October 31, 2018

Thought it was a good time to update Tommy’s Help Hope Live network of family and friends on how he’s doing. It’s still hard to believe that one brief moment so tragically changed Tommy’s life. Some days it feels like it just happened and many others make it feel like it’s gone on way too long. Over the past year Tommy was able to move to a condo which makes it much easier for him to get around than the old farmhouse he was in and the outdoor area is much brighter which is a real lift to Tommy’s spirits. Tommy still struggles with various infections and day to day challenges of living with a SCI and a good night’s sleep is often hard to come by. He continues to go to physical therapy and while the progress of additional movement in his upper body has slowed, Tommy continues to work at it as hard as he can. While Tommy has very tough days, throughout it all he still has an amazing way of making everyone around him feel better about his situation. We continue to monitor the medical world for any new advancements which would improve Tommy’s life and know that his friends and family are doing the same. As the holidays approach we want to thank all for your continued support and prayers and wish you a blessed holiday season with your families #webelieve

November 27, 2017

Awesome day yesterday at the 2nd annual Tommy Turkey Bowl at Clarkstown South. The support for Tommy from friends and family was amazing. Tommy was able to enjoy the day from beginning to end, including post game fun at Lexington Grill. So many people to thank, but special shout outs to Alyssa, Frankie, Ryan, Lynn, Penni, Joe, Joanne, Diane, Theresa, Anna and the McGuire Bake Sale girls who worked hard all day long. We feel very blessed to have all of you. #webelieve – uploaded a photo of Tommy and his crew.

November 10, 2017

As we get close to the holiday season we thought it would be good to give a Tommy update. Overall it’s been a healthy few months for Tommy with continued hard work in therapy to improve upper body movement. Tommy’s support network of friends, family and nurses continue to help try and make this new life for Tommy the best it can be. Even his Panthers are doing their part this year with a decent season 🙂 . Thanks to all for your ongoing support and prayers #webelieve

April 19, 2017

Monumental day today for Tommy as he had the trache tube removed at Helen Hayes and is now officially off the vent! We’re all really excited about this as it been a tough 10+ months. This has been Tommy’s goal for a long time and reaching it today made him feel really good. Now he continues on to more improvements with therapy. Thanks to all for your never ending support and prayers. See Tommy’s trache-free photo in the album. #webelieve

March 15, 2017

Finishing another week of highs and lows for Tommy. The week started out with real progress in OT/PT but then went bad with an emergency trip to Nyack hospital for 3 days with a UTI. However as usual Tommy bounced back and was great at an amazing fundraiser last night put on by Lori’s friend Carrie. Over 200 people came out in support of Tommy. We are so overwhelmed and appreciative of all the continued support of family and friends. Thanks again to all #webelieve

March 15, 2017

Tommy has started a new phase now with visits back to Helen Hayes for outpatient therapy. It’s a place he’s comfortable with so we look forward to progress with both OT and PT twice a week. He still continues to adjust to living with the everyday challenges but feels the love and support of all around him. The latest show of support is with a book put together by our neighbor Jack. It’s a very nice tribute to Tommy and source of therapy for all who use it. It can be found on Amazon at amzn.to Thanks to all #webelieve

January 31, 2017

Update on Tommy – Settling into a bit of a routine with the new nursing agency who have really helped stabilize a rough start at home. Tommy working very hard with Johnny and therapists, showing some good progress but not without a lot of pain. Breathing continues to stengthen. Family and friends remain amazingly supportive. We appreciate the ongoing support and prayers. #webelieve

January 18, 2017

On behalf of Tommy and his family we want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. While 2016 brought the horrible accident and all the extremely difficult challenges that came with it, Tommy did see the love and support for him from so many people which is greatly appreciated. At home now a couple months, Tommy continues to try and make the best of his situation. Each day seems to bring a mix of good and bad, but Tommy keeps pushing through and always makes everyone around him feel better. Hope and prayers for an amazing 2017. #webelieve

January 18, 2017

This week Tommy was able to have his first experience out of the house by going to the movies in Nanuet for a few hours which really felt good. Despite the ongoing challenges Tommy continues to show improvement in arm strength as he works hard with PT in training Johnny. He was even able to show that improvement in a pic with Big Joe (attached). Thanks for all your continued support and prayers #webelieve

