auction itself, to be donated to the Maria Federici Trust. There are so many wonderful people that have worked so hard in the past few weeks to organize this event. Maria's family would like to again express their appreciation to all and invite those of you in the area to attend this event. Robin, Maria's mom, hopes to see you all there! For more information, please see the benefit page.

We have had a difficult few days. Maria has been asking to use the bathroom every two minutes. Because of Maria's brain injury, the hospital staff has been reluctant to believe that she had a medical problem. Yesterday, we finally insisted that she be given an exam. During Maria's exam, they discovered that she has a bacterial infection and is now being treated with antibiotics.

It has been extremely hard to distract Maria's attention. It's been painful to listen to her beg and cry to let her use the bathroom. (The medical staff felt it was a psychological problem and insisted that we only take her every half hour.) I have learned as a mother to be a strong advocate for Maria and follow my heart and instincts. It seems like we again have had a few baby steps backwards in her recovery.

We have no additional news regarding her right eye. Please continue to pray for Maria. It makes a world of difference.

Maria has had several good nights of sleep lately. Her right eye is still extremely swollen and we are still concerned about it. We will meet with the eye specialist this week to discuss what happens next.

Robin, Maria's mom would like to take this opportunity to express how grateful she is for everyone that has been there to support her and Maria. There have been many people who have given of their time and energy during this difficult time. People have donated so much of themselves, from staying overnight with Maria to preparing and delivering food for Robin, to organizing other venues to help share Maria's story and gain much needed financial support.

Robin would like to ask all of the people that have been touched by Maria and her story, to write or e-mail Oprah (www.oprah.com) to assist Robin in gaining national attention. She would like to not only share Maria's story, but to facilitate education and real change in how this country regulates properly secured loads transported by individuals over America's roads and highways.

Although I would ask you to keep Maria in your thoughts, as always, Robin also wants to remind you to connect with your loved ones. Make sure that you express your love and spend quality time with each other today.

Today was a very tough day for both Maria and her mother, Robin. Maria was in such pain today that she was unable to have physical therapy. Her eyes have been giving her alot of trouble in the last few days. The right eye continues to swell and both her right eye and forehead above the eye visibly throb. She was given the most pain medication the hospital felt she could handle and she was still begging and crying for Robin to help her. "She is so miserable, I can't stand to see her in such pain!" said Robin.

The eye specialist came to examine Maria's eyes and has scheduled a meeting for early next week to discuss removal of the right eye. Although there is no infection, the body seems to be rejecting the eye. Interestingly, even though both eyes were badly damaged and her optic nerves were severed in the accident, Maria's cornea in her left eye looks relatively good.

Please pray for relief for Maria. Robin could also use strength and courage to help her support Maria through difficult days like today.

Maria was willing (and able) to take a long walk with Robin, Maria's mother, down to Harborviews cafeteria today. It took a great deal of work and patience for Maria and her mother. She and Robin visited with each other in the cafeteria for about 15 minutes before heading slowly back to her room.

Progress is slow for Maria. Gratefully, she is improving in some areas of her physical therapy. She seems to have trouble with her short term memory. Some days baby-steps forward and other days, steps backward, but overall Maria continues to exhibit an incredible amount of courage and tenacity.

Maria has expressed gratitude and good manners towards all of the people caring for her. She consistently says how much she appreciates those people that are helping her. " You are so wonderful", "Thank you so much", "You are amazing" are just some of the things Maria says to doctors, nurses, therapist and family members.

As always, thank you for keeping Maria in your thoughts.

Maria is talking but her communication is not often lucid. She has been told of her situation (blindness) but she does not have an understanding of what that means. There is still no complete evidence of how much the brain damage has effected her. Time is the only indicator. The family is being told that it will take anywhere from 6 months to a year to know at what level her brain can function.

Robin spent the whole day with Maria today, from 6:30am - 5:30pm. Maria's family has really stepped up more than ever to assist in the round the clock care that Maria needs. Maria had a difficult day as she was not very coherent and also very frustrated. She doesn't understand that she can not go home. She is not even aware where 'home' is.

We had an opportunity to speak with her plastic surgeon today who told us that Maria would not have the additional surgeries necessary for 6 months to a year to allow time for the initial surgery to heal properly. He also shared with us the fact that she will not be able to breath or smell with her nose. The only possible reconstruction of her nose was purely ascetic. As a mother, it frightens Robin that Maria will have to use only her throat to breath as well as eat (eventually). Therefore, she may have a tendency to have issues with dryness and soreness, and Maria has been especially prone to sore throats throughout her life.

There is some good news, the trach was removed today! No stitches were required, only a large bandage was necessary and it is expected to heal within a few days.

As always, we are so grateful for all your thoughts and prayers.

Maria has finally been moved out of the ICU and into the rehabilitation area of Harborview! This is of course great news! She continues to have some trouble sleeping, and is still being fed through a feeding tube. She continues to breath with the help of a trach tube. She now has a much better way of communicating with the recent attachment that has been added to her trach tube. Maria now is aware of her situation and realizes to some degree what work lies ahead of her. She is working very hard, and for those of you who know Maria, she is a strong woman who is not one to back down from a fight!

Robin, Maria's mom, was hospitalized over night on Wednesday. She has been very worried about Maria's health and her future, both physically and financially. She hasn't been able to get much sleep at night in Maria's room and has not been eating much either. The stress of this whole situation has taken its toll on her. Please