With Matt's Fight Almost Over New Ones Arrive

A black cloud has decended on the Marion's family and for some time now it is hard to see the sun. Since my last writings Matt has grown strong and appears to be healthy. He has a great spirit about him and has a whole new outlook on life. But as Matt's fight begins to diminish the Marions have really had some other tough struggles. Matt's children both fought off staph infections and then Matt's Mom "Gigi" was sent to the hospital with chest pains and then most recently Matt's niece Christin is now in the hospital with kidney and bladder infections. Their faith is truely being tested. Please keep them in your prayers and if you see one of them make sure they are aware that our thoughts, prayers and concern are still very much still with them.
We come to these crossroads in life where we question why and we question our faith. When I was a child I loved to play backyard football. One day I remember vividly that there was a fumble and I jumped right on the ball. With the ball in my gut each of the players on the field began to pile on me. The wind is knocked out of me and I cannot make a sound. I feel like I am suffocating and even though it probably only lasted for seconds I have remembered it my whole life. Just when I felt I was going to pass out a good friend of mine "Big Pepper" came over and started throwing people off of me left and right and then picks me up and looks me in the eyes and says are you ok. Life is like that.

There are many smothering moments in life. We have all felt them and fought them. I’m sure the families celebrating in the Sago Baptist Church experienced such a moment. They went from celebration to suffocation in a matter of seconds. Their loved ones, whom they believed to have miraculously escaped, in fact had not. Their shouts of praise became screams of pain.

The church bells that rang out the message of life were left to toll the message of death.

We who have experienced life’s smothering moments feel their pain and share their sorrow. We will pray for them and in the future we will be more careful about the words we speak and the news we share.

Somehow, in life, we must find ways to pull the unbearable burdens off our brothers and sisters and help them to their feet again.

I am sure God, who heard the prayers of thanksgiving of those families in Sago Baptist Church, also saw their tears and heard their prayers for help and strength.

Dear friends, there are times when life will attack us with full force and knock us down. Circumstances can take away what we have and even those we love but nothing can take away our faith. The good people in Sago, West Virginia know that and will return week after week to the little Baptist Church to thank God for strength, courage and the unfailing hope of everlasting life.

Let us add our prayers to theirs.
Dear God,

We thank you for pulling us from beneath the smothering burdens of life. We pray for the loved ones of the lost miners in West Virginia. Comfort them with your healing presence and use us always as instruments of your grace. Amen

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8: 37-39

Matt Is Doing Great !

Happy and Safe Holidays to Everyone. Matt, Dan, Danny and Davey all came to see me last night at the restaurant. I can tell Matt is doing much better by how fast he ate his steak. It was really good seeing Danny as he had driven in to see Matt from Wilmington. Davey's finger which had staph infection is doing much better but now little Rose has a little infection on her face. Matt's arms and legs are itching now which is a real good sign of healing. I did not hear him cough all night either so his lungs must be doing much better. He looks and acts great and has a whole new outlook on life. Dan has not checked back with the doctor on his last visit, so I can not give you an update on his condition. Dan did say that he wants to post a note here in the next couple days so check in. They also wanted to thank all of you that have sent Christmas gifts and cards. They are still dealing strongly with the emotional side of all of this and still need the support and prayers. God Bless each of you and your help. Feel free to email me if you have a recent meeting with Matt or his family to let everyone else on your experience.

A Big Letter From Muzz

Matt be do'n goood!!!

I spent some time with Matt yesterday morning and he is really doing well. He still has some issues but relatively speaking, life is good. Matt told me to tell anyone that asks about him to thank them so much for their prayers, their concerns, their benevolence, their support and that he is doing good. He is overwhelmed with all of the public support, affection and concern.

He indicated that Thursday was his best day ever and he continues to get stronger with each passing day. Now, how be good dat be??? Scotty Seaford took him to visit the site where the accidents occurred. It was an emotional experience to say the least. I kinda sorta think that it was a good move. I am sure, he will have some emotional issues to deal with in the coming months.

While I was there, the visiting nurse was came and changed his dressings. His wounds looked good and the healing process is progressing well. Now, I ain't saying they are beautiful but when you consider what he has gone through and how he was a short several weeks ago, one could say they ARE TRULY beautiful! His skin graphs are doing well and new skin growth is appearing on areas where they performed such grafting surgery. The sites where they took the skin are gradually blending in and becoming the same color as areas where skin was not removed. Healing will be somewhat slower in areas where there is movement i.e. elbows, knees, ankles etc.

He still has considerable congestion but most of which was apparently caused by the clots he threw into his lungs from the site where the staph infection started i.e. where he had his IV's. He has a pick in his shoulder that is being used for antibiotics. Melissa is now Nurse Melissa. She does the cleaning of the site, injects the antibiotics when the visiting nurse is not there i.e. evenings etc. She has been a great asset to Matt in caring for him in all aspects of the word. Although he does not deserve such attention, I guess she just overlooks the fact that he is a jerk! Something we do not have to do.