December 5, 2016

This past week marked a month since Tommy came home from HH. While there are still a number of challenges to work out with his care, Tommy continues to make the best of a very difficult situation. He goes the entire day breathing on his own and is focused on improving the strength in his arms. Now with his buddy John working with him we’re excited about the possibilities. His amazing support network of friends and family continues… thanks to all. #webelieve

January 18, 2017

Wow! Just an amazing event put on for Tommy on Saturday. 25 teams with over 250 kids, some older than others 🙂 and another 150+ in attendance. All to show their support for Tommy. There was so many people who helped pull it together and we appreciate it so much. Special thanks to Frankie and Alyssa who came up with the idea and led the way knowing Tommy’s love of football and also Lynn, Joe and Penny who continue to be at the center of everything. Thanks to all. #webelieve

January 18, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving to all. Tommy looking forward to a nice holiday weekend. His Grandma Madeline is up and his brother Andrew is home from college which makes him happy. Also looking forward to Saturday’s Flag Football event in his honor at his old stomping grounds Clarkstown South HS. It starts at 10:00 for anyone who doesn’t know about it and wants to come but based on reports it sounds like most of Clarkstown will be there! Thanks everyone for your ongoing amazing support. #webelieve

November 15, 2016

Tomorrow will be two weeks that Tommy is home and he’s starting to settle in. While he really misses many of his HH friends, he’s very happy to be in his own home surrounded by his family and friends. Still have things to workout with the in-home care but Tommy has kept his positive outlook and big smile. Had a special treat Saturday night with a crew of 12+ over for UFC fight night! First road trip to doctor today went well too. Thanks to all for your continued support and prayers. #webelieve

November 3, 2016

131 days after being admitted to Helen Hayes Rehab, Tommy was discharged yesterday to go home! Words can’t express what the experience has been and we won’t attempt to name all the people who’ve supported Tommy. However as this part of Tommy’s journey ends and the next one begins we want to express our heartfelt thanks to all. Whether you were one of the many people who visited Tommy or part of his worldwide support network your thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated. Only God knows the plan for Tommy’s life, but what we do know is the continued support of family and friends will always be there. Thanks to all. God Bless. #WEBELIEVE

October 31, 2016

Tommy finished his last full week at HH with everything on track for next Tuesday’s discharge. He continues to do well with his breathing, spending his days off the vent. Still working hard in therapy to get stronger with his upper body movement. Happy that his Panthers finally got back on the winning track. We appreciate all keeping the thoughts and prayers going for this big week ahead #webelieve

October 27, 2016

Tommy continuing to do well in rehab and the countdown to leaving has officially begun! If all continues well Tommy will be going home on Nov 1st. Lots of coordination to do and continued improvement needed so please keep all in your prayers. Tommy was able to get back to the HH salon today to trim up the hair and furry beard so he’s ready – solid before and after photo posted compliments of Ryan L.

October 25, 2016

Another positive week in rehab for Tommy. Continues to breath more on his own by staying off the vent during the day. Looking to continue to extend that time throughout the night. Therapy sessions are slow and steady too with increaseed shoulder and arm movement which is very encouraging. Tommy’s friends continue their incredible support by truly being there for him which is greatly appreciated. Please keep the thoughts and prayers going. #webelieve

October 18, 2016

Overall a good week for Tommy. Really improving his breathing by staying off the vent for longer periods of time which is very encouraging. Continuing to work hard in his therapy sessions and seeing some real positive signs. Focused now on continuing to improve so he can move on to the next stage of rehab. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers #webelieve

October 11, 2016

Even though Tommy’s Panthers continue to let him down, except his main man the Big O, he keeps pushing forward! Progress with his breathing and moving off the ventilator continues as he is spending more time breathing on his own. His HH therapists Sarah, Francesca and Kate continue to be great in helping him improve too. Thanks to all for your continued support and prayers #webelieve

October 11, 2016

Really good week for Tommy as he continues to get stronger. He’s making good progress with his breathing by staying off the ventilator for longer periods of time and continuing to work hard in therapy to get more movement in his arms. Attitude remains upbeat and positive which is really being helped by knowing all the people who care so much for him. Thanks for your ongoing prayers and support. #webelieve

October 6, 2016

Another few strong days for Tommy as he continues to make progress in therapy. His appetite is also getting better with great meals from some of our closest friends and family. Thanks to all for your continued support and prayers. #webelieve.

