MEDICAL UPDATE WEDNESDAY 1:23 PM
Cody and I went down for his series of hearing test this morning and unfortunately found out that he will be permanently deaf in his left ear. As of now there is no option for surgery and the things they have to help basically carry sound over to his right ear. Oddly enough the contraption looks like an option from 1980 however we are blessed it is just the one ear.
We can look into all the options at a later date as there are so many areas to stay focused on right now. I felt just awful this morning like a solid punch to the gut discussing the news. He seems to be taking it okay but I can tell he is sad as any of us would be. He is napping now and I will wake him up shortly for lunch and Meds.
I think it is starting to sink in to him how long this road will be. I am trying to keep him in good spirits and we will continue to take the good with the bad.
We are blessed in so many ways we know but bad news is bad news and he is allowed to feel that as we do.
The upside is the starting gate buzzer is loud so he can still rip down the mountain, people who have hearing impairment over time have an increase of all other senses and sensations, and unlike most guys he actual will have selective hearing so girls can't fault him for that.
For Now Until Then
Draven
So sorry to hear the news --- That sux!!!
Hopefully, as you mentioned, Mother Nature will rework his abilities and compensate for any loss in the best manner possible.
Personally, I always hope, even if things do not look so good, that results will prove to be wrong ... cross your fingers, and always keep up some hope, that maybe, someday, somehow, he may hear again in his left ear. If not, I love the perspective, that he can tell us females that yes, truly, he has selective hearing ;-]
Again -- I am soooo sorry to hear that news!!!
Colby
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I'm sorry to hear about your hearing loss, Cody. My hearing has always been less than perfect - a genetic defect - so I can honestly tell you - you will adjust. All of us who have followed your blog are so very grateful for your recovery. You are doing absolutely phenomenal! And having gone through an ordeal similar to what your family has been through, I can honestly say - you've got the BEST family I've come across in a long time. They're extraordinary. Their love for you has shined since the beginning day of your blog. They have always been in your corner and with a great group of people like them - you're sure to be back on the ski slopes!
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D-Man, Cody
Sorry to read the bad news about Cody's left ear. That for sure is not what you and Cody wanted to find out today. And like you had mentioned, its like getting punched when you are already down.
Hopefully with technology going as fast as it is, there will be some better news in the near future. And maybe we as racers, coaches we can have the FIS officials turn up the beepers at the start house. (They should make that a new rule). ***The Cody Rule***, you get more volume on you starts.
Draven, the updates for Cody are very informative and helping in understanding where Cody is heading with his recovery. Please take care of yourself as well so you can be strong for the Cody Man.
And maybe the course setters could set race courses with right hand turns only, that way Cody could hear the skis and the snow better.
Take care,
Coach "Woody" Brackney/ USSA TD
Mt. Holly Snowsports School/ Mi.
Thunderbolt Training Centers/ USSA
Fenton High School Ski Team
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CODY!!!!! I'm about to leave my job in southern Vermont and be offline for a bit, but please know that I've been "watching" you on here for the last few weeks, and cheering you on from here! Lots of busy times ahead for you, sounds like ... for me, too. About to get HITCHED. Yup, you missed the boat. And I'm moving to Boston to go back to school and help coach the BC ski team. Keep rockin' and remember how many of us are out there thinking of you and sending good vibes. Big love, Emily
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Hi Cody and family, This is Ron & Jenette Colton from Pittsfield Vermont. We have been following your progress since the accident. I do not know if you remember but our son Ron II had a TBI, and many many other serious injuries on Feb. 23 1995, as the result of a horrific vehicle accident. He was in a coma for 8 weeks, and at the age of 19 was an infant again. He had to learn everything, and I mean everything, over again. It is absolutely essential that Cody have a family member at his side 24/7. The only way our son survived was that Jenette or I was with him 24/7 for 4 months until we could bring him home. Then came the months of therpy.Today he is married has 3 children and runs his own business. Cody, it is essential that you not look to far ahead as long term things will take care of themselves. Concentrate on today and what progress you can make today. You are young and have a loving family at your side. You are far better off than our son was and I am sure you will make an amazing recovery. Things probably will not go fast enough for you guys but everyday progress is made is another day towards the new Cody. If you can believe this we look back at the our sons accident now and see it as a turning point in our sons life. The new Ron II is a much better person than the old Ron II even with his short term memory problems and all. Keep the faith and remember one day at a time. We have your whole family in our prayers. Ron & Jenette Colton
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Hey Cody!
