Spina Bifida Does Not Define These Young Ladies

Spina Bifida Does Not Define These Young Ladies

Grace Phillips

Ashland Beacon


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October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month.  I know we have all heard the name, but what do you really know about Spina Bifida?  Spina Bifida is the most common permanently disabling birth defect that is associated with life.  According to the Spina Bifida Association website, there are approximately 166,000 individuals in the United States with the disability. 

The neural tube is what eventually becomes a baby’s brain and spine.  Typically, about four weeks into a pregnancy this tube closes.  However, in Spina Bifida, it does not develop or close properly and causes defects in the spinal cord and bones of the spine.  It is not really known why this happens, but a lack of folic acid in early pregnancy creates a huge risk factor.  

 

Expectant parents look forward to the day they can finally have their ultrasound and learn the gender of their baby. Most of these appointments go without incident, and parents leave smiling with photos in hand; however, other parents’ dreams are crushed. 

Kecia and Aaron Hanshaw were so excited as they planned for their “bundle of joy.”  The day had finally arrived, and they were off to the doctor for an ultrasound to tell them if they were having a boy or girl.  According to Kecia, “What we thought was going to be one of the happiest moments of our pregnancy…finding out the gender of our baby…turned out to be very traumatic.”  She continued, “I could just tell as the lady doing the ultrasound was talking that something was wrong.  She wasn’t saying a whole lot about how the baby looked or showing any type of excitement, so I just knew.”  The technician told Kecia to wait on the table while she went to get the doctor.  According to Kecia, “My mother’s instinct kicked in, and I told Aaron something was wrong.”

The doctor told the Hanshaws he could not see the bottom half of the baby’s spine and that she had a lemon-shaped head.  Kecia was immediately referred to Lexington for additional testing and was then sent to Cincinnati.  Over the next 13 weeks, there were multiple trips to the hospital there for MRIs and testing.   At week 33, the doctors at Cincinnati wanted her to stay, so they could monitor her more closely. “We were lucky to get a room at the Ronald McDonald House where we stayed until we were able to return home.” 

Many times, during the pregnancy, the Hanshaws were told Allie would probably be a vegetable IF she did live because her case was so severe.  She has the worst form of Spina Bifida, Myelomeningocele.  Her lesion is very large and due to the severity, Kecia was not a candidate for fetal surgery.  Kecia said, “We were prepared for the worst but prayed for the best.” Immediately after Allie was born, she was transferred to Cincinnati Children’s to repair her spine.  She had hydrocephalus-fluid on the brain, and a shunt was placed a few weeks later to help with this condition.

Allie is paralyzed from the breastbone down.  She also has Chiari malformation, vesicoureteral reflux and her bowels are paralyzed.  She has had multiple surgeries, mainly on her kidneys.  “We have to catheterize every four hours and do a bowel program every other day.” Kecia continued, “We have faced many challenges with Allie’s health…mostly kidney stones and UTIs.  We also struggle to find places that are accessible for Allie and her chair, but the good definitely outweighs the bad.”

Shelby and Brad Petitt were full of excitement expecting their first child. They went for an ultrasound at 25 weeks when they were given devastating news.  Shelby commented, “It was just a shock to us. We did not have a history of this type of thing in our families.  We were scared and didn’t know what the future held for her.”

Paislee was born with a mild form of spina bifida with a “closed spine,” which meant she did not have an opening in her back.  However, children with this form of spina bifida can have a tethered cord that needs to be released.  Paislee needed surgery at three months to release this.  Shelby shared, “I had a doctor tell me she would never walk, but she sure proved them wrong!”  Today Paislee walks with the aid of braces and crutches. 

The challenges have also been great for the Pettit family.  Paislee has needed multiple surgeries.  She has had to learn to walk a different way than most.  Both girls are faced with many of the same challenges as they grow older.  Shelby shared, “Paislee has the best personality and doesn’t let anything get her down.  When she started school for the first time, I worried what kids would say to her or make fun of her, but that has never been the case. I thank God every day for keeping His hand on her!  She is a miracle!”