October 5, 2016

Good few days for Tommy, including an uneventful trip back to Good Sam Hospital to insert a PIC line where Tommy was a champ. HH remaining conservative on the respitory treatment but Tommy still progressing nicely and working hard in his other therapy sessions. Need to keep the positive momentum going. #webelieve

September 28, 2016

Tommy had a pretty uneventful weekend and other than a down football day Sunday continued to progress. Looking forward to a positive week ahead and getting stronger all around. Thanks to all for your continued support and prayers #webelieve

September 26, 2016

Good finish to a really positive week for Tommy, considering some of our previous weeks. He’s settling in nicely to his routine again and seeing progress on all fronts – PT, OT, Speech and Respiratory. Continuing to bring smiles and laughs to all his HH help is great to see too. Looking forward to a weekend of football and friends. Thanks to all for your continued support and prayers – #webelieve

September 22, 2016

Another good day for Tommy as he starts to get back into a routine. HH being a little conservative in therapy sessions but progress is being made in all areas. Today’s big moment was Tommy finally got his long awaited haircut and even a beard and moustache trimming! After the salon appt he got to go outside for some fresh air which was great – pictures posted. Thanks to all for your continued support. #webelieve

September 26, 2016

Very encouraging day today for Tommy as he had some really good movement in his right arm. Working with the therapists he’s focused on getting his upper arms stronger which is great. Still taking it slow on the breathing and fighting through an infection but a great attitude toward Improvement. Keep the positive thoughts and prayers going. #webelieve

September 19, 2016

Pretty good weekend for Tommy highlighted by a big win by his Panthers. He had the weekend off from therapy and was able to catch up on his rest but also have friends come visit and watch football with him. Looking forward to a good week ahead and continued progress. #webelieve

September 26, 2016

Continued improvement for Tommy to finish out the week. Still taking it slow with the ventilator but getting stronger everyday. Doing his best to eat healthier too as he’s focused on feeling better. Thanks to all for your continued thoughts and prayers, it really means a lot to all of us. #webelieve

September 27, 2016

Tommy continues his recovery from the setback and is feeling better everyday. He’s anxious to get off the ventilator but under doctor’s orders taking it slow for now. He’s also starting to get more energy for PT and OT so we’re expecting that progress to continue. The one thing which hasn’t changed is he puts a smile on the face of everyone who comes in his room. #webelieve

September 14, 2016

Good weekend for Tommy at HH as he tries to get back on track after getting knocked backward the past few weeks. He’s slowly getting his energy back and worked hard in therapy today. Was also happy to see a few of his friends, his uncle mark, his grandma Madeline and even a FaceTime call from the Big O! Need to keep the progress going! #webelieve

September 14, 2016

Tommy put to the test again as he had to be transferred back to Westchester yesterday for a cat scan on his stomach and other tests. Good news was that they didn’t see anything wrong. Bad news was he had to endure a miserable 9 hours in the ER topped off by a tough loss by his Panthers. But as we’ve seen from Tommy many times he bounced back today as he returned to his friends at HH. We now need to keep moving forward!#webelieve

September 8, 2016

After a few very tough days at HH, Tommy felt much better today, which is a big relief. He greeted all with his great smile this morning after getting a good night sleep and was more active with therapy. He still has stomach issues which need to improve and has to build up the energy that was wiped out with the pneumonia so keep the good thoughts and prayers going. #webelieve

September 14, 2016

Tommy’s back at HH but really not feeling well. He’s still fighting infections in his body, which are causing lots of discomfort. Hopefully with rest and the medicine kicking in better, he can begin to get back to his old self. He’s not up for visitors yet, but hopefully soon. #webelieve

September 3, 2016

He’s back!! After two very difficult weeks away Tommy’s back at Helen Hayes. Really had a scare with a number of different issues, but Tommy was unbelievable through it all – making him the trauma ICU’s favorite patient (that’s what they told him!) . The transfer back to HH was exhausting too, but being happily greeted by all the staff was really nice. He’s still pretty weak and setback with the breathing, so he needs to take it easy the next few days. Thanks again for all the love and support. #webelieve

