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On July 8th, 2017, Laurina was boasting to her family that she planned to dance all night long at her cousins wedding in Cincinnati. And, she did just that.
A mere 48 hours later, on July 10th, she was back in Atlanta, back to her beautiful home and her fulfilling job, doing what she always does after work…ride her bike. Riding was her way of relaxing her body, mind, and spirit and simply recharging.
On her ride that evening, it was a simple left turn, too much loose gravel in the middle of the street and a cruel fate that caused the back tire of Laurina’s bike to slide out from under her and she crashed to the ground. But, in this instance, what would have been a messy “wipe out” left her paralyzed and changed, forever. Laurina would not return home again for eight months.
The Adventure
Laurina was taken to Grady Hospital where her MRI showed an acute traumatic fracture to her cervical 5th and 6th vertebrae, which led to emergency spinal surgery and two weeks in ICU. From there, she was admitted to Shepherd Spinal Center where she received intensive inpatient Physical Therapy and Outpatient Therapy for eight months.
Upon her discharge from Shepherd Spinal Center in a new power wheelchair, Laurina’s home could no longer accommodate her. Fortunately, she had dear friends (turned family) gracious enough to open their handicap-accessible home to her as she continued the grueling work of outpatient physical therapy. It wasn’t until five months later that she returned to her home where she was reunited with her longtime companion, Kai, her Siberian Husky.
Today, Laurina remains paralyzed from the chest down, with only partial use of her hands. Now, a year later, she continues to be the consummate fighter. With unwavering resolve she spends her days developing creative solutions to the challenges of being paralyzed and navigating a partially independent life. Without a part-time in-home caregiver, friends (turned family), and Becky, her amazing partner, none of these triumphs would have been possible.
Laurina Tells Us How She Feels:
I feel both sad and angry. At times, really, really friggin’ sad and really friggin angry! But I won’t let my life be stolen from me. Clearly, I have to modify my activities but I’ll be damned if I’ll let the things in life that bring me pleasure get ripped away from me.
At times, I am terrified. Terrified that friends will go away; that I’ll be forgotten; that the cost for health insurance and medical treatment will be more than I can afford and that I’ll have insufficient healthcare and die a sickly death, alone.
I also feel terrified that I won’t have a caregiver like the one I have now; and that maintaining my home will be too costly – more than I can manage – and I’ll lose it; my sanctuary, the last piece of the original “me” that exists.
But, more often, I feel grateful to have such great friends who have rallied around me. They’re giving me unending love and encouragement that is getting me through each day, week, month and the past year…
But…the real adventure has just begun
A friend described what Laurina’s new life is all about and this is how she phrased it: “She’s re-inventing herself and her life from the inside out.”
There are still countless hurdles to overcome. For our fiercely independent Laurina, the time has come for our dear friend, colleague and teammate to exercise a new muscle; being strong enough to ask for your help.
These are four things that she needs most:
• The Consistent use of therapeutic equipment that will let her reach her goal of walking again
• To regain her independence and autonomy
• The ability to participate in the many activities she enjoys like visiting friends, walking her dog, feeding the wild birds in her yard, gardening and kayaking
• Check in to see how she’s doing…on the phone or pay her a visit. If she’s feeling up to it, she’d love the company!
These are the priceless ways your contribution can help make a difference:
• Home Modifications
Modification to her bathroom and kitchen that will make a significant difference in the quality of her daily life. These enhancements will enable her to prepare meals for herself as well as bathe herself.
• Van Modifications ($5,000):
Laurina has just completed her driving evaluation and is looking forward to being able to have her van modified so she can drive, independently. The modifications, although expensive, will be recouped as they will eliminate some of the costs and efforts related to having others drive her to the grocery store, doctor and physical therapy appointments, etc.
• The Purchase of a RT300 FES SL Leg Cycle ($12,000):
This device gets her legs moving. It promotes circulation in the legs and helps reduce muscle spasms in Laurina’s legs, which often keep her up at night. This cycle also enhances mobility when she does transfers from bed to chair or from chair to car, which keeps her safer.
