Larry's Journey

MAY 24TH LARRY'S ADVENTURE

2006-05-29T21:00:00.000-05:00

I knocked on the door after hearing "Come In" I walked inside the small one room appartment. Larry sat at a less than 30degree slant upon his bed. with a big smile. It had been over three years since seeing each other but it was as if no time had past. I had traveled 1180 plus miles to spend the day with Larry, taking him out for as long as he wanted to take photos of some of his favorites spots that he hasn't seen since before October 22, 2005. "Are you up for this, Larry?" I asked. He replied, "I have been waiting for this day forever what do you think!" with that reply he slid into his body braces and pulled himself up into a standing position and grabed his walker, "Let's go!"

Until that moment as much as I have been telling him everyday that he is my hero, I realized and saw with my own eyes why he is my hero. When we got into arms reach of each other a quick embrace and a whisper" You are my hero, Larry " he mumbled , "What, why?" because of what you just did. Larry gave me a puzzling look, and repeated "what?" Even when face to face with the truth, He has no idea what an impact he has made on me. "Larry, you are totally awesome! You amaze me!" I said as my eyes filled with tears of pride. He grinned, and smiled, you should have seen me this past winter, I couldn't move around like this at all, So where are we going for breakfast?"

The next 8 hours were such a joy. I have tons of photos but for this posting let me just leave this one, it says so much, and is one of my favorites. This is my hero at his best doing what he loves.

I'm back in Minnesota now, still pondering our day together. Thanks, Larry , my Hero, for such an awesome day.

Love from Minnesota, Ra

The Harwich Oracle interviews Larry !!!

2006-03-29T08:45:00.000-05:00

For those who are following Larry's Journey this article appeared in the Harwich Oracle A great news paper and a great article..... Thanks to Pamela for sending it me More than just Cape Codders can read yet another reason why I call my brother , My Hero....
Love from Minnesota
Ra

On the mend
By Douglas Karlson/ dkarlson@cnc.comWednesday, March 29, 2006

Some people would have given up. Not Larry Chandler.
His life changed in a flash on a rainy night last October, when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver on Route 28 while bicycling home. Chandler, a popular town employee who works in the harbormaster’s department, suffered three broken vertebrae, a broken jaw, broken cheek bone, broken hand, two broken hips, a broken pelvis, as well as internal injuries.
Chandler returned to Harwich about five weeks ago after three and a half months in a Boston hospital, and six weeks at a rehab center in Sandwich. Everyday, he practices using a walker. He sits on the edge of his bed and picks up his shoes with a special long-handled grip. He straps on his back brace, and his Velcro shoes, and lifts himself up.

What began as a fight to survive has now advanced to daily struggle to get stronger, and to one day return to the work he loves. According to his sister, Pamela Marsh, the key to his recovery has been his "amazing attitude."
That determination and upbeat outlook is inspiring people all around him. He received a standing ovation at Dino’s, the Harwich Port coffee shop that used to be his regular breakfast place, when he stopped by recently for a visit. He said he’s looking forward to being able to go there regularly again.
"I’m recovering quite well, according to most people," he told The Cape Codder earlier this week. Though he admitted it "seems like a long time to me."
Asked how he feels, he replied, "in general, for the most part, good." He said he feels some pain, but that it’s annoying more than anything else. He’s lost a lot of weight, and his beard, which was shaved while he was in the hospital, has grown back, though the color is whiter than it used to be.
Chandler doesn’t remember the accident, and can’t recall much from his three and a half month stay at the hospital. He has no recollection at all of any injuries from the chest up.
Chandler’s happy demeanor faltered only once during the interview. When asked what he misses most since his accident, he choked back tears, and said he misses his co-workers. He also misses the spring ritual of cleaning up the Herring River, a job he used to do with the help of AmeriCorps volunteers.
Larry Chandler is finally back in Harwich after an accident kept him hospitalized for more than three months. He’s in temporary accommodations while his West Harwich apartment is renovated.
Marsh said her brother is considering a medical retirement. "I think I would enjoy being retired, or semi-retired," he said, but he said he hopes he can work part time for the harbormaster.
He won’t be able to lift heavy buoys anymore, and office work isn’t for him, but he thinks he could still contribute, perhaps in the summers.
To keep busy, Chandler works on plastic models of cars. He also likes to watch Star Trek re-runs and the country music channel, and is learning to use a computer. He’s also doing marlinspike ropework on his walker.
For the time being, Chandler is in a temporary apartment in the West Harwich building where he used to live while his old apartment is renovated to suit his needs.
In the room there’s a trunk filled with hundreds of letters, get well cards and e-mails. Chandler has a message for all the people who have wished him well: "I’m getting better all the time," he said, "and before long I’ll be back."

(Staff photo by Merrily Lunsford)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LARRY

2006-03-18T22:36:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY HERO !!!!

As the newly waining moon settles over the Twin Cities I look up and Smile... within hours Larry will be another year older !!! Still older than me, I will add !!! .... My heart and mind wanders back to five months earlier.... when for many days we prayed for this day to one of celebrations, not of lost opportunities....
Larry, we have been given a wonderful gift .... you for a chance, to enjoy the second half of your life, capturing photo memories with your talent and lenses.... Pamela has been given a second chance, to feel the blessing of daily encounters with you, watching you heal and learning from your determination and exceptance of your situation.... I have been given the gift of letting you know what you are to me , what you have been to me and most of all, what I see possible in the future...
Few people witness miracles, fewer are given multiple miracles.... We have, as a family, have seen and experienced more than the average share.... So on this day which many see as a miracle day I celebrate you, my Hero..... You may picture Heroes all wearing uniforms protecting us from harm... I see the most important Hero in my life as a protector of my heart, a fighter for the future and a Man I am so very proud to call Brother.
Enjoy your day,

Love from Minnesota
Ra

back in town and lovin' it!!

