News from the Fondrens:

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July 13, 2005

We talked to Jay last night. He told us that Micah is going to be a big brother!!! They are expecting again. The baby is due mid-March. Anne is doing well. They have been wanting a brother or sister for Micah. We are all very happy. Please pray with us for a healthy baby and uneventful pregnancy.
Jay thinks that they will be in DC for about 60 days and then they will be returning to Killeen. They have begun the paperwork for his medical boards. He thinks that he will be medically retired sometime this fall. Please pray for his strength and wisdom to make the right decisions.
Please continue to keep us covered in prayer.
Thanks,
Bobbie

13 Jun 05

From June 13th
We have been very busy this past month. We are thrilled that Jay, Anne, and Micah could be home. They have enjoyed seeing so many friends and meeting many of the people who have been praying for all of us. It has been a wonderful homecoming.

Many family members and friends came out and walked with us at the "1st Annual Hometown Heroes FunRun" in May. (The event honored all the soldiers, not just Jay.) We got to meet and greet many of our local soldiers and National Guard troops. The county judge declared the day as "Jay Fondren Day" in Navarro County. The mayor sent greeting and a key to the city. Jay and Anne got to meet and greet and feel all the love and support that we have been getting. It was a great day.

Jay was welcomed home at First Baptist Church. Dr. Cunningham recognized Jay and Anne in the Sunday morning service and a reception was held after the evening service. Jay thanked the church for all the love, prayers, and support. He talked to the children's division during Sunday School and will address the entire congregation at a later date.

On May 24, Jay went onto Ft. Hood and saw some of his men. I'm sure that it was quite a reunion. On May 25, the family traveled to Ft. Hood for the "Uncasing Ceremony and Memorial Dedication." We attended the gold star luncheon afterwards. We were honored to meet the Drake family and the Johnson family. Chad Drake and Justin Johnson were a couple of Jay's good friends. In the afternoon, there was an awards ceremony for Jay. He was presented with a Bronze Star and an Army Commendation Medal. Then we witnessed the changing of the command ceremony.
We met the following:
Major General Peter W. Chiarelli, Commanding General; Command Sergeant Major Neil Ciotola, Division Command Sergeant Major; Colonel Robert B. Abrams, Commander, 1st Brigade; Command Sergeant Major Stanley Small, Command Sergeant Major, 1st Brigade; Captain Wyzenski, and various members of his troop. We met Sgt. Collins, the medic who saved Jay's life. Words can not express all the emotions that we felt. We also got to meet the two soldiers who were in the humvee with Jay. They are doing fine. We met his whole group - top to bottom. We did not have any trouble getting past the front gate. We had an escort all day while at Ft. Hood. They met us off post, took us through the gate, and attended to our every need. We saw several soldiers around our hotel that morning; I think that we were not the only ones with special passes and escorts. I was grateful that no families had problems that day. We know that we are truly blessed to have Jay. We were honored to meet many of our soldiers, thank them, and welcome them home.

On Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, Jay brought in his flag at Memorial Baptist Church in Killeen. As each of their members deployed, they took out a flag to fly in front of their church. As each member returned, the flag was brought in. The morning that Jay brought in his flag, there were three purple heart recipients in the early service.

Jay has attended a couple of community events. Sunday evening of Memorial Day weekend, our friends at the Baptist church in Mildred invited us to a fish fry, honoring our local soldiers. On Memorial Day, Jay spoke at a ceremony at the Navarro County Courthouse. He spoke about the heroism of his troop, making special mention of Drake and Johnson.

Jay and Anne have spent some time at their home in Killeen. They have visited with family and friends and worshiped at their church. They had had a couple of doctor visits - Jay had a piece of shrapnel removed from his left leg. We celebrated Micah's first birthday with a cookout at their home!

Time is up on their 30 day leave. On Wednesday, they leave to drive back to DC. They have done many things on their list. There are many things that they did not get to do. There are many decisions to be made in the following weeks and months. Thank you for your love and support. Please keep us all covered in prayer: especially for wisdom, and for healing and rehab on Jay's hands and arms.

Thanks,

Bobbie

30May05

By DEANNA PLEMONS Daily Sun Staff

SSG Jay Fondren returned to Ft. Hood this week to participate in a ceremony Wednesday morning to honor his fallen comrades, and while there was awarded the Bronze Star.
Each family there was met upon arrival by a special escort, who stayed with them the remainder of the day.
Jay Fondren had gone ahead on Tuesday to Ft. Hood to see his men, and let the men see him prior to the memorial service. He wanted some one-on-one time, in a non-formal setting, before the somber ceremony.
The First Cavalry Division, America’s First Team Uncasing Ceremony and Memorial Dedication began at 9 a.m. The names of 161 fallen soldiers were read, as their “gold star” families listened. Fondren stood during the entire roll call, as the 161 names were read slowly, with pause between, and remained standing through the 21-gun salute, and the playing of “Taps.” He then saluted, and sat down.
“ We were very humbled,” said Bobbie Fondren, Jay’s mother. “We were reminded how fortunate we are to have Jay, when these other 161 gold star families from First Cav. don’t have their soldiers anymore. “We wanted to be there to support Jay, and show support for the gold star families, too.” The Fondrens especially wanted to meet the Drake and Johnson families, as their soldiers were two of Jay’s closest friends who didn’t make it back.

“It was really hard,” Bobbie said. “No matter what you say, no words can bring theirs back.”
That afternoon, an awards ceremony preceded the “changing of the guard.” Fondren received an Army commendation medal for “meritorious achievement as a squad leader during combat operations in
Baghdad, Iraq. His exceptional bravery enabled him to successfully evacuate a wounded soldier under intense small arms and RPG fire . His actions reflect great credit upon himself, the Ironhorse brigade, and the United States Army.”

“Jay said when they rescued him, it came full circle,” Bobbie explained.

The family was able to meet the medic who saved Jay’s life, as well as the two soldiers in the Humvee when he was hit at Ft. Hood Wednesday.

Fondren also received a bronze star medal presented by MG Peter Chiarelli on behalf of the President of the United States.

Capt. Leo Wyszynski, Fondren’s commander, was also injured while in Iraq. It was Wyszynski’s wish that Fondren receive his medals while still under his command. Immediately following the award ceremony, Wyszynski relinquished command to Cpt. James Henry. The Fondrens sat at Col. Robert Abrams’ table during the luncheon that day.

“It was very nice, and very moving,” Bobbie Fondren said. “The general explained what the soldiers are doing there, what their mission is, and that their sacrifices are not in vain. It was very humbling, very nice. Words can’t express ... it’s overwhelming, all the emotion.”
Bobbie said her son loves the Army life — the spit, the polish, pageantry, camaraderie, and wearing the uniform.
“He was back in his element among his men,” she said.

Fondren planned to remain at Ft. Hood the rest of the week. He will speak Monday at the courthouse for Memorial Day ceremonies.

“When Jay does well, we do well,” Bobbie said. “And Jay does well every day.”

—————

Deanna Plemons may be contacted via e-mail at deannap@corsicanadailysun.com

18 May 05

Jay, Anne, and Micah are home. We all drove in Monday afternoon. We switched cars and drivers in Mesquite. Anne drove the rest of the way home in the new van. Jay had ridden the entire trip in it. David, Micah, and I came behind in their Surburban. We had a blow-out (Firestone tires that came in the vehicle) in Ferris. A Texas Department of Transportation employee came along about 2 minutes after we pulled over. His name was Robert Ortega. He helped us unload all the stuff and find the tools and change the tire. Then he helped us repack. He refused anything except a handshake and a "Thank you." He was not a member of
the "courtesy patrol" but he said that it was part of his job to see that we arrived at our destination safely.
Several friends and family members came over last night. Jay was really happy to be home. He talked and laughed. Everyone was in good spirits. It is really nice to have them home, even if only a short visit. There are many decisions to be made while they are here. Please pray for us for wisdom and patience. Thank you for keeping us covered in prayer.
Bobbie

4 May 05 [Jay]

Anne and I have been moved to the Hilton in downtown Silver Spring. The hospital provides transportation to and from the hotel. Our room is a little smaller than the one we had the Molghne House. We have a huge bed and a role in shower. We also have a doorbell. The breakfast is much better than at the hospital. In and I enjoy walking to downtown Silver Spring area, were we can go to a movie and go out eat. Last night, we met Pam and John and their two kids at Red Lobster. We are enjoying our new temporary home, but we are looking forward to getting to Texas, will be home for 30 days, but it will be busy. We plan on putting our house on the market, going to BAMC, saying hello to Corsicana, and spending time with family and friends. Well, that's a brief synopsis of what's going on in our lives right now. I'm also doing this to test how I can use Outlook on my laptop.

Love Jay Anne and Micah

27 Apr 05

This is Jobeth. I am sending the update for Mom. Jay went shopping by himself on Friday. He got on the shuttle at the Molonge House. He transfered from his chair into a regular sit. Jay went shopping at the comissary and at the PX. He bought a soda and opened
it by himself. Jay drank it and disposed of the can. Jay got back on the shuttle and returned to the Molonge House. It was a four hour shopping trip. Micah has been sick, but he seems to be doing better. Jay has begun water therapy. Anne and Micah get in the pool with him. Micah said "DaDa" for the first time while they were in the water therapy pool.

