Dear Marla, We are thankful for your continuing progress and recovery. God is good and we praise Him and all who are praying for you. Robert said you're leaving Craig April 4th. That's amazing! What a fighter you are! We are planning to leave Co. for Az. and then Mexico March 15th and hope to get to see you when we get home. You're remarkable and God has truly worked a miracle in your life. With love, Bud and Betsey
Dear Mrs.Gettman, I really miss you very much.I wish you could come back!I am glad that you are making progress.In the thrid grade I had a lot of fun with you and my class mates.The teacher that is filling in for you is exited that you are doing very well!Every day I will say a prayer just for you! Love, Kayla
HI Marla, Mark and Mary and Leo, Marla, every day that goes by I know that you are making progress and healing just a little bit more. Your courage and strength is amazing and will help so much in your complete recovery. Roger and I and Jenny and Jimmy are constantly thinking of you and sending positive thoughts your way. We know that someday you will be teaching again and continuing your wonderful contribution to the lives of your students. And Marla, your parents and brother have been unbelieveable during your recovery. They are the pillars of strength, courage, and faith. With their constant support and encouragement, you cannot help but make steady progress toward full recovery. We love you and your family, Marla. Linda and Roger Cracraft, and Jenny Hart and JImmy Capra
Dear Mary, At Marla's benifit you asked me to send you information on Jeff (the Air Force Cadet I told you about who is also at Craig). This is the last I've heard on him. Thanks for your interest. I don't know him personally but he's had a rough road. This is the message I received. "My last note from Claydene Hodge (Colorado USAFA Parent who has been very involved in helping Jeff McCaffrey and family) said... The "plan" as of now is for Jeff to be discharged from Craig Hospital on March 7th. He and Kathy will stay in Denver, at the Craig Apartments next door to the hospital, an additional week while Jeff works on finishing up his semester at USAFA. He will then go to Omaha to stay with Kathy's sister (her house is more handicapped friendly than the McCaffrey's) for a month or so as a transition and then he hopes to get an apartment in Kansas City until he is accepted into Project Walk, hopefully around January. His injury has to heal for about a year before he can go through the program."
Oops, I hit enter too soon and sent the "Dear Marla" by itself. :-) Anyway we just wanted to let you know we're thinking about you and praying for you. This website is wonderful, thanks Mark. The pictures and updates are great. We went to the benifit for you on Friday. There were so many people there, expressing their love for you and your family, it was truly an indication of how many lives you've touched. We remember fondly our swim team days with you and your family, but most of all we remember your smile and your gentle ways with all the kids. We've shared your progress with Brooke & Logan and they both send their love and wishes for a quick and full recovery. Brooke is in her last year at MSU in Bozeman majoring in Media and Theatre Arts, and Logan is in his second year at the Air Force Academy. It's tough, but he wouldn't be anywhere else. He is majoring in Civil Engineering, but he really just wants to fly the F-15 fighter jet. He always did like speed! We continue to pray for you and your family. Keep up the good work. Roxanne
Hi Marla and family,
I just wanted to thank everyone for their hard work on this website, it is incredible! Marla is greatly loved! Marla your courage and strength is remarkable. You are on my mind all the time. Third grade is not the same without you! I love seeing your pictures and how everyday you make strides at your recovery. Keep up the hard work, love ya!
Dear Marla, Howard and I were at the overwhelmingly successful fund raiser for you last evening. Marla, there are so many who care about you! Your classmates well- represented the number of friends you have from your school years. We are so glad to hear how you are improving each day. My intention is to visit you soon. Yeah! Continue to make music.Remember how well you played the piano? Remember your earnest endeavors in practicing? Lots of practice ahead, but you will shine in all you do. Be patient and smile,'cause you have lots of love and strength for healing. Bravo! Annig
Dear Miss Gettman, I am so sorry to hear about what happened to you. I miss not seeing you at school and hope that you can come back again. I will pray for you to get better soon. Andrew Burks - Grade 4.
