Memorial Service

For those of you who missed the memorial service for Austin and Lori

here is a copy of the service bulletin.  Although those at the service

were mournful for the loss of Lori and Austin the atmosphere was much

more about the bright memories we all have of them.  The service was a

celebration of their lives and the legacy they leave behind through

their family and the friends they touched.  Greg, Summer and Tia sat

in the front row and held each other through the service and it was

apparent they were bolstered by the outpouring of support they

received.  I know it was reassuring to sit up there with the church

packed behind them with so many of the individuals who have been

providing constant direct and indirect support for the family.  Thank

you to everyone who attended and sent their love.

Greg:

Since Greg has been home things have been progressing slowly.  His

legs have continued to be his weakest point and are not healing as

quickly as he'd like.  The risk of infection in his legs is still

there and will continue as long as the metal support in them remains.

He has recently been able to stop the use of IV antibiotics; which is

a huge positive step.  Tim Willis and Diane Smith continue to be

Greg's primary care takers providing day and night support for Greg

and the girls.  Greg continues to receive in home care from a variety

of nurses and physical therapists almost daily.  Greg recently had the

feeding tube removed and now is receiving all of his nutrition orally.

 This is another huge positive for Greg and his caretakers as now Greg

can be much more self sufficient.  Tube feeding and IV antibiotics

were usurping huge chunks of the caretakers days and forcing Greg to

remain in bed or stuck in a single location for long periods of time.

Greg has started coming back into the office to do some work a few

hours per week and the office staff is extremely excited to see him.

The best news on Greg now is that he's been given the green light to

stand!  Although his legs are not fully healed by any means, his

doctors have allowed him to bear weight on his right leg and stabilize

himself with his left.  This will grant Greg the ability to start the

full rehab work of getting walking again.

Summer:

I wish I had more to say about Summer but she's just a normal 12 year

old girl... everyday she seems to be more and more recovered from the

accident and back on to life.  She is enjoying school as much as any

12 year old, spending huge amounts of time with friends and doing

homework.  She is set to have some hardware removed from her legs in

the next 30 days and is not looking forward to the surgery.  This

procedure will be a set back in her recovery but will allow her body

to move more naturally and grow normally as she gets older.

Tia:

Like Summer, Tia is doing extremely well and appears to be enjoying

life.  She is doing well in school, in her own class, participating in

class sports and keeping up.  She spends a whole lot of time with her

friends and can be found working on homework with Barb Willis almost

every night.  Both of the girls are constantly spending huge amounts

of time with Greg in his room snuggling and watching TV together

MEMORIAL LOCATION

Memorial Service for Lori and Austin Crane

Friday, December 3^rd, 3:00 pm

City of Grace Church, Scottsdale Campus

9610 E Cactus Road

Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Memorial

Memorial Service for Lori and Austin Crane

Friday, December 3rd, 3:00 pm

Location will be announced in the next posting.
 

Reception immediately following in Fellowship Center

Flowers should be delivered AFTER 1 pm on DEC 3rd.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to:

The Crane Scholarship Fund

Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran School

A Family Together

This post is from Alex.
Tia:


By now you’ve all confirmed or changed your minds to believe in miracles due to Tia’s progress… read below to solidify that.
Tia is home.
The projected outcome for Tia was that she would perhaps be able to dress herself and follow simple commands but she is now telling jokes, managing her own life, comforting her sister and in general exceeding the expectations of any child in her age group. She arrived at home and handled it very well – walking on her own the entire time. She recognized her home, room and was annoyed (again) by the family dog. Tia, physically, is almost completely recovered. She continues to have some difficulty moving quickly, making refined movements and speaking as fast as her mind works but all in all is just in a position where her body needs to catch up with her mind. She is still continuing to rely heavily on the Willis’ for physical and emotional support but is currently at a level of ability that the doctors said she’d never achieve – and she isn’t stopping! Tia is visiting at her school and playing with friends and family regularly. On a personal note – she is calling me out on bad jokes and providing me with good ones daily!

Summer:
Summer’s progress is continuing well. She has been extremely diligent about her recovery process and the physical therapy necessary to ensure it and that is very commendable. She recently had the hardware in her mouth removed and can now be comfortable when talking and eating. She has started to attend portions of her regular schooling which she sometimes enjoys but understands its importance. Her doctors have eliminated any of her requirements for a wheelchair and she is progressing towards eliminating any type of crutch for stability. One of her knees is still giving her issue but her strength and determination are consistently overcoming this hardship. Summer seems to have found some solace in Tia’s return and is both a source of strength for Tia and a dependent on her presence. It is apparent that Tia’s return is prompting great comfort for Summer. Summer is progressing very well and I see no end to the potential.



Greg:

Since the last posting Greg has been through quite a bit…
You all know Greg went back into the hospital due to an infection with his left leg. He required surgery to clean the infection and remove any dead or affected material specifically in his knee. This surgery was extremely loathed by Greg because he’s had more than enough of the hospital and the associated lethargy. His surgery did go extremely well and Greg’s stated his leg feels much better than it did before he went in for the surgery. He arrived back at home and recuperated well and as a result increased his mobility in general. Although we were all upset he had to go back into the hospital for the cleaning, it appears it was for the best because his outcome was better than prior to the infection. After surgery Greg was again visited by nausea and therefore was kept in the hospital for almost a week. This time was draining on Greg and many of his friends and family because we all, again, had to spend a few nights in the hospital. The antibiotics resulting from this most recent stay in the hospital seem to be the answer though… it appears Greg’s nausea was due to the type of antibiotics he was previously receiving and now that it’s been switched due to his new infection his gut is reacting well… for Greg is this one of the best things that could have possibly happened. Over the next week Greg has gone through continued progress dealing with the loss of Lori and Austin and has worked to grasp the reality associated with being the sole parent governing the girls. He is truly dealing with the feelings associated with their loss and the lifetime to come without their presence. Considering the elimination of Lori from Greg’s and the girl’s lives he is consciously working to understand the associated implications. Greg has gone through stages in the past couple of weeks of dismay and motivation but has always settled on the progressive mode to ensure his and the girl’s success. His direct focus on their progress has ensured they’re not stagnant and that the recovery is moving along well. Greg has gotten back into his modus operandi of business progress and management. He’s pushing me to continue progress on projects we started before the accident and ones he’s conjured up after. Today he actually showed up at the office and gave a pep talk to ALL the employees and held meetings to push us to do work on projects he’s managing. Greg is BACK! My family and I have therefore moved out of Greg’s house, into their guest house, and the Willis’ are taking the lion’s share of the Crane family management.

