Celebrating Life, Honoring Love: Selma’s Journey to Recovery
In June of 2010, Selma Hafizbegovic was told she had suffered a “complete spinal cord injury” from the waist down after a devastating rock climbing accident in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Her doctors at the time told her there was next to absolutely no hope of regaining sensation or movement in her lower body.
Selma, with her strong will and spirit, never accepted that prognosis. Instead, she found solace in faith, hope, and love within her and around her, and used it to fuel her desire to continue to work on her recovery, with all the tenacity, perseverance, and determination she could muster.
After a long journey through multiple states, from one hospital to another, from one rehab center to another, she found her way to treatment at the renowned Shepherd Spinal Center in Atlanta, and their Beyond Therapy® rehabilitation program. Still at Shepherd’s Beyond Therapy program, she continues to pursue a challenging program of rehabilitative exercises, along with other holistic and therapeutic programs she has found in Atlanta and enrolled herself with.
While Selma has not yet reached her goal of a complete recovery, she is a long way from a complete injury. Just take a look at her incredible progress:
Video Therapy at Chastain Horse Park – www.youtube.com /> My big kiss at the end, is for all of you… my wonderful family… my best and dearest friends in the world… my extraordinary therapists, exercise specialists, therapeutic instructors, volunteers… my very special doctors, healers, guides… my kindest Residence Inn friends… my beautiful horse Rebel… and all kindred souls, good-hearted strangers sent my way to help me… Thank You!! And Thank You God!! — Much love.
Video Walking in braces – www.youtube.com /> This is the video that features my very first independent steps (the braces are mechanical, 15 pounds heavy, and they support my knees and prevent them from collapsing).
Video Walking with the Therapist – www.youtube.com
Selma is not only making great progress, but she is also an inspiration to others undergoing therapy at Shepherd. In fact, her therapists say they are learning from her about the hope that patients diagnosed with a complete spinal cord injury can have. They recommend many challenging therapies for Selma—and she consistently meets the challenge. Inspired by Selma’s ability to meet their goals against the odds, her therapists are working with other patients in similar ways. It is not surprising to anyone who knows Selma that her spirit and tenacity are helping others in many ways, every day.
To help support the extensive cost of her therapy, Selma has resurrected an old hobby, jewelry making. She calls her jewelry line Stones of Hope and has been offering her beautifully crafted necklaces, bracelets, and earrings to raise funds for her continuous therapy.
Selma has chosen to fundraise with HelpHOPELive (formerly NTAF) – because HelpHOPELive provides both tax-deductibility and fiscal accountability to contributors. Whatever you can give will help – it all adds up! Contributors can be sure that funds contributed will be used only to pay or reimburse medically-related expenses.
If your company has a matching gifts program, Selma will greatly benefit from your employer’s support. Please inquire with your employer what documentation is required.
For more information, please contact HelpHOPELive at 800.642.8399.
Many thanks for your support!
Selma’s Therapy
www.beyond-therapy.org
www.chastainhorsepark.org
www.atlantaholisticmedicine…
www.medicalacupuncturenutri…
www.gedaliahhealingarts.com
drskillas.com<
Updates (23)
February 26, 2017
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (Split, Croatia, Summer of 2016) --- see album
February 10, 2016
February 8, 2016
Reflexology update: part 4 of 4
February 8, 2016
Reflexology update: part 3 of 4
February 8, 2016
Reflexology update: part 2 of 4
February 8, 2016
Reflexology video update: part 1 of 4
October 26, 2015
Check out Selma's photo's taken in Sarajevo this summer and the tremendous progress she is making
February 13, 2013
NEW: Selma’s Timeline
Selma’s progress since her injury is awe-inspiring, thanks to her strong will, spirit, and to all who have provided financial support. Please view the timeline below for details on how the funds raised have been used on Selma’s journey to recovery.
June 17, 2010
Selma’s accident occurred in the Rocky Mountains at Colorado’s Eldorado Canyon State Park, as another climber dislodged a man-sized boulder, which triggered a landslide and subsequently swept her down a ravine.
She was quickly evacuated and flown to a Denver hospital where she had two comprehensive back surgeries in addition to injuries that include a broken hip, shoulder blade and ribs, broken knee, foot, punctured lung, and traumatic brain injury.
Selma went through a total of six surgeries between June and August of 2010 and was diagnosed as a “complete” injury, meaning no sensation or motor ability in her lower body.
