December 2006 update letter

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" height=110 BGCOLOR="#666699" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="00b00840erlcjm.gif"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFFFFF" FACE="Arial" ><B>Current updates</B></FONT><B>     |    </B><A HREF="http://www.rossdillon.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.rossdillon.com"><U><B> </B></U></A><A HREF="http://www.rossdillon.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.rossdillon.com"><U><B>home</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id10.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="July 2007 letter"><U>July 2007 letter</U></A>   |   <B>December 2006 update letter</B>   |   <A HREF="id6.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Dinas updates"><U>Dina's updates</U></A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" height=370 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <B>December 2006 update letter</B></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="553" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 148 WIDTH="271"><div> <B><IMG SRC="04ca18d0.gif" border=0 width="161" height="141" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="5" VSPACE="0"></B></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><bR> <div> <B>The Go Home Foundation</B><B> </B></div> <div> <B>PO Box 1509</B></div> <div> <B>Glen Ellen, CA 95442-1509</B></div> <div> <B>www.rossdillon.com</B></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></B></div> <bR> <bR> <div> December, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Dear Friends,</div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="655" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 95 ><NOBR><div> We have just celebrated Thanksgiving and again we are reminded of Ross Dillon’s remarkable</div> <div> progress and of you, the faithful people whose donations fund Ross’s rehabilitation. As the end </div> <div> of the year approaches, I want to update you on Ross’s recent advances and give you a brief</div> <div> accounting of his rehabilitation expenses and the giving that makes it all possible. </div> <div> Ross’s family writes:</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="04e184a0.gif" border=0 width="280" height="330" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="5" VSPACE="0"></div> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="517" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 423 ><NOBR><div> “Ross’s latest gains are in trunk control and strength. He has recently </div> <div> been able to sit dynamically for seven minutes on the edge of a mat </div> <div> and reach out to hit balls with his bat and right himself without help. </div> <div> This is a big step because he does not have the back of a chair to </div> <div> support him. Just a few nights ago, he mastered rolling from his back </div> <div> to his left side, lying there for maybe a minute, and then rolling back to </div> <div> his back. This increased strength and control is also evident in his new </div> <div> ability to weight bear through his legs and feet when we transfer him </div> <div> without the lift. He is doing better in the gait trainer (walker) with the </div> <div> weight of his body properly placed over his legs and with moving his </div> <div> right leg. There is more control of his left leg than before, but that leg</div> <div> is still profoundly restricted by his neurological injuries.We are hopeful, </div> <div> however, because we see more reflexive movement in the left leg and </div> <div> occasional volitional movement. Ross now has AFOs (Ankle Foot</div> <div> Orthotics) for both feet, and they make a difference in keeping his feet</div> <div> and ankles in the correct position. His standing in the standing frame has </div> <div> been greatly improved by these. Ross is showing that he understands </div> <div> that wearing the AFOs and his hand splints helps him. At bed time, he </div> <div> lifts his right leg and hands to have them splints put on and he frequently </div> <div> chooses to wear them all night in contrast to just six months ago when he</div> <div> would use his teeth to pull off the hand splints. </div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="807" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 706 WIDTH="801"><bR> <div> Ross continues to pedal on the exercise bike for at least sixty minutes a day. We frequently hear from the caregiver, ‘Ross didn’t want to stop pedaling today.’ Ross also has recently learned to throw a ball for our family dog, Jo. This is an interactive activity for Ross and Jo, and his therapists say that this is BIG, a term they use for a momentous step forward.</div> <div>  </div> <div> "We have also started cooking with Ross, giving him a table knife and something soft; he is able to cut chunks and also feed it to himself. The first day Ross helped make his lunch, he said to his caregiver who was helping him eat, ‘I made this myself.’ Ross has just begun to use the computer keyboard with a special software program.”