A true Reunion in the near future

This post is written from Barb Willis. What a wonderful report!

Some of the “simple” things Tia “re-learned” this week are walking up and down stairs unassisted, raising both arms over her head, moving from standing to sitting on the floor to standing without help, writing sentences, swallowing un-thickened liquids without coughing or choking, and remembering to have her left hand help when writing, holding, lifting, catching. She has met most of the objectives and goals given to her by therapists. Her greatest challenge is learning to enunciate her words and speak slowly enough so that she does not have to repeat herself—not sure if this is part of the brain injury or just being 10!! Her hard work paid off as she was rewarded with two outings this week. On Thursday, she was permitted a “therapeutic community outing.” She was able to choose an activity that would reinforce the skills she’s learning in a “real world” setting. Tia, along with a therapist, one friend, Tim and I, went miniature golfing! Talk about meeting her objectives: placing items on the ground and retrieving items from the ground, walking up and down stairs, walking on a variety of different and uneven surfaces, swinging/catching/throwing an object with the upper body while standing and maintaining balance and position. She did great and we all had a fabulous time! Sunday, she was rewarded with a “therapeutic family outing” allowing her to visit her dad in the hospital, go out to eat and visit her home. Summer joined us for the day which made it even more special. The obvious question is, “When will she be released?” My best guess based on what her medical team has outlined is one week to 10 days!! After a taste this week of the simple things on the “outside world,” none of us can wait!


Summer is beginning to feel the strain of constant changes and is looking forward to Tia and Dad getting home and finding a “new normal” for their life. Saturday evening I had the privilege of spending some time just with Summer. We meandered through the Biltmore visiting her two “fav” stores—Apple and the pet store. As we looked at various menus of the restaurant choices for dinner, she talked about a place she had been with her mom. From her description, I knew exactly the restaurant to which she was referring, so off we went to Scottsdale for a wonderful dinner and conversation. Monday (today) she has an appointment with the oral surgeon. Hopefully, she will have the hardware removed from her mouth. Pray for her—she’s excited, but, naturally, nervous about this procedure. The physical therapy on her legs continues, and she is using the wheelchair less and walker more as she moves around her house. The left knee is still swollen and painful at times, but her disposition remains positive. She may begin school part-time this week and needs prayer for peace as this also brings excitement and anxiety at the same time.

Greg’s surgery on his leg to fight the infection went well. Other than the infection, the healing from the broken bones appears to be progressing as hoped. A culture to determine the type of infection he has will take 5 days to grow. Latest report is he will be hospitalized until that determination and he has received his first dose of antibiotics. If all goes well, he should be home mid- to late week.
**Per the last post, Greg was home, however the infection in his leg required hospitalization. This is a minor set back and something that the family has been prepared to deal with!

Watching, assisting, loving and caring for these three amazing individuals

A Home Coming

Greg/Summer:


Greg is home! On Sunday of this past week Greg took a trip home to test his reaction and get setup for his permanent return. He entered the house and immediately started a tour of the home starting with Austin's room. Fortunately, Greg had received some good advice from his friend Darren and had already walked through the house in his mind and imagined what it would be like. When he arrived there he was left alone for a short period and Greg soaked in the experience. He seemed to do well and was in control as he requested to be moved throughout the house. As he'd promised, Earl Orner was in the house to accompany Greg through the house. Once Greg was done with the kid's side of the house Earl wheeled him into Greg and Lori's room. Greg and Earl spent a few minutes alone in the room and then Summer joined them. This was the first time Summer had been in this section of the house since arriving back from San Diego. Summer and Greg spent about 15 minutes alone in the room and grieved together. They came out and joined the rest of the family; Earl Orner, Jan Orner, Diane Smith, Norm Crane, Vicky Crane, Jessica Callan, Lila Callan and me. We all sat around the kitchen table and talked for a while and ate some food. It was the first time I'd seen Greg eat anything real since the ride home, he had us stop at McDonalds and get him a Big Mac, and before that it was a few calories here and there. It was obvious that Greg was homesick, perhaps not being home was what was causing the nausea (sick) issues before, and needed to be there. After being home for about 3 hours he was tired and needed to head back to the hospital to get some rest. He spent another day and a half in the hospital and was released Tuesday. Unfortunately/fortunately, I had some business I needed to attend to all of Tuesday and was unable to be there when Greg arrived for good. Wednesday nursing staff from a number of different companies arrived at the house to train Diane, Jessica and myself on Greg's feeding tube and IV requirements. This is an interesting task and pretty simple although I have to admit it is very strange to be pumping dinner into Greg's stomach and squirting IV antibiotics into his arm - after all... he is my boss. Jessica and I have primarily moved into the Crane's home to take care of Summer and him (the Orners moved back to Wickenburg last Friday) and things have been going well. Greg and I spend the morning together talking about work and he gives me tasks I must complete that day. I leave for work as Summer starts her morning exercises and Jessica ensures they're getting some nourishment. Summer is continuing to go to numerous doctor and therapy appointments each week and spend quite a bit of her time socializing with her friends on outings. She is healing very well and is now walking with a walker (although she is as stubborn as her father and isn't doing as much as she should). She is now sleeping in Greg's room with him at the house and is enjoying the comfort of a hospital bed. This week she visited school for the first time and seemed to enjoy it. She is scheduled to start half days of school on the 13th. Summer continues to see Tia a few times a week and they spend many hours together during these visits. Summer is now meeting with a specialist in helping children through the emotional hardships of these types of situations who is from the same office of the specialist seeing Greg for the same reason. Summer and Greg are spending the majority of their days together in Greg's room talking and watching TV. Rest assured Greg will soon be an expert in pop music and tween movies and television. They were recently caught up in a heated debate on who made the real song about California Girls; Beach Boys or Katie Perry...