September 1, 2016

Still a tough go for Tommy at WMC but he’s improving. The pneumonia is clearing up and the fever is staying down, but a couple other issues still need to be addresssed . He’s been able to do some PT but that’s not WMC’s speciality so most of the therapy will start up when he’s back at HH. He’s also looking forward to getting his taste buds back as nothing tastes good right now. Thanks again for all the support and prayers. Will update again when he’s back at HH – hopefully in the next day or two. #webelieve

August 29, 2016

Tommy doing pretty good now at WMC but really wanting to leave and get back to HH. Still needs to show consistent breathing progress and keep his fever down – all signs the pneumonia clearing up. Also he’s determined puréed French toast is awful!#webelieve

August 27, 2016

Tommy continues to improve at WMC. Progress is slow but definitely better than early in the week. Still on the vent but in typical Tommy fashion was able to convince the doctors to let him drink water – which he hasn’t been able to do – which helps the situation a lot. He was also able to pick his fantasy football team last night while online with his friends. Everyone who knows Tommy knows who his first pick was! Still pushing forward and he appreciates all the love and support. #webelieve

August 25, 2016

Tommy’s improving but the pneumonia is still making breathing difficult. Unfortunately the shoulder pain persists too. He’s getting pretty good rest although plenty of interruptions in a trauma icu. He’s had some good conversations with his mom and dad and continues to show tremendous courage. While he really misses seeing all his friends and family, he’s not up for visitors yet. Hopefully he can get back to the familiar surroundings at HH soon. We all appreciate your thoughts and prayers. #webelieve

August 22, 2016

Tommy’s pneumonia is slowly improving with the medications he’s getting and time. While he’s still pretty out of it he does know where he is and is responding to questions. The doctors expect him to be at WMC for at least a week. Not much more to report other than keep the thoughts and prayers for Tommy’s recovery going as they’re all needed. #webelieve

August 22, 2016

Been a rough few days for Tommy and us. He contracted a bad case of pnemonia which required him to be transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital. After spending a day there they determined he’d be better suited at Westchester Medical Center so he was transferred there today where they are starting to treat him. Right now they have him heavily sedated so the vent can breathe for him and the antibiotics can start working. Definitely a setback but we hope and pray it’s just that and Tommy will come back strong again. No visitors yet but keep your thoughts and prayers coming #webelieve

August 19, 2016

A little setback with the breathing last night for Tommy but seemed to be better today and hopefully will be okay through the night. Still working hard at therapy and making progress. Best news of the day was another room move. This time he gets a window back and more space for his friends – like the old spot. #webelieve

August 17, 2016

Better day today for Tommy after a good night sleep. The best part was that he was able to keep just the red plug in which has him one step closer to removing the trache. He also worked hard in therapy pushing himself on a few of the machines. Slow and steady ….#webelieve

August 16, 2016

Kind of a rough day for Tommy but not surprising for a Monday. Looking forward to a better day tomorrow after a good rest tonite. #webelieve

August 15, 2016

Today was a really good day for Tommy as he had a lot of family and friends visit him at HH and he was in great spirits (except for seeing Uncle Mark’s Red Sox shirt!). It was also the day of the charity baseball / softball game. It was awesome to see how many people came out in support of Tommy. There were so many people who worked really hard to pull it together and then braved the intense heat to keep it going. Special thanks to Lynn Munroe, JoAnn Lent and Big Joe Taccetta for their extra efforts to make sure the day was a success. One really good pic posted to this site of some great friends. #webelieve

August 15, 2016

Quiet day for Tommy today. Had a number of friends and family come and visit which he always enjoys. Also seeing the Yanks get another win is a bonus. #webelieve

August 13, 2016

Tommy finished off a tough week on a strong note. Continued to work hard in therapy sessions. Continued progress with the breathing with the red plug and as always continued great attitude. Looking forward to a relaxing weekend. Thanks to all for your support #webelieve

August 12, 2016

Pretty uneventful day today for Tommy which is good. He continues to work hard in his therapy sessions and keeps his positive attitude. As always he likes when his friends come by to visit later in the day. Thanks to all both near and far for your continued support and prayers. #webelieve