2006-02-08T21:41:00.000-05:00

Ok, I know it's been a while!! I kinda thought my life would be easier when Larry got home and somehow it got much busier. This was actually the very first day since he got home that I didn't have to leave my house all day. Patrick took Larry out this afternoon and a friend of Mom's made dinner for Larry.
There have been numerous "Larry sightings" all over town. Patrick and Larry went out to breakfast a couple of times and this afternoon they stopped in a couple more places to say hi to everyone. Larry is just overwhelmed by the response when he goes somewhere.
He started to practice with crutches this week. He looks forward to getting rid of at least one piece of equipment soon. He is very tired of that back brace. Hopefully our visit with the specialist in boston next week will tell us more. Till then, look out for a BRIGHT YELLOW car with a "smiling man wearing a hat" sitting in the passenger seat! Love to all, Pamela

Wednesday

2006-01-25T08:44:00.000-05:00

Hey all Check this out!!

It took a while to get him in my car but we did and he is back in Harwich! We stopped in to say Hi to Tom and Michelle at the Harbor and Larry decided he wanted to get a little closer to the water, so he had me go to Wychmere Harbor and drive out on the dock. He assured me it was safe!! And it was beautiful and it was so great just to watch him look at the water and smile!! He is very glad to be home. We are looking at a week of visiting nurses and such and learning very quickly just what it takes to get around with a wheelchair and a walker. He has requested his twine so he can do some fancy rope work on his walker. We got a Dvd player set up for him and his music is all set up. He is even the proud owner of a cell phone now!! He just doesn't want "Everyone calling him just to tell him there is something good on TV to watch!! He really didn't like the idea of getting a phone at all, but it really is necessary and he does know that!! And after my son and I showed him all the features it has he wanted to know where he could get a much better ring tone!! So I will download some today and get him one he likes!! For now, he is happy and anxious to be mobile enough that I can take him around to see everyone he misses so and to thank you all for praying so hard for him. He is truly a blessed man.

Love Pamela

Friday

2006-01-20T16:55:00.000-05:00

Ok Brace Yourselves!! Look at him!! This was taken in the PT room at Cape Regency this morning. He walked around the room with his walker and got some soda out of the frig. He now has to practice getting his shoes on and off without being able to bend over. He has to wear that brace when he is sitting or standing. He has two long tools he works with and he is determined to do it. The other news I have is that Larry is being discharged on Tuesday. He is so excited. I have orders to bring his camera and he wants to take some pictures on 6A on the way home. It is going to be a busy weekend getting everything ready. Love to All, Pamela

Wednesday

2006-01-18T21:56:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone
Larry is having a great week. He is adjusting well to Cape Regency. Our friend "Annie" is still there so he likes that. They also got him a TV for his room. I brought him a portable CD player the other day and he keeps asking for more music, so I know he likes that. Physical therapy this week has been introducing the walker. Larry has made it down the hallway a couple of times now and says it takes a while, but he gets there! They say if he keeps on going the way he is he could try going down the hall on his own, maybe next week. He is already looking forward to not having a wheelchair around all the time.
I am sorry I don't have a picture again. I did take 2 pictures the day I brought him the CD player but they came out awful, he looked too old. I will try again. We have a meeting there on Friday morning, maybe I can get one of him and his walker!!
Take care All
Love Pamela

friday

2006-01-13T08:58:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday the 13th Everyone
Larry is now at Cape Regency in Centerville. It was a tiring day of admissions and settling in to a new space. He is room 202A. In fact, as I was just writing this, the phone rang and it was Larry. He said he had a good night and slept well. He was just trying out the phone to make sure it worked. We are not sure at this point how long he will be there. He has an appointment in Boston on Feb 13. Yesterday Mom got to see Larry get himself from the bed to his wheelchair all by himself for the first time. She was amazed at the determination Larry has. He is quite good at this now and basically can go anywhere he wants. Which is good, seeing an old family friend, we hadn't seen in years, is right down the hall from Larry. She was going to "show him around the place" after we left. He will still get rehab here and I am sure will be making daily progress.
There is no email service here. He has already mentioned that he will miss those!
Enjoy your weekend all!
Pamela

thursday

2006-01-12T08:52:00.000-05:00

Hey All
Larry is being moved today to Cape Regency in Centerville. He should be there around noon. I will update this afternoon with a new phone number and address. Larry has had another busy week. He actually took a few steps this week. He said there were "lots of people watching" and it took awhile, but he did it!! I am not sure how long he will be at Centerville but I will update later hopefully with more info!! and a picture I hope!
Pamela

another delay

2006-01-06T07:58:00.000-05:00

It has been a busy week. Larry's surgery on Thursday was cancelled. The reason for that is the spinal specialist would like some more time getting his system back to work. So while they decide exactly when this surgery will take place Larry will probably reside at Brewster Epoch for awhile. Hopefully just a couple of weeks and then back to Boston for surgery. The amazing part of this week was Larry can now get from his bed to his wheelchair and back to bed again all by himself!! It was amazing to see. He has gained a lot of arm strength obviously. This means he is independent in his room and that will make his stay at Brewster a lot easier. They don't know exactly when they will move him but the plan is for Monday but that could change. I will let you all know when he is moved. He really wants to get this surgery over with but the idea of being so close to Harwich really excites him. Hope to get a picture today. Love to All
Pamela