Dear Marla and Family- I was so sorry to hear of what happened... As a newcomer to Glenwood Springs, I can remember clearly how Marla welcomed me and showed me around the school. At that time, she was a senior and I was a freshman at the high school, and everytime I saw her that year, she was always so warm and friendly. I wish the best for her speedy and complete recovery. I work in at a hospital in Boston (in a lab), so if I can be of any help, please let me know. Best to you all, love -Sara Fuller
This message is to the family as well as Marla. My husband and I were struck by the circumstances of Marla's injury and recently attended the benefit dinner in GWS. I am a physical therapist and own a practice with offices in Basalt and Carbondale. Our practice is called Personal Rehabilitation Center. We occasionally do some pro bono work on a case by case basis, and our facility would be happy to offer our services free to Marla for 15 visits. I am not sure if she will need or be able to participate in out patient rehabilitation, but we would love to work with her and donate our time. We have three PTs and our clinical environment is well suited to clients with greater physical needs. We offer one on one visits and our clinic is private and peaceful. We have worked with varying degrees of physical injury including stroke and spinal cord. Our environment promotes comfort and friendship...very laid back and caring. We also use the Carbondale pool in the summer time and conduct rehab there as well...aquatic therapy may suit Marla at some point during her rehab. If you are interested in this offer, or would like to contact me personally my number is 963-6600. You may also drop by if you wish and meet our therapists and check out our facility. As the owner of the practice, an opportunity like this to insure that Marla continues to rehab, makes what I do worthwhile and rewarding.
Marla I just keep praying for your healing and health to be restored to you. You have the victory! The updates from Mark and your parents and the benefit show you have a lot of people that care and love you.
Marla, Just wanted to pass on some strength to you, I know you will continue to improve-the power of Prayer is amazing. Claire
Hi Marla, my name is Gayle I am a friend of your cousin Tamara Standfill. I am very deeply touched by how many lives you have touched through the years, I want to wish you all the best in your recovery and let you know you will be included in my prayers. I will visit your web site often to see how you are doing. Until next time, take care and be strong. Gayle Swannack
HI Ms. Gettman. It's me Erin Miller from your 3rd grade class. I just wanted to tell you that I was thinking about you and I'm praying that you get well soon quickly. We all miss you very much and hope to see you soon! Love, Erin Miller
Hi Marla, I am a friend of Mark's and I have met you a couple times. I just wanted to say that I am thinking of you and sending you positive healing light, energy and prayer. From the few times that I have met you I can tell by the sparkle in your eyes that you have the love and passion of life and thus I know you will make a remarkable recovery...better than the doctors and nurses can even imagine! I can tell from this amazing website that you have touched so many people. Hang in there. Continue to persevere. Fight the fight. I am so proud of the many accomplishments you have already made in your healing process. I wish you a speedy recovery and will continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. ~Megan
Marla, you are in my prayers and I know that you will bounce back like I know you can. Hang in there!
hey Marla, You dont know me,but im ginger yosts daughter and ive heard alot about you. I just wanted to tell you that your in my thoughts and i will start praying for you! I really hope that you feel a lot better i know that ill be praying for you an awful lot. Ive been to your website and your puppies are adorable,we have two dogs also{sophie and serena} there almost as cute as yours!!! I enjoyed getting to meet you at your schools trick-or-trunk in october! the clown costume was really creative and cute! I loved Robs outfit, spongebob is one of my favorite nickolodian characters, my mom told me that you made it wow!! that is really impressive!! well i really hope you feel a ton better and the best of luck to you!! Always, Haley Yost
Hi Marla!! I saw Mark last week (he is working on a project for the Town of Carbondale) and he told me about your website. What a great idea. It sounds like you are working very hard to speed up your recovery process. Good for you! We are praying for your continued improvement. Give our love to Mary and Leo. Nancy Barnett
Hi Marla! Things sure are busy at the Peak! We have conferences this week and report cards went home yesterday...whew...lots to get done! We sure do miss you here. Just wanted you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers! Heather =)
Marla, Had a look at your pictures on your web site. You are going to make it just fine. Love, Alison
I work with Lyndsay Goldstein at IBM. I wanted to let you know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope only the best for you.