He will start physical therapy next week at Davie Hospital. He still has a long way to go but he may surprise us all about how quickly he will recover to the point that he can do for himself and at some point return to work.

He is so apologetic to Melissa, his Mom, Dad and the rest of his family for having put them through all of this stressful incident. He repeated that numerous times. He went into somewhat detail of what happened. It was like he wanted to talk about it. Dat be good, I believe. He is convinced that someone pulled him from the inferno. He said, I wish I could tell you I saw an angle but I did not. He said someone had to be there with him to pull him out because he could not have done it himself. How bout dat???

Think of the chain of events that took place. 1. After trying to get out, he found that the space between the arms of the four point bucket and the frame of the skid steer was not sufficient 2. Then he had to get back into the seat, reattach the seat belt, start the skid steer, lower the bucket to give him sufficient room to get out. 3. Walk about 100 yards and get in his truck. 4. The keys were in the truck, how bout that? 5. Drove himself to the hospital. 6. Called 911 (he does not remember doing that). 7. Called Melissa and told her that he was burnt and he was on his way to the hospital and told her not to be alarmed if she heard a big explosion. Well you guessed it, about 5 minutes after the phone call, there was a huge explosion (the skid steer went) and the entire backyard was lit up, how bout dat--5 minutes? 8. Called his parents. 9. Trauma Unit from Chapel Hill was there, as well as the Davie EMS Team etc.

Having said all of that. You can see why Matt was convinced someone pulled him out of the inferno and was with him all of the way. Does anyone believe that there is person mightier than all of us. You make the call!! The answer is obvious.

Before leaving, I suggested to Matt that when he felt better, say in March or April, that he have a barbeque and invite all people of concern to attend. I then went on to say----ARE YOU READY FOR THIS----- Only this time use a PIG!!!! Sorry bout dat---the Devil made me do dat.

Let's continue to pray for the Marions.

Todd Naylor - I was over the hospital, I believe on Tuesday. He is able to move his hand to touch his nose and continues to communication with the family. I believe he is making progress as well. Slowly but surely. I believe the infection is under control.

Christopher Barnette - Chris still has a way to go with the ventilator and breathing stuff. They had to take a few inches out of his intestines. All went well. Dat be good. No bag etc. He is able to communicate by writing notes to the family. He can use his hands. He is finally becoming more alert. He asked how long he has been in the hospital. When they said 39 days--it was like---WHAT!!! He is unaware of the fact that others were killed in the accident. The family is concerned as to how the message will be given and taken.

Please keep these families in your prayers

Dat be it for now!!

Muzz

A Letter From Matt To Everyone

HELLO EVERYBODY!
I WANT TO START BY SAYING "THANK YOU" TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS. I KNOW IN MY HEART THAT I OWE IT ALL TO THE GRACE OF GOD FOR GETTING ME THROUGH ALL OF THIS. FOR GOD, MY FAMILY, MY FRIENDS, MY LOVE OF LIFE, AND MY WILL TO LIVE, HAVE GIVEN ME A SECOND CHANCE TO TRUELY APPRECIATE WHAT LIFE IS ALL ABOUT. SINCE MY ACCIDENT, I SEE EVERYTHING THROUGH A NEW PERSPECTIVE. IF I COULD SAY ONE THING TO ALL OF YOU I WOULD TELL YOU HOW I NOW REALIZE HOW FRAGILE LIFE IS AND I ASK THAT YOU PLEASE NOT WASTE A SINGLE MINUTE. LIVE LIFE TO ITS FULLEST AND TRUELY LOVE THOSE AROUND YOU IN FAMILY AND FRIENDS. FOR THAT IS WHAT'S IMPORTANT! I NEVER WOULD HAVE DREAMED OF HAVING SO MANY PEOPLE PRAYING FOR ME. YOU ARE DEFINATELY ONE OF THE REASONS I AM HERE TODAY. I CAN'T SAY "THANK YOU" ENOUGH AND I COULD NEVER REPAY THE DEBT I FEEL THAT I OWE SO MANY, BUT I CAN PROMISE I'LL GIVE YOU A MATT MARION SMILE THE NEXT TIME I SEE YOU! THANKS AGAIN AND I LOVE YOU ALL!
SINCERELY, MATT

PS. DON'T PLAY WITH MATCHES ! :-)