Happy New Year

2005-12-31T19:06:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!! I told Larry I was taking a picture for the website so I needed a smile!! He just happened to have a hat and a horn on his table next to him. Says a nice nurse brought them in. That's his story and he's sticking to it!!
Sorry for the delay in an update but I got sick for Christmas. I was in bed all day and unable to see Larry. I was on vacation this week and after recovering I did a lot of work at Larry's room, working on getting it ready for his return.
He is anxious to get this surgery over with. He will leave for Boston probably on Wed and have surgery on Thursday. He has been working hard and actually can lift his body up from the wheelchair which is quite a big deal!! He has gained another pound so that is good. That beard is coming in, finally isn't that nasty scratchy stuff anymore!! It makes his face appear fuller than it really is. He talks a lot about what things will be like when he gets home. He already is talking about visiting everyone that sent him cards, he is so amazed by it all!! He is still reading ones he got in Boston that he doesn't remember getting.
His nurse "Deb" today came in while we were there and asked if Larry would like to be woken at midnight!! His reply was "Why not! I haven't got any other plans!" She said she would do that. after all, if she had to be up, she felt the whole floor should be up as well!! Besides, Larry still has cookies in his room and she really likes those cookies!!
Happy New Year All

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2005-12-25T16:40:00.000-05:00

HOHOHO..... MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
According to Larry the Cape missed a White Christmas.... but who needs to shovel on Christmas anyway.... Larry was full of spirit when we talked this morning... He was telling me he can left his butt off his wheelchair, can't go anywhere but one step at a time as he will tell you!... He is using a "slide board..He enjoys eating "real" food and loves the goodies that people are leaving off.... It amazes me each time I talk with him, each time I get an update, His strength and determination is so strong. We talked about this web site and he got to peak at it the other day... he told me he didn't really care to read alot of the early stuff, it wouldn't do him any good to dwell on the past.... he only wants to go forward.... build his strength, and get through the next surgury planned so he can get to rehab and told his goal of leaving and returning home.... Wow.... Now thats a Christmas Gift if I ever saw one!!!
God bless
hugs and kisses from Minnesota
and Merry Christmas
Robin....

The week before Christmas

2005-12-18T10:04:00.000-05:00

The Week before Christmas!!! Can you believe it, Larry.... We have talked about how everything has a positive side and Larry's positive side to all this is he doesn't have to deal with waist deep snow with traffic in and out of the malls. You think the Cape Cod Mall is crazy at this time of year... We have the Mall of America 5 miles down the road.... Good Grief as Local, Charlie Brown would say!!! Northwest flies them in by the plane load, shuttles them across the highway and a Shopping we will go!.... Here in Minnesota we are without a doubt having a White Christmas, there is rarely the chance we don't .... I told Larry I am hoping Cape Cod has a White Christmas and He said that would be nice since he will not be shoveling this year!...
This is my favorite week of the year.... It's the week I get the most "Santa Sightings" and Larry would surely tell anyone who would ask him, He Believes.... The Chandler Kids always believed... After all we "Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" Every Year as far back as we can remember... So "HoHoHo" and count down the days Larry but mostly Enjoy the Christmas Spirit as you keep up the Rehab.
I Believe in Santa Claus and My Brother's year round Christmas Spirit.
"Love from Minnesota, Robin

a busy few days

2005-12-17T23:50:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas All
Larry is doing really well. He is working very hard at getting his strength back It is hard to expess how proud we are of him. He works so hard and he never complains.
His major battle now is getting his system back into working order. I don't want Larry to shoot me for going into too many details here!!(i hope he can enjoy this site someday) Let's just say that the drs now need to address his spinal injury. On Thursday they sent him into Hyannis for a MRI. On Friday he had his sceduled appt with the surgeon who did his hip surgery. That went well and they scheduled his second hip surgery for January 5. He was on his way back to Cape Cod and RHCI got the results from the MRI and decided he needed to see a specialist at Boston Medical, so they call Cape Cod Hospital and they call the ambulance and poor Larry gets sent back to Boston. He finally got back to Sandwich around 8pm last evening.
He was tired today but told us all about his adventure to Boston. He was very glad they didn't keep him in the "city". I will be talking with his case manager tomorrow and will find out more about his vist with the specialist.
Larry can receive some visitors now. They ask that you not make mealtime your visiting time and to be aware he could be in therapy. The best time to visit is late afternoon and early evening. Just ask at the front desk and they can direct you to his room. Which is room 254.
He enjoys the cards and emails that he gets. It is starting to amaze him how many people care about him. I have said it before, he is a blessed man. Thank you all
Love Pamela

weekend update

2005-12-12T11:26:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone
Larry had a good weekend. He can wear his own clothes now, so that definately makes a difference in his attitude. It is a chore getting in and out of them, but he doesn't seem to mind. The nurses park his hat on the blood pressure guage when Larry is in bed, but otherwise he wears his hat all the time. Of course!!
He has an appointment on Friday up in Boston with the Dr that did his surgery. Hopefully then we can find out more about the second surgery.
Both pictures I have today are of him in bed, but he was really up and about a lot more than in bed. We were just so busy talking or eating dinner with him that I forgot I had the camera with me. I wanted to get of picture of him with my two boys on sunday night. He said he hadn't seen them together in awhile. But maybe next time. He is getting quite of collection of emails. He keeps them in a folder by his bed and shows them off when we visit.
This second picture I love because it's that smile!!

