November 29th, 2007

My last update from MI.  Tomorrow, I’ll be in Atlanta with Jitka.  She is doing well.  I spoke with her yesterday morning, and she said that she woke up and felt great, and all of a sudden felt chilled, and a weakness came over her body.  She said they sent her urine for culture.  I knew already that she had a urinary infection.  She is on antibiotics now, and doing better.  When I spoke with her I was driving to work.  There was a beautiful sunrise, and I described it to her.  We agreed that the world is indeed gorgeous. I took a picture of it with my phone so that I can show her tomorrow.  I cannot wait.

Jani told me that they were together for a few hours yesterday.  She played with the kids, and finally, after some time said “I’m so happy to be here…”  We are too.  So glad.

Somewhat oddly, there is a house directly next door to Jitka and Jani’s current house that was built and designed by a gentleman who was paraplegic.  It has been on sale and uninhabited for almost 3 years.  As their current house has all bedrooms and baths upstairs, it is not an option for her anymore.  We have taken steps toward purchasing it.  The problem is that is needs alot of work.  Alot of work.  There is significant water damage and it needs new ceilings, paint, flooring and roof repair.  Time is kind of working against us.

Many have asked if they could sponsor Jitka’s family for Christmas.  We tremendously appreciate this generosity.  Jani has assured me that he and Jitka’s friends in Atlanta have plans for making this a very special Christmas.  I would ask, then, that if anyone wishes to contribute to Jitka’s family, please direct it to her recovery fund.  We have spoken to several experts on the subject, and it would appear that the health insurance company will likely take any insurance settlement that Jitka might receive from either the driver’s insurance or her own.  The likelihood is that she will face rebuilding her life with a stack of medical bills.  It makes me sick, but it would seem that the only way to stand a chance of making it through something like this is to be hurt by Bill Gates.  Ironically, just today I spoke with a patient who had been in 2 car accidents.  The first thing that she said was “You don’t get any money like they say you do on TV.”   In any case, I do not wish to ask anyone to give; but only to explain what Jitka really needs to those whom have asked me to do so.

The trust info is as follows: The Jitka Virag Recovery Fund Trust, RBC Centura Bank, 2390 Stantonsburg road, Greenville, NC 27834.  Routing #053 100 850, Acct. #0255412250.

I continue to receive encouraging e-mails from so many wonderful people.  I thank you, and as I said, I will collate them and give them to Jitka.  It is still difficult for her to be in contact with everyone, but she repeatedly asks us to thank you all for your unbelievable kindness.

Thank you all, and Goodnight.