Marla - Visiting with you on Sunday was the best part of my weekend. It was wondeful to see you and to hold your hand, if just for a minute or two. Here's hoping that you'll continue to bless your family and therapists and friends with more new words and giggles and breakthrough moments. We're all cheering for you from the sidelines! Love, amy
Hi, Marla! Just a quick note to tell you I'm thinking about you and that I love you. I'm so pleased to hear how well you're doing. I especially like the story about how you squirted Mark with your Mom's squirt bottle. Those little squirts (I have a younger brother, too!) need to know that big sister will always be the boss, right? Love and hugs, Carol
Hi Marla, You do not know us but we are "old" friends of your parents, from Seattle days. We were privileged to visit with them in CO. a few months ago. Well, as you might guess, they spent much time bragging about you and Mark, as we did about our adult children. With the 'unbiased' information we heard about you, it was evident that you are a strong person with determination. We pray that, although you will have many frustrating times, your basic strength, humor and love will help you through these current challenges. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you, Mark, your parents and your boyfriend. Mark, what a brother you are! This website is wonderful and we hope to access it often. Your sister's accident must be very difficult for you but we hope that you know what a meaningful thing you are doing for her. To provide a means for her to receive notes and encouragement is very loving of you. Love to you all.
Marla, I'm sooo glad to hear that sense of humor is shining through! :-) We all know the strength and courage you possess and have no doubts that you will soon walk out of Craig and be able to enjoy the outdoors as much as you want! I haven't been able to come by in a while, but I keep updated on your progress and hope to come see you this weekend. Keep smiling and working hard and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers always! Mary, Leo and Mark: thanks so much for the website and being so strong for Marla! Hope to see you all soon, Brooke
Oh Mars, it is so fantastic to hear you are giggling. Every friend that you ever made that I'm still in contact all says that your smile and your laugh is your essence. I can't wait to see a photo of that smile, so Mark, get to work on that one! : ) I think of you every day and check the website often. My whole family does. Keep on truckin girlie. You'll be back to yourself before you know it. I'm reading that Over My Head book that your Mom recommended to better understand what might be going on with you. It sure is enlightening. Just wanted to say hello to let you know you are in my thoughts. Love you sweetie! Lynz
Hey chica! The sights and sounds of Glacier Peak: Donna and Carmella are reading aloud to each classroom for Celebrate Reading week. Donna read "Hooray for Diffendoofer Day!" to my class, and we all giggled the whole time, especially when she said "underpants!" There is a light snow falling, and it's actually sticking on the ground and on the cars. Maybe we'll get out of this drought after all. Today is Mardi Gras, and Meg and Wanda have some New Orleans jazz playing up in the office. The kiddos have left their snowboots, mittens, coats, and hats strewn about the classroom. :)Report cards go home today, I hear sighs of relief from everyone done with grades, finally! From Brandon's room comes the sound of xylophones and recorders. Remember when a certain music teacher kept all the recorders in a big bucket of water? Gross! My basket for the Silent Auction is filling up -- we chose the Dog Lover's basket, just for you! My additions: Because of Winn-Dixie and Where the Red Fern Grows, your favorites! Most of all, we just miss you! Everyday we hope and pray for your continued progress. The kids talk about you every day, and ask me every Monday how you're doing. Steve says hello! Love you, see you soon!M
Hi Marla, I have been thinking about you and keeping you in my prayers daily. I had to have Vanessa show me how to get in to this so I hope you get this message. It is CSAP time and I am stressed. Vanessa keeps us, at Malley, posted as to how you are doing. It is also so nice getting e-mails from your family. My love to you and I hope to come and visit soon as it has been awhile since I was there. Love Dee
Dear Marla and family, We are so happy to hear of your wonderful progress, Marla. We think of you often and fondly rmember our Sopris Barracuda/neighbor days. Sarah sends her regards from Flagstaff where she is a neo natal intensive care nurse. With your great spirit and support from your family and friends may each day be better than the last.
