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I am Renee Whisner. I am a United States Air Force veteran and mother of two grown children. I worked in logistics for 20 years and I have always been very active. I love to bike and am an avid traveler.
I spent a year in India earning advanced certification as a yoga instructor and was about to go home to start my new career when it happened.
What happened: On November 3, 2014, I was in a cab that hit a tree and left me paralyzed from the chest down. My neck was broken at C-4 and C-5 which was later surgically put back into place with a titanium plate and four titanium screws. I am considered to be āC4 complete.ā This means I do not have any motor and sensory function below the injury site.
Where I was: After over 9 months in various hospitals and numerous additional stays in the Tampa Veterans Hospital, I have made a lot of progress. Now I am living in my mother and step-fatherās living room.
I was receiving occupational and physical therapy at home through the VA hospital. I was making tremendous progress with my arms and my upper body. About 6 months ago, my doctors informed me that they were no longer going to give me occupational or physical therapy. They said they don’t want me to feel like they are giving up on me ā but that is exactly what they are doing. This was especially puzzling because my occupational therapist in Tampa stated in her report that I needed to continue with therapy because I was making improvements. Her report also stated that, despite this, the VA was giving up on me.
Fortunately, I found another VA doctor who magically got my occupational therapist back 3 days a week, thank goodness. However, I am not receiving any physical therapy for my legs other than what I am able to do for myself. If I have to continue much longer without therapy on my legs, my muscles will start to atrophy and there may be no more room for improvement.
What happened next: With your support I was able to go to Kennedy Krieger Instituteās International Center for Spinal Cord Injury in Baltimore Maryland. Where I obtained valuable information and techniques through restorative therapy that I can do at home.
The International Center for Spinal Cord Injury (ICSCI) at Kennedy Krieger Institute was founded on the philosophy that individuals with paralysis can always hope for recovery of sensation, function, mobility, and independence, months and even years after injury. ICSCI is one of the first facilities in the world to combine innovative research with a unique focus on restoration and rehabilitation for children and adults with chronic paralysis.
Their groundbreaking therapies are designed to restore function, sensation, mobility, and independence, while offsetting the debilitating complications patients with spinal cord injury experience. www.spinalcordrecovery.org.
I believe they will teach me new ways of doing things so that I will be more independent right away. From everything I have heard, seen and read, the intentions that I have for myself are very much possible! With the training I will receive from Kennedy Krieger, the expectations I have set for myself, and continued therapy at home I will walk again.
Kennedy Krieger has a very high success rate with their patients. Hereās one of many success stories about what is possible. www.kennedykrieger….<
Cost Estimate
International Center for Spinal Cord Injury: $42,137 (after a 20% discount)
Travel (includes 4 weeks in a specially equipment hotel room): $6,000
Where I am now: Upon returning home after Kennedy Krieger I immediately started to get the equipment needed to continue my therapy at home. It was at this point that I realized there was not enough money for the things I needed. Here are the most expensive items needed.
EasyStand Glider Medium
RT 300 FES LE ergometer
The Convert-able Table by R.E.A.L Design
Electric Hi-Lo Mat Treatment Table
My dream: I want to walk again, and I believe it is possible with the help of the experts at Kennedy Krieger Instituteās International Center for Spinal Cord Injury. I have been accepted into their program. My occupational therapist says I am more than ready for Kennedy Krieger Institute and will benefit greatly from intensive therapy.
My intention is to:
Ā· Be able to feed, groom, and help myself
Ā· Regain my arm and hand functions
Ā· Regain my muscle strength and stamina
Ā· Get out of this machine ā maybe not at first but very soon
I know I will be a different person when I leave the SCI Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute. I also want to be more than just āa woman who survived an accident.ā I want to do something with the rest of my life.
I am already starting to move forward with my life. I have created a blog on my website about the day in the life of a quadriplegic to help others who are newly facing this reality understand how to deal with it all.
Spirituality is an important part of my life. I am now a prayer chaplain in my church and am studying to be a licensed spiritual teacher. I have also joined Toastmasters, so I can improve my ability to share my story and my upcoming success with the world.
Thank you
I sincerely appreciate any and all support including prayers. All I ask is that if you’re unable to make a donation, would you please share my post? Those that you share it with may be able to help by making a donation.