Tia:
I saw Tia today. She looked amazing. When I arrived Tia was just walking back to her bed with just a single hand from Barb to provide a sense of stability. She lit up as Lila told her she loves Tia and Tia responded in kind. Tia took a therapy trip early this week to achieve some of her medical goals and ended up in Greg's hospital room for a while. It was his first time seeing her and he was pleased. His excitement was apparent. Tia is continuing extensive therapy at the hospital - her days are amazingly busy for anyone let alone a 10 year old. She seems to be pretty confident in handling these tasks. She's recently tested at a 12 year old cognitive level which is another miracle on her list. When we visited she was primarily focused on interaction with her cousin and was extremely entertained by Lila's goofiness. All in all Tia is looking and doing very well. We anticipate another 6 weeks of her remaining in the hospital as long as she completes the goals established.

Thank you for your patience in receiving these updates. As we settle down into a more normal schedule now that Jessica and I are taking care of both Greg and summer updates will be more forthcoming.

Mid-Week Update--Tia Focused

Quoted from Barb:

Late Friday, Tia’s tummy began acting up again. Throughout the weekend, her tummy hurt, but she was able to eat and have a few visitors. By Monday afternoon she was in a lot of pain and began vomiting. Persistent and frequent waves of nausea and vomiting continued throughout the night and into Tuesday. Trying to uncover the cause of her sickness, several tests were ordered. She had a CAT Scan to check for possible effects due to her brain injury which came back “clear.” She was tested for pancreatitis which was ruled out. Blood tests revealed no imbalances in her system. By Tuesday evening, the terrible abdominal pain began to subside, and she was able to keep small amounts of liquid “down.” Wednesday morning she had a test of the upper-GI which showed she had no obstruction or abnormalities of her digestive system—everything is working normally. During her severe sickness Monday afternoon, the feeding tube was expelled. It was quickly decided to leave it out until she was past this illness. That did mean, however, that they had to start an IV in order to keep her hydrated since she was unable to keep anything in her stomach. It also meant that she missed many of her medications, and there was some concern that this could set her back and cause other negative side-effects. Not having the time or energy to send out a full report and request for prayer, I asked a few people that I spoke with to pray. Tia’s tormented tummy settled down and for the first time in many days she had no pain and was able to eat food and feel good! As far as this “setting her back,” wrong! As soon as she was able, we resumed her therapy sessions and her posture, cognitive, motor and communications skills had improved significantly! The therapists were dumbfounded—to God be the glory.

I must share that this amazing little girl’s tender heart and sweet personality shone through, even while doubled-over with abdominal pain and throwing-up. During a brief pause in her nausea, I dozed off in the chair next to her; I startled when she began throwing-up again, and she apologized for waking me! She was polite with the myriad of doctors as they questioned, poked and prodded always saying “thank you” and “please.” The doctors were astounded—to God be the glory.

Late Tuesday after her tummy seemed to be settling down and while resting quietly, a series of questions tumbled from her mind to her lips. Having been well coached and counseled, I was as prepared as I could be to help her when the questions came. We have been answering just the question she is asking at the time with simplicity, yet honesty. Up to this point, she knew her family was in a plane crash and everyone was hurt. Since Summer had visited, she understood her injuries, and since she had talked with Daddy, we had discussed his injuries. She also knew Mommy and Austin were in the accident and had been hurt badly. Now, her questions explored deeper. As she learned of the deaths of her mom and brother, we cried and held onto each other. Because she is not only my niece but also my sister-in-Christ and knows Jesus personally, we were able to talk about heaven and that Mom and Austin were there, and we’d see them again. While this truth cannot completely take away the pain, loss and grief, it can bring a measure of relief. We’ve had “tender heart” moments throughout the day, and we’ll continue to walk at her pace—to God be the glory.

It was only days ago that some doctors, due to the extent of Tia’s brain injuries, felt her condition may not improve and gave little hope of a “full” recovery. Today, I watched Tia stand with very little assistance and support and walk across a room with a walker smiling proudly at her accomplishment. Today, we talked about deep and complex things that she was able to understand as much as anyone her age. Today, during an assessment of her cognitive skills, I observed her following multiple verbal directions with ease. Today, as every day, I experienced love beyond comprehension. Today, as every day…to God be the glory.

