KRMG Sports with Rick Couri

The latest on former Broken Arrow kicker Peter Jessee

Rick Couri, KRMG Sports director

@ July 27, 2008 4:52 AM Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Read the inspiring and emotional story of former Broken Arrow kicker Peter Jessee. Peter was partially paralyzed after taking a surfing lesson in Hawaii. The following are a series of emails from Peter's father, Bud Jessee as he updates the story and Peter's condition.

Friday, August 1st

Again we praise everyone for your support, prayers and concerns. We know that God is healing Peter and today we had more evidence of his wonderful healing powers working. Yesterday the occupational therapist saw him move his left foot ever so slightly on demand. Last night while he was in the shower chair he flex his right quad just above the knee enough to also cause his right foot to move slightly. Today while with the physical therapist, he flexed his right quad enough for her to feel it slightly. She said it was not enough to grade, but there was definitely something there. We then went to the pool and we had a different pool therapist. Peter was able to walk across the pool three times. The pool is about 15 feet wide. He also did side steps twice across the width of the pool. The pool therapist said that there is no way he should be able to accomplish what he did based on what they feel in his legs. We then asked them to check out his quad and they also verified that they could feel him flex the quad slightly. Just a small indication but it is a move in the right direction.

Katy Rennie from southeast Kansas was able to sit in a chair yesterday for three hours. That is a huge step. Keep her in your prayers.

Chris Henderson is improving in a Tulsa Rehab center. Keep him in your prayers.

We also ask you to pray for our friends that have been with us here at Craig. Ashley, Keith, Dale, Tony, Marshon, Nathan, Nathan from Alaska, Addie and all the others in the halls and rooms of Craig hospital.

Tomorrow is Hobie Cat day. The whole hospital goes to a small lake and they take them on Hobie Cat sailboats. So it will be a break from therapy although I think Peter wants all the physical therapy he can get while here.

As we enter our last week here at Craig, I ask that you keep praying for Peter and visualize in your minds that God's healing powers are going through Peter.

Mark16:17,18: And these signs shall follow those who believe....they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.

God bless all of you

He will walk again

Bud

Tuesday, July 29th

Last weekend was another great time for Peter. His good friend Wes Moody was able to come out last Wed. and stay until Sunday. Xbox and Wii were the main enjoyment for these two and hearing them laugh and talk until 2 a.m. was music to my ears. It was additional therapy.

Yesterday Peter was back in the pool and once again able to take some steps. The therapist also thought she felt some reaction from Peter's muscle just above the right knee. So all in all yesterday was a good day. His attitude is still marvelous and I look up to him and respect him more everyday for his attitude and determination. It is awesome. Our goal by the time we return to Tulsa is to have some sensation return below the belly button. We are working very hard to accomplish this goal. We need your prayers asking God to help us in this endeavor. I have gone to God in prayer to give me strength and courage to help me continue this fight with Peter. He has answered my prayer and has rejuvenated my spirits that we are on the correct path to recovery.

I asked you to pray for Katy Rennie. She did fine in surgery removing the feeding tube from her nose and inserting directly into her stomach. This will allow her throat to heal and possibly remove the trachea tube. Her spirits were up yesterday thanks to all your prayers.

I want everyone to take note that I have started using gmail. I was having too many problems getting emails out on hotmail. budjessee@gmail.com

Spinal cord injuries are devastating. We have been here since June 4th and have seen two many new faces appear. One person leaves and there always seems to be a quick replacement. The anguish and fear in their eyes and their families eyes is something I am experiencing and will never forget. Everyone needs to support spinal cord research, because it will not only help those with spinal cord injuries but people with other types of disease. I am asking everyone to go to the Miami Project website and understand the work they are trying to accomplish.

He will walk again

Bud Jessee

Friday, July 25th

Today was another very busy day. The Miami Project was here to spend the day with us and shoot some video to be used to promote spinal cord research. From the very beginning of Peter's occurrence, we vowed to make more people aware of the trauma of a spinal cord injury. This was the first step in that mission. We started the day at 8 and finished the video and interviews at 3 p.m. All of this while still keeping his rehab schedule of driving, pool therapy and physical therapy. The video will be used in their fund raising efforts. It will be posted on their website once they edit all my bloopers. Thanks to my friend David Moore in Orlando, FL for helping us contact the Miami Project.