The Hand of God - The Hand of Matt

Tonight 34 days after Matt's accident he was finally able to walk back in to my restaurant. You have not seen me smile this big since my last child was born. As I struggled to hold back the tears Matt grabbed me and hugged. I was so afraid I was going to hurt him but I hugged him like he was my long lost brother. He looks so wonderful. Praise be to God. What a beautiful survivor. Of course this is the beginning of the Christmas Season and Ivan's was packed and I was slammed. I literally told 80 people they would have to thirst for a few minutes while I said hello to Matt and Dan. I finally got a break and set down with the boys. Matt started to tell me details and I wanted to listen to every word but we kept getting interupted. He had a big 10 oz filet mignon and ate every bite. He coughed every now and then but just seemed amazingly great. To hear Matt tell of the night of the fire will just leave you with your mouth wide open and the constant question "how could you have possibly made it out alive?" Holding back the tears I listen. Matt then begins to tell me about his right hand. You say right hand I thought it was his left hand that was burned but actually the amazing story is with the right hand. If you did not know Matt is right handed. So what is so amazing well let me tell you, there is not one single mark on the right hand as if God reached down and literally pulled Matt out of the fire by his right hand. These words are actually Matt's not mine. He truely believes that if it were not for God he would not be here today. He stay was way too short and I look forward to the day when we can sit down for a much longer talk. One quick note of concern. Little Davey has contracted a staf infection in his hand so let's keep him in our thoughts as well. Some people have asked what they can do for the family for Christmas. Some thoughts are gift certificates to some nice restaurants or maybe even gift certificates to Tweetsie Railroad. Little Davey loves trains and Little Rose loves dolls and stuffed animals. Melissa I am sure could use some massage therapy or possibly a spa gift certificate. Non-perishable goods are nice too. Thank you so much for all each of you have done for Matt and his family.

Now The True Healing Begins

Matt, Melissa and Rosie went to church today. Matt is looking great. He has lost about 30 pounds and is on three antibiotics but is on the strong road to recovery. He still gets winded easily and has trouble holding with his left hand. He needs a little support to walk. If you would have told me a week ago that Matt would be in church today I would think you were crazy but this just shows how strong Matt's will and God's Glory works. Many Many prayers have been answered. I want to thank everyone that has kept me informed on Matt's condition so that I could keep this site up to date. I saw Dan on Friday night and I honestly feel that a lot of our prayers and concern need to be directed towards him now. This has been extremely hard on him. His health is still a great concern. God Bless Each of You !
Joe

Matt and Melissa

This is a picture that Matt's Aunt Vivian sent me. I will be happy to post any pictures you would like to send me.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING INDEED !

Matt is home---again
Muzz writes:
I visited Matt at the hospital Wednesday afternoon. On Tuesday they closed most of the area where they removed his vein. Obviously, he is still in a great deal of pain from the operation, infection and the burns. But he is very much improved. I believe I indicated that he had spiked a fever on Monday evening and Matt was really concerned. They took a culture on Monday evening. Well, as it turned out, he developed another type of infection that the antibiotic is was taking did not touch. They changed his antibiotic -- Bingo - "he ain't no fever" all day Tuesday and up until I left Wednesday afternoon. Let's pray the improvement continues and he, with the grace of God, will get on top of the infection. Once that happens, he can get back to basics.

Matt looked and acted a 100% better on Wednesday than when I saw him Monday evening. That is after taking into consideration he did not look to good prior to the accident! While I was there, his physical therapist was working with his left hand. That was the hand as well as the left arm that took a pretty good hit. Matt was having trouble making a fist. After about 20 minutes, she had him making a fist. I wish you could have seen the joy in Matt's eyes and facial expressions. He asked the therapist--How did that happen? He was amazed! I told him that her brain has taken over your brain. You brain was telling you to make a fist by opening your hand. Again, the boy ain't too smart! He said that he never thought he would be able to make a fist again. Note: I have officially withdrawn my threat of whipping his butt (cleaned that one up a wee bit!) after he showed me that fist!
Matt still has congestion in his chest. He is able to get a lot of the stuff up. He had trouble getting that stuff up just a few days ago. The doctors were not too concerned about the congestion and were happy that he was able to cough up some of the mess. I was told by Tammy Naylor that Matt was walking the halls and even went to visit Todd. In just a short couple of days, you can see that Matt is building confidence in himself and that will go a long way in the healing and recuperation process.

Having said all of that, make no mistake about it--Matt is in for a long rehabilitation and will continue to suffer pain.

Todd Naylor - Spoke with Tammy briefly on Wednesday. Todd had a good Tuesday and Wednesday am. She had not seen in the afternoon. Hopefully, he had a good Wednesday pm. The physical therapist worked with Todd all morning and he really tired after that. Todd was able sit in a normal chair and is talking much better. They will have Thanksgiving dinner in the hospital. Todd help plan the meal. He spoke with their kids on the telephone. That was an upper for him. He is able to be conversational. Dat be good. Tammy said when Matt visited him it was like they were old buddies. Dat be good also. They are making progress with Todd relating to his staph infection.

Chris Barnette - Did not see Ron or Linda since they were visiting Chris. Tammy indicated that Chris's fever continued to be high (102) but not as high as it has been (104). She indicated that she thought he was making progress as well--ever soooo slowly. Dat be good!