• The Purchase of a Standing Frame ($2,900):
When Laurina is securely strapped into this piece of equipment, it gradually assists her body in achieving a standing position. It’s crucial for her recovery because by bearing weight on her legs, it encourages her muscles to kick in. This is one of her best opportunities to regain some movement, so that she will eventually be able to walk.
A Note from Laurina’s Village
We are Laurina’s village and we have a deep stake in her life. By sharing her story with you, we are asking you to recognize an uncomfortable truth: this could have happened to any one of us. By giving to Laurina, we acknowledge the powerlessness of life and see that randomness does not discriminate. By giving to our dear Laurina in her time of need, we each get a chance to participate in restoring the life that she loves. And, for us, we can find grace in making peace with a new normal.
With grace and love,
Becky, Kelly, Jill, Kim, Robin, Caryn
Please follow your heart to Help Hope Live:
www.hopehelplive.org
go to DONATE
Search Find a Campaign
Type in Laurina Florio
Help Hope Live is a 501(c)(3) organization that distributes funds strictly to pay for Laurina’s medical necessities, such as van modifications, medicine, rehabilitation and caregivers. Your contributions are tax deductible
We are wishing you all the best!!!
Jessica McConnell
Thinking of you, I hope to see you soon!
Amanda Watson
Laurina - Stay strong and never give up hope. My daughter suffered a spinal cord injury 4 years ago in a mountain biking accident. She would be more than happy to connect with you, if you'd like. Ping me on FB. Sending you lots of love. Lydia
Lydia Kennedy
Yes - this could have been any one of us. Glad the village is reaching out. Great idea to put this in the news letter. My thoughts and caring are with you always.
Cindy Tanner
❤️❤️❤️❤️ you!!! I pray 2019 brings you new opportunities to spread your wings in many exciting ways!
Rhonda
Happy New Year and blessings to all!
Jane Calvert
Hi Laurnia! Thinking of you, hope your spirits are bright this holiday season!
Jane Calvert
Happy holidays Laurina!
Jeanine Bade
Keep fighting girl! Sending love and healing energy!
Su Abbott
Your bravery and optimism, Laurina, are an inspiration so many of us. Hugs!
Matt Simar
Thinking of you and wishing you a good new year. Best, Kim
Kim Chelpaty
Merry Christmas Laurina! I hope 2019 will be a year of adventure, discovery and continued progress. I’m very proud of your resilience and determination.
Robin Huckstep
Laurina, I just found out how to reach you. I think of you often. Mia
Mia Ares
Go, Laurina! You inspire me. Thank you!
Rita Wuebbeler
Hi Laurina, I'm FINALLY getting on with my donation. So sorry for the long delay. I'm so glad you reached out to the community!!! See you soon! Rita
Rita Wuebbeler
Keep on keeping on Laurina. You are an inspiration to us all to live life fully and never give up despite our circumstances. I'm really glad you have so much support and love around you!
Victoria von Ammon
Keep moving forward, you’ve came a long way and the best is yet to come. Take care and happy holidays -Vern ;)
Vern Potts
Laurina! I am speechless. I had no knowledge of your life challenge. I cannot even fathom! It sounds like you have had a great community of support. I am in ATL for a few more weeks, PLEASE let me know if there is anything I can do... besides the obvious prayers. Here they come now!! I will be in touch - 678-296-6558 is my number.
Leanne Walasek
Count me in on Team Laurina!
Stacy Cantrell
Dear Laurina, We are grateful that you were willing to put your story on Facebook! We are thinking of you and inspired by your courage.
Gail and Terry
Sending you love and light, dear Laurina. Thank you for sharing your story, and for being such a great role model to us all. Your bravery is inspiring.