As far as rehab today, Peter was back in the pool and was able to take some steps again today. The therapist did realize that he was getting fatigued and made him stop early. She noticed that he started using more hip and told him that shows fatigue and would train the muscles the wrong way. Janet, Whitney and Peter's good friend Wes Moody, were here to watch him in the pool and witness these steps in the right direction.

We then had our last team conference today. In attendance were the doctor, nurse, physical and occupational therapist, psyhcologist and social worker. All gave Peter shining marks for his improvement, attitude and work ethic. Today was the first time the doctor has recognized his accomplishments in the pool and encouraged him to make sure he continues pool therapy when he returns home.

Speaking of home. We will be returning to Tulsa August 8th. Thanks to my family in Kansas, the Crossland family of Crossland Construction will be flying us home in their corporate jet. We will be leaving Denver around 1 PM on the 8th so I think we will arrive at Tulsa International around 3:30 p.m. at the Tulsa Air terminal on Sheridan Road. I will provide better details in the next week. This is a huge burden off my mine and I can't thank the Crossland family enough.

This Saturday night Oiler Ice Center and Tulsa Youth Hockey Association will be having a fund raising tournament for Peter. I want to thank all my friends in the hockey family for making this possible.

I was reading a book, "Prison to Praise" by Merlin Carothers. The very last chapter in the book discussed when a situation like Peter's happens, instead of asking God why this happen, thank him for the situation. I 'm not thanking him for what happen to Peter, but the situation I am now facing. This does sound bizarre, but the more I thought of it the more it made sense. Since this happen I have found so many things that I should be thanking God. The outpouring of everyone to help us in a time of need. From seeing that our lawn is mowed to moving some furniture for Janet. The soccer teams, football team, and hockey community stepping up to send items to Peter to help cheer him up and it worked. The friends that have come to see Peter. My friends and family in Denver that have helped in so many different ways. The hundreds of cards and emails that have been sent. Everyone that contributed to Peters' trust fund. Ed Leinbach for flexibilty in Janet's career. My American National family and all the agents in Tulsa. Crossland Construction providing us a way home. The outpouring of love and concern for my family. All of this has truly been a blessing. Thanks to everyone.

He will walk again
Bud

Thursday, July 24th

We have all kept up with Peter and now we can all help. Read the letter below from a friend of the Jessee family as she describes what they have planned!

We are doing a fundraiser for the Jessee Family at the Oilers Ice Arena this Friday July 25th. The high school teams that play hockey are playing a round robin Tournament. It starts at 11:00 pm and they play until 6:00 am saturday morning.

People can come watch - there is no admission but if you would like to make a donation feel free. No pressure. The games will be held at the Oilers Ice Center at 65th and Mingo and the Ice Center has donated the ice time.

3 companies will match all donations up to $10,000.00, so every donation is tripled. what a great opportunity to help out!!

Thank you

Brenda Wilson

Wednesday, July 23rd

Today was a very positive day for Peter. He had pool therapy and was able to take about two dozen steps in the pool. The therapist are still trying to figure out how he is accomplishing this feat, but the one thing that we are sure of is his brain is telling his legs to move and they are moving. He is not able to hold himself up when he takes these steps. He holds on to a rail along one side of the pool and the therapist holds him up by the other hand and then he moves his legs. We are praising God for this movement.

By the time I get back to you the Miami Project will be here to interview us for a promotional video of spinal cord research. They will be here Thursday. The main message we are wanting to convey is to make people aware of surfers myelopathy and the effects spinal cord injury has on a family. The Miami Project is the top research facility in the U.S headed up by Marc Buoniconti who was paralyzed a few years ago. His dad Nick Buoniconti, Miami Dolphin player in the 70's, started the foundation to promote research. We are very honored that they want us to be a part of their awareness program.

Every day we see new faces in the hospital and it makes you aware that everyday somebodys life is being changed forever. A new face here is one I think I have already told you about. 17 year old Katy Rennie, from my home area of southeast Kansas is a new patient here from an auto accident. I ask that you include her in your prayers along with Peter. Pray for their continued improvement, strength and courage to continue their fight.