Sincerely,
Jobeth Proud Sister of Hero Jay

21 Apr 05 [cumulative]

Jay called tonight and talked a long time. He had gone to a MSL soccer game and he wanted to tell us all about it. He had a great time. Some of the players came by and talked to him. They had a lot in common and many things to discuss. He was in his element. Last night, they went to a baseball game in DC. They enjoyed both outings.
Last week, Jay and Anne went skiing in Colorado. The following link has an article and a photo of Jay: Jay met lots of people and had a wonderful time. He learned lots of things to do and lots of what-not-to-do. He learned about airports, flying, and hotels. The trip out of Colorado was turbulent because of the stormy weather. The rest of the trip was calmer.
Jay has been working in PT to regain the strength that he had before the trip. He has been working hard to return to walking. He has been working in OT on his fine motor skills. He said that he will take his legs with him from now on and continue walking daily.
Today, he had a nerve test on his left hand. The nerves are all there, although very diminished. He said that he is able to slightly move the fingers on his right hand. I was thrilled. The last time that I saw Jay, he could not move those fingers at all. He said that they are getting some fittings so that he can attach his toothbrush to his wrist because his hand gets tired before he is finished brushing his teeth. He is getting several attachments for the fittings to help him with everyday tasks.
Anne is doing fine. She has had to rearrange their room. Micah has learned to crawl!!! He is able to crawl out of his playpen and onto the bed with Jay and Anne. This is good for somethings, but not all the time. They moved him into a deeper playpen. They also bought a bigger stroller for Micah. Now he has toys attached that keep him occupied and entertained. He is also able to lean back and take a nap. He had outgrown the other little stroller. Anne has gotten the room straightened and everything unpacked from their trip. They are all getting settled back into their routines.
Anne and Jay are planning to come home in mid-May for about a month. The 1st Cav has a bunch of things planned and Jay wants to be there. They will also be here with us, visiting the family. I can't wait to see them. Time will fly and they will be here. Then it will really fly and they will be back in DC.
Thanks for keeping us covered in prayer. Please continue to do so.
Bobbie

KILLEEN DISABLED VETERAN SKIS THE GREAT ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Snowmass, Colo. -- April 7, 2005 -- Jay Fondren, an Army veteran from Killeen, Texas,is enjoying the challenge of skiing, and an opportunity for self-development at the 19th National Disabled Veterans Winter Soprts Clinic. The Clinic is taking place April 3 - 8 in Snowmass Village, Colo. Established in 1987, the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic is the largest annual rehabilitation event of its kind in the world. It is co-sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Fondren, 25, a combat-wounded veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom, is among more than 300 U.S. military veterans from 47 states who have gathered in Snowmass to learn or improve their skills in adaptive Alpine and Nordic skiing and snowboarding. The Clinic promotes rehabilitation by teaching downhill and cross-country skiing to veterans with significant physical or visual impairments. It also offers a variety of adaptive activities and sports for Fondren to take part in, including scuba diving, rock climbing, sled hockey, snowmobiling and self-defense. Nearly 50 veterans recently injured in Iraq are participating in the Clinic this year.
Fondren, is an amputee , (both legs above the knee and right thumb), and receives care at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., He is a beginner skier and will Alpine (downhill) ski using an adapted device or method for disabled skiers (Ski descriptions are posted on the Clinic's web site: www.wintersportsclinic.org. See Adaptive Skiing page.)
" It's nice to meet others with disabilities similar to mine," said Fondren, a first time skier at the Winter Sports Clinic. "It's good to be able to learn from others who are here."

With 1,300 health care facilities across the United States, VA is a recognized leader in rehabilitative and recreational therapies. DAV is a nonprofit, Congressionally chartered veterans service organization with a membership of more than one million wartime disabled veterans. The Winter Sports Clinic provides disabled veterans with sports and leisure activities that they may have felt were closed to them because of their disabilities. All Clinic activities demonstrate that having a physical or visual disability need not be an obstacle to an active, rewarding life.

By: RaymondLinex II/Daily Sun Staff

Fun runs aren't supposed to be this fun.

Next month, Army Staff Sgt. Jay Fondren is expected home in Corsicana, longtime friend Echo Storch said Thursday. While he is here, Storch, the YMCA and others will put on a fun run similar to December's Jingle Bell Jog, with all the proceeds going to Fondren's benefit fund.
There will be no Santa Claus, but Fondren is expecting to take part in the 1K walk portion of the event, and he is expected to hand out trophies to the winners, Storch said.(The 1K) gives him something to work toward said Storch, a childhood friend who once played soccer with Fondren before gender differences sent them to separate teams. We hope that everyone comes out and walks with him.
The event is still in the works, she said will be scheduled for May 21, or Armed Forces Day. Fondren was injured the week of Thanksgiving in a roadside blast in Iraq, and lost both of his legs while suffering other major injuries.
He continues his miraculous recovery at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C., and even went skiing in Colorado recently. The fun run will also include 5K and 10K runs. Storch said preregistration is $15, but participants can sign up the day of the event for $20. She is looking for help, both pre-race and the day of. We are looking for someone to help with the set-up cost, she said. All of the money we get is going to his fund, but we have to have a little to get things going. If people want to help (May 21) too, that would be great. In addition that day, Fondren will be pulling the winning raffle ticket for a Remington model 700 rifle, sponsored by the Winkler Masonic Lodge. Ticket sales will start soon, she said, and will be available at Jesse's Gun Shop, B&G Auto Parts, Smith General Store and the Corsicana Daily Sun.

They will also be available online at http://jay.s2technology.org, she said.
Raffle tickets will be $2 each, or three for $5.

There is one more Fondren fundraiser upcoming too, Storch said. She and other friends will be manning a food booth at Derrick Days April 30. Bill's Fried Chicken is donating barbecue and Mrs. Baird's is donating buns, and all of the proceeds are going to the Fondren fund.

For more information on any of the fundraisers, contact Storch at (979) 575-5717
Raymond Linex II may be contacted via e-mail at rlinex@corsicanadailysun.com

Excerpts from Raymond Linex II/ Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 17/Apr/05 , www.corsicanadailysun.com

This is Bobbie. Here is the latest news.

Jay, Anne, and Micah had a wonderful week. Katie, Jay's sister and Anne's former roommate, arrived on Saturday morning, March 5. She played with Micah and visited with Anne and Jay. Their friends, Brad and M'Leigha, drove Anne and Jay's new surburban to Washington DC. They arrived on Tuesday night. Brad went to PT and OT with Jay. They had time for "male bonding." Katie, M'Leigha, and Anne did "girl things".
This week, Jay rode a stationary bicycle. The therapist said that they had never had a BLAK (bilateral above the knee) amputee ride a bike. Jay said that he would be the first. He pushed down with his left leg while pulling up with his right. He rode the bike for about 5 minutes.
They all went to the Smithsonian. On Friday, they went to the pentagon. There was a special recognition for the wounded warriors. Jay was happy that everyone was there with him. Katie had planned to return on Friday, but decided to stay until Saturday. She said that she was really glad she stayed. The pentagon trip was not a thing to be missed.
One of Jay's legs has shrunk more. The old "fittings" for the prosthetic no longer fits. He had to be recast. Brad helped in the recasting process. Jay had to be cast while standing, so Brad helped support him.
David picked up all three travelers at the airport on Saturday morning. They were tired, but very happy. They had had a wonderful week.

Note from Ken: David and Bobbie went to Ft Hood on Saturday afternoon, hoping to be able to greet the soldiers from Jay's unit who returned from Iraq. There wasn't adequate staff on duty to clear all the people who turned out, so they, along with many others, didn't get on base in time for the welcome home ceremony. David was hoping to meet those who had saved Jay's
life right after he was hit by the bomb and thank them. We had a note from an SIL couple who visited with Jay and Anne and
Micah. "We visited Friday afternoon, 4 March, for only a little while as we could tell Jay was tired after working all day. We could tell he has been through so very much in his young life and still has a lot of therapy to go over the next months.
However, we want to say, as you already know, God is definitely going with them through it all. I'm sure Anne gets very tired and maybe even discouraged at times, but we were so impressed at her strong and mature faith, seemingly doing very well and looking to God for the future. We were also impressed with the therapy and programs available at Walter Reed! They are great at making this a family thing...after all, this is the way things will be for them from now on. Learning to cope with things together is the way to go."

10 Mar 04

This is Bobbie.
I had the priviledge of visiting the Jay, Anne, and Micah the weekend of Feb 25-28. We had a great time. I got to see Jay walk. I took lots of photos. Anne showed me that my digital camera will take a short video, so I also have a couple of videos of him walking. I am still trying to figure out how to download them from the camera.
I am amazed at how well Anne is doing taking care of her family. She cares for Jay, gives him his IV meds, and takes care of all his needs. She takes care of Micah. She keeps the "household" running smoothly. Her plate is very full. She and I talked and she reminded me that God would not give her more than she can handle.
I enjoyed my visit with the whole family. We went out to eat at O'Brein's Steakhouse with the other patients from Ward 57 and 58 on Friday night. On Saturday, we went to Silver Springs and ate at Macaroni Grill. We had a great time. We were all in the room the first time that Micah stood by himself. He wanted to get a better view on a dancing toy, so he stood up to see it better.
On Sunday, Governor Perry came to visit. He stayed about an hour. He brought books for Micah and presented Jay with a flag that was flown over the Texas Capital on February 16, the date that Jay first walked on his new legs. During the visit, we discovered that both Anne and I had previously met the Governor. Governor Perry's visit was a very encouraging.