Summer’s healing is no less a testimony to the power of prayer. Last Thursday following her physical therapy, she visited Tia. She was quick to remind me that I promised to take her for a pedicure when she could bend her knees. Friday morning, we not only got pedicures but manicures as well—a girl has to look good! Then, it was a trip to the mall but not before a few detours to pet and salt water aquarium stores—Summer loves animals! We had a delightful day and reminisced a bit about Mom over lunch. Today, following her appointment with the orthopedist, she stopped by to visit Tia and was given the clearance to begin bearing weight on her legs and using a walker. She and Tia are planning “walker races”! Summer has been the perfect, supportive and loving big sister, and Tia can’t wait until Summer comes to visit. Last night, Summer, Tia, Ashley and I had a “pizza party.” Summer and Tia sat next to each other in Tia’s hospital bed eating pizza and cinna’sticks while watching Hannah Montana. Knowing the power, bond and gift of sisterhood, I thankful they have each other—to God be the glory.

Greg continues his road to recovery as well and heading home gets closer every day. We know this transition will hold its own measure of joy and pain as we continue to uphold “Job” with our love and prayers—to God be the glory.

Weekend Update

Tia:


If anyone reading this currently doesn’t believe in miracles then their lives are about to change. Tia Crane is a miracle. She has gone from a very negative prognosis where her recovery would be minimal to surpassing that anticipated recovery in a matter of 40 days. Although Tia is not back to her normal self by any means she is making amazing strides. She is now recognizing numerous new and old faces, responding appropriately to humor (a difficult thing to do considering humor as poor as mine is prevalent in society), she’s walking with support, conversed about past events, eaten semi solid foods, she’s READING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!, talked with her sister and father on the phone, asked to speak with them on the phone, requested future indulgences, associated people with others not present and many more amazing feats. Tia has has some minor issues since the last update - just general not feeling well and some digestive problems. She is doing better now and continuing recovery. Her doctor has said there is no present reason Tia shouldn't be back in school achieving with her peers in two years or less. This does not mean Tia will be exactly the same but she should lead a normal life. Tia has asked a few questions about the status of her family and seems to have noticed that there is no conversation about Lori or Austin. Per the advice of the medical staff details of the event and the status of Lori and Austin are not being provided unless Tia asks directly; which she hasn't done yet. She is recognizing that things are difficult and seems to understand this is very different than it was before the crash. She understands that like Summer's legs; her brain was hurt in the crash and she has to wait for it to work like it used to again just like Summer needs to for her legs. Barbara and Tim Willis continue to provide Tia with most of her family care at the hospital and she is receiving frequent visits from other family members including Summer.

Summer:
Summer continues to progress as she has in recent weeks. She's becoming more proficient with her wheelchair and her ability to do normal tasks despite her legs being unusable. She is enjoying almost daily trips to some sort of animal store and frequent mall excursions. Summer is going on frequent visits to both Greg and Tia and this seems to be the best and most anticipated part of her day. She has started her physical rehabilitation and is practicing her exercises daily. We are hopeful that Summer will start to be able to bear weight on her legs in the next 30 days. Summer's grandparents Earl and Jan Orner are continuing to be her primary support at home and for visits to the doctor and she's spending much time with Lila and other family members throughout the week. Once Greg is home and has gotten comfortable the Orners will be heading back to Wickenburg and Jessica (my wife) and I will become her primary caretakers.

Greg:
Greg is having a very difficult time right now. He has continued to have intermittent bouts of nausea and vomiting which has greatly reduced his activity, rehabilitation, strength and weight. At this time it is unknown what is causing Greg's issues but it is apparent it's having a physical and emotional toll on him. Through the generous assistance of his friends Greg and Darren; Greg now has a mini fridge full of fruits, veggies and yogurt to help him eat despite the hospital food. It is anticipated that Greg will be discharged from the hospital within the next 7 days and he'll move onto the next course of life at home. Continued care is required at home for Greg and Jessica and I along with Greg's sister Diane will be providing the majority of this. Greg seems to have a good outlook on going home but the true effects of it will only be known when he arrives. Despite any health conditions the next few weeks will be extremely hard for Greg as he moves back into his home and life begins to resume.

REMINDER:
The Cranes will continue to have an avenue for your support by providing dinner to them. Please take a look at the food calendar at the link below to see when you can help.

http://www.foodtidings.com/SignUp.aspx?ScheduleGuid=f4cda57b-ff46-4b89-afdd-ff6fc4e59405

Vicky Crane would like to notify her friends and family that she is available for contact. You may call her or email her at vcrane@cox.net.

Day + ??

I know its been a long time since the last update – I apologize. Fortunately there's been a whole lot of catching up to do and a whole lot going on so these updates have not been coming quickly.




Tia:

So many people are extremely excited about learning about how Tia is doing and the progress she's made. The results of her EKG shortly after her arrival here have shown that the damage to her brain was greater than we'd previously been informed of. The doctors realized that Tia had received damage previously unknown due to lack of oxygen to her brain. Some of the recent blog silence has been due to our interest in knowing her situation before releasing speculative and uncertified information. The results received by family in Phoenix was not positive and concerns mounted for Tia's recovery. There are many cases like Tia's where the patient does not recover and remains in an unconscious state permanently. Fortunately for Tia this has proven to not be the case. After weeks of being relatively non-responsive and providing only limited reflexive response to stimuli she is now making great strides towards recovery. Tia is now following the commands of her therapy team, following the path of conversation among members in a room, gaining control of her limbs and recognizing faces and objects. She is answering questions with a yes or no and gaining greater control of her hands, she's even painted! (She guessed my wife and my new baby will be a girl) Although this may sound like a small feat; it is an amazing advancement for someone facing her injuries and hints at the prospects of her continued recovery. Through the faith of her family and the resilience of a child Tia is progressing extremely quickly. She remains in the neuro rehabilitation unit of the hospital – supported, still, primarily by Tim and Barbara Willis under the care of Phoenix's finest pediatric doctors and nurses. It is unknown how long Tia will remain there and how the course of her recovery will ultimately affect her and her adult life but she is and will continue to receive the greatest care and largest supply of love any child could receive. Her family, including Summer, have been to her side and she appears to be recognizing and receiving strength from this. Please continue to send your love and support to Tia and the Cranes – we anticipate a long process to recovery.