He will walk again
Bud

Monday, July 21st

Every Sunday here at Craig they have chapel at 10:30. We have not missed one since our arrival and today was no exception. It was a very emotional service. Our co-patient Dale is going home to Huntsville, Arkansas Thursday. Dale is the 60 year old gentleman that I told you about in an earlier email. He was shot by a co-worker's 22 year old boyfriend in Springdale, AR. Jan 15th. She was killed, Dale is now paraplegic. He has been here since Jan. 30th and is ready to go back to his beloved state of Arkansas. Dale and I have conversed over the last six weeks and I did not realize how much it meant to him until this morning. What I had taken as my usual talking habits, Dale told everyone in church how we became part of his family and our encouragement for him when his family was unable to be there was comforting to him. Dale then came over to me and we hugged and cried together there in church. The relationships that we have formed with other patients and their families have been a blessing from God in it's own right. So since this was Dale's last Sunday in church with us here, I asked him to lead all of us in the Razorback chant. Woooooooo Pig Sueeeeeeee (2 times) Wooooooo Pig Sueeeeee, RAZORBACKS. I think that is how it goes. I'm sure I will be corrected by someone if I am wrong. The service ended with Dale singing Amazing Grace to us. We will miss Dale here, but we will meet again.

Another busy week for visitors from BA with Easton Woods and his mother Lisa. They came in Friday and spent the day with Peter and Easton spent the night with Peter in his room. They brought us a prayer quilt provided by St John's Episcopal Church in Tulsa. Saturday night they attended the Rockies game with us, seeing a Rockies victory.(see attached pictures) Fellow BA hockey player Matt Cooper was also here Sat. to visit Peter. Matt was unable to go to the Rockies game with us due to having some car trouble. Monsignor Gaalaas came by today, back in Denver after a visit to Crested Butte with his sister. The visitors from back home are so important to Peter. He knows that the support he has helps him in his road to recovery.

Janet has returned to be with us and she will stay here this week. Whitney will be here Wednesday along with Peter's good friend Wes Moody and they will stay through the weekend. The Miami Project, the top spinal cord injury research center in the nation, will be here this week to interview and video us for a short video on our story to help promote spinal cord research. Please pray to give us words of wisdom to help promote the research for the devasting effects of spinal cord injuries. Pray for Peter this week to regain sensation in his lower body and to continue his progress in taking steps in the pool. One thing Peter is struggling with is when he goes out in public places. Please pray to give him strength when he leaves the confines of the hospital and has to deal with the real world outside of the hospital walls.

He will walk again,
Bud

Friday, July 18th

Peter's day began with a phone interview with KRMG's Rick Couri. Rick has been very supportive of us and has been posting my updates on the KRMG website. I do not know when it will air. Just tune in and Rick will probably let everyone know when it will air. I think Peter did a good job despite being a person of few words. We now have a website for Peter thanks to Eric Cockrell. Eric is a coach for the Broken Arrow Hockey club. You can go there and leave comments and words of encouragement to Peter. Thanks Eric for you contribution and effort on the website. It will be a big help. Go to www.peterjessee.com.

Today the young lady from Seattle, Addie, that was a patient here with surfers myelopathy called me to let me know of another young man that was injured from the same thing back on Dec. 31st at Maui. That makes six that we are aware of in the last year and a half. All in Hawai'i except one. I am beginning to believe that there are many more out there. We need to make everyone aware of this problem and stop the pain. This is pain that is not necessary and could be avoided. If you know anyone that is going on vacation where they may surf, make sure they are aware of the dangers.

Now for today's report on Peter. He was back in the pool. He took about a half dozen steps. The right leg was moving pretty good and the left kind of dragged. The therapist said she did not know how he was accomplishing what he was doing because she could not feel the muscles working that should be making him walk. I think it might be mind over matter. He is so determined to walk again that he is making his legs work one way or another. If he can do that then his determination will carry him through this ordeal. He is so positive and determined and I am so proud of him. He is one tough young man and giving up is not an option. Again thanks for the many cards, support and prayers all of you have provided. He will walk again Bud Wednesday, July 16th

Not much change in last few days in Peter's condition. His spirits remain high. He is having a few more muscle spasms and the pool therapist said she felt his groin muscle flexing when he was trying to do a scissor motion in the water with his legs. So we think we are getting some muscle movement in different locations. He still has no feeling below the belly button so we are hoping that will come back in due time.

Peter had driving lessons yesterday and that went real well. He said he felt very comfortable driving. Monday evening we took off for a stroll around the surrounding neighborhood and then Peter remembered that it was the night that the Newfoundland dogs visit the hospital., We had to hurry back. He really enjoys those dogs. He is now asking me to get a dog. He wants a Labrodoodle like his sisters. Whitney's dog, Ajia, is a one the whole family has fell in love with.