June-September 2010
Selma then spent four months at Craig Hospital in Denver, where most of the time was spent entirely on surgeries and health conditions including mending the broken spine/metal, rods and screws, decompressing the spinal cord, reconstructing the broken foot to prevent gangrene. Improving overall condition (anemia, etc.). The brain injury dissolved by itself, and her shoulder, hip, knee, ribs healed without medical intervention.
Initially Selma was not able to sit up in a wheelchair or move in or out of one without help. She could only do this with a man-operated hanging platform to lift her up, and in and out of the chair. She could not bathe or dress herself, nor attend rehab due to the severity of the injuries.
Towards the end of her stay, she could sit in the wheelchair and operate it by herself (this was manual) and could transfer in and out of chair/bed.
At this time the doctors said she had a minimal chance of ever walking again (0-5% chance of recovery) as the injury was severe and at the lower level of the spinal cord.
September 2010
Selma was flown to Kessler Rehabilitation Center in New Jersey. This was a trying time for Selma as she began to move away from medically-focused care, to rehabilitation.
During her short stay at Kessler, she began to transfer herself from the bed to a wheelchair, sit up in a wheelchair, and pull herself up in a walker, with improvised long-leg braces, while rounding a corner in the therapy room- amazing progress that no one expected from her.
She began to feel goose bumps in her thighs. Her legs began to sweat.
Kessler was focused on teaching Selma how to adjust to life in a wheelchair. But Selma was focused on walking.
While standing up, with her legs wrapped in an improvised type of brace that kept the legs stiff and prevented collapsing, she began to feel the weight on her knees first, and soon after on her feet. This was an extremely important development for her.
While at Kessler, Selma began to meet with people who could help her in the area of research, and met with the CEO of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. This particular meeting was instrumental in terms of making the right connections for Selma and informing her about the best options which she should consider in terms of her next move from Kessler.
November 2010
Selma transferred to Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore for more advanced therapy.
This was intense, advanced therapy for Selma. At first, the doctors were not sure she could handle it, but they soon got a taste of her determination.
Her muscles begin to react to electrical stimulation.
Doctors and therapists at Kennedy Krieger Institute helped Selma grasp the tiny rays of hope, for the slightest possibility of recovery, and continue on with a renewed faith.
Her insurance stopped paying for therapy. Going forward, it is 100% self-funded (through donations and personal savings).
January 2011
Selma transferred to Shepherd's Spinal Center Beyond Therapy program in Nashville. This facility was not accommodating to her medical needs (there was no major hospital nearby) so they transferred her to their main center in Atlanta.
While there, she amazed the staff by pulling herself and crawling.
February 2011 – 2012
Selma transferred to Shepherd's Spinal Center Beyond Therapy Program in Atlanta.
Over the first year at Shepherd's Spinal Center in Atlanta, she has made incredible progress, none of which is expected after a lower-level injury, including:
- Regained feeling in feet
- Regained some bodily functions
- Walking with assistance (walker, electrodes, and knee support)
- Operating the stationary bicycle (with some assistance from electrodes)
- Standing on her own (using therapy equipment)
February 2012 – Present
Since February of 2012, Selma's progress has steadily continued. Among her greatest achievements are the following ones:
Walking independently with stance-control long leg braces (please see video of her first independent walk)
Assumed a redesigned recovery program that included strong focus on movement in her legs, and less focus on compensation with her arms (exercises broadened to include "dynamic zero-G" sessions, "smith-machine" sessions, walking in braces in her home environment and so on - for more pictures of her therapy sessions - Please check out the "PHOTOS" tab)
Passing a driving evaluation with hand-control vehicle, and assuming her driving abilities utilizing hand-commands
Assuming her passion for horse-back riding, and undertaking additional therapeutic riding sessions at the Chastain Horse Park (please see video of one of her many horseback-riding therapeutic sessions)
Gained new sensations in her legs
Started noticing the new muscle gain in her legs
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Continued support, encouragement and specifically designed recovery program by her therapists and exercise specialists, helps Selma continue on, and keep the dream of recovery alive!
January 15, 2013
Video - Therapy at Chastain Horse Park
My big kiss at the end, is for all of you... my wonderful family... my best and dearest friends in the world... my extraordinary therapists, exercise specialists, therapeutic instructors, volunteers... my very special doctors, healers, guides... my kindest Residence Inn friends... my beautiful horse Rebel... and all kindred souls, good-hearted strangers sent my way to help me... Thank You!! And Thank You God!! --- Much love....