sat afternoon

2005-12-10T10:52:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone
Just wanted you all to know that Larry is doing fine. He has had an eventful week and is working very hard. The weather around here kept us in Harwich yesterday but look here later in the weekend and I will have pictures of our visit today.
He can wear regular clothes now and has requested his watch. More info tonight or tomorrow!!
Love to all

Monday in Minnesota

2005-12-05T17:24:00.000-05:00

It's the first day it didn't snow since last wednesday!! everything is sparkling white..... finally got my computer up and running again, having some difficulting with the new networking stuff that we have installed.... but hopefully it's fixed now..... So..... I love the Photos !!!! I remember a time when both Mother and I were walking with crutches back in the early 70's but the double wheelchairs are just a hoot!!!! I have sent out the Seaman's Chest to Pamela's house.... We sent it two day delivery... and crossed our fingers that they don't throw it from state to state to get it there that quick.... open it before you take it to Larry, Please..... All the stuffing is for the "King" and also you check it make sure my handy work made it in once piece..... I hope all of Larry's well wishes will fit in it!!!!
Hugs for a very Cold and Snowy Midwest Cape Codda
Ra

Friday Evening

2005-12-02T20:48:00.000-05:00

So, I am wheeling Mom out of the elevator and we start down the hall to see Larry. I look ahead and say "Mom look that's larry", she says " It is NOT"!! I say "Look again, that's his hat!!"And sure enough, there ahead of us is Larry wheeling himself down the hallway. We almost ran his nurse over trying to catch up to him. He said he feels great!! He is adjusting really well and was very busy today. He got a taste of OT, PT, and ST and said it felt great to be out of bed. No complaining about any hard work, just that it feels great to be out of bed!! This first picture is mostly for my sister. Couldn't resist a pic of both Mom and Larry in a wheelchair!! That's half our family Ra!!
After a while, Larry decided he might be more comfortable in bed. He wears a back brace when he is sitting or standing and it gets uncomfortable after a while. But before he had the nurses put him back into bed he took a few minutes to really read, for the first time, some of his cards and pictures on his bulletin board.
He thinks what he is looking at is all the cards he has but now that we can put them somewhere and he wants to see them, he will be overwhelmed when he sees how many he to catch up with!!
Love to All
Pamela

Back on Cape Cod, wearing his Hat!

2005-12-01T21:16:00.000-05:00

Larry arrived at RHCI late in the afternoon on Wednesday. He is so pleased to be back on Cape Cod. We visited with him last night and he was the most alert we have seen him since all this began. Right now he is in a private room with orders for low stimulation. Meaning that the number of visitors is limited. This is temporary as Larry adjusts to the changes that are about to take place in his recovery. What is great is that anyone can email him. Just go to RHCI.org and there is an "email a patient" link right on the home page. His room number is 254. He has already received a couple today and enjoyed reading them.
I brought him his hat and he put it right on and said he wore it most of the day today. That is good, for I believe that is the reason for no gray hair!!!! I am trying to encourage him to shave but he says he will think about it. He says the food is much better here which is good for he needs to gain some pounds. Hopefully, soon we will be able to show him this web site. For now, thanks to all, love pamela

OH HAPPY DAY!!!!!

2005-11-30T10:50:00.000-05:00

As my cell phone rings to the tune of "winnie the pooh" and displays "Pamela" I know that news is ear shot away!!... YES ... While driving up to boston She gets a call,..... Boston is transporting Larry to Sandwich!!!!! WAHOO !!! so in the pouring rain Pamela gets to turn around and go to Sandwich instead of Boston... She is very very happy !! not to mention everyone who is reading this !! more on his room and visiting hours as soon as we have that information and as always.... thanks so very much for all the thoughts and prayer , keep up the great work!...
PS.... be thankful it's pouring rain because here in Minnesota we have 1-2 feet of snow in most of the state ! this is the same system you have now!~ you DONT have to shovel rain!
hugs from Chilly Minnesota
Robin

wed update

2005-11-29T19:29:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone
Sorry that it has been a few days. Larry is doing much better since Thanksgiving. He is either sitting or standing every day. He is not eating as much as they would like, so tomorrow when Mom and I go to see him, we are bringing him some food that we hope he will eat!! A little home cookin' is all he needs!! I hope to have much more info after our visit tomorrow.
Larry and I talk each evening and every day he is more stronger and more aware of what is happening. I can't wait to find out how soon we can get him back on Cape Cod!! I will let ya all know!!
Pamela