Answered prayers are happening. My friend Bob Brown in Joplin is returning home after a seven week stay in the hospital from a heart attack and Chris henderson is making progress back in Tulsa. We need to add Katy Rennie to our prayer list. Katy is from my home area in Kansas. She is a 17 year old that has a spinal cord injury from a car accident four weeks ago. She arrived here at Craig Monday. Please pray for her recovery. Pray for Peter to continue the muscle improvement and to start regaining sensation in his lower body.

God Bless Everyon, He will walk again Bud

Monday, July 14th

What a weekend. Just when we thought Peter taking his first step in the pool on Thursday was going to be the top highlight for the week, we were blessed with one of the greatest weekends since our arrival here at Craig. That came through friends and family. I take that back. It came from only family, because all of you have become family.

The members of the family that were here this weekend started with the biggest thrill of all for Peter. His good friends Carl Salazar and Ryan Sanders were brought to Denver by Carl's dad Ken. They spent most of the day Fri. and Ryan and Carl spent the night with us in Peter's room. They headed back home Sat. afternoon. I am telling you this was special. Seeing the love between three young men and sharing that love is something I will never forget and for Ken to share with me why he made the effort to bring Carl and Ryan is something that has changed my life. Peter and Carl were kickers on the Broken Arrow football team last year and they formed a bond that only they understand. It is special. Carl is going to set records the next two years at BA. All of you wait and see. Pictures are attached.

Our next visitor Friday was Bozena Brinkman, an associate of mine with American National from Salt Lake City. Bo always brings light and cheer to any room and I am sure glad she was my study groups representative to visit us. The rest of my study group are ugly.

Then walked in Mel and Connie Newdigger from Northville, MI.(Detroit) Mel was my general agent for American National when I started 28 years ago in Joplin. Mel is now with Farmers and I threw the present that he brought Peter away as soon as he left. A Farmers Insurance t-shirt. We kept the Detroit Red Wings Championship hat. I think that was from Connie anyway. Mel would never spend any money for a gift. I think Farmers furnished the t-shirt.
My cousin Denise finally returned from vacation and came by and I think she might have been a little overwhelmed by the number of family that were already here.

Then the catering service finally showed up. Monsignor Patrick Gaalaas from Saint Bernard of Clairvaux in Tulsa, delivered a pizza from our favorite pizza place here, Rico's. Monsignor use to live across the street from us in Broken Arrow. We became very well acquainted when we lead the crusade against three young men that rented a house in our neighborhood that were terrorizing the neighborhood. He is here on vacation visiting his sister. And guess what, the Salazar's knew Monsignor from St Benedicts in BA.

Then Ashley Wagner, a fellow patient that returned to have additional rehab, came into the room. Ashley is from Leoti, KS and attends K-State. She was leaving Friday for a short return home and will return to Denver next week for some surgery. Monsignor Gaalaas lead us in prayer for Ashley. She is a wonderful young lady and she has been so inspirational to Peter and me. We love her to death and I hope she will allow me to keep in touch with her despite me constantly wearing my Kansas shirt every day since her arrival. I can now have it washed.
Agents from Tulsa then arrived. Paul Rosberg, Dallas Haefeker, Mike Pinion and his wife Kristy. They were here with us at 6 p.m central time and joined Carl, Peter, Ryan and me for the prayer chain. Thanks to all of you for joining us in prayer and we know that prayer is working. Then came Sunday and Jeff and Julia Johnson, our Regional Director from here in Denver, and Byron and Joan Day an associate of mine here in Denver, came by to see Peter. Then at 4 p.m. we went to Janeen and Darby Tuckers home for a cookout. Peter and their son, Drew, played hockey together when they lived in Tulsa.

Janet and Whitney have been busy back home preparing the house for our arrival. Thanks to Josh Moses, Teresa, Wes and Presley Moody, John Michael. Jarrod, sorry Janet did not get the last name, and my cousin Matt Jessee for helping Janet move some furniture and boxes around so construction crews can start this week. This help was priceless.

Peter and I are anticipating a fantastic week. With the prayers that have taken place the last few days and the attitude that Peter has, I really think the upcoming days are going to be a very positive step in Peter's recovery.

God bless all of you. He will walk again Bud

Sunday, June 29th

It has been a great week end for Peter. Starting with Friday we attended the Daniel Graham, #89 for the Denver Bronco's, football camp for high school age kids. Peter was the guest of honor and Daniel's dad, Tom Graham, the gentleman that invited us, gave Peter the royal treatment and tour. We had the privilege of meeting several NFL coaches, former players and former college players. I did not win many friends by wearing my OU t-shirt especially when we were introduced to Tony Lindsey, former OSU quarterback. OSU fans, Tony is a classy guy, you should be proud of him. This camp was free to all the kids and all the coaches and helpers were volunteers. Tom is standing to my left and Marilyn, Tom's wife, is standing to Janet's right.(attached photo) They are super and great Christians. I know they were sent by God at a time we needed their love and support.