Once a mother has a child with Spina Bifida, the chances of having a second with the disability increase.  Shelby and Brad added a little boy, Bronson, to their family a few years later.  “We were very concerned about a second child.  We had to have an extensive ultrasound with a high-risk doctor to rule out this happening again.” On the other hand, Kecia and Aaron decided due to the severity of Allie’s spina bifida, they would not risk another pregnancy.   

As Allie ages, there will be many additional challenges for her.  As her body and spine grow, her spinal cord will not grow as it should with the rest of her body. It will eventually become tethered and will need to be repaired.  It will also pull the bottom half of her brain downward into her spine.  Paislee works hard each week at therapy with the hope that maybe someday she will be able to walk without crutches. 

These amazing young ladies have been through so much in their young lives already and will continue to face challenges. However, they have the most amazing smiles and determination. Paislee cheers with the Boyd County JFL.  Allie may be confined to a wheelchair but don’t get in her way…she is one determined little lady! With the help of their parents, these disabilities will not define their lives.  Watch out world…here come Paislee Pettit and Allie Hanshaw!

The True Meaning Behind the U.S. Army’s Motto of “Be All That You Can Be”

The True Meaning Behind the U.S. Army’s Motto of “Be All That You Can Be”

By: Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

 LTG Karbler at Blazer

            Adversity comes knocking at all our doors at one point or another within our lives. How we choose to face adversity shapes us into who we are. For some of us, adversity breaks us down, yet for others adversity strengthens us as we rise and face adversity head on. This is the lesson students at Paul G. Blazer High School learned on Friday morning during a special assembly led by Lieutenant General Daniel L. Karbler.

It’s not every day a three-star general of the United States Army comes to town and speaks.  On Oct. 20, 2023, Karbler, who assumed command of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command and Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense in 2019, spoke to the students at Ashland’s Paul G. Blazer High School during an assembly.

 

The United States Army Space and Missile Defense Command is a critical element in today’s army and an essential component in the development of solutions for the conflicts of tomorrow by supporting the United States Space Command, United States Strategic Command, and the United States Northern Command.

As stated in LTG Karbler’s online bio., “LTG Karbler most recently served as the chief of staff, United States Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. He was the principal adviser to the USSTRATCOM commander and deputy commander and directed the activities of the command staff by developing and implementing policies and procedures in support of the command’s missions. He chaired numerous boards, oversaw the command's corporate process, and served as the director of the commander’s staff. LTG Karbler also served as the commanding general of the United States Army Test and Evaluation Command. Prior to that, he served as the director, Joint and Integration, Army G-8 at the Pentagon.”

During the assembly held at Ashland Paul G. Blazer High School, Karbler talked to the students about the importance of standing strong in the face of adversity. He included a visual demonstration that left quite an impact on the students. “We all know that the theme of the United States Army is ‘Be All That You Can Be,’ but what does that really mean? In order to be all that you can be, you must first understand two things… two very important things. You must consider WHAT and WHO you can be,” Karbler explained to the student body of Paul G. Blazer High School.

The first of being all that you can be is understanding just what it is that you can be. LTG Karbler shared, “You can be anything that you want to be in the United States Army. If you want to be an astronaut, you can do that! You want to jump out of airplanes, you can do that too! What if you want to fly helicopters, be an engineer, build stuff, work on computers, or become a doctor? You can become all of those things with the United States Army.”

To help students understand this concept further, Karbler walked over to three tables set up in the middle of the gym. The first table had a large rectangular box filled with sand. The second also held a large rectangular box, except this one was filled with pebbles of all shapes and sizes. The third table held a single cinder block sitting in the middle of the plastic box. Beneath each table was a bucket and inside that bucket was water.

LTG Karbler approached the first table, looked around at the students and said, “Up on these three tables we have some sand, some pebbles, and a single cinder block. These three items represent you and how you will stand in the face of adversity. The water in these three buckets will be the adversity that will try to overtake you.”