Like others, I'm sorry to hear about your hearing not being as good as it used to be. I think Draven has the right idea, though! Look at the positives! I know that with my TBI, everything became louder and brighter (visually), so while it may be a bummer to hear the news, there is a silver lining...things won't be so loud! (and you can ignore the annoying gals!) That's good, right?!
Draven, is a cochlear implant a possibility? Hearing happens with both bone conduction and air conduction, so there may be different options depending on the type of loss (sensori-neural vs. conductive hearing loss (bone)). Just something to ask docs about if you haven't already.
Something else to consider...there may also be a change in his hearing after he has the flap put back into place. Again, bone conduction is a way that we hear, so the vibrations may not completely be up to par until that flap is replaced. Keep the faith.
Get some rest, and keep looking on the positive side of things!
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cody, big bummer about the ear however my dad loss his hearing a long time a go but it never affected his skiing.he just has to sit on the right side of the chair to be part of the conversation. on the plus side for his 60th bday i got him his level one def cert. and at 73 he is still teaching with the adaptive program at sunapee. so not to worry the human body can adapt and so will you
ed
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Hi Cody, i am bummed to read the news about your hearing, my stomach and my heart sank, but just as I do everytime I read this, you have to remember to count your blessings and not dwell on the unfortunate parts. you have to remember that you took a nasty spill and you are here to talk about it and I, along with everyone else sitting on the edge of their seats awaiting the next update, could not be happier for that. you continue to amaze me with your recovery, and it sounded like you were kicking ass at pt, so keep it up. stay focused, dont let this get you down, and just think you have an excuse now to completely ignore stupid people, no one's gonna say shit to you for not answering them when you tell them you're deaf in one ear! i know a few people that have lost their hearing in one ear and i had no idea this was the case until they told me. you're gonna be just fine. stay strong cody, we are all here cheering you on. all the love and positive thoughts i got coming your way, kate
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as much as that sucks about the one ear we are greatful he can still hear! my husband is deaf in his right ear from IED's in Iraq and just working around artillery and the selective hearing thing is so true! only thing is cody cant use that excuse in the car because his is on the left! my hubby tries to get away with it all the time because its his right ear. so if hes driving and im sitting in the passenger seat he never listens. But really I have hope Cody is young and medicine is always improving and the body does make up for it. My Husbands pretty much a master at lip reading (though he always accuses me of cursing when Im not!grr) But dont give up hope yet there new cures and treatments everyday and ultimately it is a small bump in the road that can be overcome. I have learning disabilities and struggle to over come those issues everyday but you have to look for the blessings and purpose. I know now that I can understand some people on a level others cant and i try to use that to help others. and Cody can be one of those people now and help others understand what is going on. best wishes I know you will all get through this just keep your eyes on the prize and try to find propose in the struggles.
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Hey Draven and Cody!!
Sorry to hear about the news of your ear. However, it is true, now you'll have an excuse when you don't want to listen to the ladies.... I just want you to know that I stopped into the Pittsfield Country Store today on my way to Killington and there on the counter is a container with your beautiful Cosmopolitan smile. There were many donations in there supporting you and your family and it made me very happy to see some home town love!! Keep your chin up and working hard, it will pay off Codeman!!
Draven- thanks so much for keeping us updated....btw, where are the tee-shirts?? I bought mine the day you put them up online, and I'm worried that something happened...let me know thanks. My email is Julesczes@gmail.com
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Cody...it sucks that you have lost your hearing in your left ear. I am sorry for this. BUT that is why you have 2 ears! You will just hear better out of the right ear and have a great excuse when you don't want to talk to someone. Humans are super adaptable and it will just mske you a better person overall.
Everything happens for a reason..
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Awww, Code - you're such a freaking rockstar, you didn't need that ear anyway!
You gotta get better and get up and at 'em so you can show me those dance moves everyone's been talking about! I haven't had the pleasure to see them yet...I can't believe it. I guess that's because the Coyote doesn't have a dance floor. Damn.