Sunday afternoon, we went shopping. Anne and Jay found some warm jackets for the whole family. Then we went to the movies. The theater was on the second floor of the shopping mall. The elevator was out of order when we got ready to leave. Luckily, there was a back exit to the theater. It opened onto the parking garage, very close to where we were parked.
These outings are good therapy for the whole family. They get to work on life-experiences such as transferring to and from the car. It is good for readjusting socially. It reaquaints the patients with society. Jay was able to feed himself chips and salsa and to feed himself with a regular fork.
Monday was back to the regular routine. Anne got Jay up and got both boys ready to go. We went to Physical Therapy. Jay walked and got his wounds rebandaged. Micah visited with everyone and was "Therapy Baby." Anne was able to do some other things while I had the boys at therapy.
It was not quite routine. An Air Force general came to visit in PT. He is a three-star general and is on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. General Farmer, the commander of WRAMC, also visited with us in PT. I had to leave a little bit earlier that I wanted. A snow storm was predicted and I did not want to miss my flight home. I made it home just fine.

Jay's story was featured in the "Baptist Progress." It is the official publication of the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas. New Hope Baptist Church in Winkler, my home church, is part of this association. The article was very good.
Wednesday afternoon, we had an assembly at Drane. In honor of Dr. Suess's birthday, the men from Drane read a Dr. Suess book to the student body. Dr. Schneider also recognized the UIL winners from our district meet on Feb. 12. The Drane PTO presented us with checks from the Jay Fondren Spagetti Supper. We are so thankful for all the support for Jay and our family. We live in wonderful community and we appreciate all the support and love that we have been shown.
On Wednesday night, Anne and Jay got a phone call telling them to pack their belongings. They moved into another room. This one has a kitchenette. Hopefully it is a little larger than their previous one. The Occupational Therapist did a home visit with Jay on Wednesday and determined that the room they were in was not suitable for his needs. The new one should be a better fit.
On Saturday, we took Katie to the airport. She called about 10:30 and said that she had arrived and was in the room talking with Jay and Anne. Katie will stay until the weekend.
We met with the PieceMakers Quilt Guild today. They presented our family with a quilt for Jay and Anne and a quilt and pillow and case for Micah. They also presented us with a checkbook cover for Anne. They explained that these were made with tears and love - that each twist and turn in the quilting was a hug from them. We are very grateful.
That is my news. Thanks for keeping Jay covered in prayer. Here is the latest from Anne's family. Bobbie

We had a nice phone call on Sunday with Anne. Katie, Jay's sister, is visiting during her spring break (she teaches middle school math). They got into their new room, and it is a room with a kitchenette. Anne says that they "fit" better. Micah has room to roam now. There is more room for Jay to manoeuver in his wheelchair also. This happened because the people
in that room were willing to move to let Anne and Jay have it. Wasn't that nice?

I asked Katie what she saw as differences. She is amazed at all the things Jay can do now. They went out to eat and he fed himself with regular cutlery. Anne has figured a way to transfer Jay in and out of a regular car for these outings. Jay can move around on the bed, and comfort Micah in a crib beside the bed, giving him his bottle. All these things mean a more normal life, and they are very encouraging.

They are expecting Jay's good friend Brad and wife M'Leigha to arrive Tuesday with Anne and Jay's car - the new Suburban that Anne bought the week Jay was injured. Anne has been encouraged to see that Jay can get into their friend's Suburban without too much difficulty, so she feels the car will still serve them well. The following week others from Jay's family are
coming during their spring break. Pray for Anne during all these visits. Pray that she can handle the many people well, and that somehow in all of it, she can get a little rest. She is very tired.

Thanks for your continued prayers for Anne and Jay. Continue to pray for his arms to heal and for him to get more use from his hands and fingers.

In Christ,
Judy Hollingsworth

27 Feb 05

Saturday Jay walked 160 feet on his c-legs. Sunday the governor of Texas Rick Perry came to visit with Jay. Rick Perry presented Jay with a Texas flag and a cerficate that went with the flag. Rick Perry brought Micah some books. He visited with Jay for a long time.

23 Feb 05

Jay got his c-legs today. He was able to walk on them. He will talk better tommorrow after the legs have had a chance to charge. He is really excited.
Jay is now an out-patient. He has to go to his PT appointments and OT appointments and now he has to go to the infusion clinic for his IV meds. He was moved to out-patient status today.
Jay , Anne, and Micah went out to eat and the movies all by themselves this weekend. Jay said that they did just fine. He held Micah and Anne pushed them. Everything is going well.
Thanks for keeping all of us covered in prayer.
Bobbie

19 Feb 05

Two laps on Wednesday, three on Thursday!!! Hurray!!!! Hurray!!!

Jay worked really hard in PT today. He walked three laps on the parallel bars. Then he walked a little bit on a walker. Jay said that he thought he walked about 60 feet today. In OT, he worked on using his wrist.

Micah was a "therapy" baby today. While Jay was in PT, one of the other patients made eye contact with Micah and indicated that he wanted to see him. Micah hugged on him and loved on him. Then Micah hugged on the patient's Mom. Jay said that you could tell that Micah had made a positive effect on that guy's recovery. Micah took a couple of aided steps in PT today. He is almost ready to crawl. Jay said that he is getting into things in the room at the Mologne House. I told Jay that I was glad, that means that Micah is developing normally.

Anne was able to cook supper tonight. Jay fed himself with a spoon: a regular spoon. He said that he is drinking out of a regular cup as well. He said that he is able to drink out of a soda bottle, but he is not able to open it by himself. Micah is beginning to feed himself finger foods. He tries to feed Jay sometimes as well.

Sounds like things are good. Thanks for keeping him covered in prayer.
Bobbie

17 Feb 05

Jay got his left leg yesterday and stood for 22 minutes. Today is Grandmother's birthday. He gave her a wonderful present on her 80th birthday. He walked! Not just a step or 2. He made two laps forward and back again on the parallel bars. Anne and Micah were there to applaude him. Jay did an outstanding job, much better than the therapists had anticipated. Jay wants to be able to climb a step or two by mid-March.

Jay and Anne went to the grocery store this afternoon. Jay got to pick out Micah's food for next week. Amazing how going to the grocery store becomes a wonderful adventure. Their young family is learning how to do everyday things together.

Jay thinks that he will become an out-patient after he has the surgery on his elbow next week. Anne will continue to give Jay his IV antibotics and he will continue his rehab. They will probably continue to stay at the Mologne House. Micah is still working on getting his top two teeth. We need to continue to uplift them in prayer.

Bobbie

15 Feb 05

We (Ken and Judy) talked with Jay by phone at 1PM Eastern time today (Tuesday). He got the prosthesis for his right leg and was able to stand on both legs for 20 minutes this morning. Tomorrow he gets to try to walk!
He will be between parallel bars and have two crutches to help him steady himself. The parallel bars will help steady him on the sides and there will be people (and his crutches) to keep him from falling forwards and
backwards. They are going to video tape his progress as a training video. The doctors are pleased with how his arm is clearing up, but they can not get a morning time in the OR to do an operation this week, so they will
schedule for next week.
Anne and Micah seem to be doing well.
Thanks for continuing to pray for Jay, Anne and Micah and his family.
Ken Hollingsworth

14 Feb 05

Jay called tonight from Anne's room at the Mologne House. He has a pass to spend the nights with his family. The only exception is the night before any surgery that he might have. He is thrilled to spend the night with Anne and Micah.
Anne is learning to give his medicine. Jay said that she is doing an outstanding job. She can give his night meds; therefore, he can spend the night at the Mologne House. Jay still checks in with his nurses on ward 58 during the day. He continues his OT and PT. His right elbow is still open. The doctors think it is ready to close, perhaps next week.
Jay stood for about 25 minutes today. He is doing great! He thinks that he will get his right leg tomorrow. He is making remarkable progress.
Jay and Anne are in good spirits. Jay is working hard on his rehab. Anne is working hard to help him and supporting him. Micah is loving on both of them. Micah has two teeth and is working on two more. He has said "Mama" and is vocalizing other sounds. He is moving around - not crawling yet.
Jay knows that God has a purpose for him being at Walter Reed. He knows that he needs to be an encourager to the other patients. Jay understands that he has a choice in how he responds to his circumstances: he can moan and groan, or he can accept what has happened and try to make the best of things. He has a positive outlook and tries to share it with others.

Jay knows that he is progressing because of your prayers. Keep lifting him up.

13 Feb 05

News from the Hollingsworth Family
Thursday night Anne and Jay were invited to a church small group social and dinner in a home of one of the group. It was Jay's first time in a real home out of the hospital. They forgot to bring his special fork, but he figured out a method with what was available and ate independently. Today (Friday) they are going with a group from Occupational Therapy dept to Olive
Garden and then a movie.

Jay has a pass to spend the weekend with Anne and Micah at the Molonge House. Anne has been offered the opportunity to take a course next week to learn more about caring for Jay's pick line and doing his bandages. Once she does this training Jay will be eligible to go into outpatient care sooner once his doctors clear him. Some of the staff thought Anne had nurse's
training because of the way she was able to follow directions and help already with some of Jay's care. Anne's cold is better, but Micah still has a cough.