Summer:

Summer is still doing very well. She has had both casts removed from her legs and they look great! She feels substantial relief from having this physical and mental weight removed. Although she still has some steri strips keeping incisions safe she is able to move, slightly bend and stretch her legs. She still must remain in a wheelchair to get around and will continue so for another month and cannot bear any weight on her legs at this time. Some of the pins have been removed from her legs which has increased her mobility. She is now able to transfer herself easily from chair to chair and to her bed on her own. She can spend most of her day without her mouth being clamped shut and has started (aggressively) to eat semi solid foods. She's gone swimming, to the mall and spent time with family members outside of her home and seems to be adjusting well. She visits Greg frequently in his hospital room as well as doctors of her own. Summer is primarily continuing to be supported by the Orners in her home and daily interaction with her cousin Lila. Friday night Summer will be venturing out to a school event (which she adamantly says is not a dance) and will be visiting with her classmates for a few hours. She seems very excited about this event. A dinner calendar has been created for the Crane household (http://www.foodtidings.com/SignUp.aspx?ScheduleGuid=f4cda57b-ff46-4b89-afdd-ff6fc4e59405). If you would like to provide a dinner to the Cranes follow this link and sign up. I mention this in Summer’s update because she is the one we need to keep in mind when choosing a dinner; no spicy foods, something she can chew with a tender jaw and something a 12 year old would like. Please take note of the other meals that have come before and are already scheduled for after the date you want to participate so we don’t provide too much of one thing. Participants need to understand this is a service provided for the Cranes and that you most likely will not have the opportunity to spend time with them and they may not be home when you deliver the food. J



Greg:

What a week for Greg! His recovery has continued to progress well… that is until he got sick. L Physical therapy and occupational therapy have been successful in granting Greg some mobility and strength until those were usurped by illness. His physical condition was primarily the same and his energy was increasing until last Tuesday night. I arrived in his room at about 10pm for the night and we chatted – shortly thereafter Greg complained of chest and abdominal pain. The nursing staff believed it was indigestion and/or heartburn. He was given milk of magnesia to settle his stomach… it didn’t work. Greg began vomiting ten minutes later and continued so all through the night. He was scheduled to go into surgery the following day and have the hardware holding his jaw shut removed but this was canceled due to his illness. Greg continued to heave for 3 days although he had nothing in his stomach. During this time some minor leakage from one of his incisions on his left leg (tibia injury) began to increase to the hospital staff’s dismay. Due to these ailments Greg was transferred from the rehab unit to the acute hospital. The doctors initially had some concerns that Greg may have some gal bladder issues and contemplated its removal. In the hospital he had a different level of pharmaceuticals available to treat him including anti-nausea medication and antibiotics. When Greg was transferred there I arrived about two hours later for a night stay and found him still heaving – shortly thereafter his first dose of the new anti-nausea medication was administered and Greg fell asleep for the night twenty minutes later. He remained in the hospital for a couple of days and once he’d stabilized was returned to the neuro rehab unit. To date the doctors do not know what caused the abdominal pain or the vomiting and have determined his gal bladder does not need to be removed. During all this time Greg continued to need and receive the constant vigilance of his parents, sister Diane and some friends. The surgery for the removal of his jaw hardware was rescheduled for Tuesday and some investigating into the leakage in his leg as well. This surgery was set to last 45 minutes but instead lasted closer to three hours causing us some concern. When he finally came out it was found out that the surgeons found quite a bit of infected areas in his leg and knee. They determined Greg’s leg would continue to get infected and therefore have prescribed quite a regimen of antibiotics. Greg will need to have the metal in his leg removed to ensure a lifetime of infection is not required and this will have to wait until the bones in his leg are healed. A bit if a double edged sword for Greg. Although this is bad news – it is fortunate this happened in the hospital and under the supervision of the doctors. On a good note; Greg did have the hardware removed from his mouth and this has made speaking much easier and clearer. He is, just like Summer, aggressively working on regaining his ability to eat more solid foods. About four hours after the surgery I watched Greg consume more food than he had this whole time – although it was through the same method… a straw. Overall Greg is looking great, his spirits seem to be lifted and progress is being made. He can now move from his bed to wheelchair to other chairs and back on his own. It is anticipated Greg will be going home this month.

Update Coming!

There is an update coming!
I apologize for the delay in the updates over the past 14 days. We had our own medical emergency with our 15 month old son and were actually in the hospital several days--caring for him has taken all our time as of late. However, we're happy to report that we're home and healthy! Praise God.

There will be a complete update within the next 24 hours. Thank you so much for your patience and understanding. You can be sure that each one of the Cranes are doing well. Stay tuned.

Day +29

This update was written by Alex. Thank you for your patience as we've been waiting for a cumulative update!

GREG: Greg's continued rapid recovery is amazing all involved. He is constantly asking the staff to cut the niceties and esteem boosts and tell him his real progress. The point being if he's below average he can work harder, if he's average he might work harder and if he's above average he's just okay. The steri-strips below his eyes have been removed for an even more clear picture of Mr. Crane. All bandages other than the one covering his healing tracheotomy have been removed. Greg can now consistently speak and be understood well without having to cover the hole in his throat with his hand - something he's been eager to achieve for a while. Over the past weekend the only real notable event has been his orthopedic physician, who's apparently in Mexico, changing Greg's movement regiment from partial weigh bearing on one leg and his arms to non weight bearing on all extremities. After a bit of ruffling feathers by his sister Diane and other family the vacationing doctors, overly conservative, prognosis was reversed back to it's previous standing once a physician actually saw Greg in person. With no weight bearing on any limb Greg's rehabilitation would have taken a significant turn for the worse since most of the effective practices would have been stopped all together and his stay in the rehab unit would have been unnecessary. He would have most likely been sent home or to a nursing home. We are all grateful for Diane's experience and watchful eye. Anyone out there with help to lend can find an avenue to the Cranes by helping Diane remain where she's needed most right now; at Greg's side.