</div> <bR> <div> “Ross’s speech is also progressing. While he is not yet communicating through normal dialogue, his monologue continues to develop with statements like, ‘Roll me over,’ ‘Pull me up,’ and ‘I have everything I need to be a man.’ He is also beginning to speak in a more fluid manner that is hard to understand, but is associated with increased excitement and joy. For example, we took him to San Francisco for the kickoff of an eight day ride to San Diego, a fundraiser to benefit disabled athletes in which a friend was participating. Ross was publicly introduced to the crowd in the opening ceremony as a wounded athlete. Afterward, for a whole day, Ross was exuberant, laughing and talking. We could understand some of what he was saying, but he was talking so fast and laughing so much that we didn’t understand; it was similar to talking to a toddler. However, Ross did say something that was amazing and very clear, ‘I am worried about my arm. I don’t have strength in it.’ We reassured him that he could develop more strength and are now pointing out the exercises that strengthen his arms as we do them.” Ross’s speech therapist, Dr. Deborah Swain, writes: “Ross’s ability to chew and swallow solid food has improved significantly to the extent that he is able to manage most foods with varying textures and viscosities. His chewing and swallowing pattern is nearly within normal limits. He is able to clear his mouth using his tongue which was nearly impossible for him a year ago. The sensation in his tongue has improved to the extent that he is able to feel any remaining food on his lips and tongue and able to swallow without prompts and cues. He is able to manage most liquids without coughing. Ross’s spontaneous speech has improved significantly. He is able to self formulate short sentences and phrases with intent and that are appropriate.” Ross’s biggest challenges for the coming year are to be able to go from sitting to standing with minimal support, to walk, to be able to dialogue with friends and family, and to develop more use of his fingers and hands, all of which will help him achieve more independence. Ross’s doctors are extremely pleased with Ross’s progress, and one of his neurosurgeons recently congratulated Ross and his family for Ross’s progress. A physical therapist who worked with Ross for the first year after he came home was able to work with him briefly this fall. She was amazed at the improvements he had made in two years. The Dillons continue to receive requests from doctors, therapists and others to share information with families who want to bring their loved ones home and provide the best possible care. Betsy, Ross’s mother, has been extensively researching nutrition, both food and supplements. She has been able to share this information with many families. She recently received approval from a new physician to whom Ross was referred for a metabolic workup. The doctor and her colleague each asked Betsy how she had been able to put together Ross’s supplement regimen.</div> <bR> <div> In keeping with the goal of helping brain injured patients to <I>go home</I>, the Dillons have renamed the charitable fund for Ross <I>The Go Home Foundation</I>. Ross says, “Go Home” frequently, and his parents are committed to helping other patients Go Home by networking with their families. Interestingly, the other day Ross said to his mother, “You make home fun.”</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="761" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 562 WIDTH="755"><div> <B>THE FINANCIAL SITUATION</B></div> <bR> <div> Ross has relearned to move, eat, and speak simple sentences, but he has a long rehabilitation</div> <div> journey ahead, during which he will be dependent on his family, caregivers, and the support of</div> <div> generous people like you. The financial situation continues to be tight. </div> <bR> <div> The 2004 rehabilitation budget was $128,000, the 2005 budget was $123,000 and the 2006 budget is $136,064, with SSI providing $11,916. Ross’s ongoing, net non-reimbursed rehab expenses will be $124,148 this year. The breakdown follows:</div> <div> <B>Cost Analysis for Care of Ross Dillon – 2006</B></div> <div> <B>(Actual costs, January 1 through November 30, of $126,064; December estimate of $10,000)</B></div> <div> <B>Income</B>:</div> <div> <B>SDI and SSI $ 11,916.00</B></div> <div> <B>Expenses</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>Accounting $ 2,600.00</B></div> <div> <B>Supplies $ 2,000.00<IMG SRC="051dc190.gif" border=0 width="220" height="281" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></B></div> <div> <B>Clothing $ 495.00</B></div> <div> <B>Cleaning Service $ 1,800.00</B></div> <div> <B>Caregivers $ 81,092.00</B></div> <div> <B>Medical/Dental not covered $ 1,460.00</B></div> <div> <B>by Insurance</B></div> <div> <B>Food $ 5,647.00</B></div> <div> <B>Supplements $ 13,000.00</B></div> <div> <B>Therapy $ 22,400.00</B></div> <div> <B>Extra Utility Costs $ 812.00</B></div> <div> <B>Training $ 2,000.00</B></div> <div> <B>Equipment $ 2,758.00</B></div> <div> <B>$ 136,064.00</B></div> <bR> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 748 ><NOBR><div> It continues to be difficult to forecast expenses. This is because therapists aren’t always able to</div> <div> work with Ross as much as he needs. Also, when a caregiver is unable to work, Betsy usually</div> <div> takes the shift. Betsy has worked at least two twelve hour shifts every week during the past</div> <div> year, in addition to planning and preparing Ross’s meals, researching nutritional supplements,</div> <div> coordinating Ross’s medical and rehabilitation schedule and requirements, helping Ross with his</div> <div> OT exercises, and providing transportation to out-of-home therapy and doctor appointments. As</div> <div> Ross continues to progress, the need for more specialized therapy continues. Every moment is an</div> <div> opportunity for therapy.