Jay has been given permission to put weight on his right upper arm, meaning he can lean on that elbow a bit. This facilitates rehab and moving ahead with prostheses. The doctor has said that when he gets both prostheses and can now bear weight on the elbows, he can move on to using a special walker. Jay is very excited about this possibility.

Thanks for all your prayers for Jay and Anne and Micah.

Ken and Judy Hollingsworth

News from the Fondren Family

Jay called Jobeth on Saturday and said that he is at the Mologne House with Anne and Micah. He talked about what at good time he had spending the night on Friday night. He said that he slept like a baby. He was very happy. They were going to the mall and then out to eat. He said they were in a three car convoy on this particular outing.

Jay said that they adjusted his pain medicine. He is not as queezy. He is doing better.
Just because he is doing better, don't stop praying for him. He knows that he is progressing so well because of all the prayer support. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Bobbie

10 Feb 05 - Cumulative updates for the week:

10 Feb 05:

The benefit supper was a great success! Thanks to all who took time to come out and participate. There were many that came and visited, and others that came for the take out. The High School Commons area was nearly packed. Pictures are on the way as soon as we can get them up. - Webmaster

Great News!!
On his 25th birthday on Monday Feb 7, Jay was able to roll on his side and managed to sit up by himself. He did this downstairs in Physical Therapy. Jay continues to work hard and progress in his rehab.

On Tuesday, Jay got to put on his left leg, It was my understanding that the therapist strapped Jay to a tilt table. They put his left leg on and stood him up. They put enough bolsters under his right leg to have even pressure on each side. He was able to stand for 15 minutes. They also "cast" his right leg. It should be ready in a couple of weeks.

On Wednesday, he got to stand again. This time he stood for 18 minutes. Each day he will get stronger. He also has therapy on his hands. The therapist works his fingers and wrists. Jay thinks that soon he will begin having physical therapy twice a day.

Jay is down to only one pain medicine. He is wearing a pain patch. He is still on antibiotics for his arm. The doctors have decided not to close on his elbow this week. It is not as "clean" as the doctors want it to be before they close. Something is making him sick. He has been sick at his stomach. He has not been able to eat very much.

On Wednesday, Jay had visitors from Corsicana. Wanda Nealy-Ward and Wayne Ward, who are CISD teachers, are in Washington DC this week. They dropped in and visited with Jay. Among other things, they brought Jay a copy of the Corsicana Daily Sun special section, Letters to Jay. He is enjoying reading it.

The Piecemakers Quilting Guild from Corsicana celebrated Jay Fondren Day on Monday. They had a wonderful attendance and many willing workers. They finished a quilt top for Jay and Anne and one for Micah. A very special person has volunteered to quilt both pieces. Both should be finished soon.

The VFW had a benefit for Jay on Friday night. They had a barbeque, raffle and dance. These events were well attended and supported. The Fondren family thanks all who had a part in this tribute to Jay.

We are very humbled by the outporing of love and all the community support. We are proud of Jay and we are in awe of the many acts of kindness and support that we have received. The Drane PTO is sponsoring a fundraiser on Thurday, Feb. 10. The school in Blooming Grove is sponsoring "High Five for Jay" and collecting nickels for Jay. Another fundraiser is planned for later in the month. We are very thankful.

Bobbie

9 Feb 05

Dont forget about the Benefit Supper at Corsicana High School tomorrow 10 Feb 05 at 5:30 PM. Take out dinners will be available and there will be raffles as well. We hope to see everyone there. If you cannot and wish to contribute to Jay's on-going recovery you may do so online or by contacting Corsicana National Bank.

Some had requested this and I finally found a copy of the story in the AP Archives. - Webmaster

Veterans remembered in Vietnam War Memorial tree ceremony

By: SAM HANANEL - Associated Press

WASHINGTON -- David Fondren held back tears as he described the Thanksgiving Day attack in Iraq that left his son, Jay, a double amputee. Fondren and other relatives, veterans and volunteers from Walter Reed Army Hospital came to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Wednesday to read holiday greetings to soldiers dead and alive.
" It's a shame that another generation has to go through the same thing that the Vietnam generation did," Fondren said after a nine-foot Christmas tree was decorated with hundreds of greeting cards from around the country. "You would hope we had learned those lessons," he said. "But I guess each generation has to fight for our freedoms again."
The annual ceremony was held a day after an insurgent strike on a military base near Mosul, Iraq, killed 22 people, including 13 U.S. service members, and wounded 69 others. It was the deadliest attacks on American troops since the war began.
Fondren and others read about a dozen of the cards aloud in the somber tribute under bright sunshine. The tree was then placed at the center of the memorial's black granite wall, its branches heavy with messages of gratitude, remembrance and hope.
The cards, mailed in each year by members of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, range from simple notes to thank soldiers for their service to more personal messages.
" To My Brothers," one card said. "My heart is with you always. My mind will always remember those I fought along side."
Another: "Bro: Been there, done that. Sorry you bought it in the jungle so many years ago. Miss you much."

"The idea is that there are so many soldiers from Vietnam who never came home for the holidays," said JoAnn Mangione, a spokeswoman for the memorial fund. "It reminds us that today we are again in a situation where there are soldiers fighting for us around the world and won't be home for the holidays."
Fondren was at the ceremony because his 24-year-old son is recovering at nearby Walter Reed. Army Staff Sgt. Jay Fondren, of Corsicana, Texas, lost both legs and suffered shrapnel injuries to his arms after his humvee was struck by a bomb in an attack near the Sadr City area of Baghdad.
" It's like our child was born twice to us, to get him back another time and it's just a blessing," David Fondren said. "We're going to stay with our son through the first of the year and just try to have the best Christmas we can have."
Craig Barron, 38, an Iraq war veteran from Reno, Nev., said his own experiences have given him a newfound respect for veterans of other wars.
" I wanted to pay my respects to a different generation of veterans who didn't come back," Barron said. "Every generation has a defining conflict. The Iraq war is the defining conflict of my generation."
Barron has already spent nine months in Iraq and is returning for duty there next week, after a three week medical leave for non-combat related treatment. He said the attack Tuesday on a military mess hall was similar -- though more deadly -- to incidents he has seen before.
" It happened to us on a much smaller scale, so I know what those soldiers are going through," Barron said. "I know what it's like to lose a friend -- I lost a friend over there."

The tree will be on display through the holidays.

6 Feb 05

On Friday, a group of patients from Walter Reed went on an outing to a mall in Baltimore. Occupational Therapy arranged the trip. Jay had a good time. It was quite a workout. He had to figure out how to manuver his wheelchair in the mall. He had to decide if he could get into the store, whether or not he could go down the aisle, how to get from one place to another in the store. It was quite an adventure. Many things we take for granted, he really had to think about to accomplish.
Friday night, a group went to O'Brein's steakhouse. There were about three new patients in the group. Jay was one of the "old hands" who helped the new guys. He met the national director of the VA. He talked to the guys about benefits and talked to Jay about a new model of wheelchair that is coming out soon.
Jay met a news reporter who lost a hand while embedded with a group last year. Jay was quite impressed with him. He and the chairman of the National Democratic Committee visited Jay together. Needless to say, Jay had quite a lot to report about their visit.
On Saturday, Jay had a day pass. He and Anne and their friends Pam and John went out to eat and watch a movie. Jay was able to transfer in and out of a car. He was very happy about that. The four adults and their combined three children had a good time. He borrowed John's lighter wheelchair and John used his crutches. Both Anne and Pam had strollers for their young children. It was another learning experience. How does one push a stroller and a wheelchair at the same time? Anne and Jay managed. Anne pushed Jay and Jay pushed Micah. Later, Pam pushed both strollers. It is nice to have friends.
Great news! Jay has been cleared to bear weight on his legs. He will get his left leg on Monday, what a great birthday gift! He is really excited. He said that they will strap him to the tilt table and attach his leg. Then they will set him upright. His right leg should be ready soon. He is already thinking about how he can stand. Jay is working hard so that he can have a speedy recovery. He told Bo, the therapist, that they will have to kick him out of PT because he will be there all the time, working on standing and walking.
Jay's birthday is Monday. If you are able, please send him birthday greeting on his website. Letters and card take a while to get to him, but he gets the electronic message very quickly. Keep him in prayer. He knows that is one of the reasons he is getting well so quickly. We apprecite all the prayer support.

Bobbie

4 Feb 05

Last night Jay said his new left leg was down stairs (probably the 3rd floor). Jay said that his new right leg was in the casting room. Wensday the doctors took out the pieces of metal in what is left of his right leg. Jay feels much better.

1 Feb 05

By DEANNA PAWLOWSKI/Daily Sun Staff

Yet another surgery was on the agenda for Staff Sgt. Jay Fondren Monday, who was seriously injured Nov. 24 by a bomb in Iraq. Doctors planned to remove two large pieces of shrapnel which were attempting to exit the small opening in what remains of Fondren's right leg.
"The pieces were too big to work themselves out, so the doctors planned to remove them," said David Fondren, Jay's father, in a telephone interview Monday. "And last week, a screw in Jay's right elbow worked its way out, then he developed a staph infection in the right elbow. Jay is concerned the doctors don't have a clear-cut plan for what to do about his elbow."

Details concerning the outcome of the surgery were unavailable at press time.