As you can see, Janet and Whitney were here this week. It was great having them here. Whitney really brightens our lives and Peter really enjoys having her around. She went back to Tulsa tonight and Janet is staying here for awhile.

Nothing new on the medical side, but due to a great week end Peter is ready to start his fight again tomorrow morning. Therapy starts at 0800.

Many cards have been arriving and Peter enjoys reading everyone of them. Thanks for your cards, prayers and emails.

We ask for your prayers this week to give Peter the strength and courage to continue his fight.

Thanks
Bud

PS. Bud did forget to mention the Hoops Game After Whitney left it was a little boring around here. So we decided to go to the gym and shoot a few hoops. Bud and Peter started with some warm ups of full court dribbling and passing sprints. Peter was better at the full court runs but Bud was definitely beating him on the shooting. Then they proceeded to play a game of HORSE. Bud found a folding chair to even the playing field, but neither one of them could make a basket. So they went to a game of PIG so we wouldn't be there all night. Peter won the 1st game and Bud the 2nd game. Then they had many championship games before Peter won the Grand Grand Championship Game. Peter thought it was so funny that he beat his Dad in basketball in their first completion! You know basketball is serious business when you miss dinner!

Janet Jessee Team Jessee

Friday, June 27th

Yesterday was a very tough day for Peter emotionally. He bounced back at the end of the day when another angel was sent by God. As Peter was finishing weight lifting class around 4 p.m., a giant of a man and his beautiful wife walked in looking for Peter. They introduced themselves to us, Tom and Marilyn Graham, former linebacker of the Denver Bronco's back in the 70's. Their son Daniel, #89 a tight end, is currently playing for the Bronco's. Daniel is having a camp Friday, tomorrow, and Tom asked Peter if he could come as a guest of honor. Peter's eyes lit up like you would not believe. Peter has been very hesitant about going out in public and this is a God send that this opportunity came. He is ready for this. Tom and Marilyn came to our room and professed their faith in God and assured Peter that God would get him through this occurrence. I have no idea who contacted Tom and Tom only knows it came from someone at Conoco/Phillips to someone else and then someone else. All I can say is whoever sent this angel from God thank you and of course I am also thanking God. So all you Denver Bronco fans, tomorrow afternoon at 1 pm mountain time, I want you thinking about where Peter is and eat your hearts out.

Today we received many cards and letters and a special package from Coach Spavital. Thanks coach, you made Peter real happy to see the shorts with the number 39 on them. Again, the day finished up with a positive. He reads every card and every email and they really help his spirits.

Today on the medical side, there is no change. Still moves his hips, having some feeling in the areas he does not like me to talk about, but I bring them up to him all the time. He rode a three wheel mountain bike outfitted for hand cycling on the streets around the hospital that he really enjoyed.

Janet and Whitney are arriving tonight. Whitney will be spending the week end and Janet will be staying longer. Peter and I are real excited about them being here. It is great to be together again. We are Team Jessee and all of you are on our team.

God Bless everyone and thank you for your support and prayers.

Bud

Tuesday, June 24th

Today was another great day. Our good friends Bron and Christy Cummins and their son Cole, flew to Denver for the day and were able to spend about three hours with Peter. They were a sight for sore eyes. Bron has been Peter's hockey coach since he was 9 years old. Cole is a team mate and good friend. Christy was able to get a few pictures and I have them attached. Thanks Bron, Christy, and Cole for being here for Peter. And a special thanks to the friends that arranged to get you here.

On the medical side today, Peter had some sensation when they inserted a catheter in his urinary bladder for some test. I should not use the word sensation, it was more like pain. In other words he felt the tube. The nurse and doctor thought that was a good sign. Peter was not so sure. I was thanking the Lord. The legs are not moving yet, he still is able to move his hips and he is moving the muscle just above the knee.

Peter's spirits still remain high thanks to all your prayers, cards, emails, and texts. We keep thanking God for every little sign we see and pray for God to continue to give Peter the strength to continue his fight.

Also continue to keep Chris Henderson, who was injured in a motorcycle accident, in your prayers. Chris has made some remarkable progress, so the prayers are working. Also remember Bob Brown from Joplin, Mo recovering from a severe heart attack.