August 11, 2016

Better day today for Tommy as he was able to get good rest after Monday night’s fiasco. He did well in his therapy sessions – always seem to be good when he has his regular therapists – Francesca, Sara and Kristin and Russ on respitory – Helen Hayes best! #webelieve

August 10, 2016

Very tough night for Tommy that sent him to Nyack Hospital until 5:30 in the morning to deal with a catheter issue. He slept in this morning and recovered enough to push through his afternoon therapy sessions. He finished the day with a banana spilt that he really enjoyed. Tommy continues to amaze with his attitude toward the hurdles put in front of him and always seems to put a smile on the faces of people around him. #webelieve

August 9, 2016

Unfortunately Tommy got hit with another UTI and his neck pain continues which explains a bit why he was wiped out yesterday. However, he didn’t let that stop him in his therapy efforts as he continued his progress there. We need to keep praying for good health as Tommy works on his rehab. #webelieve

August 8, 2016

All the weekly activity and change in breathing caught up with Tommy today as he was very tired and slept a lot of the day. We’re hoping this extra rest will give him the energy needed to begin the week strong tomorrow. #webelieve

August 8, 2016

Relaxing day for Tommy with no weekend therapy sessions but he did keep pushing himself with breathing exercises to keep the progress going. Tommy is happy to have his friends visit and very appreciative of their support to pass the time at HH. #webelieve

August 6, 2016

TGIF for Tommy. Finished off a solid week of progress with very good results on weening off the ventilator and getting outside for the first time since the accident. Looking forward to a restful weekend and seeing some good friends. #webelieve

August 5, 2016

Good day today for Tommy as he keeps working hard in all his therepy sessions and does his best to get use to being in a smaller shared room. Looking forward to Friday and the weekend. #webelieve

August 4, 2016

Big day today for Tommy as he continued off the vent with no issue and began using the “red plug” which is the last step to completely breathing normally on his own. Most likely will take a few more weeks but he’s defying odds which is awesome. Also today was the first day in 53 days Tommy was able to go outside for therapy. It wasn’t for long but progress. Thanks for all your continued support and prayers #webelieve

August 3, 2016

Eventful day today for Tommy. Last night marked the first night he went through the night without being on the vent so very encouraging sign of his progress of improved breathing. Today was also the day they moved him out of his private room into his old room with a roommate. Not great as it limits the amount of space for the visitors he loves, but like everything else Tommy took it in stride and kept his positive attitude. #webelieve

August 2, 2016

Back to therapy sessions today for Tommy, but first day in a while he was able to leave his room which he was very happy to do. Starting to learn how to drive his wheelchair with his head / neck. Continued improvement with his breathing. Thanks to all for your continued support. #webelieve

August 1, 2016

Enjoyable day today for Tommy as he was able to see some of his good friends he hasn’t seen in a while. Having them in the room watching TV and having a few laughs is good medicine for Tommy. Looking forward to a good week ahead. #webelieve

August 1, 2016

Well needed rest from his therapy sessions today for Tommy. Very happy to not see the HH help or his visitors with masks on either. Looking forward to good days ahead. #webelieve.

August 1, 2016

Tommy finished out the week strong with his efforts in his therapy sessions. He also finished the quarantine period which everyone is happy about. He’s looking forward to seeing many of his friends and family again as well as getting out of his room. He does need to make sure he continues to get enough rest and stay healthy so let’s be mindful as we visit him. #webelieve

August 1, 2016

Tommy had another good day in his therapy with OT and PT, but it also brings aches and pains that he has to deal with. He continues to keep up his great attitude and is looking forward to the weekend. Thanks all for your continued support and prayers #webelieve

July 29, 2016

Good day for Tommy today. Continues to work hard at therapy and showing improvements on all fronts – slow and steady is the norm. Also made his Dad’s day by sporting the vintage Albany Great Danes practice jersey for the bday (photo uploaded) Dad loves you. #webelieve.