SUMMER: Summer appears to be recovering very well. She seems in good spirit and back at being a teen. Her rehabilitation is slow going due to her dependence on the wheel chair while her legs are both casted but will be able to overcome this burden when her casts are removed Wednesday. Once the casts are removed Summer will also have some of the pins removed from her left knee and perhaps some other work on her legs; minor though. She will continue to be stuck in the wheel chair until the end of September and perhaps a bit longer but is anticipating much solace in being able to bend and stretch her feet, knees and toes. She is continuing to receive support from her family with the Orner grandparents temporarily taking residence at Summer's household and the Crane grandparents taking her out of the house for sleepovers and excursions. Summer's recently received an iPhone from her aunt Denise which is keeping her rather occupied. I imagine anyone out there with her email address already knows this (sorry but I will not release it - if you know someone who has it... ask them :) ). Summer's mobility has increased due to the handy work of the Pirkle family (Greg's Sister). She (and hopefully soon Greg) will enjoy a well built and sturdy ramp in and out of their front door. (Carole - I know you didn't build it but Randy wouldn't have made it here without your help - thanks for driving my car back from San Diego!)

TIA: Tia's condition remains mostly the same. The doctors have told the family she is not currently progressing quickly and that they feel it is imperative she continues to receive a high level of care. She continues to receive much support from the family, primarily from Barb and Tim Willis who have remained at her side. We are all hopeful she will soon recover and at the same time wary of this prolonged state. Your encouraging thoughts, prayers and vigilance are requested for Tia.

LORI & AUSTIN:
Lori and Austin's have been transported from San Diego to Phoenix. We will wait for Greg, Summer and Tia to be ready and then memorial arrangements will be made. Thank you for your continued patience.

Day + 22

Thanks to each one of you for your understanding as information is coming a little slower at this point. That's good news!

A few orders of business...please continue to send mail to the address at the right hand of this post. It's easier to manage that way. Thank you for understanding this.

FUNERAL: Although there is not a date set for the funeral, the family is definitely aware that each one of the friends & family of Lori and Austin need a chance to mourn, grieve, and celebrate these two beautiful lives. According to Lori's wishes, she & Austin's bodies will be cremated and will be arriving in Phoenix no later than next Monday. Because of this choice, Greg and Summer and the rest of the family feel that time is on their side and they wont rush to make memorial service arrangements until they're ready both physically and emotionally.

CURRENT INFORMATION:

GREG: As expected Greg is actively and ambitiously working through his rehab. He has had most of the bandages removed from his face and his right arm now only has a splint...and a large pin sticking out! The hospital staff has said that his recovery is going as fast as they have ever seen. Additionally, Greg is continuing to be able to eat higher caloric (liquid) food each day and that is aiding in gaining his strength back. He's eating a liquid diet, as you'll remember because, he has his mouth wired shut. Also, sucking through a straw has proven to be quite challenging because of the surgery done on his nose & the resulting stitches. Greg is not loosing heart despite the pain & discomfort. He knows that ridding himself of his feeding tube is one more step to going home!

Greg is continuing to seek privacy as he works through healing and is gaining support from the many family members and wonderful doctors & staff. Here's proof! Two thumbs up!

SUMMER: Each day Summer is exhibiting the resilience of a child--and the fruits of lots of love from her family! She is doing well at home and adjusting to her new normal. The majority of her time is spent at doctor or dentist appointments or rehabilitation. Some logistical things that have been challenging has been having her Orner Grandparents load and unload this young lady into a vehicle. Not that summer is a big person, but she has on very heavy casts! Thankfully the Crane grandparents were able to rent a wheelchair lift van and now Summer's travels can be done without leaving her wheelchair. Much to the relief of the Orner Grandparents! You can see this really is a whole family effort.
Summer did get great news today from her leg doctor--her casts can come off next Wednesday as well as some of the pins in her legs. However, Summer will still be unable to bare weight on her legs so will continue to be in a wheelchair until at least the end of September. As it was explained to me, her bones are like Styrofoam, with metal rods in them so they need a lot of time to recover before weight baring begins!
She continues to take over bits and pieces of her own personal care including the care of her mending jaw. She looks like she has braces with rubber bands, rather than a completely wired shut mouth. She changes out her bands as often as needed and seems pleased with the progress!
Additionally Summer is continuing to receive support from her school. Although she has not resumed studying yet, she is well aware of what is being taught at school, the school is being so supportive and has a tutor lined up for her when she's ready. Her cousin Jessica also is a teacher, so each day is filled with learning. Summer continues to spend a lot of time with her littlest cousin Lila. As a three year old, Lila easily can take her mind off of the stress of her recovery and bring pure joy!

TIA: There were meetings today for the whole family regarding Tia's condition. When more information is available I will post. Please keep Tia in your prayers as well as the doctors who are caring for her.

Day + 20

Sorry for the delay in posting. As you can imagine it's taken everyone's strength and energy to get all three of the Crane family members settled into their new environments. The family supporting Greg, Summer and Tia has taken all of the time and concern needed to ensure that all of their needs & comforts have been met.
Here's the update!