God bless everyone and continue the pray chain.

Bud

Monday, June 23rd

We have made it through another week end with some progress. Patience is the name of the game and patience is something that most of us do not have. But we are learning to be patient. The nurse last night and a different nurse this morning verify that he was flexing the muscle just above the left knee. Little signs like this really boost Peters morale and gives him hope. We know that God is healing at his own pace and we must continue with faith and perseverance.

Peter and I were able to attend a Colorado Crush arena football game last night with a group from Craig hospital. Getting out in the real world is a challenge for Peter. He does not feel comfortable in these situations and it tends to be a big reminder to him that he is currently in a wheel chair. Please pray to give him strength in these situations.

We have another busy week in therapy so please pray to give him strength and courage to meet the rigorous schedule.

We received the package from the soccer booster club and I can not thank you enough. It made his day, especially the autographed game ball from the last game of the season. Thank you BA soccer boosters. You are our angels.

Many of you have asked for me to send the address of the hospital. Please send cards. He enjoys the cards more than I ever anticipated.
Craig Hospital
3425 South Clarkson Street
%Peter Jessee
Room 230
Englewood, CO 80113
Phone 303-789-8000

Special thanks to Art French, his son Neal and Tony Mason for helping Janet with the yard work.

Thanks to everyone for your support and emails. Peter has received many emails and please understand he does read them but he is a little behind answering them.

Continue your prayers because the prayers are being answered. Please continue prayers for strength courage and healing for Peter. Please pray for Janet, Whitney and me to give us the courage and strength to be supportive and positive for Peter. They are working .

Thanks
Bud

June 18th

I have always heard that life is a roller coaster. Even though I thought that I have been on a roller coaster with many ups and downs during my life, I now look back and realize that my life has always been on the ups. I reached the top of that roller coaster on May 22 and then on May 23rd the roller coaster ride has had more ups and downs than I have had in my 54 years of life.

Today we started with one of the most down days since the May 23rd occurrence. Peter was mentally and emotionally exhausted. He could not complete one class and broke down crying. I did not know what to do other than hug him and start praying and ask God to give him strength. We cried and prayed for about 30 minutes. We finally made it to physical therapy class, but he was still emotionally drained. It was really tough for him to complete any of the exercises. At the end of P/T he was laying on his stomach on a padded table. I sat down next to him and started rubbing his back. He then said, "Dad are my hips moving?" I looked down and they were moving side to side. I asked him to tell me which way he was moving them and he told me side to side. The P/T therapist confirmed he was moving the hips. He then rolled over to his back and was in the sitting position with his legs straight in front of him with the left leg about 12 inches from the edge of the table. I was getting the wheel chair in position for him and his left leg fell off the table. I looked down at him and he said, "Dad I just moved my leg." I picked his leg up and put it back in front of him and I said "do it again." And he did. I had the physical therapist come over to watch and Peter moved the leg again. So imagine having your legs straight out in front of you in a sitting position and moving the left leg in a scissor motion 12 inches to the left. That is what Peter accomplished. This is huge. Your prayers and our prayers are being answered. God keeps giving us signals not to give up, to keep the faith and be a witness for Him. We will have many more ups and downs on this roller coaster ride and we need to remember that all the ups are messages from God that we are progressing forward.

So now it is time for a cheer from the folks back home. A cheer for Peter and the school he has given his dedication. I ask everyone from Jenks, Union, Owasso, Sapulpa and all the surrounding area to join. Put down your school colors and unite.
Everyone from Broken Arrow knows how to respond when I say this and I think all the surrounding schools know how to respond. So respond back to me when I say..............GO BAAAAA...

Bud

P.S Yesterday Peter received an autographed hockey stick signed by the entire Colorado Avalanche hockey team. There was not an actual card from whomever arranged this, just a slip of paper that had the name of Tom Karalis and a Kristy. Thanks TK, you taught him how to skate and now you are helping him walk again.

Many cards arrived today and I did not realize how much a card meant to him. He really enjoys the cards from people he does not even know. It is so comforting to him that there are that many people that care. I want to acknowledge one card from a good friend of Peter's, Carl Salazar. Sally, Peter will be back there this fall to cheer you on and give you the support to kick your name into the record books. One more time. GO BAAAA...

Monday, June 16th

Today was another good day in physical therapy. Peter was able to get in the pool and the therapist said she could feel some pulsating in his upper leg when he was trying to kick them. Small sign big hope.

