In July 2013 I made the decision to undergo surgery and have all of the metal rods and screws removed from my spine. The procedure was a huge success: about a month after surgery, my hip flexors began to move! I have since continued progressing in my training both in the gym and at home. I am now even able to lift my legs and flex my thigh muscles… at this point the possibilities are limitless!

Last summer, I made the intimidating decision to step out into the world and get my own apartment. Despite the adversity that had come my way, I wanted to be independent. Since I was already spending a lot of time in Florida for the work I do with The Avatar Course, I decided to move there! I am living near Orlando enjoying the beautiful weather and lots of handicap accessibility. I have my own apartment with an adopted cat Zephyr, and I am beginning to live my life again! With each step forward I face new choices, new lessons, and new moments of challenges.

My latest challenge was buying an adapted van!

My intention for new life in Florida is to live my passions teaching Avatar, teaching art workshops, making and selling art, and promoting my music. I am currently enrolled with Vocational Rehabilitation Services and they are going to help me start my own business or find a job that suits me, and having my own vehicle is a vital step towards these goals. Vocational Rehab does take time however, and I’m currently on a waiting list. I want to be completely independent despite my challenge. So far, all signs point to YES it’s possible—and I know in my heart that it will be even easier with a group of support behind me.

So, I write this letter to update you on my progress and to thank you for your ongoing support—and to ask for your help. I am currently raising funds to pay for the cost of my new adapted van. If you feel so moved, please share with your friends and families.

To help with the financial burden of my van and uninsured expenses, a fundraising campaign in my honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a trusted nonprofit organization that has been providing community-based fundraising guidance to patients and their families for more than 30 years. All donations are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Mid-Atlantic Spinal Cord Injury Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for injury-related expenses only. Please consider a contribution.

For credit card contributions, please select the “Donate Now” button or call 800.642.8399. Or, make checks payable to: HelpHOPELive; note in memo section: In honor of Laurie Kammer; please send to: HelpHOPELive, 2 Radnor Corporate Center, 100 Matsonford Road, Suite 100, Radnor, PA 19087

From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

Love,
Laurie