ANNONYMOUS MIRACLE GIVER~BABY ARIELLA STARTS TREATMENTS!

Nana Charlene, Megan & Baby Ariella

I awoke the day after my last blog post to a message from Megan telling me that during the early hours of the morning, an annonymous donor covered the entire cost of Ariella's 1st 40 treatments. I immediately felt the tears well up in my eyes, followed by crying. To see generosity, kindness, unselfishness and love showered down on Baby Ariella was too much for me. I lost it. I was moved. I was touched with the true meaning of Christmas. 

Megan was able to schedule an immediate appointment and Ariella had her first treatment the same day she received the donation. Absolutely AMAZING & an answer to Prayers. Someone was prompted and moved by God to help this little Angel. Several others continue to donate as she will require 40+ treatments. Stop by and read the heart felt message from Megan & Nana Charlene:
ARIELLA'S CARING BRIDGE WEBSITE

I am humbled and moved by the Love, Faith and Prayers of so many people. This Christmas I have witnessed the true Christ-Like Spirit of Love. I am moved beyond what my words can express! THANK YOU ALL AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Here is a few examples of the progress people are receiving from the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy which is what Ariella is receiving.


AFTER 10 TREATMENTS-Follow this baby's progress in the videos


AFTER 41 TREATMENTS


AFTER 120 TREATMENTS

BABY ARIELLA UPDATE: Be Part Of A Christmas Miracle

Baby Ari is a miracle. She's alive...she's a fighter who continues to defy the odds. It's no wonder~her name means: "Lion of God."  This little Angel has had the heart of a lion. It's been a long journey since the near accidental drowning, but with Faith, Hope and lot's of Prayer...another possible miracle may be in the making. It's been a while since I've posted an update. Ari's mom Megan asked me to share the latest information with you regarding her progress.

Please read her post below with the Spirit of Christmas in your heart.

Hello Family and Friends,

Ariella is doing well. She is starting to move her left arm and bring it up half way. We still have high hopes for her. She will soon receive physical and occupational therapy 4 times per week, starting next week. We are excited to hear from her therapists that they too believe she will just WAKE UP! I've heard it before, but 5 1/2 months later, I still love hearing it. It strengthens our hope and faith. Most, if not all of you, have showed your support in so many ways and we are grateful for your help and continued support.

In addition to therapy, we are excited to hear that the medical field has found something that is helping people like Ariella, (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.) People are literally coming out of coma's and walking out the door within a few weeks of treatment. Once we heard about this miracle therapy, we had such a good feeling about it. Will this be the remedy that we've been waiting for? We are very optimistic! Especially after we met with Dr. Underwood, MD & D.O.

When we were in the hospital after the accident, doctors told us, due to the damage, her brain cells (or brain matter), would die off and the body would eventually consume it. We repeated this to Dr. Underwood who said, "The brain doesn't die, it just goes dormant." With this treatment, the idea is to put the body under pressure while pumping 100% oxygen - stimulating growth in the brain and create new blood vessels, causing them to go into tissue they stopped "feeding". Once the "dormant" brain tissue is being fed, it comes back! They can literally help Ari's brain regenerate!!!

Also, once we left the office, my husband, Nathan, turns to me and says, "Megan, do you remember what I blessed her with? I blessed Ari saying her brain was not dead, it was dormant." A wave of chills came over me and I KNEW, this is it. Heavenly Father has lead us to this point for a reason.

Starting at a minimum of 40 treatments, we are looking to raise $3000. If you can help, we would be extremely grateful. Thank you for everything and I hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

- Megan Horne
**CLICK HERE To Donate: FAITH~HOPE~CHARITY

~This Christmas make it more about giving than receiving. Be a part of this baby's healing and feel the true spirit and joy of the season. Merry Christmas and God Bless You!

Stop by Baby Ariella's CaringBridge Website to view more posts & pictures (CLICK HERE)

Who's The Real Gift? Happy Birthday Mom!

Me & My Mom (w/brother David)

Yesterday was my mom's birthday. It's a very special day because we share a birthday! She never fails to let me know, "You were my best Birthday present ever!" Now, I'm not so sure of that during the dreaded teen years, when I was known as, "The Mouth." I always had a mean comment or response to anything I didn't like or that she wanted me to do. This was quickly followed by a glare. Which my mom shot back, "If  looks could kill! Wipe that look off your face, Lisa Michelle, before I wipe it off for you! lol!

That's my mom! She's never taken crap from anyone. She's tiny but feisty. I'll never forget when we were younger and went to watch my dad, Dave, play hockey, (he was a goalie for the semi-pro hockey team, The Reno Aces.) Now back in the day, Hockey fans were a rowdy, foul mouthed group (probably not much different than today's fans.) During the game, this guy, who was sitting just a few rows away from us, began heckling, swearing and acting like a complete idiot.