I love you all! www.facebook.com/reneewhisner,
reneewhisner.wixsite.com
Thank you everyone fo all your love and support I love you all ā¤
Here are some videos from my latest visit to Kennedy Krieger I hope you enjoyed them. also if you aren't able to donate it this time please pass this along to your friends as they may be able to.
Thank you, I love you all ā¤
Renee
I am headed to Kennedy Krieger on May 5th! So I am back to ask for support. Every little bit helps. Thank you for your support. I love and appreciate you all.
Renee
I want to thank everybody for your support and generosity. Since Iāve been home from Kennedy Krieger I have shown vast improvement in my left arm especially. I learned so much in such a short time, it was sometimes overwhelming. I learned several new therapies that I can easily do it home, however getting some of the equipment is a struggle. I was able to get the smaller pieces of equipment, but the larger items are quite expensive.
EasyStand Glider Medium- easystand.com
RT 300 FES LE ergometer- www.restorative-therapies.com
The Convert-able Table by R.E.A.L Design- www.theradapt.com
Electric Hi-Lo Mat Treatment Table- www.healthproductsforyou.com
The total comes to around $29,400.00. Yes, this is a lot of money to be asking for. I believe in myself, I believe I can get some of my movement back doing everything that Kennedy Krieger showed me. The are experts in this field. They know what works and what doesnāt. They will not waste your time or theirs. I look forward to using the new equipment!
Renee
'TIS THE SEASON FOR MIRACLES!!
Thank you for your support in getting me to Kennedy Krieger! Now I need to continue doing what I learned there, here at home. It will require some equipment, so I am back on here to ask for help since these things are expensive but necessary. I don't want my going to Kennedy Krieger to have been a waist of time. Everything I learned there are therapies to restore what I have lost. Making this equipment life changing! Here is what I need. ā¤
EasyStand Glider Medium
RT 300 FES LE ergometer
The Convert-able Table by R.E.A.L Design
Electric Hi-Lo Mat Treatment Table
Where I am now: Upon returning home after Kennedy Krieger I immediately started to get the equipment needed to continue my therapy at home. It was at this point that I realized there was not enough money for the things I needed. Here are the most expensive items needed.
EasyStand Glider Medium
RT 300 FES LE ergometer
The Convert-able Table by R.E.A.L Design
Electric Hi-Lo Mat Treatment Table
I have a CHANGE OF DATE for my fundraiser!!!!
It is now on OCTOBER 13, 2017!!!!!
I am having a fundraiser on aug 25, 2017 in Naples Fl!!!
On July 1, 2015 Renee came home with her parents Mimi and John. Renee has Occupational Therapy three days a week and Wound Care also. Please see Renee's story (About Renee) below.
30 days in ICU. WOW!
International credit card donations, please select any state to complete the transaction. We are grateful for the support of Renee's international community of friends.
Thanksgiving 2014
Renee would be thankfull to get out of ICU this year.
HelpHopeLive gives us the opportunity to feel good about ourselves, as well as what we have this Thanksgiving.
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Thank you for sharing your story. My son was injured at work 1 1/2 years ago c-4 with halo and esophagus tear ,many surgeries has no arm or hand movement. If you have any suggestions that could help feel free to contact me thank you very much email is jng62@sbcglobal.net
John
Thank you for your service. My wife is a paraplegic so I know it must be a struggle at times. Keep the faith. I know it's not much but every bit helps. You sound like you have a positive attitude. Keep on the VAs ass and fight for what you need, appeal if you need to. Good Luck, John and Jen from Port Charlotte.
John
Dear Renee, I'm so impressed with your positive attitude and faith. I whole heartedly support you in healing and achieving all your goals. You're an awesome light of God! keep shining!
Rev. Virginia Walsh
Thinking of you and praying for you. You are one strong woman and I know you can and will meet your personal goals. May God bless you and your family!
Pamela Ling Still
Love you Woman! You are doing so well, it's amazing. We'll be there to see you before you know it.
Sheila
Hey Renee!
I'm so glad you finally got into the VA hospital!! AND PROGRESSING! You are so awesome! Being able to "puff" your wishes for caregivers is such an improvement - I know you're excited to be getting a wheelchair - I can see you cruising the halls in that pink and purple chair! Remember your yoga instructions... stay focused!
Praying for you and your family!