Well I guess that just means we'll have to make one next time. So, see you out there, buddy! Not only will this whole 1 ear of hearing thing help to tune out the nagging lady, but it will also help when the music is too loud...to you it will always seem just right.
Wait a second...is this whole thing just a cover so Cody can use the excuse with the ladies?! Very smart, guys... (just kidding...). Smiles, praying for you Code.
Stay strong and keep the faith (and start honing your dance skills...cause I owe ya one),
Meg
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Cody: It is tough to deal with hearing loss. My Mom just ruptured her eardrum, and has also lost hearing in her left ear.It affects your balance at first, until your body learns to adjust. You are an incredible athlete with great balance, so you will get accustomed to it faster than most people. You know you have a challenging road ahead of you, but you can handle it! We are all praying for your recovery and cheering the good news each day. I agree with draven- now you have an excuse when you do not listen to the girls- LOL
This is tough, and I know there will be other tough days during your rehab- it is work, but you can do it, you're a world class athlete!!!
I know the days are long, but when I get an email from "Think Cody", I stop whatever I'm doing, think of you and say a quick prayer -that your day goes well. Thank you for keeping us updated, the world is cheering each day of your road to recovery!!!
Get some rest- everyone- our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Todd's
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Hi Cody and family,
I don't know you guys, but heard about Cody on the news, and have been following the blog. I just wanted to thank you for keeping such an accurate, HONEST account of what Cody is going through--it'll make it that much better for him to read it once he's back on his skis! I am keeping your family in my thoughts, and wish you all the strength you need to get through this. Go Cody Go! Can't wait to see the great Cody story NBC will put together at the Olympics this winter when he's kicking butt again after overcoming his current challenge!
Sincerely,
Kaitlin
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Hey Cody,
Keep fighting buddy! From all of us on the Canadian ski team, (tech group especially of course) we're following your progress and can't wait to see you back out here!
Mike, Brad, Trevor, Pat, Cousi, JP, Ryan, and everyone else.
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Hey Cody- my husband is deaf in one ear, perhaps that's why we have been married for over 25 years
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I guess we will just have to play your music louder and now you can tune me out. You were already good at this. Keep kicking butt Cody!! Miss you! See you soon.
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Cody!
Hi from New Zealand. I was watching your sister today and she was ripping. We are all thinking of you down here and I can't wait to see you back skiing again. Just know I'm always thinking of you and sending you all the good vibes that I've got! I love listening to you and Chelsea talk on skype, you sound better every day. Keep on truckin' Cody!!!!!
keels
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I too have experienced a TBI and also lost the hearing in my left ear. I was in the accident in 07'. The hardest part about it is the loss of balance in the beginning. Your one ear can 100% compensate for the balance lost. I still have some issues with balance, but I am doing great considering. The other hard part that I have experienced is being in loud restaurants and other loud places, its really hard to hear. I would love to talk to Cody or family and help in any way I could, because there is a lot of things and people that can help that others may not know about. We have the best professional medical and therapudic help here in Utah that some are not aware of. So please let me help if I can. (801)678-7458. Fletch
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Hi Cody,
Just reading today's news. Obviously, it must be difficult to take, but think of all the sweet shows you'll just have to be that much closer to the front for! Conor up close, live is gonna be great. Not that you two aren't buds anyway, but...
Keep fighting Cody. Have patience. All things are difficult before they become easy.
Lots of love,
Marina & Chip
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Cody, did you ever notice that some of your best race results come when your focus is elevated because you have to overcome some physical issue that you have, such as a minor injury, sickness, or a hangover? As you know, ski racing, like baseball (according to Yogi Berra) is "90 percent mental, and the other half is physical". Your body, mind, and ski racer psyche will be able to overcome any physical balance and hearing deficiency. Not that it will be easy, but I think you're up to the challenge.
My sister totally and permanently lost her hearing and balance, due to nerve damage from meningitis when she was three. Despite that, she was a successful junior racer at the VT state level, and this was before there was such a thing as "adaptive" racing. They just waved her out of the start, tapped her shoulder, or she lip-read "go". Ultimately it wasn't physical ability that limited her racing career - she just didn't have the drive and desire to get to the higher levels, and she had other interests like most teenage girls.