LTG Karbler took the first bucket and poured it over the sand, which ultimately sloshed sand everywhere until it was flattened out within the box. Again, Karbler looked around at the student body and asked, “What happened to the sand when the water hit it?” Karbler paused for a moment to allow that statement to sink in and then said, “It washes away! Are you the type of person whose personal being is like sand and washes away when adversity hits you?”

He immediately proceeded to the second table, poured a bucket of water over the box of pebbles and stated, “What happened to the pebbles?” He answered, “Some of the pebbles were washed away while some of them stayed in place! Are you the type of person that when adversity hits you, you get washed away a little bit, but you still have a little resolve left in you?”

Finally, LTG Karbler came to the third and final table, which held that singular cinder block. He poured the bucket of water over the cinder block and water splashed off it and ran around the sides. Karbler looked around at the student body once again, and this time with a bit more tone in his voice, he asked, “Or, are you the type of person that when adversity hits you, you are unphased, and it’s as if you become a brick in your resolve?”

            The student body remained quiet. LTG Karbler went on to add, “Remember that the second part of ‘be all that you can be’ is consider ‘who you can be?’ In the United States Army, you can be anyone you want to be. The Army can make you stronger and make you a better person than you were before.”

 After a rather impactful speech and presentation, the students at Paul G. Blazer High School got to witness one of the most selfless acts of bravery, dedication, and compassion that anyone can give. They had the privilege of being witness to seven new recruits being sworn into duty right before their very eyes in the middle of Anderson Gymnasium. To say it was an emotional experience, was an understatement. Witnessing those seven selfless individuals dedicate their lives to the sole purpose of serving and protecting others was truly a humbling experience. The recruits are ready to be put to the test and be all they can be.

            LTG Karbler continued his service in Ashland by participating in two other events throughout the weekend.  After visiting students at Paul Blazer High School, LTG Karbler met with a group of veterans at the popular Bombshells and Ales restaurant located at 739 Carter Ave. in Ashland and had the opportunity to have lunch with them and share stories of their service. This was a great honor for both the veterans and Karbler to share with one another and support one another.

            On Sat., Oct. 21, 2023, LTG Karbler had the opportunity to speak at the highly anticipated Cosmic Holler Film Fest, which was held at the historic Paramount Arts Center. LTG Karbler shared that it was an honor to have been asked to speak at this event. The Cosmic Holler Film Fest celebrated all things science fiction while bringing together filmmakers and fans from all over made for a truly otherworldly experience. The Cosmic Holler Film Fest featured films in the following categories: animation, feature, documentary, music video, experimental, and short film. Those in attendance at the Cosmic Holler Film Fest spent the day watching a total of 14 movies made by the most talented up-and-coming filmmakers.

            Ashland was honored to have LTG Karbler visit our city and demonstrate just how we can be all we can be. Adversity may come our way, but together we have a bright future.  The city continues to plan wonderful events and bring guest speakers who challenge us and help us determine what we want to be.  We are Ashland…Come create with us! 

Thriving After Surviving: Julie Thornbury’s Story of Strength

Thriving After Surviving: Julie Thornbury’s Story of Strength

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

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   Did you know that there are currently more than four million breast cancer survivors in the United States alone? This includes those who have and are still being treated. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all newly diagnosed female cancers each year. There is a one in eight chance that a woman will develop breast cancer at some point in her life.

   Being diagnosed with breast cancer is like being invited to a club that no one ever wants to be in. Julie Thornbury, a native to Boyd County, had her world come to a halt one day while at work. Thornbury had been experiencing some discharge from one of her breasts for a couple of months when she finally decided that it was time to go and get it checked out even though her family had no prior history of breast cancer. Thornbury shared, “Having breast fed three kids, I kind of just ignored it for a while.  The longer it stuck around, the more I realized I should get it checked.”

   After a visit to the doctor and a plethora of test, Thornbury received that news no one ever wants to hear… you have breast cancer.

