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A Nov. 8 aneurysm has, at least for now, taken some of Pat's memory and cognitive skills, according to her sister-in-law Janet Smithson, and Pat will need an in-home aide for a time, when she's comes home.
Following two weeks in intensive care, Pat's been in two rehabilitation facilities, receiving speech, occupational and physical therapy. She'll continue to receive those therapies outpatient, but she's being sent home, perhaps as soon as today, Smithson noted.
"When Pat arrives home, she will need to be on a 24/7 watch as she tends to wander and is very curious about things," she added. "Her progress is steady, and she reaches a milestone almost every day."
Smithson has set up a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of Pat's husband, Michael, to help with these costs, which she says Pat's insurance won't help with. The online fundraiser had raised $11,000 in three days, as of Thursday morning.
"Pat loved working with the children and enjoyed going to work every day," Smithson said. "Pat's insight was always to help others, regardless. She always made people smile and laugh and always, always helped where she could."
You can view the GoFundMe page -- and potentially donate, as well -- here.
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