July 27, 2016

Another good day today for Tommy with his therapy sessions. He continues to push himself. Still have some limits on the breathing because of the pneumonia but he feels pretty good. Definitely the right attitude continues with all his HH help. #webelieve

July 26, 2016

Good day today for Tommy as the week of therapy kicked off. Progress in each of the sessions but they do take a lot out of him. Tommy continues his positive attitude and really appreciates everyone’s ongoing support. #webelieve

July 25, 2016

Quiet Sunday for Tommy. Tough morning with the breathing as he was very congested but got better as the day went on. Did enjoy seeing the Yanks get another W though. #webelieve

July 25, 2016

Well Saturdays are rest days at HH and that was what Tommy did today. After a hard week of therapy he felt the pains last night and rested today. Was in his usual good spirits though when he was awake and is really looking forward to the end of the month when he gets to see all his friends and family again. #webelieve

July 25, 2016

TGIF – Tommy finished off the week with his best therapy sessions yet. Not sure if it was the Drake tunes playing during OT, the Game of Thrones episode during Speech Therapy or the Superman shirt he had on but he did really well today. Thanks to all for your continued support and prayers #webelieve

July 25, 2016

A mixed day today for Tommy as he worked really hard in the morning therapy sessions and showed some real improvement in his upper body strength however he’s still short on endurance so was pretty wiped out in the afternoon. The doctors and therapists remain encouraged by his progress. #webelieve

On another note we wanted to let everyone know that another event is being planned to benefit Tommy. The event is a celebrity softball game at Boulders Stadium in Pomona, NY on August 14th. There will be athletes from the Giants and Yankees playing, music, and a Boulders game against Quebec after that. Tickets can be purchased in person at Signarama 27 N Middletown Rd, Nanuet NY, Joanne – 845-507-0101 or on-line at purchase.tickets.com Thanks again for all of your support

July 21, 2016

Pretty good day today for Tommy but did get a bit tired with the multiple back to back therapy sessions – hump day will do that. As always Tommy kept up his great attitude and courtesy to all the HH people. #webelieve

July 21, 2016

As usual when Tommy has a tough day or two he battles back and he did so again today. He said he felt much better as the nausea and headache from the infection seemed to be gone and he got his appetite back. Continued to work hard in all his therapy sessions and even let me take a photo of him with his beloved Panthers hat on (uploaded).#webelieve

July 19, 2016

Tough day for Tommy today as a urinary infection caused a fever and discomfort. We’re hoping the antibiotics will kick in quickly and make this issue go away in the next day or so. Tommy continues to take setbacks in stride and push thru though. Really pretty amazing. We know he feels the love of everyone around him. #webelieve.

July 18, 2016

Another light day for Tommy as he rested for much of the day. Ongoing neck and shoulder pain as well as some trouble with the breathing off the vent so not the best day. Tommy has determined that his pain threshold has increased – a real trooper. On a lighter note after mixed reviews of the stache (Tommy was not a fan) it has been removed – at least for now…. #webelieve

July 18, 2016

Quiet day for Tommy today as the weekends tend to be at HH. Even though he didn’t have therapy many of the therapists who are working with other patients stop in to say hello to their favorite patient, which is really nice. He’s really making a lot of friends. #webelieve

July 18, 2016

Much better day today for Tommy than yesterday. The intense pain in his shoulders subsided a bit – could’ve been the increase in meds but he’ll take it. Continues to increase the amount of time off the vent as well as improved upper body motion with the OT. The hit of the day was his new look mustache – although he said it won’t be around for long (photo will be uploaded if you want a look) #webelieve.

July 18, 2016

Well since yesterday was such a good day for Tommy with therapy and breathing he was in a lot of pain today. He’s working muscles that have been weakened by the accident so the dr’s say he’s going to have these days. He did feel a bit better later in the day as the medication kicked in. Looking for a better day tomorrow. #webelieve

July 14, 2016

Tommy had a strong day today with regard to his breathing which is very encouraging. He was also able to stay in his wheelchair for a longer period of time which has been difficult in the past. While he really misses seeing all his friends and family, he continues to have a positive attitude and looks forward to seeing everyone again soon.

Thanks to all for your generosity.