Thanksgiving update

2005-11-25T09:11:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Everyone
The long awaited first surgery took place on Wednesday. He finally got back into his room around midnight. Mom and I and Philip and Sean spent some time with him yesterday for Turkey Day. Larry knew it was Thanksgiving but it was just too soon after surgery for him to be able to enjoy it. I must say though at times I think he was enjoying that "Morphine High". He is no longer in traction but still has those big blue boots on. He was running a slight fever, but that was getting better as the day went on. When I called last night to check on him he was doing much much better. The fever was gone and he was much more comfortable. I believe they will have him standing today for the first time. That is a huge step for Larry. That means he is so close to being back on Cape Cod. I will call tonight to see if that really happens today. When Larry was told by the nurse that he was probably going to stand the next day, his response was "that's probably gonna hurt".
He hardly ever complains of pain and he is so ready to take a breath of fresh air. I hope they open that window of the ambulance when it crosses that bridge, so he can smell Cape Cod.
Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers. We truly believe that having so many that care about Larry is what gets him through this.
Pamela

a very happy Mom

2005-11-22T08:46:00.000-05:00

Monday Monday

2005-11-21T13:01:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone
I got a call this morning from the orthopedic team that will be doing
Larry's surgery. He is on for Wednesday. They described the surgery and basically
what they will be doing is fixing his right side. That includes the hip and the
femur bone. He will probably be in surgery for most of the day.
I then got to talk with Larry. He is feeling much better than he was a
couple of days ago, but the food, he says, hasn't gotten much better. But his
system is learning to accept it better. He requested maybe some crosswords or
books to read, so we will bring him some of those when we see him on Turkey
Day!!
So keep the prayers coming, they are working!!
Love
Pamela

What a month

2005-11-19T21:14:00.000-05:00

I just hung up the phone with Larry.... I was totally blown away!! Over the past four weeks, I have read about and talked with many about, Larry's Journey and all he has accomplished this past month... I started this Blog because it was the only way I had to help him travel along.
and now Finnally tonight talking with him.... I am just blown away!!!
I started out, "Larry, This is Robin" he said, "Hey, you sound like Pam, but further away!"
I told him that I heard he moved and wondered if that meant closer to surgery and he told me they are hoping for tomorrow or Monday. Then he mumbled a bit and I said, Sorry I didn't get that, and he replied... Don't worry, Pam will take care of it, she's been taking care of everything... I told him that's the "Big Sister Syndrome". He laughed and said "you're telling me! So how are things in Minnesota?" I told him I had our first snow and he replied in his dry sense of humor, " I haven't". We talked for at least five minutes and when we exchanged "I love you" and hung up, tears rolled down my cheeks and I said to myself, out loud. "I got to talk with Him!!!"
It's been a long month for everyone from Cape Cod to the Midwest and as the clock strikes 8, I know that we have all been part of a miracle called Larry's Journey.
Keep Going, Larry You're totally Awesome!!!
Hugs from Minnesota
Loves, Robin

Wed afternoon visit

2005-11-16T20:42:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone
We had an awesome visit today. He is feeling a lot better and was quite chatty today. We looked at a lot of cards, his bulletin board is very very full!!
An Orthopedic nurse came in to speak to all us about what's going to happen hopefully in the next week or two. The plan is by mon or tues he will be moved over to the University part of the hospital. This is where he will stay until he is moved to Sandwich. If all goes well, he is scheduled for surgery next wednesday, a week from today. Sometime after surgery he will be transferred to Sandwich and after gaining a lot of strength and when they feel he is ready, he will be transferred back to boston for surgery on the second hip.
That sounds like a lot to do but Larry is determined to do it, because he said "I will do whatever I have to do to get back on Cape Cod!"
He has the TV on now and I asked him to keep track of General Hospital for me, but I got a curious look while he was looking and found the History Channel.
Take care all and thanks for the prayers!!
Pamela

Tom and Don visit Monday

2005-11-14T17:41:00.000-05:00

Don Ryder and I went to see him at lunch today. Just got back. He is doingbetter spirit-wise but he has a long-long way to go. or any other parts though it appears his cheek, jaw andcollarbone are mending on their own. He is in traction and he is talking sothat's good. He appreciates all the cards etc he is getting and knowsHarwich is behind him so to speak. See photo attached.TomDon Ryder and I went to see him at lunch today. Just got back. He is doingbetter spirit-wise but he has a long-long way to go. or any other parts though it appears his cheek, jaw andcollarbone are mending on their own. He is in traction and he is talking sothat's good. He appreciates all the cards etc he is getting and knowsHarwich is behind him so to speak. See photo attached.Tom

Sunday's update

2005-11-14T07:42:00.000-05:00

Sunday afternoon I spoke with Patrick he was just so excited about his visit with Larry, Paulette got a hug from Larry which just delighter her!.... It was so good to hear the positive report from the kids...
thanks Patrick and Paulette hugs from Robin

hey everyone
Patrick and Paulette had a great visit with Larry yesterday. He was feeding
himself and they read cards together and looked at pictures that Tom had sent
up of everyone he works with. Larry enjoyed that and hopefully we will have
some good news at the beginning of the week.
we will keep you all posted.
love
pamela

A true Cape Codda

2005-11-13T05:30:00.000-05:00

I love this photo of Larry
It's so Cape Cod... I show it
off to everyone!

Hugs, from Minnesota,
Robin

old fashion mail

2005-11-11T07:19:00.000-05:00

Larry's Address or send C/O Pamela (email for address)

Boston Medical Center
4th FloorRoom 18 Bed 1
Boston Ma 02118

Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers.