Linda Barnette - Is doing somewhat better since she has been on her antibiotics. She is a room just down the hall where Matt was.

Don Cornatzer - Again, I do not have a lot of information. I understand that he has been moved out of ICU and into a regular room. He still has pain and has a bad couple of nights.

That is about it for now. Please keep our Davie County Boys in your prayers.

UPDATE FROM PERCE

Monday, November 21,2005 (Late PM)

Took Dan over to see Matt last evening. Matt continues to show a slight improvement. The infection continues to be an issue. When we got there he was having cool chills. Shortly thereafter, he once again spiked a fever. This has been the pattern, particularly in the evenings. Matt is real concerned about the infection. It is staring to get to him mentally. Like--enough already, I have survived the trauma of the burns and now this. Had it not been for the infection, he would have been much further into his recovery. The hospital is "loaded" with patients that have a staph infections. The other two people from Davie i.e. Todd Naylor and Christopher Barnette also have a staph infection. In fact, Linda Barnette, mother of Christopher, was admitted to the same hospital and is on the same floor as Matt, with a staph infection. While putting on surgical gloves during one of her visits (Saturday?) with Christopher she scratched her arm and --- bingo -- it got infected with staph.

Not a nice place to hang out!!!

Matt is becoming very anxious over this whole thing. He was concerned that they would put off his surgery on Tuesday (today) because of the fever. He kept saying the doctor is not going to like this!!! As of about 11 last evening, the surgery to close the area where they removed the vein was still on the schedule.

The healing of the burns are progressing well, relatively speaking. Obviously, he is still in a great deal of pain particularly in the arm where they removed the vein.

FROM PERCE - Matt Update - Sunday, November 20, 2005 AM

Sunday, November 20, 2005 AM

There is a slight improvement!!!! Great News

Went to Baptist Sunday AM and saw Dan. Was able to talk with Matt for about 30 seconds. Stayed at the doorway. Things are better than they were several days ago. Dat be GOOD!!! The big problem continues to be the infection and the blood clots in his lungs that he "threw" as a result of the infection at the site of where he had his IVs. After much insistence on Dan's part they finally did a CT Scan sometime yesterday. As you recall, Dan had been hounding them to do a CT Scan for the past several days. The doctors insured Dan that the tests they were doing i.e. blood work and chest x-rays showed that he did not have any blood clots in his lungs and they were clear. Dr. Evans has been telling Dan that they need to do a CT Scan. Finally, Dan got a hold of one of the nurses and told her to put in her notes that he (Dan) is requesting a CT Scan. He further indicated that he wanted to talk to a doctor, NOW. They did both. The CT Scan showed blood clots in the lungs (not sure whether they are in one lung or both)!!! How about that!!! THANKS Doc Evans!!! Says something about his professional medical expertise!!! The doctors told Dan that they would never have believed it!!! Hopefully, such experience will provide an invaluable approach for new patients.

Having said all of that, during my brief conversation with Matt, of course I harassed him, that's a given--he looked good (as good as he ever will look or has looked) and hopefully he is on his way to where he needs to be. Since I had a suite on, Matt told me I clean up pretty good. Dat be good!! Insulting as it was!! That was the only opening I needed. I told him that my offer to kick his ass expires when he gets out of the hospital. Told him he needed to shave and it was no excuse just because he can only use one arm. There were other comments that are not fit to be printed. There was a nurse present. Oh well, I get him next time.

They took out the vein in his arm from his wrist to above his elbow. That is where the "red line" up his arm had gone. They have it laid open to clear the infection. Again, all things considered he is on the mend, ever so slowly. At this point the burns are not the primary concern. Obviously, he still has a lot of pain, but relatively speaking, the other issues are more pressing. But I believe TODAY, things are going in the right direction.

I saw Melissa last evening at the fundraising dinner at Center Methodist Church (thanks guys and gals at the church) and she indicated when he is able to go home, he will have a "connector" medical term for my not knowing what the hell I am talking about, the site that he will have antibiotics injected.

Note From Aunt Viv on Current Condition

Well, we seem to have come through another 'crisis' for now. As one of Matt's bosses would put it: "Divine Intervention" (from Don Boyles). There have been a lot of those Divine Interventions for sure. Matt seems to be over another hurdle for now. Anyone in the shape that Matt was in a few weeks ago would undoubtedly be in for a number of complications (which you know have occurred). It is hard for families to understand sometimes that these cannot be predicted. The staff has been so gracious in their care and support. They all are 'rooting' for Matt. We are blessed with a good crew of doctors and nurses who wait for the 'next crisis' to occur and then they plan their action. Also, Dr. Davis has been such a gentle and caring physician (a third year surgical resident) who is great in my opinion. We are thankful too for our 'silent parter' (so to speak) in Dr. Jim Evans (a fine and caring physician who is such a great friend of the family). He has offered suggestions along the way and provided a great deal of support to the family. His suggestions have really been beneficial! Thanks to everyone for the prayers and we ask that you keep them coming. "Devine Intervention" (love that, Don) really does describe the events that have taken place these past few weeks. Thanks, Joe for this website. The family loves you greatly and is so grateful to all of the friends who have been so wonderful and supportive during this very difficult time.
Aunt Viv

