From Our Board President
Dear Fellow Countryside Members and Friends –
Many of you know that Robin and I, along with our son Steven, were in an auto accident on Saturday, November 29. We were taking Steven to O’Hare airport for his flight back to Philadelphia after his visit for Thanksgiving. I was driving and we were on Northwest Highway in Arlington Heights when I unexpectedly suffered a seizure and lost consciousness. Thankfully, Robin quickly realized I was having a problem, and from the passenger seat, she grabbed the steering wheel and worked to steer the car away from oncoming traffic. It was snowing so we weren’t going very fast, but the snow made it difficult to control the car. I was still unconscious with my foot on the gas pedal, which caused the car to weave from side to side with even slight movements of the steering wheel. Finally, Robin could only steer the car toward the opposite side of the road, and we crashed into a parked car. As a result of the crash Robin sustained a broken right wrist (she’s right-handed of course) and Steven broke his nose. While our car was a total loss, I had no significant physical injuries other than bruises on my chest, thankfully. All three of us were taken to the hospital by ambulance and Robin and Steven were treated and released the same day. I finally regained consciousness later that day. I stayed in the hospital for two more days while doctors conducted a series of tests and scans. I was prescribed seizure medicine and was referred to a neurologist who I saw a week and a half later. He reviewed the test results and scans but could not determine the cause of my seizure. However, I can’t drive by myself, nor should I go out without someone accompanying me for at least 6 months. While that is frustrating, considering that the outcome of the accident could have been much worse, I am grateful.
Robin and I are grateful for the response from the Countryside community. To Rev Pam and Rev Karen, and Ellen Vinzani and the Lay & Care Ministry, to others who made meals, sent cards, called us to find out how we are, or gave us rides or sent positive vibes, we can’t thank you enough. You helped make a very difficult situation bearable.
As I mentioned, I won’t be able to drive for about 6 months and Robin won’t be able to drive until her wrist heals, so you may not see me at CCUU as often as in the past, but I’ll try to attend as often as I can get a ride. In the meantime, I ask for your patience and understanding as we heal.
On a brighter note, our year-end fundraising campaign, Sustaining Our Spirit, was a success. We came within $500 of our goal of $15,000, and I thank you all very much for your generous support.
Finally, I was heartened to see robust attendance at the first service and potluck of the new year. We’re starting the year off on a positive note. Let’s keep it up!
Thank you for being a part of this amazing spiritual community,
Gary LaBedz, Board President