TGIF

2005-11-11T07:06:00.000-05:00

The last posting was Wednesday, and it's not that we haven't spent every moment since then thinking about ya, Larry but as things go.... Getting out of ICU has it's down side..... Now it's very hard for us to call and get information The number one problem is HIPPA, a federal patient protection law that carries very fines if violated... At Noran Neurological Clinic, I have to deal with it everyday so I understand from a medical point of view... From the family's point of view it stinks... big time..... So we are trying to get information about Surgery and when and what the next steps are and that kind of stuff in the meantime know that cards and well wishes are coming in from all over the place, not just Harwich, not just Cape Cod but across the country!!! This web site is visited many, many times throughout the day. Anyone can leave comments, if they wish or e-mail Pamela or myself and ask for it to be posted.... anyone that has a photo they would like to have shown let me know I will tack it right up !!! I found a great one I am going to post today or this weekend..... all this goes to show that Family, Friends, friends of family members, and even strangers can make a difference in one person's life and While Larry continues to get stronger and stronger and closer to Harwich, All we have to do is keep up the support..... Thanks so very much, our family is overwhelmed, We have always know the speciality in Larry but it sure is awesome to know that so many others also know. Hugs from Windy and Crisp Minnesota!!! Robin/ Hil

We Saw Larry today

2005-11-09T20:07:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone
We saw Larry today. We opened cards with him. We had so many that we took some home. I am going to make a poster of cards that we will take up on saturday to hold the cards that wouldn't fit on his bulletin board. The fire dept sent him a "fire dept patch" and we placed it up his bulletin board so he can see it right in front of him.
There was no talk of surgery today but hopefully we will be talking with some drs about that tomorrow.
Larry is quite doped up obviously and tires very easily. He fell asleep quite a few times while we there. But when he is awake he is aware and even smiled a couple of times for us.
Please address cards to William "Larry" Chandler.
They can be sent to
Boston Medical Center
4th Floor
Room 18 Bed 1
Boston Ma 02118
Thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers.
Love Pamela

Monday Monday

2005-11-08T10:58:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone
You won't believe this but I got to talk with Larry last evening on the
telephone. I called the nurses station to get an update and the girl said " you
wanna speak to him?" I said "Are you kidding? Absolutely!!!
It was hard to understand a lot of what he said, he has an oxygen mask I
guess, but he understood everything I was saying. I told him Tom would probably
be in to see him soon and that he responded to that with a couple of sentences
that I could not understand but he will be happy to see him, I got that!! I
asked him if he knew if he was going to have surgery today and he said he didn't
know. I told him not to worry about anything except getting better and that
Mom and I would see him in a day or 2. I can't believe I talked with him. We
are getting there!!!
Mom called this morning and didn't get too much info, some days are like
that, but it didn't look like surgery today. Hopefully more info on that later on
today.
For now, keep the prayers coming.
Love Pamela

Leaving ICU

2005-11-07T13:00:00.000-05:00

Well.... Everyone's prayers are working because today's update will be the last one from the ICU!!!! Larry will be moving to another floor which means he is one floor closer to rehab and returning to the Cape!!.... We will know later to what floor and room so everyone can start sending cards.... still will have very limited visitors but cards and well wishes are welcomed.... surgery may be planned to tuesday so more on that later also....
thanks again for all the thoughts and prayers..... Robin and Pamela

Saturday's Update Nov 5th

2005-11-05T22:23:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone
Sorry this is the only update today. Lots going on. I got to talk with a Dr this evening when I called. He had some really good things to say about Larry's stability and how far he has come. He has eaten more today and continues to breathe well on his own. They are concerned that he is a little confused sometimes but also say that it has a lot to do with being in ICU for so long. He said Larry should be out of ICU very soon and ready for some much needed surgery hopefully this coming week. Keep the prayers coming and Thanks
love pamela

A Poem

2005-11-04T18:20:00.000-05:00

My Uncle Larry rode his bike everywhere he went
Until that fateful Saturday nite someone came and went
If it wasn't for that woman who hit his bike in the way
Fate would have taken my Uncle Larry away.

Lying in a bed in Boston with injuries he dosen't need
Looking at him and thinking" Man there was no need"
With surgeries and Rehab in the future so many I hate to think
All because that person didn't really think.

But I know my Uncle Larry will get through this with help from you and me
He's stronger then any of us would ever ever think
He'll be with us these holidays and many more to come
Cause one can't break the tough man Uncle Larry has become.

He has overcome a lot of obstacles and overcome them well
It will just take a little while, but Uncle Larry will do it well.

With all the love from us and all our strength as well
Uncle Larry will overcome this and overcome well.

LOVE YOU UNCLE LARRY

Midday Larry Report Friday

2005-11-04T16:22:00.000-05:00

It's Friday as the Clouds roll in over the Twin Cities, I think to myself those clouds will float over Boston in about three days.... Rain is heading your way.... so much for the weather report everyone wants the afternoon Larry Report... It seems that Larry had turkey and potatoes for lunch... I pictured him chopping down on a large juicy leg bone just ripped from its still steaming body!, but that's why they call me a "Dreama" The fact remains he HAD TURKEY!!!! His Spirits are good and he is getting stronger by the hour! Awesome Larry .... We continue to pray and rejoice in our wonderful Miracle.... xoxox Robin

We'll bring you chocolate on Tuesday

2005-11-04T14:32:00.000-05:00

Patrick and I are so proud of you. Way to go Uncle Larry YEH!!!!!!!!!!!!! love Paulette

ICE CREAM IS GOOD!!!!

2005-11-04T10:21:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone
Mom got a great report this morning. He did very well over night without the
breathing tube and get this....... He had ice cream for breakfast this
morning!!! I am sure it didn't have all the junk in it that he likes, but it was ice
cream.
The prayers are certainly working!
Love
pamela

Yummy way to go Larry!!!! hugs and kisses and lots of prayers.... Robin

Paulette shares her Joy

2005-11-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

Larry is doing great.
No more breathing tube or neck brace. He was talking and just looks so good. I never felt so proud to be a part of this family, than I did today. I was so happy to see Him. I had a smile from ear to ear when I saw how great he's doing. He's got his hat back and looks great in it and that smile. I waited so long to see that smile. What more could anyone ask for. This is the most wonderful day I ever had. My Uncle Larry is back. By the grace of God he's back and it's so great. YEH !!
I love u so much Uncle Larry and Im in that corner fighting that good fight right along with you. Im always there
Love you Uncle Larry, Paulette
Thursday, November 03, 2005 8:30:49 PM

THE HAT IS BACK WHERE IT BELONGS!!!