Love,
Sharon & Rob Daniel
Renee, your story of courage and perseverance touched my heart. I am confident that you will continue to meet your personal goals. My prayers and good wishes to you and your loving parents.
Monica
I'm so sorry to hear about all this Renee. I will send positive energy your way in hopes that it can help you have the strength to get through and heal and move forward in life. Let me know if there is any way I can help. I'll be thinking of you daily.
Linda
Dear Mimi, John and Ronnie,
I just read about Renee and I am heart broken. I'm sorry that I didn't know sooner to help you. Love you and sending Renee lots of prayers and love too.
Karen Gudknecht
God be with you all during this difficult time.
Jeanne
Over the last few years God has brought this beautiful family together for reason. You are all in our daily prayers.
Joe, Paula & Brain
Renee I love you and will visit you soon! Hugs!
Teresa Lewis
Hi Renee. It has been a long time! I sure wish I as reaching out to you under better circumstances. In just reading about your recent changes in life, your determination, and your motivation, I am certain that you will rise above this challenge and and not allow this to keep you down. I cannot imagine the fear and worry that comes with something like this, but stay strong! You will transcend this limitation! You are in my prayers.
Shane Anema
Renee Rock Star!! Look at the progress you have made already. AND now you are home in Florida. Do NOT dispair. yes' blood clots are a BIG deal, yes, this will delay you a bit...but I KNOW you are strong willed and determined! YOU will meet these challenges day by day...with the determination you showed in India. ( have you heard from the hospital?? Do they MISS all the antics your Mom and Robyn gave them"? They do NOT have a clue of your determination, strength, people support and prayers being prayed for you!! Please know NW IOWA send love and care. Take your time, heal and do the rehab!! We got your back!!
maureen Reeves Horsley ( Robyn's friend)
Renee, I saw your mom's latest post about the blood clots in your lungs. We are praying for healing in the lungs. Shane, Cody and Trevor send their love and prayers as well. We are asking God for His hand of healing in your life and a good spirit with His grace and the restoration of a fighting spirit in you. We ask the Angels to surround your bed day and night watching over you. We know you love Jesus and He will hear your prayers for help anytime night or day. Keep the faith honey, it will get better. Love and prayers, Vern and Shar Anema
Vern and Shar Anema
Renee, We just found out about your accident and situation. We are so very sorry to hear all this. You stand out in my mind as such a vibrant, fun and sweet girl years ago when we were neighbors in Sheldon, Ia. We will be praying for your rehab as you deal with this in the States. We are so thankful you have a very determined and helpful mother as Mimi to give you support. God will watch over you as you travel this road. We will be sending your information to Son Shane in Sx. Falls and son Cody in North Carolina, Son Trevor in Nashville, Tn. We now are in NC with Codys family. The boys remember you well and will all be praying for you too. Love to you dear Renee, Vern and Shar Anema
Vern and Shar Anema Sioux Falls, SD
Dearest Renee, the New Year is about to arrive so I take this time to reflect and pray on your journey; how you got here, what life has handed you, and how you will overcome this obstacle and setback before we all witness the power of healing through faith and love. You are my hero, in more ways than I can ever express. You got this Gurl!
Peggy Meyer Rebstock - Sheldon Class of 1990 rules!
Thinking of you. Sending lots of love and hugs and hope your way! I have followed your journey in India and I will follow this journey as well. You were always a rock star!
Marcie Holt Kaufman
Happy yule and merry christmas nee! I love you so much! I can't wait for you to come home!
michele dean
Renee -
Hang in there! Don't lose hope.
Dana, Seattle
Renee, YOU, young lady are doing GREAT!! Super Star progress! I m following your progress on Face Book n you are ahead of the planned goals...STAY STRONG! " Team Renee"is supporting you with healing strengthening thoughts. Will continue to pray for your progress n return to Florida for further progress. God has a plan. Love ya!
Maureen Reeves Horsley ( Robyn's friend)
You are in our thoughts and prayers Renee. Praying you will have the strength to come back to the US soon and that your path to a full recovery will be smooth!