Note From Aunt Viv on Current Condition

Well, we seem to have come through another 'crisis' for now. As one of Matt's bosses would put it: "Divine Intervention" (from Don Boyles). There have been a lot of those Divine Interventions for sure. Matt seems to be over another hurdle for now. Anyone in the shape that Matt was in a few weeks ago would undoubtedly be in for a number of complications (which you know have occurred). It is hard for families to understand sometimes that these cannot be predicted. The staff has been so gracious in their care and support. They all are 'rooting' for Matt. We are blessed with a good crew of doctors and nurses who wait for the 'next crisis' to occur and then they plan their action. Also, Dr. Davis has been such a gentle and caring physician (a third year surgical resident) who is great in my opinion. We are thankful too for our 'silent parter' (so to speak) in Dr. Jim Evans (a fine and caring physician who is such a great friend of the family). He has offered suggestions along the way and provided a great deal of support to the family. His suggestions have really been beneficial! Thanks to everyone for the prayers and we ask that you keep them coming. "Devine Intervention" (love that, Don) really does describe the events that have taken place these past few weeks. Thanks, Joe for this website. The family loves you greatly and is so grateful to all of the friends who have been so wonderful and supportive during this very difficult time.
Aunt Viv

Muz and Melissa's Conversation

Saturday, November 19th, PM
Spoke with Melissa this evening at Center United Methodist Church at the fund raising deal for Matt and his family. Melissa indicated that they cut Matt's arm from about his wrist to his elbow since he developed a red line. That is blood poisoning. I believe they are making progress on his lung infection. Dat be good. M indicated that when he comes home he will be on an intervievous antibiotic drip. Dat be good. If I am interpreting stuff correctly, I think things are OK, not good, but OK. I intend to go to the hospital tomorrow morning early. Perhaps I will be able to get some updated information.
Thanks for keeping Matt and Melissa and the rest of the Marion family in your prayers. Let's pray he can get over this mess in his lungs. That was a profound medical statement i.e. "mess in his lungs", whatya think??
Together and with the grace of God, we can do it!!!
Muzz

More Tough News

This morning doesn't bring good news. After the family insisted and insisted and insisted, the doctors finally gave in and had a CT scan done on Matt. The scan showed that Matt has a severe infection in his lungs that "could go either way" in Dan's words. The only thing they are able to do for it, is treat it with antibiotics. Dan is very upset and very worried.
Please remember Matt, Dan and the whole family today.

Operation and Heart Rate

Spoke with Dan this am. Matt is back at Baptist Medical Center Burn Center. Same as before. As previously mentioned in Nikki's email yesterday, he spike a temperature and has an infection in his left are. That is the site where Matt had one of his IV's. His blood oxygen level still remain satisfactory at around 95. That be good.Dan indicated that the same conditions exist plus he has a high heart rate. They checked him for blood clots and have found nothing. They opened his vein in the infected arm and cleaned it out. They thought he may have been developing a blood clot in that arm. Again, they found nothing. He still is having pains from the burns. I did not ask as to the severity.Dan has requested a CAT Scan or an MRI and a consultation with a cardiologist. Hopefully, that will be done today. The infection continues to baffle the medical staff as well as the accelerated heart rate.
Please keep the Matt and the Marion families in your prayers.
Muzz

Back To The Emergency Room

Everyone,
Please be praying for Matt and the whole family today. Matt had to be taken to the emergency room last night because he spiked a fever. The doctors said that he had an infection in his left arm that they are not sure the cause. It is possible it is from a previous I.V., but not from the graphs. They looked at all of his graphs and seem to think everything is okay there. Matt may have to have surgery on his left arm. They are going to try and decide this today. This is all the information I have at this moment. As you all can imagine, Dan was unable to really talk about it too much.
Post from Nikki

MATT'S HOME !!!!

Yes believe it or not late last night they sent Matt home. He is still under a guarded situation. He will have home care and will still have to go to the hospital almost daily but still he is home. The doctors are amazingly stunned at the progress he has made. Infection is still a serious concern and at this time his visitors need to be kept to a minimum. If you would like his home address just email me at bartenderjoe@hotmail.com God Bless Matt and his family.

Letters From Friends

You people have blown me away. I was actually brought to tears minutes ago when I opened my email box and it said it was full and I needed to remove some files. Please keep the letters coming and I will keep posting if I can keep up. Matt truely has some wonderful friends.