2005-11-03T14:22:00.000-05:00

hey
patrick just called, Larry now has his hat on and is asking and answering
questions. He knows he has been in an accident and wants to know when he can out
of there!! :)
the nurses tell patrick that larry is a great patient! i gotta go to work now
but the kids will stop by work when they get back from boston.
HE HAS HIS HAT AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!
love pamela

OK who's NOT crying as this is read!!! thanks Ra

Thursday Midday

2005-11-03T14:07:00.000-05:00

I just talked to Patty, Day Nurse with a super personality!....
Larry is doing great without the Breathing Tube He will be very happy to get his hat !!!
and with any luck surg. will be next week..... What a Fighter!!!!
Hugs from Ra aka Robin aka Hil

thursday morning update for larry

2005-11-03T10:29:00.000-05:00

Wow Everyone!!
Larry had a very good nite and this morning he had his breathing tube removed. This is a huge step. He is breathing on his own and although his throat will be sore for awhile he is doing great. The pneumonia and infection have subsided for the time being and they are going to let him continue to stabalize and gain strength and hopefully some surgery next week. They even mentioned that MAYBE he could be moved out of icu this weekend.
My son Patrick and his wife Paulette are going up today to be with him for awhile. He is very aware today and answering questions for the nurses. He does realize that I have his "hat" and the nurses said he could have it, so my son will be taking it to him this afternoon.

Again our family is so appreciative of all the thoughts and prayers for Larry.
He is a blessed man.
love to all
Pamela

2005-11-02T19:25:00.000-05:00

A photo in the recent past in the famous
"Pam, Larry, Robin" pose.....

2005-11-02T19:10:00.000-05:00

One of the best
"Pam, Larry, Robin"
poses from the mid 60's

Midday Larry Report

2005-11-02T15:18:00.000-05:00

just spoke to Paulette charge nurse and she was very pleasant and informative... Larry had an IV _PIC removed from one arm and put into the other this morning due to infection new line is running smoothly and since he is already on meds nothing else is needed.... surg. could be on for tomorrow if Ortho feels comfortable with his pneumonia.... he is more awake today and responses correctly about 50% of time exp... when asked if Lawrence is his middle name... he shook his head yes.... Do you like to be called Larry... again yes.... lift two fingers.... he would lift arm.... and other commands were not carried out correctly .... this could be because he just plain didn't want to.... because they believe he is understanding.... he is breathing pretty much on his own..... which sounds very promising!!! well that's the Midday Larry Report from Chilly but Charming Minneapolis, Minnesota!!

did he get into surgery???

2005-11-02T12:16:00.000-05:00

no, apparently he had some infection in one of his tubes and ma gave
permission this morning to move the tube. I think she said they are going to put it in
around elbow. so they want to get that set today and maybe surgery tomorrow.
so we hurry up and wait!!
if you call this afternoon maybe they can tell ya more
i have to get a prescription for mom so i will be out for awhile.
love ya
pamela

Pamela's Tuesday Night Update

2005-11-01T15:14:00.000-05:00

Good Evening all
I am sure this email list will grow as the days go by. So many have asked
for updates so I think for the time being this is the best way.
My sons took Mom and I up to see Larry today. He was awake now and then and
sure knew we were there. He stayed quite stable today so he's back on for
surgery tomorrow. The hospital still says no flowers or cards yet, but hopefully
that will change in a week or so. For now, the prayers are working and still
very needed. Thank you all. My brother is truly a blessed man.
love
Pamela

monday afternoon

2005-10-31T13:37:00.000-05:00

ma just called. Uncle Bob passed away today. She has talked with aunt Carol
and she is doing OK. Just thought you'd like to know and maybe you can call ma
later. I know she feels kinda helpless but also knows she's gotta stay around
here. i will call ya later when i talk with the hosp tonite
love ya
pamela

2005-10-31T13:35:00.000-05:00

hey
no surgery today. he has some pneumonia. the drs will be in to see him this
am they said, so they will have more info then. could you make the afternoon
call and see whats up. mom said maybe no surgery tomorrow either.
i have to leave soon to take mom to the drs but i will be back around noon.
love ya
pamela