As far as her balance, the funny thing for us as kids was, it was physically impossible to get her dizzy, as she had no nerves connecting her inner ear balance organs. So from now on, you'll be half dizzy, I guess, so no change there. In any case, you can look forward to lots of slack-lining!
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Cody,
I have been meaning to write for so long, but never knew exactly what to say.
I hope you realize what an insperation you are to us all! I love following your progress and tune in daily to see what Draven has written. Keep up your positive energy eventhough its a struggle sometimes. While I never met you, I too a former racer, know you will be back to your old self very soon.
You are simply amazing!
Hang in there!
Aggie
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YO Cody! I am really sorry to hear about your ear. That is a bummer but you are a tough guy and will be ok.
NZ is good, except today i felt like I was skiing with duct tape on my eyes or something because it was so foggy! But you will be glad to know that Chelsea got an awesome compliment from Alex, he said on the radio that she was the only one skiing ok! Thats pretty huge because we all feel like a bunch of gapers because we can't see and it's injected and just really not that easy. So at least Chelsea is doing things right, I know you would be proud!
We all miss you and will be back soon to annoy you at all hours of the day, so rest up because we are a comin!
Keep up the good work!
alice
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Good morning Cody & Draven,
This is our first message, but we have been watching your progress closely since your accident. We are a GMVS family from Warren; Caroline raced with Tucker starting as as a J6 and Sarah is now a J2. Our hearts and mental energy are with you every day as you make GREAT progress in your healing. You are doing SO incredibly well! Be patient and find joy and satisfaction in the small steps forward and don't let the disappointments slow you down. The road may be bumpy, but always moves forward.
Draven, you are our new hero! Hope you are getting enough rest and nourishment. Thank you for keeping everyone informed and for being Cody's advocate. Hugs to Cody, you and all the Marshalls from the McHughs in Vermont.
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Hey Marshall's family
so much time that i didn't check Cody's improvment
i don't understand every medical words
so i really hope that, except off his left ear, cody's doing better and better
i know this is a long road but i send you all my energy to pass trought it
just keep going, keep smiling
and go for it
with all my affection
Julien
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Hey bud,
I'm pulling for you, everyone is super excited to hear the large strides you have already made.
About your hearing, everyone knows you didn't like to listen to other people anyway, now you have a great excuse!
Keep on fighting. I'll be in SLC in a week, you better believe I'll be paying you a visit. GO CODY
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Hi Cody:
It will be a challenge not having things the way they were before the accident. You have been accustomed to being able to see, hear and feel things in a certain way and now some or all of that has changed.
Because of these changes, you may feel angry and isolated (and lots of other things!) Your family and friends are here to support you 100% as you confront and adapt to these changes and challenges.
Each day, you grow stronger and wiser.
Remind your family and friends to take care of themselves while they take care of you.
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Hey Cody -
The hearing thing is a total bummer, but i agree with the guy who said that's why you've got 2 ears! also, everyone is mentioning tuning out the ladies.... i was thinking this might be better for tuning out the folks poking and prodding you lately. I mean, if you're going to be difficult (which you KNOW you shouldn't be), then you can just blame it on the hearing, right?
and when coaches tell you something you don't want to hear, just turn the other way and you are all set!
Keep on truckin' with your awesome progress. I'm working from home today and able to enjoy looking at Mount Snow all the day long. It's not big or fancy, but it's home. And i'm hoping to hear that you are back home soon!
Sarah D
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Hey Codeman,
I am doing my trek to the library to check on you, and I am also walking thundering brook so it is a win win situation. I can Catch up on you and get some exercise. I am sorry to hear the news about your left ear, but happy to hear your right ear will be working. Try to remember to turn a negative into a positive . We were all so happy when Kate called us and told us she talked to you for over an hour on the phone. It sent chills up my spine. You are making such progress Codeman. NO matter how small they are all going in the right direction. Your such a great athlete and your attidue means so much to your recoverey... You keep up that positive attitude. We are all thinking and praying for you and can't wait to hear of your next accomplishment. Go codeman go.....
Karen Mcd.
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Cody, sorry to hear about the issue with your left ear. While this certainly is not a positive development, it is not something that will hold someone like you back down the road.