January 15, 2013
Video - Walking in Braces
This is the video that features my very first independent steps (the braces are mechanical, 15 pounds heavy, and they support my knees and prevent them from collapsing)
Photo Galleries (3)
Loading Images
Guestbook
August 25, 2017
Hi Selma, I am a friend of yours from Pace University. You were a good friend during our years there. We eventually joined different consulting companies. Although we've lost touch, I have manage to come across your story. Knowing what I know about you, I know you will fight and persevere until full recovery. I wish the best always.
Nisa Sithiary
July 17, 2016
Hi Selma, Your progress and spirit have been most inspiring! Keep pressing on for full recovery.
Laura H, former Deloitte colleague
September 8, 2014
Way to go! I'm so happy to see your perseverance. Keep it up, truly inspirational.
Mattew Marx
August 21, 2014
Selma,
It has been too long since we have talked or emailed. I think of you often. Please be in touch.
Bernadette Mauro 800-539-7309
July 19, 2014
SELMICE SAMO NAPRIJED USPJEH JE ZAGARANTOVAN!!!
:)
April 30, 2013
Keep fighting & stay positive. You're an amazing women and an inspiration to all! I've been battling for 33 years & know it's best to look at the bright side.
Good Luck & w hope your recovery continues to improve!
Betsy M. NY, NY
March 26, 2013
Selma, it is an honor to work with you --- and Rebel --- and Chastain Park.
Jerry Krieg
April 21, 2012
Dear Selma, I wish you a full recovery! I miss you and think of you often. You are in my heart and my prayers.
Yulia/Seattle, WA
February 4, 2012
Dearest Selma, I wish you all the best for the new year and continuous progress in your recovery. Miss you and much love.
Fern/Hong Kong
December 22, 2011
My dearest friend, you are in my prayers for a full recovery. Missing you here dearly.
Lots of love, hugs and kisses.
Parla / NYC
December 20, 2011
Selma, I heard about your accident from Elena Rockman and have read the story of your amazing progress toward recovery so far. Your determination and spirit are an inspiration to me. My thoughts and prayers for a full recovery are with you.
Bill Stanton
November 24, 2011
Big hug and kiss and we wish you full recovery. With Love Adna and family
Adna / NY
November 18, 2011
hey beautiful person! wishing you strength and happiness through this tough time. tons of love and lots of kisses!
ayca
June 15, 2011
I missed your fundraiser Selma but I was there in spirit. I hope you're feeling a little bit better all the time. Also hope to see you back here soon... All the best and stay strong!
Lauron Lewis
June 12, 2011
Thinking of you and missing you Selma kardesh. Sending you all my prayers for your full recovery. Love love love!
Parla, NYC
March 19, 2011
LOVE YOU! Will speak to you soon. You have a drive like no one else.
Shawna/Jackson Heights
December 26, 2010
Selma my dear, my family and I continue to hold you and your family in our prayers. Continue to remain hopeful and remember God always has you in the palm of his hand.
sincerely,
David/D.C.
November 20, 2010
Dear Selma, I am thankful that you are alive. You are a true survivor. Wish you and your family blessed Thanksgiving!
Sanja/Denver
October 19, 2010
Selma, When I visited Jerusalem last week I put a rolled slip of paper with a prayer for you into the Western Wall, as is the tradition. We've worked together briefly and you have managed to touch my heart. My thoughts are with you during these difficult times. Michelle
Michelle Zal, New York
September 29, 2010
Selma, I wish you a speedy recovery. You're in my thoughts. Stay positive. Sending you a hug,
Betty Dina - NYC
September 24, 2010
Selma - I wish you the best on your road to recovery. I know your energy and spirit will help get you through this. I will keep you in my thoughts.
Susan Freshour - NY
September 19, 2010
Dear Selma,
Please continue to inspire us all as you always do.
Barb/Texas
September 16, 2010
Selma, my dear friend, I just learned about the accident. You have a wonderful and resilient soul and will get through this. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sending you positive energy from NJ.
Andrea Da Costa / New Jersey
September 16, 2010
Selma, while we have never met I was touched by your story via Deloittenet. Stay strong and be sure to keep your spirits high. I wish you all the best and hope for a speedy recovery.
Kersi Asare/Philadelphia
September 16, 2010
Selma,
Sending you prayers and good wishes for a speedy recovery. Your great courage and positive outlook will bring you through this.