Now as memories are...I don't remember exactly what transpired between my mom and this guy, I think she may have told him to watch his mouth (mama bear protecting her cubs.) But what I do remember with vivid clarity is the man saying, "F_ _ _ Y_  _" to my mom. Whoa...not something you EVER want to say to her. She scaled those bleachers like a track star jumping hurdles, reached the guy with lightening speed before he even knew what hit him. She had him by the collar of his shirt...all 5'3, 100 lbs of her lifting the 6' foot + guy up out of his seat, while he stammered apologies. Yep, she didn't take too kindly to someone swearing in front of her kids.

That's the kind of mom she's always been, loving & protective. Her kids and family are her life. She's always there, under any circumstances, no matter how difficult, challenging, painful...she's waiting to help, offer advice, encouragement or protection from unforeseen enemy's. Her feisty, never give up, keep looking and pushing ahead, things will work out, things will get better, YOU ARE LOVED attitude has helped each and every one of her 7 kids, their spouses, her husband and grandchildren. She is our rock, she is our family's strength. Her smile, energy & jokes, lifting us up...always showing us that Faith in Christ will see us through all things.

What my mom never realized is...SHE HAS BEEN THE GIFT TO ME! 

 My Family, Joshy, Me, (8 months pregnant w/Jullien) ~ (Stacy & John missing)

My mom, Aunt Lynn & Me

My Uncle Tim & Mom at my Wedding 

My Mom & Dad at Natashca's Wedding

Happy Birthday Mom! You are the best present Heavenly Father could've given me and our family! I love you!

Colors of Change

jacket: ambiance apparel, jeans: true religion (billy), scarf: gift from my step-daughter-natascha, sunglasses: gucci

boots: soda, t-shirts: american apparel

 

 There's something to be said for living somewhere where colors transform with the seasons. The first sight of changing leaves gives an old familiar place an entirely different look. On my recent visit to Utah, I decided to drive by my parents old home in Provo, Utah. It took me a few minutes to find the exact street, but once I headed up the hill, the memories of a time years ago came flooding back, joyful, full of life, laughter, unforeseen loss, sorrow...the colors of life. A home where we spent life changing moments together, loving, comforting, encouraging, and lifting up when we needed each other the most.

I only lived in Utah for two short years. Moving when my two boys, Josh & Jullien were babies. As a single mom I needed my family and there's no place like my parents loving home.

 

Memories...Colors....Life...Changes.

Family is like changing colors~nothing stays the same...learning to embrace each new season.

Thankful In Utah

This Thanksgiving I have so much to be grateful for. We were able to travel to Utah to spend some time with my family. My dad was retiring from the police department after 35 years of service. 

All my family (parents, brothers & sisters/spouses & our kids  

(missing my brother John who passed away & his daughter Whitley who couldn't make it that day)

He made a special request to have his entire family here for it. He's been battling 4th stage lung cancer and 

now brain cancer, which hasn't crushed his spirit.

 Incredible gift he was presented

 The Mayor congratulating my dad (he also spoke)

 The line went out the door forever...people waiting to talk to my dad

 He received a much deserved standing ovation

 My dad with Present & former Police Chiefs
(he filled in as acting Chief before his retirement)

 He is such an inspiration, finding joy everyday even through the excruciating pain and struggles.

My dad, Dave (Marine Corp.) with his mom, Violet

I'm thankful for the gift of each and every day with loved one's. Life's too short. You never know what tomorrow holds...seize the day. Don't forget to tell loved one's you Love them, don't just assume they'll always be there.

I'm thankful to my mom, for her faithfulness in listening to the Lord and following His will for her life and the example she and my dad always show. I'm thankful for the knowledge that the Lord is watching over us each and everyday. 

 My cup runneth over! Happy Thanksgiving everyone. 

Jullien's 20 Today-Is It Possible?

 

photo by: Pino Gomes

 

20 years ago today, I gave birth to a long, skinny, string bean baby boy, with huge lips and dimples. A persistent little bugger who wouldn't let me out of his sight. 

Bright and early I called my son, Jullien, to wish him a Happy 20th Birthday. As the words were leaving my mouth, my mind screamed, "How is this possible?" What's even harder to comprehend...he's been gone for 3 years already, since he was 17 years old, when I sent his pictures to a Top New York modeling agency. They swept him off to the Big Apple, Paris & Italy two days after graduating high school.

British Elle Magazine 25th Anniversary w/Supermodel Coco Rocha/Jullien Herrera

Jullien with his girlfriend-model Nichelle

 

 Jullien Herrera in Pierre Cardin 60th Anniversary Runway Show

Imagine, my little guy, Juju, who spent his life hiding and scowling from the camera, now making a living gracing the pages of magazines, video's & strutting in front of hundreds of flashing camera lights on the runway.