Each time Jay is sedated, IV lines must be put in his neck, as his veins in his arms and what remains of his legs are not viable enough to sustain the IVs, David said.
"They have to put the lines back in his neck for the antibiotics each time they do surgery," David said. "Jay really doesn't like that."
Fondren also had fluid drained from his right lung last week, and developed a stomach flu along with the rest of the men in his ward. However, Jay and wife Anne were able to go out to eat with a group to a local steakhouse Friday night.
" The stomach thing was rough on the guys in the wards, because they aren't healthy to begin with," said David.

Jay and Anne were both able to attend the Presidential Inauguration Jan. 20 in Washington, D.C. Nine wounded men from Texas were invited to attend, and the Fondrens were seated on the capitol steps, not far from the president.
"A protester was arrested right in front of Jay at the inauguration, and he thought that was neat," David said.

Anne Fondren's mother, who has been with them at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for the last month, is to return home to Africa where she serves as a missionary Wednesday. David Fondren looked at handicapped vans this weekend, hoping to lay some groundwork for Jay's return to Texas.
"Jay has developed a rapport with his doctors, and his physical therapist," David said. "There are no plans for him to come back to Texas right away. He needs to stay put while he is still having surgeries."
David also said the men in Jay's unit have been e-mailing him, and are relieved the elections in Iraq went well. They are packed and ready to return to the states. David said Jay is eagerly awaiting their return.

----------

Deanna Pawlowski may be contacted via e-mail at deannap@corsicanadailysun.com

Excerpts from Deanna Pawlowski/ Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 2/1/05 , www.corsicanadailysun.com

31 Jan 04

Friday they drained one liter of fluid off Jay's right lung. This is the lung that collapsed while he was in Germany. Nevertheless, Jay was able to go out with Anne Friday night to Fran O'Briens steakhouse. When Jay woke up Saturday morning, he was sick. He has a stomach flu that has been traveling around Wards 58 and 57. He was feeling better tonight (Sunday night).
There are two pieces of metal working their way out of Jay's right leg. The pieces of metal are larger than the hole around them. Coming out is going to be harder than going in. The surgeons plan to take him in tomorrow and remove the two pieces of metal. While he is sedated the hand doctors are going to work on Jay's elbow again. Jay has been wearing liners on his legs. They are like a sock that goes between Jay's leg and his artifical limb. Jay says that this feels like a gel inshoe that you put in your shoe. Anne's mom Judy leaves to go home to Africa on Feb. 2nd. Please pray for her safety during travel. Please pray for Jay's arms and his legs. Pray that he would stay strong mentally physically and spiritual. Please pray for Anne for strength and wisdom as she learns how to take care of herself, Micah, and Jay. We thank God for Micah, and the joy he brings.

30 Jan 05

Helping A Fallen Soldier
Bianca Castro,
KWTX Channel 10 News, Waco, Texas.

Dave and Bonnie Fondren's worst nightmare came true the day before Thanksgiving, when they received a phone call saying their son, Staff Sargeant Jay Fondren, had been in an explosion in Iraq."I received a phone call...and once I heard his name, I knew it was bad," said Jay's father, Dave."My heart just sank. I remember my brother getting injured and getting that telegram. My heart just sank," said Bonnie, Jay's mother.The blast caused Jay to lose both his legs and severely injured his right hand. Now, Jay and his family will begin their long journey of adapting to his life with a handicap.
However, to Dave and Bonnie's surprise, members of the community have stepped up to help the Fondren family out by making a website in Jay's honor."The town has been wonderful. People who we don't even know knock on the door," said Bonnie. "The community has wrapped around us."So far, through the website and other mediums, more than $25,000 has been raised. It's all money that Jay will use to purchase a handicap accesible vehicle and a home of his own."It just warms my heart. We've always been on the giving end. Our mission field has been in Corsicana, now Corsicana wants to help us. It's the most heart warming thing," said the Fondrens.When Jay returns to Texas, his parents say he wants to go back to school and eventually teach history, like his father...with hopes of giving back to a community that has given so much to him.
To learn more about the Fondren family, or to make a donation to the Jay Fondren fund, copy and paste the following link in your browser:

http://jay.s2technology.org/

http://www.kwtx.com/forthood/headlines/1212782.html

26 Jan 04

Sorry for the delay, we had a modem blow out of our computer. - Webmaster

Jay is going to be fitted for his sockets tomorrow.

This is Jay's wife for those who don't know me. I wanted to send a message out on this site and thought this would be the best way. I know people like to read what others have writen. I write to ask specific prayer for Jay's right arm. There just seems to be one thing after another that is hindering his profgress with that arm. He has the start of calcium build up in his fingers which is the signs that his figures are locking in place. This is one of Jay's biggest fears, that his arm and figures will lock in place so that he can not use it. The lack of progress in his right arm is slowing the recovery of all his wounds. Please pray for this arm. He will have to have several small surgerys and is feeling really down. Please just lift him and his arm up in prayer right now. We could not be doing as well as we are if it were not for your continuing prayer and God's faithfullness. Thank you once again.

-Anne
P.S. Please also lift up our guys whgo are still over there, that God may spare them and bring them all safely home to their waiting families.

22 Jan 04

Today either in PT or OT Jay got to lay on his stomach. This was a huge accomplishment. Tonight Jay, Micah, Anne, Anne's Mom, and my Mom went to a steakhouse to eat their evening meal. Fran O'Brien's is the name of the steakhouse. Every Friday the steakhouse takes a patient from Walter Reed and his or her family to eat at the steakhouse. Jay had a good day today. Jay met the Secretary of the Army. The Secretary of the Army gave Jay a special coin. Jay has more sensation in his right arm. Mom arrived back in Texas

18 Jan 05

Jay had a GREAT day today. JAY GOT TO HOLD MICAH. Jay was sitting in his wheelchair, and he was able to hold Micah all by himself. THIS IS A HUGE MILESTONE. God works in interesting ways. We had some clothes for Micah that we were trying to figure out how to send to Anne. Today a lady called the house. She and her husband were going to Washington D.C. for the inguration. Their flight was leaving Wensday morning. They wanted to know if they take anything for us to Jay and Anne. I packed the clothes, and they will deliver them to Jay and Anne.

17 Jan 05

Today Anne and the ladies got to go out to lunch. Jay had a pass to go to the Molonge house. Jay and the guys went to the Molonge house to watch football and play cards. Jay kept Micah with the guys today. I'm sure the ladies enjoyed their well-deserved break. I spoke to David at work Friday. He said that everything appeared to be going well since the skin graft surgery on the 12th. Jay is working hard in his therapy's and getting stronger every day. He will be allowed longer and longer free time away from the hospital. David also stated that Jay's home-coming is very dependant upon the speed he progresses through re-hab. At the current rate, he should be home sooner than originally anticipated. Of course, we all hope that it is smooth sailing from here on and Jay gets back on Texas soil as soon as possible. We encourage everyone to continue donating to any of Jay's funds (click on the Funds link for more info). There are still quite a few needs for the future for Jay and his family, and donations have slowed down lately.

16 Jan 05

Today
after either PT or OT Jay got to go the Molonge House. He watched tv and ate Taco Bell. Our friend Eric
Williams visited with Jay today. Our friends Pam and John and their two wonderful children visited with Jay
today. Jay enjoyed both visits very much. Some of Anne's relatives came up to visit Jay and Anne.
Tomorrow Anne and the ladies are going out to eat. Jay and the guys are going to Anne's room at the Molonge
House to play cards and visit.

15 Jan 05

By DEANNA PAWLOWSKI/Daily Sun Staff

Staff Sgt. Jay Fondren, injured Nov. 24 in a bomb blast in Iraq, is continuing to improve physically.
" Jay had surgery Wednesday, where the skin grafts on his left arm looked good and were healing, according to the doctors," said David Fondren, Jay's dad. "They took all the staples out of his legs, and he has no more staples, but still has healing to do. The wounds in his legs still weep some, with bleeding, but it is normal and on-course."
David said Jay's right arm was detached from his abdomen during surgery Wednesday. Doctors had attached the arm to his abdomen to aid in circulation, and graft skin. David said his elbow is heavily bandaged, and his wrist was very, very sore following surgery.
" Jay thinks they were checking his range of motion on his right hand while they had him sedated," he said. "They will give him a rest from physical therapy until next week."
David said Jay is "pretty sure" he and wife, Anne, will get to attend President Bush's inauguration, to which they've been invited. Jay is hopeful he and Anne will be allowed to arrive late, so he does not have to wait long in the elements.
Clay Walker, country music singer, is rumored to be attending the inauguration, also. Jay is hopeful to be able to meet him, as he is a big fan of country music, David said.
" Gov. Perry may come by for a visit, because he is in the area," David said. "And Jay has been invited on a special deer hunt next deer season for disabled vets. He is real excited, and this will give him special incentive to rehab, in order to go on the hunt."
David believes it will be good for his son to participate in activities he enjoyed prior to being injured. Best friend Brad Jones, who was Jay's college roommate, played soccer with him at Dallas Baptist University, and was best man at Jay's wedding, set Jay up on the hunt.
" They enjoyed hunting and fishing together," David said. "This will give Jay some motivation to work hard, and get outside and do things."
Jay has received e-mail from his buddies in Iraq, some of whom are packing to come home on a furlough. David said Jay is excited about them returning to the States, as all have said they will come see him.
" Since I've been back in town, I see lots of people who ask about Jay, and they always ask about his spirits," David said. "I tell them I don't worry about that, his spirits are great. That is what everybody is concerned about, because that is what defeats you.