Ken & Mary Ebert
Renee, thinking of you daily and sending all of my love and prayers your way from Kazakhstan. Still have the Lithuanian bracelet you gave me in Rishikesh. Big hug!! Stanley
Stanley Currier
Sending Love & Hugs of Support to you and your Family Renee. Mimi, so glad you are there. XoXO
Deborah Callahan Capone
Hi Renee!! i just read your mom's news that you were off the ventilator during the day! yes!! sending you prayers, positive thoughts and healing energy daily. Lots of love and hugs to you!!
Sue Knapp
Hi Nee Nee,
We can't wait for you to make it home and are so happy about today's Thanksgiving news! I know it had to be scary for you but you did it! We are constantly sending you healing thoughts and energy.
Love,
Sheila and Donna Kaye
Hi Renee, I'm really sorry this happened to you. You probably don't know me, but you signed me up for the "You know you are from Sheldon" website. My sister sent this to me so I could post it on the Sheldon page. From that, I found out that you are Brad's daughter. I graduated with your dad. I have been finding out so much I didn't know before, about Sheldon & the people, so thanks for signing me up. I will be praying for you, and hope things go towards a miracle happening in your recovery.
Bobbi (Kreykes) Bowman
Renee our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for strength and healing and patience. God bless.
Delorus Limmer
Hi Renee its Darcie... I love you!! Im so proud of you! Thank you for bringing me to Jacksonville. I married 10 yrs now with two boys. Without you I would not have this... stay strong! I will never forget you! And our memories
Darcie
Renee we are praying for you.. Be strong you can do this !!!! Wish I was there to put my arms around you.. Hugs your way..
Char Bockman
Nee, I love you so much. You are my best friend and i can't imagine how hard this is for you. I wish i could hug you. You are an amazing person and i am incredibly luck to have you in my life.
michele dean
I am Michele Dean's grandmother and I am so sorry that you are having to go thru this but be sure and know that God is in control and that Jesus loves you and he will send much help your way.
Julia S Cox
Renee, sending you much much love, strength and continued healing that you may rise and grow from this challenge and be the beautiful spirit you are.
Whittle
All my love to Mimi, her daughter, and all of Renee's friends and family. Hope and strength to you for the days ahead <3
Soula Siegfried
I am sending all my love & healing thoughts, may the angels deliver them. Namaste Renee
Jim Fawcett,
Hey mom I want you to know that I'm praying for you every day. You have great support through this with family and friend stay strong I know you can get through this.
Brian Cottuli Jr. Brittany Cottuli
I am so sorry to hear about Renee. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Dan Callahan
Thinking of & praying for you daily Renee.
Words are hard to come by for a situation such as this without sounding trite.
But I am praying that with each passing day/month that you will find God's comfort & provision through the journey ahead.
Love you Mimi! XOXO
Kathleen Callahan
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ayla thomas
Renee, the kids and I continue pray you and a speedy recovery. I know how strong you've become over the last six months of your journey. I consider that quite a blessing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers everyday.
Brian J. Cottuli Sr.
Renee, I'm so sorry that you were in this tragic accident. There is a lot of life left for you to participate in, and be a part of, even if right now it doesn't seem like it at times. I want to be as supportive as I can, my friend. Keep me posted. Love, Craig.
Craig W. Mankin
Renee, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Be strong as we both know you are.
Thad Whisner
Renee, I came across your story in a yoga group. You are deep in my prayers.
Lu
Renee, we are friends of your dad and Natasha. We continue to pray for you and the challenges ahead. You are stronger than you ever thought possible...
Remember Your Word to your servant, for You have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. Ps 119:49-50
Nils & Bonnie
Renee, remember that you are SPECIAL - we need you, come back to us, wish we could be there wit you to love on you!!
Dad & Natasha
Stay strong Renee, Three have been alot of people make headway against spinal injury. Of anyone I know you can do it.
Kat's dad, Rob
We love you NeNe and there are hundreds of us praying for your healing!
We know you are so strong - Don't ever give up!
Sending a care package this week! <3
Sharon Daniel
Praying for you, my friend. Mr. Awesome can't wait to cuddle up beside you.
Sharon Hall
Praying for a miracle!
April Malone
We are covering you with prayers n hope! What a terrible, unexpected, nasty thing to happen!! YOU are worthy..GOD yet values you, Renee. Life is precious. STAY STRONG! There are veterans experiencing what you are! Stay strong.
maureen Reeves Horsley ( friend of Robyn)
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Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Renee Whisner
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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