Below is a link to the Honolulu Star Bulletin. There was a story on Peter in todays' paper. I need to tell you that some of my quotes are not exactly accurate. That is my disclaimer. But the main emphasis is to try and make more aware so it does not happen again.

Again thanks for all the prayer and continue to send Peter word of encouragement through a text message, cards and emails. He is trying to answer all, but please understand the time constraints.
Thanks and God Bless everyone.

Peter cell phone for text messages 918-630-0035
email peter.jessee@gmail.com
Craig Hospital
3425 South Clarkson Street
% Peter Jessee
Englewood, CO 80113

Bud

Sunday, June 15th --

Weekends are tough around here trying to find things to occupy your time. But Peter has maintained a positive attitude today, despite Janet and Whitney returning to Tulsa today. This week will be a very challenging week for him with a schedule that starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 5 p,m. He is going to have a one hour lunch.

Today we had four visitors that we did not know before today, sent to us by our friends back home. Forgive me for not remembering names but one was Cindy originally from the Joplin area and a good friend of my good friend in Columbus, KS, Diane Saparito, and a family from Tulsa here on a business trip, that was sent to us by Mike Pinion. I need to go get a guest book. Also had friends from here in Denver, Byron and Joan Day who were gracious enough to take Janet and Whitney to the airport and Jeff, Julie and Gabbi Johnson who brought Peter and me some fantastic lasagna.

Peter is ready to face the week ahead and our prayers this week is to see some improvement every day no matter how big or how small.

Again we thank everyone for all the prayers and we thank God for all the answered prayers.
Bud

Friday, June 13th update

Today was a very emotional day. I am going to spare the suspense. We received a report from the doctor today at 5 P.M., based on an MRI that was taken last night, Peter's spinal cord has improved. This is awesome news and does explain why he is getting some feeling back in the rectum area. Now we know for a fact that there is some healing taking place.
Now for the rest of the story. Last night Peter was taking a shower while sitting in a new type of shower wheel chair. The nurse had not adjusted the front wheels properly. She left Peter in the shower by himself and when he reached for his poof ball, scrungy whatever you call it, the wheel chair tipped forward dumping Peter to the wall, hitting his head and then to the floor. We were also out of the room thinking the nurse was with him. Thank goodness his room mates niece was there to get help.

The doctor came in and wanted to order a cat scan of his head and neck. Peter was terrified and fearful that he had injured his back even more. He complained to the doctor that his lower back was hurting. Peter insisted they check his lower back, so the doctor went ahead and ordered a MRI of the back. For some reason I sensed that God had the accident happen for a reason and that the report would come back with good news. But last night when the doctor called back the results, they told us that the MRI showed that there was nothing new on the MRI so there was no new injury. I guess last night when they were reading the results they were looking for new damage. Today when they compared them to MRI's taken in Hawai'i they saw the improvement.

God knew that we needed a morale boost. If the nurse had adjusted the wheels properly. If she had not left him alone. If we had not left the room. If Peter had not reached for his poof ball, scrungy, whatever. If Peter had not fallen out of the chair, there would not have been a MRI and we would not have known that healing is taking place. God found a way to strength our faith in his healing powers.

We still have a long ways to go, but we know that with your prayers, God will get us through this. My friend, Steve Brewington, told me that a group of distinguished ladies, led by his mother, in Florida ranging in ages of mid 80's to 90's were praying for Peter in their prayer group. You have to know that ladies in their 80's and 90's must have God's ear. The prayers are working and continue to give us faith and hope.

Whitney update. She arrived last night while all the above was going on. She has been a big relief this week end entertaining and staying with Peter. Janet and Whitney will be going home Sunday. Janet needs to get back to Tulsa to help take care of the home front. pray for their safe travel.

God bless all of you and keep the prayers, emails, text messages and cards coming. They brighten Peter's day and put a smile on his face.

Bud

June 12th, 2008

Today was another busy day in therapy. Some of the therapy sessions are not always the most positive outlook on a persons situation. They bring the individual to the understanding that their current situation may be permanent and they need to learn and know certain facts to live with a disability. What I am trying to say is that they discuss things with you that you will not walk again instead of you will walk again. Well, Peter's attitude dipped this evening because of these sessions. Even a poker game was not boosting his spirits. So we go back to his room and there it was. A gift from our angels in Broken Arrow. The package from THE BA soccer booster club. It could not have arrived at a more appropriate moment. The posters are now on the wall and the BA Pennant is hanging proudly in the room. Thank you for the cards and the individual messages on the posters. The great Jim Valvano, coach of the 1983 N.C. State National Basketball Champs, when fighting cancer said, "Don't ever give up ,don't ever give up." I have told Peter about Coach Valvano and that message. I don't think he really appreciated the significance of that statement since he did not know about Jim Valvano. Well tonight we open the poster from The Broken Arrow soccer teams and there on the corner of the poster was a quote. "Never give up." Of course it was not made by the great Jim Valvano, it was made by the great Austin Curry, and Peter knows who the great Austin Curry is. Thank you so much. His spirits are up again.