Matt, Greetings from Ketchikan Alaska. It is good to hear that progress is being made. Matt, you and your family go back a long way with me. I first met you in 1989 in Mocksville, I was back there for a Part’s Marketing meeting hosted by your Dad. I remember that baseball was already a big part of your life. You have now become a wonderful husband and father. You have touched the hearts of people all across this country, and you will continue to do so. This I believe with all my heart. God holds you in the palm of his hand now, and will continue to as he always has. Laurie and I will continue to pray for your speedy recovery. God bless you, Melissa and all your family.
As always, your good friend,

Marty Gillet
PS: Continue to soar like an Eagle.

I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OFF WORKING WITH MATT FOR A FEW YEARS.HE ALWAYS HAD A GOOD ATTITUDE AND COULD GET MOST ANYONE TO LAUGH.
MATT HAS BEEN A GOOD FRIEND,AND WHEN EVER HE WOULD CALL AN ORDER
IN TO ME I WOULD ALWAYS TELL HIM WE'LL GET YA GOIN.HE WANTED ME TO SAY THAT EVERY TIME.HE WOULD ALWAYS GO OUT OFF HIS WAY FOR THE CUSTOMER NO MATTER WHAT.MATT HAS A STRONG WILL AND HE WILL PULL THRU THIS I'M SURE.I DO MISS WORKING WITH HIM AND PLAYING JOKES ON HIM.WHEN EVER ANY OF YOU SEE HIM TELL HIM (WE'LL GET YA GOIN) AND I'LL BET HE WILL SMILE.THE WORLD NEEDS MORE PEOPLE LIKE MATT IN IT.


MARTY PRATT
PARTS COUNTER REP.
RALEIGH NC 27607

I am so glad to hear of Matt’s progress today what wonderful news!! All of the Marion’s are very special to me and my family. The Perry’s in Rock Hill, SC are praying for all of you. Lot of Love.

Jill K. Perry
Business Office Supervisor

Matt and Family:
I am a member of a Sunday School class in South Carolina that is referred to as "The Prayer Warriors". I know Matt has a lot of people praying for his recovery already, but I wanted you all to know that we are lifting him up to the Lord as well. I went to junior high and high school with Matt. I haven't seen him for years, but just thinking about him puts a smile on my face...what a sweet and special guy!
All of our love in His name,
Carol Johnson Cunningham (and family)

Hello Matt,

The Elliot’s and Marion’s have been family friends for a number of years as you know, business dealings between CMI and Ingersoll-Rand, fishing trips, trade shows, product support seminars, etc. Somehow, somewhere, we managed to meet on different levels of our lives.
I recall a specific class in Kentucky we took simultaneously for ESCO ground engaging equipment. Post class, I believe we were all standing in the hospitality suite (some of us couldn’t stand). You were having a conversation with Mike Miller, a salesman out of our Anchorage Branch and happened to mention if he knew the whereabouts of the Elliot’s and what “they” were up to. Mike replied “here why don’t you ask Brian, he’s standing right here!” What a great conversation we had regarding life, families, jobs, memories, and what the future was to bring. Again where work and coincidence would let us catch up, though brief, a memory was made!
My wife Jennifer and I will pray for you and your family, as you go through this trial on your way to swift recovery. This ordeal will soon be a memory cast aside of those better remembered.

Take care, and hang in there buddy!

Brian R. Elliot
Construction Machinery Industrial, LLC.
Equipment Sales/PSSR

Matt, we are praying for you and continue too! We are so glad to hear you’re improving. I have been updating all of the DHS Alumni that I have in my computer on your condition and so many people are praying for you and send their well wishes. Take care dear and hope to see you soon! With love, Katy and Clint Junker

Katy H. Junker

Matt

Sound’s like you have a tough job ahead.

Now would be the best time to plan another trip to Ketchikan for some King salmon next summer. As you know the therapeutic value of fishing is without equal and your dad always needs some help getting his fish in the boat.

We’re looking forward to your getting well and will be in touch.

Bob Elliot

Matt,

It's so good to hear you are improving and of all things....hungry!! That is a definate sign you are on the upswing. I go see Jenny every morning to get an update on your progress. Please know that David and I send many happy thoughts to you Melissa, Davie and Rose and keep you all in our prayers each and every day.
Much love,

Julie Huneycutt

Hi, you don’t know me…..but I work here in Mocksville, and although I am younger than Matt, I remember him from school. My cousin-in-law is Kristy Parker Spence and mother-in-law is Hilda Turner…..anyway, I am so glad someone has taken the time to do this site so that everyone can get updates. EVERYONE in the office (Julia Howard, Jane Whitlock, Connie Kowalkse, Ken Sales, etc.) are ALWAYS asking how Matt is progressing. Now we have a way to stay informed without having to make dozens of calls.
We ALL certainly wish there was something we could do to ease the families pains and burdens….so we gladly lift up our prayers on his behalf!!!
Continue to fight Matt!! Each day is a battle…I can’t even imagine BUT if you read Matthew 17:20, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
God Bless – Crystal Lapish Hall –

Hey Matt, Melissa, Dan, Gigi, Jinny, & Viv,Anne and I have been praying for you out here in Missouri. Keep fightingand ask God for strength and comfort. The website is good and I thankNikki for the daily updates.Get better guy!!