CURRENT INFORMATION:
Greg:


Greg is settling in his new environment well. He is understanding and adapting to the schedule and processes of rehabilitation better than anyone could have expected. With home so close he's received a few of the items that make the rehab center seem more comfortable and home like. He's finally decided he's willing to take his mind off of the tasks at hand and enjoy some R&R with the help of the History Chanel. Meals are easier to take now although they are always at least as soft as a warm milk shake. I'm continuing to spend the night with Greg and provide whatever physical and mental support he'll take throughout the night. Physical therapy has and will continue to work him like a dog until he is well. We've discussed this fact and he understands it and is prepared. Summer arrived in his room yesterday morning while out for a doctor's appointment; and they seemed to be pleased with the meeting.

Summer:
(from Barb Willis)
Summer arrived Thursday evening having traveled by van with Grandma and Grandpa Orner, Aunt Denise and Spencer. The trip went well and Summer was happy to see all her pets who were equally excited to see her! While she likes being in her own home with her own things, it is also difficult and strange. She went to Olive Garden with some girlfriends Friday night to celebrate her birthday. It was good to laugh and do something “normal.” Saturday she had a birthday party with family at home. Next week she’ll begin several different therapies and a tutor is being arranged to help her stay current in school. She seems in good spirit - being bolstered by family.
**Thank everyone for their wonderful birthday wishes to Summer!

Tia:
(from Barb Willis)
Tia and Barb landed safely in Phoenix Friday afternoon. The air transport was seamless from the moment they were picked up at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego until they arrived at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The staff in Phoenix were completely up-to-speed on Tia’s condition and her continuum of care didn’t miss a beat. She was “agitated” most of the day, however, with strange voices, movements and sounds. Barb was by her side the entire way doing everything possible to help her relax. She was finally able to settle down in her new environment late last night and today is resting well. She will be evaluated by the head of the trauma unit and, most likely, transferred to their rehab department. Tia remains unconscious with spells of “neuro-storming.” We will be given a full update on her condition after the team here has an opportunity to complete a full assessment.

Day + 18--GOING HOME!

WOW. A lot has happened in the last 24 hours! Such good news I can hardly stand that it doesn't flow from my own fingertips. Due to all that is happening and the constant state of change, some of the upcoming updates will be written by Alex and by other members of the Crane and Orner families, simply published by me. Alex wanted me to be sure and address that in case writing styles or the communication sounds different--he also wanted me to point out that this is the case since we don't have telepathy since we're not identical twins. Ha ha. OK. I digress. This is a long one, hang in there. It's all great news.

Here's what you're really here for!

CURRENT INFORMATION:
GOING HOME:


So much has happened in the past two days I have not been able to get an update in. Sorry everyone

Greg:
(from Alex)
Greg was told on Tuesday that he would be released by Thursday and preparations started immediately. He's made much more progress over the past two days with dramatic swelling reduction and continued sleep. His feeding tube, unfortunately, is remaining in due to Greg's difficulty eating enough food to stay healthy. He's started taking real interest in his medication to ensure he's only getting enough to do the trick and it's not affecting his body or mind negatively. He's now on his 31st hour without any substantial pain medication other than inflammation reduction medicine (Celebrex) . Physical therapy continues to progress well and again Greg is interested in ensuring he understands and can do the required motions. I am continuing to spend the nights with Greg and have to admit I'm experiencing and doing things I never thought I would with Mr. Crane. :) Yesterday he finally got his hair washed, it was very... not Greg like. They used a shower cap filled with some dry cleaner and just rubbed it around for a few minutes – very strange. Greg continues to work on processing all that is and has happened. I spent about an hour talking with him detailing the entire period of time, from my perspective, from when the news reporter showed up in our office to ask questions about the crash (this is how our office found out) to when I showed back up in San Diego this past week. He asked questions about conversations we'd had and details of events he was present for – showing that although he's cognitively there; trauma and drugs affect memory. Greg was interested in the details of the events and didn't seem to mind reliving some of the more traumatic experiences from the week. Mourning continues with periods of doubt and periods of determination. He is concerned with the fact Summer's birthday is Friday and struggling to deal with that for the first time without Lori.
Today has been very exciting to me. We're going home and we can begin making the "new normal" life. Officer David Miller, of the San Diego Police, stopped by Greg's room today. He is the one who pulled Greg from the wreckage and recesitated Greg – fortunately he was a paramedic prior to joining the police force. I love David Miller. He found out Greg was leaving today from this blog and needed to see Greg off. He and Greg and family spoke for about 20 minutes about the scene and Greg asked questions about specifics. David and I exchanged information and will continue to communicate as Greg has more questions about the scene. It was an amazing conversation and Greg, Norm, Vicky, Diane thanking David from the bottom of their hearts. Shortly there after the company arrived to take Greg and me back to Phoenix. During his pack up Greg received well wishes from his doctors, nurses, surgeons and other staff members from Sharp Memorial Hospital who's hearts have been touched by this tragedy.
The flight was on a Cessna 421 with an airworthiness certificate issued 5/18/1976 (which is five years, eleven months and nine days before I was born). I was sitting at Greg's feet and he's laying on a gurney strapped in with four seat belts. We have a pilot, EMT and registered nurse accompanying us on the 1.5 hour flight from Montgomery Field (this is the airport the Cranes took off from 17 days ago) to Sky Harbor. We climbed to 13,000 feet and are traveled at 170 knots. Surprisingly enough Greg was dozing throughout the first 30 minutes in the air and seemed extremely in control and relaxed. Thumbs up the whole way. When on Tuesday Greg was told he'd be available to be transferred from Sharp Memorial Hospital to rehabilitation care in Phoenix. He was advised that he can travel by plane or ambulance and he chose plane. He didn't want to drive because the trip would take too long and be too bumpy – much of his family was surprised he made this choice. Learning of the options, I figured he would fly with no other real justification to himself other than proving he could get back into one of these little planes – the other reasons are most likely just convenient. After a 1.5 hour flight we were on our decent into Phoenix and Greg gave an indication of satisfaction with another round of thumbs up. The transport company loaded Greg into a ambulance van, which is one of the private vans with a bubble top - not an ambulance in the traditional sense, and we headed to the hospital. After a short ride we arrived and were quickly in the room. Upon entering Greg said he thought this place was nicer than the last one and seemed satisfied. He asked for "no sweat" sheets and was pleased to find t-shirt material sheets. The new nursing staff has already proven themselves kind, attentive and willing to listen - Greg said he likes them too. Greg's received a meal, medicine and all new dressings on his wounds. It looks like sleep will come easier tonight.