   “I was working at Ashland Middle School when I got the news.  I read my diagnosis to myself in my office and had a quick cry to myself.  It was picture day that day, so I went to get my picture made before I allowed myself to cry anymore.  The type of cancer I had, did not show up on a normal mammogram.  I had to have what is called a galactogram which is a special x-ray exam used to evaluate abnormalities in breast fluid.  Had this type of exam not been created, mine would have not been found until it formed into a full tumor,” explained Thornbury.

   Ductal Carcinoma in Situ was the official diagnosis that Thornbury received. This is basically breast cancer that has formed within the milk ducts. This type of breast cancer tends to occur in women aged 50-64 years of age and accounts for 20%-25% of all breast cancer diagnosis within the United States. Thornbury handled her diagnosis with dignity and grace. After being asked what was going through her mind at the time of diagnosis, this is what she had to say, “Honestly, I was upset, but felt a peace which sounds crazy.  I knew that all things are in the Lord's hands, and I truly believed that He would see me through this.”

   November of 2022, Thornbury had a double mastectomy. “Because I chose to remove both breasts, I did not need any form of treatment,” shared Thornbury.  She went on to add, “Ultimately, the Lord was by my side through it all.  The support shown to me from my family, friends, and community was what got me through some of my hardest days.  Our family was blessed with so many meals, gift cards, and words of comfort.  I'll never be able to fully repay what everyone did for us during that time,” Thornbury elaborated.

   Thornbury has always had a special place in her heart for working with children and had made the decision shortly before she received her diagnosis to go back to school to finish her degree. She shared, “I have worked in the school system for 15 years now and loved every second of it.  Working with children in some way was always something I wanted to do.  For some reason in college, I questioned whether I should be a teacher or not.  When given the chance to work in the schools in other ways, I jumped on it.  I have worked with every level at some point now between being a registrar at Boyd County High School, secretary at Summit Elementary, bookkeeper at Ashland Middle School, and now special education teacher at Catlettsburg Elementary.  I fell in love with the kids with each opportunity.”

   Thornbury is currently thriving as a Special Education Teacher at Catlettsburg Elementary and is also working toward her master’s in education at the same time.  Thornbury is the living embodiment of strength, and her story should serve as proof that your life doesn’t have to stop at diagnosis and that you can in fact thrive after you survive.

   Behold, God is my salvation: I will trust, and be not afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song: he also is become my salvation.  Isaiah 12:2

Boyd County Lions Honor 1973 State Runner-Up Football Team

Boyd County Lions Honor 1973 State Runner-Up Football Team

Pamela Hall

The Ashland Beacon

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One thing that Boyd County High School was known for in the 1970s was the football team. Under the leadership of coach Tom Scott, who coached Boyd County for most of that decade, the Lions were a tough team and hard to beat. In fact, the 1973 team went all the way to the state playoffs and played for the state championship.

The ’73 Lions went into the championship game against Paducah Tilghman with a season record of 12 wins and one tied game. The loss against Paducah Tilghman made the team the AAA State Runner-Up, ending the season with a 12-1-1 record.

 

 Last week, that historic team was honored for the 50th anniversary of their winning season during the pre-game show at Boyd County’s football stadium. Eighteen players from the ’73 team roster made their way onto the field as their names were called, along with assistant coach, Mickey Rice.

The team members met before the game in the cafeteria of the high school for a time of fellowship and a catered meal, courtesy of Boyd County’s Quarterback Club. Several hadn’t seen each other for many years, and they all enjoyed catching up and reliving their glory days.

“It was an honor to play and be a part of that team,” Geoff Riffe, quarterback for the team, remarked. “There was a lot of great talent on our team. We loved the game, so we worked hard and played hard, and we played with heart. It was great to get together and celebrate our winning season.”

The 1973 team is considered the most successful football team in the history of Boyd County High School. And, a successful team has to have good coaches. Coach Scott put together a staff of assistant coaches that included Mickey Rice, Boyce Lester, Ed Vanhoose, and Jim Gibson. These men helped Scott bring out the talent of team members and lead them to a winning season. The team was the Sandy Valley Conference Champion, Region Four District Two Champion, and the Region Four Champion, in addition to being the State Runner-Up.