Steve BlackwelderIngersoll-Rand Company

Dan, Gigi, and family lived across the street from my childhood home in Mocksville, so all of the kids were frequent sites playing in the yard. I had the privilege to really start getting to know the Marion's when Dan gave me a job driving a truck for him in 1978. I was able to watch Danny, Matt, and Jenny grow up to be fine adults. Matt, even to this day, still calls me "Mr. Hollar" whenever we run into each other. I told my wife that Matt is the kind of young man every father wants his daughter to bring home. He comes from strong stock, with a life force that will pull him through this.

Matt, Melissa, Dan and Gigi - we are praying for all of you, for the strength and comfort that you are not alone in this ordeal. God only gives us as much as he knows we can handle. If there is anything we can do, all you have to do is ask.

Darwin Hollar

Marketing Coordinator, DTH Products

I just wanted to add a brief log entry to reiterate to Matt and his family just how many friends they have praying and now cheering for his recovery. Most every business conversation over the last two weeks have started out with, “how’s Matt doing today.” Practically everyone that I work with at Volvo has asked me how Matt is, and I’m glad to say that the web log has been a fantastic source of information (and inspiration) for all of us.
I will simply state that Matt’s spirit and courage are awesome. I personally can’t wait to share his conversation and sense of humor. This story and his certain recovery are powerful and will live with many of us forever.
God bless for a continued and speedy recovery,
Tony Spake and all of Matt’s many friends at Volvo

Dear Matt (also known as Dwight Smiley)Great to hear that you are getting better and stronger. I would not expectany less from a Marion. You guys are tough. It was Tuesday night, Nov 2when I received that call from your dad telling me about what happened. Ican feel the anguish and worry in his voice. I have never known any father- son or any 2 people for that matter as close as you two guys are. Youguys have that close & special relationship that every father and sonreally wish for. I had the privilege of your dad friendship for only 5short years and that is how I got to know you. You are some of the finesthuman beings I have ever been around. I enjoyed all the times we hadtogether. I especially enjoyed that pheasant hunting trip we took lastyear in S.D with the Cate Equipment boys. You guys know to have fun andenjoy life to the fullest. You are fun to be around and always smiling andhappy. I also remember all the jokes you, Mr Dwight Smiley, Agent forFishing and Hunting Dept. in S.D, played on me during that hunting trip,with your dad's help (of course). I will get you back !! You are always inmine and my family's thoughts and prayers. I look forward to many more funtimes with you and your family. Get well soon and we miss you.

God bless.Abdul & Tammy Al-OlollaMilwaukee- WI

Amy said...
Just wanted you to know many many people are thinking about you, Matt and are wishing you better everday! That head strong attitude you have will take you far in life. Keep up the good progress and know your family and friends love you dearly. I am keeping you in my prayers.

Devin said...
Matt, I'm sure prayers for you are rising up from all over, and know that some are coming from Statesville. I am forever indebted to your Dad for his mentoring in my career, and for the success it has brought me. I have also enjoyed our friendship, although we haven't spent much time around each other. Your recovery is a constant source of witness and praise within my circle of believers here in Iredell, and you are making an impact on lives you will not even realize this side of Heaven. Stay strong.

JOE B said...
Matt,I have been posting about you for the past week. You can check it out at http://godevenlovesidiotslikeme.blogspot.comAfter talking to your dad, he told me what happened and I hope you don't mind but I put as much of your story out that I could.Get well soon so we can get on Capt Crash's boat and do some fishing, since you bailed on us last time. lol

God bless,

Joe - Tractor and Equipment Comp

Hey Big Guy,

What do they say about bad things happening to good people? I guess once in a while God has to test and see what we're made of. Well, I'm sure He and everyone else sees that you are not a quitter, that you love and value your life, your friends, and your family. I'm sure those were the things on your mind when you were driving yourself to the hospital.

I want you to know that I'm thinking of and praying for you, your folks, Melissa, and the kids, and that if there is anything I can do to help out, I'd be happy to, now or later on. The kids are welcome to come and play with Lexy if Melissa needs a break, or I can come there. Just let me know. Joe has my numbers and my e-mail.

I can't wait until I can bring you a steak and a cold Bud Light! Get healed up and back to Ivan's. We all miss you!!

Juliah

I appreciate your kindness in setting up this website. I have had the pleasure of knowing Matt since his childhood and have always been impressed by his personality, sense of humor and most of all his consideration of others. (Obviously, he gets most of it from his mother).
Just as Darwin Holler stated, from the beginning, Matt began calling me Mister Don or Mister Boyles and that practice has continued ‘til this day. My Mom passed away in 2002. Matt attended the funeral service and cried right along with me. A couple of days later, I received a 2 or 3 page handwritten letter from him expressing his sadness in my loss and reassuring me through a genuine kindness not matched by many.
I thank God for the way that He has answered the multitude of prayers that have been lifted up in Matts’ behalf. I look forward to having him back on the job soon.