I remember quite a few years ago taking Anders and one of his friends to US Nationals at Whiteface when they were J4s. You and Jesse (and Chelsea?) were competing and it was classic spring racing. No amount of salt or feverish efforts by the race crew was going to prevent hip deep ruts for the GS. I believe this was your first season back after having your knee fixed. You and I talked for a few minutes after the first run. One part of that conversation sticks in my mind. I asked you how your knee was doing to which you responded “it’s going to be sore tonight”. The boys and I went up to watch the second run. I couldn’t help thinking that the snow that day was not exactly knee friendly. When you came down you were absolutely putting the hammer down. I vividly remember thinking…”holy sh*t…that kid has got big….appendages”. That quick assessment didn’t include other qualities you have….Fight, spirit, and determination. It’s amazing how far you’ve come since that day. Your knee issues didn’t prevent you from achieving amazing things….Your ear won’t either.
Go Cody go!
-Peter
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Cody-
I miss our short but very to the point phone conversations!!! Your wit will never leave you. Sorry to hear about the Left Ear, but that shouldn't hinder your tetris playing.
Take Care!
Ben
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Hi Cody,
I ran across this story and thought of you. You've made such huge progress amidst the struggle. There's a lesson in there someplace for why we need a struggle to make gains someplace else. I'm sure your hearing will be the same...
The Struggle
By: Author Unknown
A man found a cocoon of an emperor moth. He took it home
so he could watch the moth come out of the cocoon.
On that day, a small opening appeared. He sat and watched
it for several hours as the moth struggled to force its
body through that little hole. Then it seemed to stop
making any progress. It appeared as if it had gotten as far
as it could, and it could go no farther. It just seemed to
be stuck.
Then the man, in his kindness, decided to help the moth.
He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining
bit of the cocoon. The moth then emerged easily. But it had
a swollen body and small, shriveled wings. The man
continued to watch the moth. He expected that at any moment
the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support
the body, which would contract in time.
Neither happened! In fact, the little moth spent the rest
of its life crawling around with a swollen body and
shriveled wings. It never was able to fly. What the man in
his kindness and haste did not understand was that the
restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the moth
to get through the tiny opening was the way of forcing
fluid from the body of the moth into its wings, so that it
would be ready for flight once it achieved its freedom from
the cocoon.
Freedom and flight would only come after the struggle. By
depriving the moth of a struggle, he deprived the moth of
health. Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need in our
life. If we were to go through our life without any
obstacles, we would be crippled. We would not be as strong
as what we could have been. Give every opportunity a chance.
Good luck! Keep on. Also wanted to let you know, I've started an exercise program---you've given me inspiration to stay motivated and keep at it!
Barbara Ann
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I am a 67 year old ex-national team member ('62 FIS)Nancy Sise. Lost hearing and balance nerve in 1996 due to acoustic neuroma. After some intensive PT, NO PROBLEMS WITH SKI RACING! Tell Cody that it doesn't take long to get used to unilateral hearing (except in crowded rooms), and yes, it has it's advantages when you really don't want to hear something!
Your family is amazing....I am moved by your story.
Nancy Sise Auseklis
Sun Valley, ID Master's National Champ.
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Yo Cody! Remember, slow and steady wins this race my friend! You are kickin' ass right now! You are surrounded by the best people in the world, who are kicking ass for you! Work hard, get strong!
Team Marshall, thanks again for your tireless efforts in keeping us all updated!
Hugs and goodness from the Salzano casa!
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Cody it is great to hear that every day you are moving forward, everyone down here in New Zealand is excited to get home and see the progress. Every day I am on the hill I think of you and it makes me thankful to be here. I look forward to the day when you will do the same, I am sure it will be sooner than anyone can imagine. Keep it up man!!!
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Cody:
I had a severe stroke when Lindsey was born, then went into a coma a week after - had a 50/50 chance of living - but I DID! Plus had four more kids (3 are triplets as you probably know! I've followed you from the very beginning - Vonn was going to go with Lindsey to NYC when you had your accident - Vonn called and told me. I promised I would write, but, of course, didn't until now.
I am so encouraged by your progress - keep it up! And if you EVER want to talk to someone who's gone through something somewhat similar, give me a call: 952-250-6486!
I'm here for you and praying for you.
Much love to you and your wonderful, supportive family!
Linda
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