"It's hard to defeat the human spirit when it is motivated."

----------

Deanna Pawlowski may be contacted via e-mail at deannap@corsicanadailysun.com

Excerpts from Deanna Pawlowski/ Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 1/15/05 , www.corsicanadailysun.com

14 Jan 05

Thursday:

Today Jay's doctors said that they were very pleased with the way Jay's legs have been healing. Jay also
found out that he is on the top of list for a special hunt trip custom designed for disabled veterans.

Friday:

Today the doctors are going to take out the tubes in Jay's neck. The tubes are where the doctors could
connect Jay's IVs. Jay's best friend (Brad) and his wife are visting Jay now. They got at Walter Reed at
midnight last night. Jay would not go to sleep until he saw them.

10 Jan 05

Jay can now put his pinky and his thumb on his left hand together. Jay has some more movement in his right hand. Jay also said that he was able to play with Micah when he went to the Molonge House. Mom and Anne's mom were able to transfer Jay to the bed. Jay was able to play with Micah on the bed. Today Jay was measured for his own electric wheelchair. The electric wheelchair that he has been using is a rental.

9 Jan 05

Today Jay got a four hour pass to go to the Molonge House. The Molonge House is where the rest of the family is staying. Jay got to visit with the family, and eat Chinese food.

8 Jan 04

Jay got to wear clothes again today as he is no longer connected to machines. He increased the amount of weight in Physical Therapy. Jay's doctors asked Jay to ask his head doctor if tomorrow Jay could go to the Molonge House for a couple of hours. Jay met a couple in which the husband was burned at the Pentagon on 9-11. The couple wrote a book about how through their trails and tribulations they never lost their faith in God.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------|

By DEANNA PAWLOWSKI/Daily Sun Staff

David Fondren and daughters Katie and Jobeth have arrived back home in Texas, after spending time with son Jay in Washington, D.C. Jay Fondren was seriously injured in a bomb blast in Iraq Nov. 24.The family spent the holidays together, and David and Jobeth arrived in Corsicana in time for David to return his job as a teacher at Drane Intermediate School following the Christmas break. Katie returned to her job as a teacher for Allen Independent School District.

"Every time I talk to Jay he seems more excited about things," David said. "Bobbie is staying until the next surgery on Jan. 12, where they will undo the skin graft on his right elbow to his abdomen." David said doctors removed all the staples and stitches from Jay's left arm Thursday, and took more staples from his legs. Even more staples will be removed from his legs Jan. 12 during the surgery, while he is sedated."Jay said the doctors showed him where he still has 20 pieces of shrapnel in him, but they are working their way out," David said. "I asked him when I left if there was anything he wanted me to convey to the community, and he said, 'Keep praying, and thanks for what they've already done. I'm making it.'"The hospital is working to get Jay set up with a computer for his use, so he can stay in touch with people via e-mail, and he can do his own e-mail updates on his condition. Doctors believe it is good therapy, and Jay enjoys keeping up with his soldiers by e-mail, David said.
In addition to Jay's mother, Bobbie, still being with him in Washington, D.C., his mother-in-law has now arrived from Africa. Anne Fondren's mother is a missionary in Africa, and will stay for a month to help with baby Micah, who is there with his parents."Jay is really pushing himself," David said. "His voice sounds stronger on the phone, he is lifting more weights and sitting up longer."David said Jay's former Corsicana High School classmate, Brenna Duren, had e-mailed Jay, and told him she was proud of him, proud of his classmates, proud of the town for the way they've responded, and proud of our country."That about sums it up, right there," David said. As for himself, David said he is glad to be back in the wide open spaces of Texas. He is glad Jay is doing so well, but he is glad to be home, too."This next thing on the 12th should tell us a little more about what's going on," David said. "Maybe in five more months, if everything goes well, Jay can come back home to Texas."

Deanna Pawlowski may be contacted via e-mail at deannap@corsicanadailysun.com

Excerpts from Deanna Pawlowski/ Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 1/8/05

6 Jan 05

Thursday Update:

Mr. David Fondren was at work in Texas at Drane Intermediate School today. He received a phone call from Jay at approximately 1300 hours. General Farmer had arrived to present Jay with his Purple Heart, and David got to listen to the ceremony by phone, in Texas. The Assistant Principal of Drane School, Sharon Goodman, made an announcement to the entire school during David's special phone call to tell everyone what was happening. The entire school immediately stood up and began applauding so loud that Jay could hear it all the way in Washington. Needless to say, there wasn't a dry eye in the whole place. I drove by Rice High School, in Rice, Texas, yesterday. The marquis outside still reads "God Bless Jay Fondren and All Those Who Keep Us Safe".

5 Jan 05

Today Jay was given a hair comb. The Boston Red Sox visited Walter Reed. Jay got to talk to some of them. They brought the World Series trophy. Anne and Micah took some pictures of it. Jay can now lift 10 pounds on the special weight machine in Physical Theraphy. Occupational Theraphy has a wheel like the wheel on "Wheel Of Fortune". Jay was able to spin the wheel today. Jay was able to sit in his wheelchair for six hours today. Here is the big Jay update for today and tomorrow. JAY WILL RECIEVE HIS PURPLE HEART THURSDAY AFTERNOON. Jay will recieve the purple heart from General Farmer who is the commanding General of the entire hospital. This is wonderful news.

4 Jan 05

Jay's pain medicines are under control now, and he only has to take them once every 12 hours. Shrinkers were put on both legs. Jay gave permission for a training video of the wrapping of what is left of his right leg. Only three people in the entire hospital know how to wrap such a high amputation, and one of those people is leaving soon. Some stitches were removed from Jay's left arm, and some staples were removed from Jay's right leg. Jay can put weight on his left arm. Jay also scooted (moved) his bottom from the Physical Therapy mat to his wheelchair all by himself today.

3 Jan 05

Jay was able to increase the amount of weights he is using in Physical Theraphy. A shrinker was put on what is left of his left leg. The doctors gave permission for a shrinker to be put what is left of his right leg. Jay was given permission for wieght to be put on his left arm. David has returned to Corsicana, and Jo Beth will be travelling tomorrow. One of Jay's latest visitors was good ole Tony Soprano. David thought things were going great till old Tony walked in and had to do a double take. Most of the cast was about Walter-Reed spending time with the Soldiers.

2 Jan 05 - A Trip through the Twilight Zone - By Jobeth Fondren

Many interesting items have happened here at Ward 58 and Ward 57 this week. Jay and Anne’s friends Pam and John and their son and daughter got to go to the park yesterday. This was a HUGE milestone. John got a three hour leave. Jay and our family took a picture of Pam and John’s family before they went to the park. It made everyone happy. Pam and John have the sweetest children. Their four year old daughter is the one who ran to Jay at the Christmas Day lunch, and she shouted “My friend Jay is up.” Pam and John also have the cutest 14 month old son. He is a happy and content child. On New Year’s Eve one of the injured soldiers on Ward 57 got married. You might have seen him on a special called “A Soldier’s Journey Home” on MSNBC. Everyone is extremely happy for the newlyweds. They got married either in the hospital chapel or a near by chapel. The wedding reception was held in the hospital dining hall. The newlyweds and their families wanted to share their joy with everyone in the hospital so they are displaying the wedding flowers around the hospital. One of the flower arrangements is sitting on the roof of the salad bar cart in the dining hall. The bride’s bouquet and another arrangement are on a side table in the sitting area that connects Ward 58 and Ward 57. The flowers are exquisite, and they brighten everyone’s day. The newlyweds also put a banner on the husband’s hospital door that states: “A New Year, A New Beginning”. It is very sweet. Everyone at the hospital is very nice and helpful. The families that have been here a while try to help the new families. The new families normally their way around the hospital so the old families show them where the following is located: the good restrooms, the computer rooms, Family Assistance Center, the Dining Hall, the Chapel, and most important: the vending machines. Yesterday I met a lady who had just gotten here the day before. I gave her a tour of the hospital. I tried to explain where to go to get “comfort” items for her and her husband. Her husband was a U.S. civilian contractor who was hurt in the Mess Hall attack. I introduced her to Pam because their husbands had similar injuries. It helps when you know of another family that is going through what you are going through. I am very thankful because right beside Jay is a lady helicopter pilot that has almost the exact same injuries as Jay. She is just a few weeks ahead of Jay. Her and her family have been a wonderful encouragement to us. Here is this morning’s Jay Update. Jay has a new sensation in his left hand. His pinky itches. This is wonderful news. It means Jay’s nerves are getting back to normal. I am very sorry if sometimes my updates don’t make sense. Another name for Walter Reed is the Twilight Zone. People enter the hospital thinking clear and fast. People in the hospital can not think clear, and they take a long time to think. I try to catch as many mistakes as I can, but I am only human.