Summer:
(from Barb Willis)
Summer has done extremely well since her discharge Tuesday. She is at the Ronald McDonald house rooming with my sister, Denise, and two doors down from my parents. Overall, it was a good day. She is already becoming proficient with her wheelchair and learning ways to get around with leg casts. They re-cast her legs before discharge – just wait till you see the colors shoe chose! She is enjoying “real” food again and getting outdoors. She tires easily – physically and emotionally – so we are being very sensitive not to over-stimulate her.

Today, Summer is heading home! Summer, Grandma and Grandpa Orner, Spencer and Aunt Denise will drive from San Diego to Summer's home in Scottsdale. The family and summer have received excellen counseling in preparation for this next step and have counselors and resources in place when they get there. FYI: Summer's birthday is Friday – 12! The family will decide, after they arrive home and get settled, whe, who and how we will celebrate. PLEASE do not visit without calling first. You can contact Grandma Jan at 928-231-0814 or call the Crane residence AFTER FRIDAY. Word has it, that the family just arrived in Phoenix. Please contain your excitement!


Tia:
(from Barb Willis)
Tia's condition remains the same. Her physical burns and facial woulnds are healing nicely; however her neurological condition is taking longer to see improvement. Doctors constantly reassure us that her reactions are “normal” for the extent and type of brain injury she sustained. Most of the time she is unresponsive to verbal stimuli, her body is reacting without what doctors call “posturing”, and she has no control over her bodily functions. She if off all life-support other than a feeding tube. Since Summer and Greg are going home, the hospital is making arrangements to transfer Tia to Phoenix on Friday. I will be traveling with her via medical transport.

(from Alex)

P.S. We received confirmation that Tia's travel will be covered by insurance and on top of that she'll fly in a Lear Jet with Barbara for a short 48 minute flight. This will save the Crane family $6k of out of pocket expense. THANK YOU HUMANA!!!!!!!

Day +17

Change is brewin! Thank you for your patience as the family is working to get details in place for the Crane's to move towards Phoenix...They've been busy. While this post does include information regarding the family's imminent arrival in Phoenix, the extended families, both Orners and Cranes, and Greg himself continue to wish for solitude at this time. Their locations (with the exception of Summer) will not be released until Greg says that it is OK to have visitors. Please respect their privacy and their need for peace to continue the healing process.

CURRENT INFORMATION:
GREG:  doing very well. He's passed his swallow test and now may drink all the liquids he wants, which for Greg is almost always water. He's also able to eat apple sauce and broth. He is still being supplemented with food through his stomach feeding tube at night. Part of his facial reconstruction surgery included a cast over his nose which has bothered him significantly, the said cast has now been removed. He's looking even more like himself. Some stitches have been removed from underneath his eyes from the facial reconstruction surgery his ability to be expressive has increased. His ability to sleep is improving and he's sleeping for longer periods of time. Due to his great progress, his sleep is uninterrupted by his pain or hospital staff. Greg was able to get into a standard wheelchair yesterday and scooted himself around the halls using his least injured foot. Discussions have started for Greg's release from this hospital to a new one closer to home (at this time the location of the new hospital will not be released per Greg's wishes to continue this stage of his recovery with some level of solitude). Greg has chosen to be transported to the new location via a small medical airplane... determination is one of Greg's strong points; if you didn't already know. He continues to directly address many of the details of his and the girls continued physical and mental progress. Greg is obviously interested in the journey he has ahead... difficult or not.
His progress into the mourning process is becoming more apparent in a healthy and open hearted manner. He is continuing to find solace in discussions with Tim. Ale has expressed his gratefulness for Tim's wise input and insight in this time. Greg and Summer met again yesterday after not having the opportunity the day before. They spent about 30 minutes together alone in Greg's room. Although it's not known what was discussed or said but when Greg was asked about the visit he said it was very good.

SUMMER: Great news! She was discharged from the hospital and should be well established in the Ronald McDonald house across the street from the children's hospital. She received new casts on both legs yesterday. She will be heading home this week via van with her grandparents (Orners) and Tim. She is expecting to head directly home, at her request, to the Crane home in Scottsdale. She is excited to get herself setup and await Greg and Tia's arrival. The Orners will be moving into the Crane house until they are no longer needed. FYI EVERYONE!!!!!! Summer's birthday is the end of the week and no one better forget! We still ask that you do not drop by the house (please!) but you may send her something in the mail to the address listed for the Crane Family Fund. Summer received a laptop from a very close family friend today which will help her keep in contact with friends and family. Preparations for her arrival have already begun at the house and her animals await her tender care.

TIA: remains in mostly the same condition she was yesterday; continuing to stay asleep. She received another MRI yesterday which should provide more information for tomorrow's posting.