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Teen Wakes From 4-year Coma Remembering
Victoria spent 4 years in what Dr. called a "vegetative state", but she remembers everything.
Jessica Adler
October 27, 2023
Hey everyone,
Happy Friday! We wanted to share a nifty memory hack we picked up today. If you’re experiencing memory woes, did you know you can actually train your brain to remember while you sleep?
According to a study recently covered by the Scientific American, it’s true- and the key lies in your nose. Talk about easy paths to big improvements. Apparently, it’s as simple as diffusing “strong scents”.
Today's Enjoyment:
Reel of the Day: This mom is giving Uptown Funk an upgrade and we’re here for it!
Trending Loveable Stories:
• Family Adopts Teen in The "Nick of Time”
• Teen Wakes From 4-year Coma Remembering
Quote: “It is not where we are that matters…”
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📰 LOVEABLE STORIES
Image courtesy of TODAY - Courtesy Brad and Renee Balassaitis
SMILES
On Christmas morning in 2022, 17-year-old Roman Balassaitis unwrapped more than a gift.
After navigating the foster care system since age 11 and transitioning through 19 different homes, Roman held an embroidered stocking with a message that was about to change his whole world. Renee and Brad Balassaitis were adopting him.
As Renee emotionally shared, “All Roman has ever wanted was to find his forever family.”
The adoption was finalized on October 17, just a day before Roman's 18th birthday. Reflecting on the momentous occasion, Roman expressed both joy and relief.
"It means I have someone to go to. It means if I need someone to talk to, I have people to talk to now,” the newest member of the Balassaitis family said.
Adoption attorney Jeanne Tate underscored the urgency of adopting teens. The outcomes for teens who age out of the system without finding a permanent home are grim.
Roman's journey with the Balassaitis began when he was 12. They fostered him for about nine months, but challenges from his fear of abandonment led to his departure.
The family's bond remained strong, and years later, Roman reconnected with them through social media.
The Balassaitis, driven by faith and commitment, have adopted 7 children. Roman is their latest addition. Despite the challenges, the family remains optimistic.
Renee sees Roman reclaiming the joys of childhood and says, “He’s getting these moments that he didn’t get when he was younger.”
Their full story of coming together as a family is as uplifting as they come. But be forewarned: you might need some tissues for this one.
OPTIMISM
Ever had a nightmare of being trapped in your body, fully conscious of the world around you but unable to communicate or move?
This was the chilling reality for Victoria Arlen, who spent 4 years in what doctors termed a “vegetative state.” Beneath the surface, though, her mind was anything but dormant. It was alive, vibrant, and desperate to reconnect.
At 11, Victoria was a passionate athlete and dancer. But a series of mysterious illnesses, from flu attacks to pneumonia, began to take a toll on her.
The medical world was baffled until they identified two rare autoimmune disorders attacking her brain and spinal cord.
To the outside world, it seemed as if Victoria had faded away. But Victoria's spirit remained unbroken.
One of her most poignant memories was the heartbreak of “watching” her mom cry, unable to comfort her.
A turning point came at age 15. A medication intended for sleep miraculously allowed her to control her eyes.
The first thing she did? Lock eyes with her mother, signaling her presence.
This was the beginning of Victoria's remarkable journey back to life.
After regaining mobility, she fulfilled her potential to the max, forging an unbelievable career path for herself. In fact, you may even recognize her.
💭 QUOTE OF THE DAY
“It is not where we are that matters nor what we have, it is what we do with where we are and what we have.”
🗿 ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY…
Did you know on this day in 1275, Amsterdam was founded from a simple fishing village? Nestled by the Amstel River, the village built a dam.
This dam was crucial in controlling flooding and became the settlement's core. The name "Amsterdam" tells this tale. "Amstel" represents the river, "Dam" signifies the vital structure they built.
A defining moment came when Floris V, Count of Holland, granted the villagers a special toll concession. They could navigate Holland's waters without any tolls, boosting trade as a result and setting Amsterdam on a path to greatness.
The city flourished, especially during the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age. Today, Amsterdam is a marvel. Its canals weave stories, historic buildings stand tall, and its cultural heritage is still rich and vibrant.
1682 - Visionary Englishman William Penn laid the foundation for the "City of Brotherly Love" in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
1780 - As the skies darkened over Penobscot Bay, Samuel Williams and his dedicated team embarked on America's first astronomical expedition. Their mission? To meticulously record the mesmerizing dance of a solar eclipse.
1904 - New York City witnessed a revolution beneath its feet. The inaugural section of the New York subway, stretching from Lower Manhattan to Broadway Harlem, opened its gates. The fare? A mere nickel.
1947 - "You Bet Your Life," a captivating show hosted by the inimitable Groucho Marx, premiered on ABC radio, quickly becoming an auditory delight for listeners nationwide.
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