July 14, 2016

Tiring but progressive day for Tommy as he worked real hard in his therapy sessions and made some good improvements. He’s kept up his great attitude and is focused on getting better #webelieve

July 12, 2016

Back to therapy today. Tommy is working really hard despite the ongoing challenges. Continued focus on improving his breathing and shoulder / arm strength while fighting through the pain. I know you all would be so proud of him. #webelieve

July 11, 2016

Kind of a quiet day for Tommy today as the weekends are supposed to be with no therapy sessions. Did catch another Yankee victory and the Euro Cup game. Will try to push himself in therapy tomorrow and look for improvements. #webelieve

July 11, 2016

Better day today for Tommy as he gets use to his new surroundings and also got a day off from therapy. Still discomfort in his body but a pretty healthy appetite and some good Yankee baseball kept the day moving along. Tommy knows and appreciates all the love that is out there for him. #webelieve

July 9, 2016

Not a good day for Tommy today as his neck and shoulders were in real pain along with a number of issues out of his control that made it rough on him. Hopefully a restful night and a new day tomorrow will improve things. #webelieve

July 8, 2016

Well we got a curve ball thrown out us that we’re now adjusting to. Tommy was exposed to a visitor who had symptoms of the mumps so as precaution the hospital as directed by the Board of Health has quarantined Tommy to a private room and restricted vistors for a while (most likely the end of the month). Obviously a tough one considering all the great support and distractions friends and family have provided, but we’ll get through it. Tommy has no choice now but to focus on improving his physical health with therapy and seeing his mom and dad a lot more with masks on. Keep the faith. #webelieve

July 7, 2016

Tough day for Tommy today as his body tried to get used to the new tube in the trache. Unfortunately it sapped a lot of his energy which made therapy difficult. However he did push through with the OT and showed some nice improvements in arm movement. Tomorrow’s another day. #webelieve

July 6, 2016

Back to work for Tommy today as HH therapy was in full force. Two big happenings today for Tommy. The first is they reduced the size of the tube which is used for the trache, requires him to breathe more on his own – the first step toward moving off the vent. The second big event was Trevor showing up with an officially signed Cam Newton Panthers helmet (see photo of the boys) that really lifted Tommy’s spirits after a tough day. Thanks to all for your continued support. It’s greatly appreciated. #webelieve

July 5, 2016

Tommy had a pretty good 4th of July as HH was relatively quiet today. As usual he had a nice mix of family and friends visiting with food, drink and movies. Tommy did say he really needed to rest on the weekend from a busy week of therapy but was preparing to work hard this coming week. His positive attitude toward getting better continues as he is encouraged by all the support from his family and friends. #webelieve

July 5, 2016

Good day today for Tommy. Pretty light on the therapy for the weekend. The big excitement for Tommy today was hearing about the great support from his friends who ran and participated in the dodgeball tournament. We are all so appreciative and overwhelmed with the amount of support from the community – truly a sign of love and inspiration for Tommy. Thanks to all – #webelieve

July 5, 2016

Tommy got some rest today from therapy because of the weekend although he did continue to improve his breathing by being off the vent for 4+ hours – which is very encouraging. It was nice to have him greet his Dad and Uncle Mike with an old school Albany basketball tanktop this morning (see photo). Also very nice to hear Tommy talking South football with Coach Scarpelli. Looking for continued progress and ongoing prayer. #webelieve

July 5, 2016

Today we saw some good progress with the OT working with Tommy on his arms. He definitely showed improved strength in his biceps moving his arms back and forth. Thank God. He’s still working on his breathing and pushing himself to improve. The shoulder out of whack continues to be painful but hopefully will improve sooner than later. A little sushi for dinner tonight was a much better choice than the HH selection. We are very appreciative of all the ongoing love and support. #Webelieve

July 1, 2016

Tommy’s friends in the neighborhood have organized The Tommy McGuire Dodgeball Tournament to help raise funds.
The tournament is this Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm at the JCC at 450 west Nyack Road in West Nyack.
Teams of six can sign up by messaging Jordan Mandel or Alaina DiGiacomo on Facebook or by texting them at 845 641 0469 or 845 570 0794.
The tournament event page on Facebook is called Dodgeball Fundraiser for Tommy McGuire www.facebook.com
You can go to the event page for info on how to sign up.
In addition to the dodgeball tournament, the kids have set up other activities including a live auction with things like tickets to the Broadway play Hamilton, Rangers and Mets tickets, signed
sports memorabilia, tickets to the Ramapo summer concert series and more. There will also be food and drinks for sale that have been donated by various people and businesses in the community.
Tickets for Hamilton might auction in advance – you can check the facebook page for details