He perfected the intense look he's famous for on the football field, baseball field & basketball court. He has an inner intensity that pushes him to excel, and succeed at whatever he puts his mind to. He learned to be an achiever by having to compete with kids a year or two older than him in every sport. He started school when he was 4, (which to this day, I never hear the end of.) But I think it has helped him realize that in life, everything requires hard work and dedication, no one is going to hand you anything. 

After an accident this past year which left him potentially scarred & possibly ending his career, he stayed strong, did what he could...finally completely healing. After getting his start and being represented by Red Models for two years, (whom he is very grateful to and continues to maintain a close friendship w/agents George & Dave) he decided he needed a fresh start. He received several requests from Top Agency's to sign with them and finally decided to go with the very large, well established, worldwide agency,  Major Model Management,...once again succeeding.

He has made me so proud! Even during unforeseen life set backs, he picks himself up, brushes it off and moves on...refusing to give up. These are the same characteristics he has displayed since he was a toddler. Persistence. It's who he is. It's an inner personal drive that is undeterred. It's what makes him special. A leader. An example. 

Today I celebrate a special gift from God, my son Jullien. I Love You & am proud to be your mother! 

Our 'Brady Bunch' family several years ago 

 

Streetwear Today Magazine - photo by: Stephan Kallaus

 

Sid Magazine - photo by: Reno Ranger

 

Details Magazine - photo by: Eric Ogden

Sisley (Campaign) - photo by: Terry Richardson

HAPPY 20th BIRTHDAY JUJU! 

   

BE THE DIFFERENCE!

After receiving a prayer request for a young, 13 year old, Pop Warner Football player, Donnovan Hill, who fractured his spine last Sunday in the Orange Bowl Championship game, I felt like I needed to do something. I have a little talent...not something most people would consider anything special, but it has served me well in a number of situations. I often refer to myself as the research queen. I can hunt down information, find email addresses, names, companies, whatever it may be...I'm persistent. I decided that this family needed some hope, guidance, and direction in the days, weeks, and months ahead. I can't begin to imagine, nor would I want to, what this family and boy will be having to deal with. BUT...I wanted to do something.

I had five boys play Pop Warner Football and thank the Lord, nothing serious ever happened. But it touched my heart & I started looking for help. I came across an amazing, incredible man, Eddie Canales & his son, Chris, who started the non-profit organization, Gridiron Heroes, after Chris was paralyzed in the last game of his high school season. They had nowhere to turn. There wasn't any help out there. Most people wanted to sweep the 'ugly side' of contact sports under the rug. So instead of sitting in their sorrow, they decided to make a difference. Eddie Canales & his son, Chris have made such an incredible impact on the lives of so many athletes seriously injured in sports. Eddie is one of CNN's Top 10 Hero's & is up for the CNN HERO OF THE YEAR AWARD (PLEASE VOTE FOR HIM HERE-he'll win money for his charity!) He also was featured on HBO, the Today Show & several news feature stories such as MYFOX Houston.

I sent an email to Eddie & that very same day he called me back. He wants to help this family. He's lived it. He is someone who can make a difference in this young boys life. He didn't hesitate...he stepped forward and offered his assistance, all the way from Texas. He has now been in touch with the Pop Warner Organization & will be contacting the family as well.

I'm not sharing this with you for a pat on the back or an 'atta girl.' It's to remind each of you, when you have an ability, no matter how small or insignificant it may be...please, take a step out of your comfort zone and do whatever you can to help someone in need. You never know the difference one small act can make in someone's life. BE THE DIFFERENCE!

*If you'd like to help Donnovan Hill & his family, send Donations to:

Orange Empire Conference

c/o Donnovan Hill

PO Box 7652

Huntington Beach, CA 92615

Please keep him & his family in your prayers!

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

On Saturday my boss and her sister went to go watch a Halloween Thriller dance out in Riverside that she heard about from the news. Unfortunately the dancers never performed that day, but they they had a nice day out. While heading back to their car they spotted a Ford Explorer with their hazard lights on, obviously broken down in the middle of the road. The cars were piled up behind her...so my boss, who's 60, and her sister who's also in her 60's ran over, got beside & behind the car and yelled to the lady who had her window cracked to put it in neutral and they'd push her off to the side. The lady struggled, but eventually was able to, never looking back to see who had offered or saying anything. As they began to push, a young guy ran from across the street to help.

While struggling behind the weight of the car, they noticed there was a man in the passenger seat & two teenage kids sitting in the back. The man slightly opened his door as the car begin to slowly roll due to the efforts of the two 60+ year old ladies...but then closed it. He actually sat there letting them push him safely to the side of the road! 

The lady waved her hand at them, as my boss & her sister looked at each other in amazement but just said, "Well, I guess we did our good deed for the day."

All I can say about that is, "WOW...ARE YOU KIDDING ME?"