2005-10-30T21:00:00.000-05:00

Downed Harwich bicyclist still in ICU

By PATRICK CASSIDYSTAFF WRITERHARWICH - It was a week ago today that William Lawrence ''Larry'' Chandler Jr. spent his first full day in the intensive-care unit at Boston Medical Center.
Harbor assistant Larry Chandler is in serious condition a week after apparently being struck by a hit-and-run driver.
Chandler, 51, an avid bicyclist and fixture in Harwich, was struck riding on Route 28 last Saturday night, apparently hit by a car.
His condition has been upgraded from critical to serious, according to hospital officials, but the local ''kid'' still has a long way to go.
Police are still trying to determine how Chandler was injured.
Harbor Master Thomas Leach, who has been Chandler's boss for the past three decades, has said Chandler was hit on a dangerous S-turn along Route 28 where he was probably walking his bike in the heavy rain that night. Leach spoke about his friend last week.
''The town is as much his family as his family. He runs our shop and he does all the repairs - that sort of thing,'' said Leach.
When Chandler first started working for Leach he would complain about his duties. Leach now leaves a list of projects on an answering machine he bought specifically for that purpose and everything gets done without a word.
Chandler shingles, maintains moorings, welds and does anything else that needs doing. Two weeks ago Chandler twice went out to sea early in the morning to rescue stranded boaters.
Chandler's eclectic duties at work parallel his equally eclectic interests off the clock. A lifelong Harwich resident, he builds model cars, many of which are displayed at the harbor master's workshop. He reads incessantly, often tackling technical magazines that those around him can only wonder at.
''If he didn't have anything to read, he would pick up an encyclopedia and read it cover to cover,'' said his mother, Harriet Chandler. ''He has probably read every volume.''
Chandler's family has remained close.
He saw one sister, Pamela Marsh, most mornings on his way to work.
He visited his mother weekly. Another sister lives in Minnesota.
Chandler's mother has been surprised by the number of people who have asked about her son's condition.
''No matter where you go people say, 'Oh yeah, I know Larry,''' she said.
''I don't think he knows the impact he has had on the whole town,'' said Chandler's nephew, Patrick Sweeney.
Sweeney's wife, Paulette, trying to solve the mystery of what happened to Chandler, has spent the past week hanging framed pictures of him at the restaurants he frequented in town seeking information about the accident.
Even if nobody comes forward, having Chandler's face seen around town again is bound to be a source of comfort for residents here.
Patrick Cassidy can be reached at pcassidy@capecodonline.com.
(Published: October 30, 2005)

letting the news out to friends and family

2005-10-28T12:43:00.000-05:00

for those who have not heard, please forgive me for not calling directly
but I lost track of who to tell.... It looks like they will attempt his
first of many operations tomorrow.... hugs to everyone Hil

2005-10-28T12:39:00.000-05:00

good morning
ma's phone call this morning just said he doing ok and no change from last
nite. I have her over here today. we are going to make some cranberry bread
this afternoon. we will talk with you later.
love ya
pamela

Pamela's update

2005-10-26T12:40:00.000-05:00

hey there
just got a call from Mom. her morning call told us they wont be doing
surgery today. I had myself all geared up for surgery today. but i guess they want
to wait another day. i will be in and out today, going to get groceries for
mom and me and few other details. i will have my cell with me, so hopefully you
can more info during the day. love ya and talk with you soon.

email to co-workers

2005-10-25T18:03:00.000-05:00

I rarely do things like this but some of you may have overheard me yakking on the phone yesterday about my brother and so thought I would let people know because of two main reasons.... one .... My family back on cape cod could really use anyone prayers!!.... and second everyone back east calls me by my first name and therefor if any one calls for Robin .... Please do not say.... there is no robin here!.... I have told them all to ask for Hillary but it's hard to teach old dogs new tricks!!.... anyway I ask you all to be tolerant of me as I disappear to take calls not related to work. The news article below explains the horrible details if this past weekend.... thanks Hillary

Harbor Assistant critical after Route 28 hit-and-run
HARWICH - (10/25/05) Police continue to investigate a hit-and-run accident that took place Saturday night on Route 28. Police and fire departments responded to a report of a bicyclist struck by a motor vehicle at around 8 p.m. Fire personnel found the victim, harbor master dockhand William Lawrence Chandler, Jr., lying on the roadway. According to Harbor Master Thomas Leach, Chandler was hit on a dangerous S-turn along Route 28 where he was probably walking his bike in the heavy rain that night. ''Larry Chandler is an avid bicyclist. He hasn't owned an automobile for 12 years. He lived on a bicycle,'' said Leach. Chandler is well known around town for his hobbies. Models that he built are displayed in the harbor master's offices and he likes to read a wide variety of science magazines those around him ''only wish they could read and understand,'' according to Leach. ''He's a very stable part of the harbor master's office,'' said Leach. ''He doesn't know it but he is a very public guy.''
Leach is hoping some publicity will lead to a break in the investigation. ''We're kind of hoping that would leverage finding who did it,'' Leach said. Chandler was transported to Cape Cod Hospital and then on to Boston Medical Center where he remains in critical condition. The police are working to reconstruct the accident scene and looking for anyone who may have been in the area of Route 28 and Brooks Road at the time of the accident.
Chandlers injuries are extensive and police now believe he may have been struck by a second vehicle as he lay prone. The helmet he was wearing may have saved his life, however he suffered a coma, broken jaw and cheek bone, three crushed vertebrae (cervical), broken fingers, two broken hips and a broken pelvis and internal bleeding. He came out of a coma on Sunday evening and was able breath with assistance.

First New report Cape Cod Times

2005-10-25T14:00:00.000-05:00

1.) Cyclist critical after Route 28 hit-and-runPublish Date: October 25, 2005Word Count: 249Document ID: 10D78D260EB13330
HARWICH - Police continue to investigate a hit-and-run accident that took place Saturday night on Route 28. Police and fire departments responded to a report of a bicyclist struck by a motor vehicle at around 8 p.m. Fire personnel found the victim, harbor master dockhand William Lawrence Chandler, Jr., lying on the roadway. According to Harbor Master Thomas Leach, Chandler was hit on a dangerous S-turn along Route 28 where he was probably walking his bike in the heavy rain that night.