“The 1973 team had a successful season because we had really good individual football players at every position that played as a true team,” said Mike Delvizis, who played halfback for the team. “The chemistry was undeniable then; we enjoyed every day together on the field and off, even with the hard work required by the coaches. And hey, the chemistry is still with us 50 years later with the joy, smiles, and remembrances we experienced during this reunion. What a great bunch of teammates!”

There’s no doubt the team had great individual players. Six players were named to the All-Sandy Valley Conference team that year. The Ashland All-Area team also included six of the team members with another nine players receiving an honorable mention. Three of the players were named to the First Team for the Kentucky All-State Team, one player to the Second Team, and six players received an honorable mention. Several of the team members went on to play football at the college level as well.

“It was a magical season,” recalled Jeff Nichols, who played offensive and defensive tackle, “the kind they make movies about. We were small and tough, and in all the playoffs we were underdogs. The boys, now men, who played on that team created a bond and memories that have lasted a lifetime.”

“It’s pretty amazing to remember what happened 50 years ago can be remembered so vividly today,” said Jim Horne, who played the defensive end position. “I haven’t seen some of these guys in decades, but five minutes of visiting and it feels like I just saw them yesterday. We went through a lot together. They don’t play power football today the way we did, but we were a powerful football team… unstoppable mostly.”

Their record of 12-1-1 certainly proves to be a true description, unstoppable mostly. The outcome may have turned out differently had it not been for the injuries of a couple of key players in the state championship game. It might have proven that the 1973 Boyd County Lions Football Team was totally unstoppable.

Regardless, that ‘73 team deserves praise and respect for being the most successful team in Boyd County High School history! Congratulations, guys! You did the Lions proud!

AARF Zombie Prom Puts the Fun in Fundraising

AARF Zombie Prom Puts the Fun in Fundraising

Kathy Clayton

The Ashland Beacon

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The undead will be gathering at the McConnell House on October 13 for Ashland Animal Rescue Fund’s first Zombie Prom fundraising event.  Cathy Queen Executive Director of AARF, shared, “We are looking forward to a SPOOKTACULAR event.  The volunteers have taken the lead on planning, decorating, advertising…the works.  Their wonderful efforts are greatly appreciated!  The community is in for a real TREAT!”            

“We’re always looking for fresh new ideas to raise money,” said organizer Rebecca Fairchild. “We were brainstorming with our volunteers on different ideas, and someone said how about a zombie prom?”

 

The prom will be held on Friday the 13th from 6-10 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person in advance and $35 at the door. “We have a limited number of tickets available, so it’s advisable to buy them ahead,” Fairchild encouraged.  “There’s going to be lots of prizes, giveaways,” Fairchild said. “We have many different items donated by local businesses and the community. Just a lot of people have donated stuff.”

The event will feature dancing, music provided by a DJ, games, and more. “We have a fortune-teller, and a photographer will be taking prom pictures, as well as a selfie station. This is an indoor/outdoor event. The McConnell House will provide a guide to give tours, and baked goods will be available inside. Cornhole games will be set up outside. We’re still planning some of the games,” Fairchild explained.

“We just want people to come out and have a good time. You can dress how you want; it doesn’t particularly have to the zombie prom theme,” Fairchild said, adding that costumes are not required. “Come as you like – you can be Jason from Halloween or anything. Get creative.” She noted that the organizers are planning a costume content, or a prom king and queen event, or both.

Fairchild said there will be food trucks available for purchasing dinner or snacks – Yommaste, Dragonfly, and Street Shawarma. In addition, the folks from Russell’s craft brewery and tea shop, Eridanus, will be selling drinks.

“As a non-profit organization, we are always trying to raise money. Without the support of the community, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” Fairchild declared. “We are always trying to pay off our vet bill. As you can imagine, there is a constant need to care for the animals in our area.  Please come out and have fun, and help the animals at the same time.”