Hello! Marla,Mary, Leo and Mark Lots of healing thoughts for you. The fundraiser and bake sale will be a success. I look forward to seeing you and embracing you, Mary. Continuous prayers for your recovery, dear Marla. Annig and Howard
Marla and Family, Though my sister Vanessa Garcia keeps me informed on your progress it is so wonderful to see the progression for myself through this amazing website. I met you once Marla in 1999, but once is all it took to see the true friend your are to Vanessa. Your caring and positive nature will carry you through on Angels wings. Your in my thoughts and prayers. Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Dina Perez
Dear Marla, I dont know if you can read these or if mark and your dedicated family and friends can read this to you, but here goes. . . You have always been, and always will be the light of the lives of the people around you. There are countless of us out here that have a whole in our lives without your smiling face. No matter how serious the extent of your injuries, all of us will cherish the time we spent with you and bring that light to others around us....because of you. I personally can only remember times when you made me smile. Never once was there a time that i could keep a frown with you around. I will keep you in my thoughts during your recovery and wish you the very best. You are a fighter! I know you have a long road ahead but think back to these notes of encouragement when you are down (which is never) and share in the strength that you have given. It is difficult to think positive in a world of strife, however if there is something like Kharma you have credit beyond belief. My thoughts and love go out to you and thanks to Mark for giving the rest of us a place to get updated information. I will definately be checking in on you in the future. Matt Kaufman
Hey you, it's me again.... I just wanted to let you know what a great time I had yesterday with you. It almost felt like "old times". After many Sunday visits I finally left with a huge smile on my face. Even though your vocabulary is limited I felt like we were definetly communicating with our eyes and bodies... it was great. The best part was to see you smile and chuckle...boy that was great! My hope is renewed and my faith is greater in you... I love you mucho and can't wait to do it again. Much love to your family too and see ya when I get back from Albuquerque (Annalises's 1st birthday party with family). Love, Ness
Marla our dear friend, You are in our thoughts every day. It is an ache in our hearts that you are amidst such a difficult journey. But we are so happy that you are recovering and that you are ALIVE! We love you, Marla. We would like to come visit you, maybe this weekend. We have hugs and love for you. Hang in there! Feel our love and friendship in your own heart. Hope to see you soon. Love, Nem, Davie and Syana
Hi Marla - sounds like you are getting stronger every day. Joe, Brad and I will be in Denver to visit with you this coming Wednesday, March 5th and we are looking forward to seeing you again. Keep up the good work. Love, Aunt Judy
Dear Marla - I remember being on the Sopris Barracudas when both you and Mark coached. I have wonderful memories of the swim team days. :-) Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you make your recovery. God bless, Angie
Marla, Please continue to surprise your doctors and family in your recuperation. We pray for you and think of you often. God Bless You Matt, Kaye and Ian Newcomb
Hi, Marla! I haven't seen you in years, (probably 10 at least) but I think of you whenever I remember our fun days of soccer, theater and key club. You too, Mark! I live in New York now with my husband Peter and was reading the PostIndependent online when I came across your story. At first I was very upset and saddened, but after reading the updates on this website, I feel much better knowing you are making such remarkable progress. I wouldn't have expected any less from you! I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Love from the East Coast, Kelly
Dearest Marla, It was so good to see you at Craig Hospital. You and your family show so much courage and love for each other. Thank you for providing this wonderful website. We have enjoyed viewing your friends and pets, and catching up on the years that have passed. You are making some amazing progress! We were so happy to hear that you have been able to go outdoors several times. We continue to pray for your recovery, and send our love to you and your family. Love, Kathy, Hayley and Beau Harris
Hi Marla, Leo, Mary,and Mark. Your web site Marla is great. Great picture! Can't wait to see you back hiking in the moutains, or taking daily walks with your mom. We all miss seeing you and your family and are so thankful for the updates we receive. Thank you for sharing so much of your life with us, what a an incredible spirit you and your family have. We are thinking about you Marla and send daily prayers your way. I hope you're not racing your dad down the hallways in your wheelchair, you might beat him. Actually, we hope you are racing down the hallways, only give your dad a running chance. Take care now and God Bless. So hello to your family for us. You are all incredible with how you are facing your daily challenges. Stay tuned to the encouragements and love God sends you. The miracle of family is one of God's gifts, and your family certainly is at the top of his list. Gary, Pat and Boys.
Hi Marla, My daughter Kristine Butt Del Rio called to tell of of your unexpected hospitalization as she lives in GWS (and we, her parents, moved back to California in 1989) I have been following your progress and I want to send good thoughts your way. I work in a neuro-trauma ICU here in California and I've seen miracles happen. It all takes time and with determination, you will get through this. I'd like to send my best wishes to you, your Mom and Dad and to Mark. Keep up the good work. You have come so far. I'll keep checking your website for your updates. Maureen Butt (Los Gatos, California)