July 1, 2016

Good day for Tommy today. The morning was a little tough with a lot of therapy work, but the big milestone was getting to leave his room for the first time for physical therapy. We’re looking forward to that continuing as HH has a great facility. Tommy also got to start using the technology that moves the wheelchair up and down. More to come soon. The rest of the day was filled with some visits and plenty of Seinfeld reruns thanks to Johnny’s purchase of the complete box set. Thanks to all for your continued support. It’s awesome for Tommy. #webelieve

June 30, 2016

Slow and steady progress for Tommy continues. He’s getting great attention from all at HH and they are working him hard. Really focused on improving the breathing and it’s going well. A nice treat of Chilli’s to go for dinner tonight which Tommy always likes. The ongoing support from family and friends in person and online is greatly appreciated by all of us. #webelieve

June 29, 2016

Today started with Tommy calling mom requesting a David’s everything bagel with cream cheese so that was good. More progress today with the breathing and getting up in the bed with the help of the physical therapist. Still a fair amount of pain in the shoulder and Tommy’s not a fan of the air mattress on his back but hopefully will begin to subside. Tommy’s spirits remain positive as a new group (and the old ones) come through to be with him. #webelieve

June 28, 2016

More progress for Tommy today as he’s been cleared to eat any food he wants. Doesn’t quite have a good appetite yet but did have his first slice of Napoli’s pizza. Also good progress on the breathing as he was able to breath on his own a few times as they try to ween him off the vent. Pain in the shoulder and neck area is still causing much discomfort but we’re hoping its part of the healing process. Tommy really appreciates all the support and the encouragement is great. Thanks to all who generously donate to his fund. #webelieve

June 27, 2016

Pretty good day today for Tommy. Started out with a nice bath which made him very happy – first time for a bath in many years he said. Continued with the different therapy sessions trying to get some feeling going again. Not much food today as he’s waiting for the green light tomorrow for full diet. Voice is getting stronger too. Tommy is amazed with of all the support, even from people who’ve never met him, which makes us all feel great. Keep it coming #webelieve

June 27, 2016

June 25, 2016 – as Mom reported more good progress for Tommy today. Eating and drinking – even though hospital food – still was great to see. HH starting to get the different therapists working on him and tiring him out. Visits from family and friends always puts a smile on Tommy’s face too. #webelieve

June 27, 2016

Thank you for all of the kind words, we’ll wishes and most importantly your prayers. God has been working overtime and Tommy had a great day. Would you believe he got to drink red Gatorade, eat part of a grilled cheese sandwich, and he has his voice back and can speak.. he is in great spirits and said to mom I can only go up from here…he reads all of your posts and is so appreciative and grateful…we as parents now get to see how far Tommy’s impact reached…keep praying and God will continue to do great things for tommy and all of us…#we believe. Mom & Matthew

June 25, 2016

June 24,2016 – Tommy’s first full day at Helen Hayes Rehab was a good one. His speech therapy session brought back his voice and allowed him to drink water and eat some apple sauce which made him very happy. So far all the staff at HH have been great and he is settling into his room. Now if only we can figure out a comfortable pillow situation….
Tommy wants to thanks all of you for your daily comments (he reads them all) and your donations (anyone who has donated is really appreciated)

We would like to make sure we maximize company match programs. Our ask is if your company has a match program to please pursue it as well. It’s a really great benefit.

#webelieve

June 25, 2016

June 23, 2016. Today was a big day for Tommy as he was able to leave WMC and be transported to Helen Hayes Rehab. Overall the transport went pretty smooth and Tommy is now in a 2 bedded room at HH. The staff there seems very attentive and will begin work tomorrow on Tommy’s breathing. We’re hoping for some quick progress as not being able to have any liquids is really difficult right now as well as his general discomfort.

HH visiting hours of 11:00 – 9:00 and only a couple people in the room are more strict than WMC. Tommy loves when his family and friends come, but we’ll need to coordinate some times based on his rehab schedule and HH restrictions. Feel free to txt Tom or Lori. Tommy does look at this site’s comments and txt’s on his phone so keep them coming. #webelieve