Maiki Benedict
Laurina, I've thought about often since your accident. I have such admiration for you -- and the fact that you have been strong enough to share your story with the rest of us -- thank you for that. Your strength, and your positive outlook is an inspiration to us all. Sending only love and good wishes.
Phyllis Levine
Laurina, I think about you often , and you are in my prayers. You are an inspiration to me with all you have been through!
Neil Johnston
Laurina --- we think of you and pray for your recovery --- and are grateful to have you -- alive -- and with your will and wit about you! You've touched so many people with your resilience, your dedication -- your show of strength against the odds --- and you're the center of so much love and goodwill --- perhaps more than you know! I wish you more of it as you face the challenges, and know that we are all behind you 100% --- watching, praying, wishing, supporting. You are a hero to so many. We send love and white light to you my friend! I'm thankful that you're here to send this note to! With that as a base, there's no limit to what you can accomplish! You have so much to be proud of!
Dave D\'Apice
Laurina, you are an inspiration to us all! Thank you so much for sharing your story with the world. I think of you always!
Shannon Kozibroda
Laurina - thank you for sharing your story. It's a story of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. You're an inspiration Laurina. The team has definitely missed you. We are all sending positive thoughts and strength to support you on your recovery.
James Humphreys
You are a inspiration to us all keep up the good fight you have a lot of support cheering you on. Take care, Bragg
Bragg Crane
Laurina, You are so brave. I tell my children every day when they leave the house to "be brave today," I will share your story with them because you are a good example for them and so many others. Wishing you a tremendous recovery.
Christa Dozier
Laurina, My thoughts and prayers are with you. I've missed working with you at Quest and have thought about your often. Sending you continued strength and love!
Taryn Reed
Sending you all my best, Laurina!
Colin Hartke
My prayers are with you!
Donna Scoggins
Laurina - Sending strength and encouragement on your road to recovery. You are a fighter for sure!! I miss you at Quest, your candor and straight forward attitude is something I always appreciated. Best to you, Sarah Haviland
Sarah Haviland
Laurina, I've thought about you often over the past year. I can only imagine the roller coaster of emotions you are dealing with, but I admire your perseverance. You are a strong woman and I know you will continue to push forward to accomplish your goals! You have been missed on our team but I hope our paths can cross again someday!
Stacia Rivello
Laurina, I love your spirit and determination. I always enjoy your company and look forward to seeing you soon.
Evan Willis
My sincerest hope is you will continue with this outlook and determination to find your way - no matter that may be. I hope the goal of walking once again can be achieved!! You are a strong one! Love in the Chi Omega sisterhood! Jan Dale Peaver
Jan Peaver
Your courage is admirable. Never give up.
James Frazier
Laurina, I am so sorry to learn of your accident. We met briefly through our mutual friend Caryn, and enjoyed a group breakfast together. May God give you fortitude and strength, as you take this journey, and make progress, toward better health. I hope my donation has a positive effect on your journey, and others. sue giliberti
S.K. Giliberti
I didn't know about your accident, Laurina. You will be in my prayers as you move forward...I'm close by if you ever need anything. 404-314-8776
Jane Holley
I am so sorry to hear about your injuries, and I'm glad to have the opportunity to contribute in your brave road forward. Sending warm wishes for continued strength!
Alice Lyon
Praying for you Laurina and hoping for the very best! Love, Millie Watson Jones
Millie Jones
Glad to contribute to Team Laurina! Stay strong, cuz! Love, Peggy
Margaret Rohs
Renie, you have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since this has happened. I’m so glad your friends posted this! It is something I can do to help! Love you! Peggy
Peggy McCarty Rohs
Laurina, I'm so sorry to hear of your accident. Glad you have your angel warriors by your side. Sending prayers, strength and much love to you.
Greta Coram
God bless you, Laurina!
Sarah Goudiss
I am so sorry to hear about your accident. As a fellow cyclist I know we are all only one crash away from a devastating injury like yours. I am sending you thoughts and prayers for patience, perseverance and healing. I will always remember your kindness to me at Mulberry Gap when I fell and busted my lip.