Now the medical report. At 8:30 tonight Peter and I were on the computers. He said, "Dad I think I need to poop". With his injury he should not be able to feel that sensation. But tonight he did. He still needed asistance to complete the job but the sensation was there that something needed to be done. Again we will take any message from God that there is progress no matter where it comes from.

Please continue the prayers, messages, emails, spirit packages, pictures, anything that you think might boost his spirits. A picture of Peter with former hockey pals Cooper Frederick and Mark Jackson is now on a stand next to his bed. Thanks Coop.

Thanks to all of you and God bless.
Bud

I forgot to tell you that Katie Moffet ________, sorry dont know her by her married name, brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Carol Martin, came by last night. We really enjoyed the visit. If someone could let Katie know I really appreciate her calling her brother. Also I would like Katie to contact me via email so I can keep in touch with her.
Thanks
Bud

Former Broken Arrow kicker Peter Jessee is in a Denver hospital in rehab after becoming partially paralyzed after taking a surfing lesson in Hawaii. Peter's father Bud is sending updates daily and you will be able to read those emails here every day. There is also an address to write to Peter at the bottom of the page.

Today did not start off very positive. Peter had a blood pressure problem this morning but was in good shape by noon. My cousin Denise, that lives here in the Denver area, brought us Olive Garden and Peter's appetite had returned. His appetite that many of you know oh so well, is not up to the Peter Jessee standard, but he did a pretty good job on the Olive Garden food. Everyday he has four hours of therapy and educational classes, so he needs his strength. NOW THE GOOD NEWS. Last night when the nurses were performing a procedure, Peter said he felt them while doing the procedure. Today he reconfirm that he was having some feeling there. Peter would kill me if I told you where the feeling is, so I will just tell you this, it is where the sun don't shine.

We will take a message from God no matter where it comes from. We view this as the first signal from God that we have hope. Your prayers are working and we would appreciate your continued prayers.

I also want to ask everyone to pray for a fellow Broken Arrow family that are in a time of need. Pray for Chris Henderson who was involved in a motorcycle accident while visiting relatives in Texas. He has head trauma and so he desperately needs our prayers.

Also please remember my good friend in Joplin, Bob Brown. Bob had a major heart attack last week.

Peter and I are trying to answer all emails and text messages. Keep them coming. If we do not get an answer to you immediately, don't think we are not reading them. Whitney is going to visit this weekend. Peter and Whitney are going to set up a website. We will keep you posted when it is set up.

Your prayers are being heard by the man upstairs and he is giving us signals they are being heard.
Thanks
Bud

June 9th

Thanks to all the text messages, emails and Xbox arriving via Broken Arrow Hockey of the Tulsa Youth Hockey Association, Peter is in real good spirits especially now that he has his Xbox. In fact he is in his room playing a game with his good friend Wes Moody. Just amazing that you can get on a game on the internet and be talking to your friends back in Tulsa while playing a game as a team.

It is obvious that the communities of Broken Arrow, the Tulsa Metro area, all my friends and associates across the country and all my American National family across the country are now on our team to overcome this occurrence. The prayers and communication across the country are in itself miraculous. Many prayers have been answered and there are little miracles happening. One of Peter's classmates from BA, Emalie Hoar, came by to see him Friday and that made his day. Thanks to Emalie. Another answered prayer came from a long time friend of our family. She now lives here in Denver and is going to assist Peter in his recovery. She is truly going to be a very important part of Peter's recovery. I am very excited about the help she is going to provide.

Tomorrow starts a very long journey. Four hours of physical therapy, occupational therapy and educational classes begin. Peter will be busy, but that is what we need to get him on the road to recovery.

Keep him in your prayers as he starts this new journey in his life.

God bless all of you.

Bud and Janet Jessee

To write to Peter;

Craig Hospital
3425 S. Clarkson Street
% Peter Jessee
Room 221-A
Englewood, CO 80113
email - Peter.Jessee@gmail.com