1 Jan 05

Yesterday which was New Year's Eve, many things happened. Jay got to spend some time in his wheelchair besides just going to Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. After Jay's therapy sessions, he got to sit in the sunlight. There is a hallway that has windows has walls. The hallway leads from Ward 58 (where Jay is now) to a sitting area. Every ward has a hallway like this. Jay got to sit in the sunlight in the hallway for a several minutes. Then one of Jay's doctors showed Jay a X-ray of himself. The X-ray showed all the little pieces of metal that are still inside Jay. Once Jay had seen the X-ray, he went to the Ward 57 computer room and saw his website. He really liked the website. Ward 57 and Ward 58 form a square. The computer rooms of Ward 57 and Ward 58 are across the hall from one another. Ward 58's computer room does not have a printer. Ward 57's computer room does have a printer. The computer room of Ward 57 has two computers, but one has a virus on it. Jay's wife's family came in yesterday. Anne's mom came from Africa. The following members of Anne's family came in from N.C.: Aunt Beth, Uncle Roger, and sister Carrie. Jay had a room full of company. Many more exciting items happend today which is New Year's Day. JAY GOT TO GO OUTSIDE FOR THE FIRST TIME. He went to the first floor, and he went outside. The family was taking pictures of Jay being outside when someone reminded them it was against the law to take pictures of the facilities. Today has been a big day for Jay.

30 Dec 04

Yesterday at Physical Therapy Jay sat up straight. Then the medical people made a joke, and Jay laughed. When Jay laughed, he fell over. It was a good thing that the medical people were there to catch him. Jay got to play a video game in Occupational therapy yesterday. It was a racing game in which he had to move a wheel. I just wanted to share the good news. Retired General Abrams (a tank is named after either his dad or his grandfather) visited Jay. His younger brother is a very high ranking person who's command Jay was under. The brother sent Retired General Abrams a list of soldiers under his command who were at Walter Reed. Retired General Abrams visited each soldier on the list, and he is going to report about the soldiers to his younger brother. Eric Williams, who took us to the Christmas Eve service at his church, also visited Jay. It was a very nice visit. Today was a big day for Jay. This morning Jay went to casting room at 8:00 Washington D.C. time. He was in the casting room for a few hours. Then Jay went to Physical therapy. Senator Robert Dole was working in the space beside Jay. He remember Jay from Christmas Day lunch, and he spoke to Jay. That is not even the best part of this update. The best part is that JAY GOT A WHEELCHAIR! Jay got a motorized wheelchair that is controled by a joystick. When Jay was done with Physical therapy, Jay was able to go in the wheelchair to Occupational therapy which is just around the corner from physical therapy. After Occupational therapy, Jay moved his wheelchair to the elevators and from the elevator to his room. The therapy rooms are on the 3rd floor, and Jay's room is on the 5th floor. Jay is mobile again..

FOB Ironhorse : Jay is looking to hear from you. Please leave new messages in the guest book as he is now able to read them as part of his rehab. He is able to start using the computer . He wants to hear from you and it is a high point in his day to receive messages from Iraq.

28 Dec 04

Jay had at least 2 hours of PTOT (physical therapy and occupational therapy).
Jay did better feeding himself. He had two nice visitors: actor Adam Rodriquez from CSI Miami who spent 40 minutes talking to Jay and another actor who was extremely nice.

Update courtesy of "Proud sister of Hero Jay" Jobeth

26 Dec 04

This is Jobeth. I just want to say one thing. JAY FED HIMSELF!!! One of his medical team put the spoon and fork on one at a time in a pouch on his left hand. The pouch was attached to a band that went around Jay’s hand. Jay was able to move the spoon and fork into the food, and he put the food in his mouth. Jay had the following: broccoli, mashed potatoes, and a chicken item which the medical person cut for Jay. This is a HUGE step for Jay. The medical person said the pouch could carry several things including but not limited to the following: a toothbrush, a hairbrush, and a stick to reach the TV with. more to follow....

25 Dec 04 Merry Christmas to all.

This is Jobeth. Christmas Eve our friend Eric Williams and his family invited us to a candlelight service at his church, Largo Community Church. Dad, Katie, and I were able to attend. The large church was very beautiful. The people were very friendly and gracious. We enjoyed ourselves, and it was nice to be in God’s house. Christmas Day has started great. Jay was feeling good, and we brought some of his, Micah’s, and Anne’s presents to the hospital to open. They cleaned Jay up, and they put him in a cardiac chair. He was allowed to go to the dining hall to have a family Christmas dinner. The hospital had a Christmas feast with all the decorations. Again everyone was so kind and gracious to Jay. Mom fed Jay while Anne fed Micah. Katie said that they were feeding their boys. A group of singers came over and sang “Go tell it on the Mountain” to Jay. Several people in the dining hall came over to wish Jay well. One of the officers asked us if the Senators Dole could come and speak to Jay. Jay said he was up to it. Both Senator Robert Dole and Elizabeth Dole came over and spoke to Jay. Senator Dole was recovering from a hip replacement at the hospital. They were both so kind and gracious to Jay. Even though he was in his own wheelchair, Senator Dole stopped and made time for all the injured soldiers that were in the dining hall. We know we were visited by a true American hero and a very gracious lady. We told Senator Dole of the great support that Corsicana and Navarro County has give Jay and the Fondren family. Senator Dole said that when he was injured in World War II his hometown did much the same for him. We know the gratitude that Americans show their military is as strong and deep today as it has been throughout our history. When we got back to Jay’s room, a 1st Cal. Officer gave Jay two medallions. One that spoke to Jay’s situation: “I will never accept defeat. I will never quit.” All the families here at Christmas have said that this is a most unusual Christmas, but one that will never be forgotten. All the parents here including Mom and Dad have said that we will never ever need another present. They say that all they have to do is tie a bow in their child’s hair. The Fondrens wish everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Our New Year’s resolution is to hug and thank every one who have been so gracious, kind, supportive, and prayerful for Jay and our family.

Update courtesy of "Proud sister of Hero Jay" Jobeth

24 Dec 04

Jay's doctors visited him in their full dress uniforms today. They brought him some special grape juice and little boxes of candy. Senator Kennedy visited Walter Reed yesterday, but Jay did not get to go visit him. President Bush visited the Fisher House and Laura held a book signing that Katie and Anne got to attend. Earlier in the week Jay got to go mobile in a wheel chair and see around the area . He also got fitted for a special Wheel chair that is coming in a few weeks.

23 Dec 04

Jays surgery was "textbook". The Doctors were very pleased with what they saw. The Doctors removed all of Jay's bandages and tubes on his left arm, and did a skin graft on his left arm as well. The dressings were replaced on his right leg, and doctors created a flap where they can connect Jay's right elbow to his abdomen for three weeks to allow the skin graft to take.
Friends from Corsicana visited today and had a good visit. Jay resumes rehab tomorrow.

22 Dec 04

Jay has had a rough couple of days. He was bloated and his blood count dropped so they took him from ward 57 to MICU. The bloating seems to have been caused from the pain medicine. The blood loss seems be from his right leg. That wound is still open and has a vaccum tube on it. Jay has been drinking lots of cold liquids. That is part of the therapy that he uses to combat the pain. However, he has been drinking so much that he is flushing away potasium and sodium. The doctors restricted his fluids last night.
He has had a hard time mentally. He has not slept in about 3 nights. This leaves him exausted and makes it hard for him to fight the pain using his psyco-therapy. This morning, the nurse suggested that he swish and spit cold water, but not actually drink it. Perhaps that will help. It seemed to calm him.

This morning some of the family went to a Christmas tree decorating ceremony at the Vietnam Memorial. The head of the Memorial Fund made a moving speech honoring today's military as well as speaking of the debt we owe the Vietnam veterans. A former military Chapin and WWII gave a sweet prayer asking for protection for our men and women overseas, remembrance of our Vietnam veterans, and peace on earth and good will to men. Dad was honored to read a message thanking our troops and decorating the tree with thousands of messages to honor both current military members and the Vietnam veterans. The tree was placed at the V of the wall. The one place Dad always tells his students that he wanted to visit in Washington D.C. was the Vietnam Wall. It was an honor to be there and be part of the ceremony. We met a nice couple whose husband is in the 1st Cav like Jay and will be returning to Iraq in a few weeks. The wife attended Waco high and knew all about Corsicana. What a small world. His name was Greg, and we should pray for his safe return because naturally his wife was greatly concerned about his return to Iraq. Many from the Molonge House were interviewed by the following: CNN, Fox, AP, a German news agency, and a news agency that works for the Houston and Dallas market. If you are interested maybe you could catch some of our remarks on these stations. Jay was in surgery to today starting at 6:30 and as of 1:30 has not gotten back from recovery. We hope all goes well. Micah is coming in today with some of Anne's family. This will be a surprise to Jay. Jay told Dad that the last thing he was talking about in Iraq before he lost consciousness was about Micah. Dad believes that the birth of his son gave Jay great strength and will to survive this ordeal.

20 Dec 04

Our apologies for not updating the site. We have had bad connectivity issues that would not allow us to upload. These updates are for Sunday and Monday the 19th and 20th.

Sunday 19th:
Jay had a setback today. His blood count dropped and stomach distended. Doctors gave him 2 units of blood. the good news is that Jay DOES NOT have an ulcer. Doctors moved him from Ward 57 to MICU where Jay had one on one care. The family has been taking turns staying with him 24/7. The Gastorinterologists are working on finding the problem.

The family is requesting prayer for the Doctors and prayer for knowledge and guidance in making decisions.