Alison Harkey
It was great talking with you Laurina. Andy and I send our love!
Scott Larson
This is a reminder for us all to stay in touch, even from afar. We are inspired by your determination and desire to push towards all your goals! Much love from us...Barb and Beth
Barbara Faulkenberry
Hi Laurina, I knew you from Mercer and found out about this campaign through mutual friends. The beauty of our MU community is that way we seem to watch out for each other despite the passing of so many years. Please accept my modest contribution and know that my family and I will keep you in our thoughts with hopes of brighter days in the future. Good Bless. Philip Cho
Philip Cho
Hi Laurina, I've heard about you from our mutual friend, Robin Huckstep, and hope this contribution helps a little. All the best wishes for continued improvement.
Robert Schneider
Laurina, I am devastated at this news! My sister has the same injury exactly the same! So I understand the frustration. I moved to Florida for this very reason. Her s was a horse back riding accident. Went from Shands hospital in Gainesville to Shepard. As I read this to her she asked that I give you her phone number: 352 229 3157. We understand and I am happy to speak with you about how we handle the financial aspect. Thinking of you Caroline
Caroline Amory
Your strength is amazing. Stay strong!!
Michelle Fini
Your strength is amazing. Stay strong!!
Michelle Fini
Oh Laurina.....I can’t even imagine what you’re going through.....but YOU are a fighter, and if anyone can bounce back, it’s you! Sending lots of love, prayers, and hugs your way!!! ❤️
Andrea Bergquist
Nichole and I are sending you lots of love and encouragement, as you continue the healing process. If there is anything we can do for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Love, Pam and Nicole
Pam White
Flo, sorry to hear of your accident!! Your tough and a great fighter.. you were my role model in college, miss you. Next time I’m in Atl love to see you.. Kellee Robbins Kudzinski
Kellee Kudzinski
I hope you will join me in supporting Laurina!
Debra Snell
Keep strong, Laurina!
Joetta and Kathy Prost
Laurina, I am so sorry to hear about your accident. Sounds like you are surrounded by an amazing support network. Sending healing thoughts your way.
Kristen Sullivan
Laurina will make the most of every day to achieve her goals. We have much to learn from her.
Gail Richman
Thinking of you, Laurina. I'm so sorry this happened, but so inspired by your fight and determination.
Julia Wilson
Laurina, I'm thinking about you and sending strength and healing energy your way, in whichever want you need it most. Love to you and yours.
Rebecca Slemons
Lauren - I am deeply saddened to hear about your accident. Life is random, but God is good - and I will pray for your recovery. Having suffered a stroke 3 years ago, I have felt the extreme despair and anger you feel. Your brain still works, but your body doesn't cooperate. I'd be happy to talk whenever you're ready. Importantly, while I am not perfect today - I can walk, talk, eat, breathe and bathe. There is hope. The body can heal The new normal is different, but it is good.
Margaret Lewis (formerly of Ryan/Catapult)
“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” -Booker T. Washington. Wishing you all the best in your journey ahead.
Amy Swygert
Laurina I have thought of you often since I’ve heard the news is this accident. If there is anyone who has the fight to someday walk her dog again, it’s you. Happy to contribute to your journey, maybe even bring you some meals and visit sometime.
Tara Ingram
Laurina- Though I’m sorry to hear this update, I know that fierce spirit of yours will help you overcome the challenges! Will be keeping you in my thoughts. -Mel
Melanie Richards
Gotcha covered!
Melanie Cox
Thinking of you, Laurina!
Jon Loomer
Love you and the light you shine on the world, Laurina! xoxoxox
Sabrina Sexton
Here's to healing!!! Love, Jan Dale
Jan Peaver
Just learning of this, Laurina, you are one tough lady, keep fighting!
Bonnie Gordon
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Laurina Florio
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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