</div> <bR> <div> Ross also needs a new power wheelchair that is not included in the budget above. An old chair</div> <div> that was donated and that Ross has used a little is not safe: there are no caregiver controls, it does</div> <div> not adjust, it is not functional for a neurological patient, and the seat is not appropriate for long</div> <div> periods of sitting. It has, however, been a big help in determining if Ross would benefit from a</div> <div> motorized chair. The family and therapists have found one that will advance Ross toward more</div> <div> independence and also be an adjunct to his therapy. The cost is $36,000. Two donors have given</div> <div> earmarked gifts totalling $30,000 for the wheelchair, so Ross will be getting his new wheelchair</div> <div> soon!</div> <bR> <div> Total giving through this Thanksgiving is $53,488, plus thecontributions for the new wheelchair </div> <div> and the income from SDI andSSI. The Dillon family needs to receive $70,660 in December to meet</div> <div> Ross’s rehabilitation expenses for 2006. In each of the last three years more than half of the </div> <div> annual giving has been contributed in December. We are hoping the same thing will happen this year.</div> <bR> <div> Please remember that The Go Home Foundation, as a ministry of WaterStone, provides the </div> <div> opportunity for taxdeductible donations to support Ross’s rehabilitation. Our hope is that as</div> <div> you review your year-end giving, taking into consideration the tax deductibility of your gifts,</div> <div> you will respond to the need as generously as possible, giving Ross</div> <div> the chance to continue his heroic journey back.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>TO MAKE DONATIONS</B></div> <bR> <div> You can make a tax-deductible contribution for Ross’s rehabilitation by sending a check made</div> <div> payable to WaterStone, directed to #7528 The Go Home Foundation. For</div> <div> your convenience, we’ve enclosed a SASE with the appropriate form. WaterStone </div> <div> will send you a receipt for your charitable gift. You can also call WaterStone with any</div> <div> questions you have or to make a credit card donation (719-447-4625; calling hours 8:30-4:30,</div> <div> M-F, Mountain Time). If you are considering other ways to contribute, such as direct withdrawal</div> <div> from your bank (one time or continuing), gifts of appreciated assets, or donations in kind, call</div> <div> WaterStone directly and they will walk you through the process. They are very friendly and helpful.</div> <bR> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> Sincerely,</div> <div> <IMG SRC="050414f0.gif" border=0 width="321" height="79" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> <div> Paul Popper, Ph.D.</div> <div> Project Manager, The Go Home Foundation</div> <div> If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:</div> <bR> <div> Project Manager, Dr. Paul Popper at 415-753-8666 or at <A HREF="mailto:popperibi@aol.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:popperibi@aol.com"><U>popperibi@aol.com</U></A></div> <div> Ross’s dad, Rusty Dillon at 707-953-9369 or at <A HREF="mailto:charlesdillon@hughes.net" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:charlesdillon@hughes.net"><U>charlesdillon@hughes.net</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="mailto:charlesdillon@hughes.net" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:charlesdillon@hughes.net"><U>WaterStone</U></A> at 719-447-4625 or at <A HREF="http://www.thefoundations.org" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.thefoundations.org"><U>www.thefoundations.org</U></A></div> <div> Ross’s Web site, <A HREF="http://www.rossdillon.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.rossdillon.com"><U>www.rossdillon.com</U></A></div> <div> The Go Home Foundation is a ministry charity project with WaterStone (TID#84-143-0063). WaterStone is qualified under IRS</div> <div> code sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(3) with the primary purpose of serving as trustee/administrator of charitable trusts. While all contributions</div> <div> are complete and unrestricted gifts toWaterStone, please note that the Board of Directors are committed to honoring donor</div> <div> preference and the recommended approved purpose of the fund.</div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>