Maria, Boston
September 9, 2010
Selma,
You touched my heart the very first time I met you - I knew were extraordinary by virtue of your life's journey and I know that your strength of spirit will overcome this tragedy. My love, thoughts and prayers go out to you. xoxoxoxo
Melody Phipps/San Francisco
September 8, 2010
Selma,
I am so sorry to hear that you were in this awful accident. I haven't talked to you in a while, but, I am always thinking about you! You are such an inspiration to everyone around you and are so full of positive energy and warth towards others. My thoughts and prayers are with you for a speedy recovery.
Lisa Bienkowski/NYC
September 6, 2010
Selma,
I am praying for a quick recovery. You have a tremendous spirit which inspires us all.
Rick Harrison
August 30, 2010
Hi Selma. Really sorry to hear about your accident. I hope your recovery is as speedy as possible. We are thinking about you here at Deloitte and hope to have you back as soon as you can.
Larry Quinlan, Atlanta
August 29, 2010
Selma, I just found out about your accident and am so sorry. Please keep your spirits up and keep the faith that you will get better and better every day. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. If there is anything that I can do, please don't hesitate to ask. God bless you.
Kristin Thomas on assignment in Hyderabad, India
August 26, 2010
Dear Selma, We do not know each other. I am a friend of friend. May strength be with you and get better little by little every day.
Parla's colleague / NYC
August 25, 2010
Selma, your spontaneity, optimism and strength are great - use them to your advantage. You're in my thoughts every day. All positive energy goes to you, always.
Your colleague, Ellen/NYC
August 25, 2010
Selma, I'm so sorry you are going through this. Stay strong. You have many people who are rooting for you. Sending thoughts, prayers and encouragement your way.
Melinda Hecht, San Jose
August 24, 2010
Dear Selma:
Although we have never met, your colleagues at Deloitte clearly have always treasured you (and I can see why)! You are clearly a beautiful person on the inside as well as the outside! We are all praying for you and for all the medical professionals who will be assisting you during this challenging chapter in your life.... Will look forward to meeting you in person when you return to New York! Love and Blessings to you and your family,
Therese Collins/Connecticut
August 23, 2010
Selma I just heard about this from Jim Jaeger. I am so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carol Lindstrom
August 13, 2010
Hi Selma. We learned of your terrible accident but also what a wonderful and kind person you are from Petek, my friend/cousin-in-law who is a good friend of Berrak. Sending prayers, love and good wishes your way. Sheila and Mustafa
Sheila, New York
August 12, 2010
Hi Selma, I'm just checking in to let you know I'm praying for miracles. Stay positive.
Pat Macnamara (Shawna's Mom)
August 8, 2010
Dear Selma, I am a friend of a friend. I heard of your tragic accident and wanted to let you know that you are not alone and that it's during the difficult times of our lives that we get to see what we're truly made of. You are already blessed with caring and generous friends, which says alot about the person you are. Keep the faith and never give up!
Diana Rudolph Huntington Beach,CA
August 6, 2010
Hi Selma, I am so sorry to hear about your accident.
Shawna has told us about you and what a great person and friend you have been to her. We wish you a speedy recovery. Your friends are behind you all the way.
Keep your spirits up because I know you will come through this with flying colors. You are a beautiful person and you are a champion.
Pat and Mike Macnamara Louisville, KY
August 4, 2010
My dear friend,
Wishing each and every day is a better day for you than yesterday, and every moment brings you health, happiness and joy. With lots of love!
Parla
August 1, 2010
Dear Selma,
You are a friend of Berrak i.e., almost a friend of mine.
I admire you so much (got spinal cord surgery/osteosynthesis 14 years ago, way less serious, though I can imagine what you are going through).
I trust we will find a way to know each other, Berrak will certainly help to make it happen.
So much looking forward to meeting you...
Sending you plenty of positive energy to continue the journey,
Dominique / Hong Kong
July 30, 2010
Hi Selma,
Although we don't know each other directly, count me among the many people routing for you, with much love!!
Ellyn NYC
July 30, 2010
Selma - You are in all our hearts. Sending you lots of love and encouragement - keep fighting and stay positive!!
Amanda, NYC
July 30, 2010
Sending prayers and love.
Yulia/New York
July 22, 2010
Onward....on y va...andiamo...there is only one direction...forward and with passion. Love you to pieces!!!
Shawna/Jackson Heights
July 21, 2010
Believe and Achieve!!
Raymond/NYC
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In honor of Selma Hafizbegovic
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Radnor, PA 19087
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