Monday 20th:
Jay is still in MICU, but expected to return to Ward 57 this afternoon. The Doctir's think the blood count problem may have been a combination of the surgery on his right leg and Jay's reduction of pain medication affecting his digestive system. Jay's spirits are good . Sunday Jay got to talk with the Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. Parents of one of Jay's unit members visited Jay todayand had a good visit. This boosted his spirits.

The Fondrens wish to thank everyone for their prayers and support, and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

15 Dec 04

Today doctors began rehab Jay's left shoulder and are beginning to strengthen his abdominal muscles. Surgery will happen Thursday on Jay's Elbow. Jay wanted to pass on thanks for all the cards, letters and care packages that arrive often and are helping to lift his spirits. Jay also stated that it has been a real blessing to see just how much the community is praying for and supporting him and his family.

14 Dec 04

Jay's surgery monday went well. The doctors closed the remaining wounds on Jay's left arm and leg. The doctor's will begin rehab on Jay's left arm Wednesday, and his right elbow Thursday. A special rotating bed has been ordered for Jay to aid in circulation.

13 Dec 04

Jay is awake and alert. He has moved out of surgical intensive care and moved into a ward containing soldiers with similar injuries. He has eatern at least 3 meals of solid food. While awake, David, Bobbie and Anne read him messages that have been left on the guestbook. He especially enjoys the messages from friends and comrades in Iraq and misses them. David reported noticing that the swelling in his left arm and thigh have gone down. Jay has called Texas and spoke to Jo Beth and his Aunt in the past few days.

!0 Dec 04

Doctors told the family they try to let the wounds heal from the inside out, which makes it complicated to close the wounds. Skin grafts will be needed, and the normal source for skin grafts is the inner thigh. Jay may have to have skin grafts taken from his back, David said.
"He has lost lots of muscle from his forearms," he said. "We are working with his hands to limber them up. As he gets more feeling back, he has more pain, understandably."
The Fondrens read in the Washington Post that the president may come to Walter Reed for a visit Saturday. Since Jay is still in the SICU (Surgical Intensive Care Unit), his exposure to others is limited due to the weakened state of his lungs.
"When he's down, we're down, and when he's up, we're up," David said. "When he woke up Saturday, it was a great day."
Jay is still sedated every other day, to allow cleaning and flushing of his wounds. David said the family is still waiting to see what develops with Jay's right arm and hand, since the elbow is pretty badly broken. "The nurses are great," David said. " One girl volunteered to help soldiers. ... She tells us each day she is honored to care for our son."
The Fondrens also met an ex-military chaplain, who pastors a church near the hospital.
The former chaplain is a friend of a friend of Anne Fondren's (Jay's wife) parents. While attending church Sunday, the Fondrens met the Commander General of the entire hospital, who remarked that there has been updated and intensified training for the medics in the last couple of years.
"The medic who saved Jay, a Sgt. Collins, was injured two days later and sent to Ft. Hood," David said.

Excerpts from DEANNA PAWLOWSKI/ Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 12/9/04

9 Dec 04

Jay was in surgery this morning from 7:30 to 12:30.
The doctors tuesday night found a bleeding ulcer caused by too much asprin and motrin. The doctors treated the ulcer. Jay's pain was a 7 out of 10 today. In other news, Jay was a little feisty after some of the medications given and strongly "requested" that Anne and Katie leave his room after they refused to give him ice chips.

8 Dec 04

Jay didn't have a very good day today. Jay is moaning and is unable to tell the Doctors where it hurts. Jay's physicians said that he has not turned the corner on his infection. In addition, they have discovered an infection in his right elbow. Jay's lungs appear to be clear. David, Katie and Anne are supposed to work on Jay's hands to make them more flexible. Jay did not feel like doing that today. Friday will be a big day. Jay will be having surgery to attempt skin grafting on the following wounds: Left arm and Right leg. The problem is that there is not much left to take a skin graft from. Anne is staying the night with Jay as he is having problems sleeping. The nurses at Walter-Reed take great care of Jay. At the end of their shifts, they tell Jay it has been a great pleasure working with him. David asked for prayers for Jay's healing, and to please not to forget the other families that are in the same situation. A friend of the family (an ex-army chaplain) has a church 4 miles north of the hospital and he has told the Fondrens that while they are there, his church would be their family.

Excerpts from Email from JoBeth Fondren 8 Dec 04

5 Dec 04

By RAYMOND LINEX II/Daily Sun Staff

He's awake, he's talking and he has a message for you.

"Thank you."

Staff Sgt. Jay Fondren gained full consciousness Saturday and is talking to his parents, father David Fondren said by phone from Washington, D.C.'s Walter Reed Hospital. The 25-year-old who lost his legs and suffered other serious injuries in a Nov. 24 attack on his vehicle in Iraq is well aware of those injuries and is dealing with the present and his future, his father said

The young soldier is glad to be home, but anxious to get back to Texas, a trip that could take seven months to see through, David said. Doctors expect the rehabilitation process to take that long, he said.

Still, the news is good for Corsicana's hometown hero.

"He still has his faith (and) he's looking at pictures. He misses his son," David said. "... He's sad things turned out like they did, but when we told him about the prayers (from home), he cried.
" He wants to say thanks."

David said a request for water was among the first words Jay spoke.

"He said he hadn't had a drink in a couple of days," David said. "He didn't know it'd been a week (since he had fully been awake)."

The diagnosis on Jay's badly-injured right arm is still unclear. There is a chance he could lose it, but doctors want to give it more time to heal. The fact Jay is awake makes the evaluation process easier, David said, because the patient can converse with and respond to doctors.

Jay remains in surgical intensive care, David said.

The stages of rehabilitation are evident at Walter Reed, David said. There are hundreds of injured soldiers like Jay, he said, missing legs or arms. You can track the progression, he said, from intensive care, to the wheelchair, to first getting up on prosthetics to walking.

"It's a long, long process," David said. "... But you know what, they all talk about their buddies that didn't make it. They don't talk about themselves."

There has been other support too, David said, from calls to the family and visits, even from friends of Jay's wife Anne's family. He said he was expecting former Corsicana resident Eric Williams, son of Marshall Williams, to drive over from Maryland today to visit and take him to the grocery store.

"Corsicana people are a little different," he said, a reference to their giving spirit.

More than anything, Jay's consciousness is helping the family get along now. David said he felt helpless while his son was unconscious, but is now relieved they can communicate again. That's another step in Jay's recovery.

"He's got more guts and toughness than I ever had," David said

Excerpts from Raymond Linex II / Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 12/5/04

4 Dec 04

Update from Friday :
Jay has come through surgery Friday morning, to alter the amputation on his left leg. The leg was removed above the knee because the knee was shattered, did not have good blood flow, and to allow for better fit from a prosthetic limb. Jay's high temperature has come down and in addition, Jay opened his eyes and was able to respond to family. He is responding to verbal commands and he can blink his eyes on command in response to questions asked him. There has been some noticed movement of his arms, and he can raise his torso somewhat.

1 Dec 04

Jay's wife and parents arrived at Walter Reed Hospital in Maryland Monday, while Jay was undergoing a nine and a half-hour surgery to repair damage to his vascular system.
"He is swollen, but he looks like a million bucks to us," David Fondren said in a telephone interview with the Corsicana Daily Sun Tuesday.

Jay lost his right leg at the hip, and the surgery Monday closed the wound. All that remains for the right leg is to keep it clean, and free of infection, David said. The left leg, which was lost at the knee, has good blood flow to the remaining part of the leg. "The main artery on his left arm was damaged in the explosion," Fondren said. "They think they fixed it. But the right arm had the main artery blown out in the attack, and he has already lost the thumb on his right hand. There are no guarantees on the hand or the arm."
Jay also suffered a collapsed lung, either by infection or contusion caused by the actual explosion. He has a chest tube in place to drain fluid. A screen was put in to prevent blood clots from getting to his heart, David said.
" Jay has a 105 degree fever today, and they're icing him down," he said. "If he has a good day tomorrow, they will try to get him off the respirator, and bring him out of his sedated state." Jay was last conscious on the helicopter right after the explosion.

The family is being housed at Mologne House, which offers accommodations for families of injured soldiers. "Anne is holding up pretty well. She is comfortable with the competency of the doctors. If he has to lose the arm, we're ready. Just save him."

Fondren said Jay is in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU), and is being well-cared for. Both parents and Anne are taking turns talking to him, so he knows they are there.

Excerpts from DEANNA PAWLOWSKI/ Corsicana Daily Sun Staff 12/1/04

30 Nov 04

This website is to be a source of information for all the friends of Jay Fondren. If you were unaware Jay became the victim of a Improvised Explosive Device while on patrol with three other military members in Iraq 26 Nov 04. The device exploded and Jay took the majority of the impact yet did not fail to check on his troops before losing consciousness. His soldiers administered first aid and got him to Baghdad. Jay lost both legs in the blast and sustained injuries to his right hand and arm. Shortly after surgery Jay was evacuated to Landsthul Air Base in Germany where further tests were done. Upon evaluation by Doctors, a decision was made to fly jay to Walter-Reed Medical Center in Washington DC. Jay arrived stateside Sunday evening 30 Nov 04.

Jay once again underwent 9 hours of surgery to attempt so save his right hand. As of current the surgery went well but all considered are guarded in prognosis. Updates on his condition from know will be given in the news section as well as any comments from Bobbie, David or Anne.