Don Boyles


ANOTHER CO-WORKER AND PART OF WORK FAMILY I WAS VERY UPSET TO HEAR ABOUT MATT'S ACCIDENT. MY PRAYER'S AND SUPPORT ARE WITH HIM AND FAMILY. I KNOW HE WILL PULL THROUGH THIS , BECAUSE OF THE TYPE OF PERSON HE IS. I WOULD BET THAT SOME CHICKEN FROM KITTEN'S WOULD HELP ABOUT NOW. DAN, GIGI, MELISSA AND REST OF A SPECIAL FAMILY , IF THERE IS ANYTHING I CAN DO JUST LET ME KNOW. MR. BARNEY!!!!!!!!!!!!! L.O.L
TOMMY (BARNEY) BARNETTE

First of all I want to say, Hang in there buddy, we are all pulling for you. You look a lot better than the last time I saw you, on Oct.31. I have been in a drill school, and told everyone about our adventure at the I.R. drill school You and I attended in Roanoke. It snowed,and snowed,and snowed. and we had a blast showing everyone how to run a drill in the snow. well after I shared this story with the men from Roanoke, we all had a laugh. Well, now I need you to hurry and get out of there,because I keep repairing these drills and I need the best driller in the state to come and test them for me. You take care, and know that I am here if you need anything. I think of you as my Best Friend and you know that. Lonnie (drilldoc) Wykle

Hi Matt! This is Ashley, Debbie’s Daughter. It is so great to hear you are home! I have kept you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I have continuously asked about you and your progress. God does work miracles and it was proven so by you! When there’ s a will there is a way! Just wanted you to know, I will continue to pray. God Bless you and your family. Love Always, Ashley

Matt,

Bob and I are checking your progress everyday and are keeping you in our prayers. I still remember when I was working with Dan and you would come into the office. It was always "Yes mam" even though I told you it was okay to call me Loraine. When you were playing baseball in college, Dan would always give us an update. Matt, I know you are a fighter, because you come from good "stock." Also, you have so many friends that are praying for you and your family. Your attitude and your fighting spirit goes a long way! Now that you are home, just remember that the prayers and thoughts are still coming your way. We love you and your entire family!
Bob and Loraine Blackwood

I am a friend of Matt's. I graduated from Davie High School with Matt. We have known each other since we were in elementary school and played little league baseball together. I was hoping you could give me his email address of his home address so I can let him know my family is praying for his full recovery. I know he lives not far from me on Ratledge Road in Mocksville, but I don't know his full address. Thanks for your help, and thanks for the website to keep everyone informed on his progress.
Brian Wilson

Joe, I only know about you from reading the stories about Matt. I have known Matts family for many years. I worked with his grandmother, Sue Short and actually shared a room with Gigi when she had Jenny. Matt was friends with my daughter Tara Parker. We lost Tara in a accident in 2003. Tonight I read that Matt was back in the hospital and is having problems with his heart rate. I happen to know a excellent cardiologist at Baptist. His name is Tom Wannenberg. He is not only a good doctor but a very caring person. He was Tara's Doctor for several years and helped with her transplant. Since I have spent many hours in the hospital with Tara I know how hard it is to have a sick child. Please let Dan, Gigi and Matt know that Tara Parkers mom has been praying for them since I heard about the accident and will continue to do so. Just stay strong, I will continue to keep up with Matt.
Thanks Cathy Merritt

Matt's Nurse

Hi! My name is Elizabeth and I am one of the nurses working with Matt. I admitted him the night he came to us and have monitored his progress throughout his hospitalization. I can tell you one thing...he is one tough cookie! He is making terrific progress and should be leaving us soon. Attached are a few pictures I took today with my little PDA. The resolution is not so good but you can see his bath is one of his good moments! He really is a delightful man. He is so blessed to have such a wonderful family and friends!



Elizabeth Todd

Happiness comes through doors you didn't even know you left open.

I'll Let The Pictures Speak For Themselves

Dan Suprises Me At Ivan's

Well tonight was truely a delight. I came up front of the restaurant to find Dan at the bar waiting to talk to me. Needless to say everyone was so delighted to see him. Millions of questions of course. One of my biggest concerns were the cost they were going to incure after Matt's bills start to roll in and he said possibly as high as 10 grand, so obviously money instead of flowers will be greatly appreciated. Dan did not say that I did. He said there is a possibility Matt could come out the hospital as early as next weekend if everything goes perfectly. I also asked him how the meeting between Davey and Matt went and I think the meeting went ok but after Davey left Matt really had a tough time. I think we never really appreciate what we have until it is almost taken away from us. Dan set down and had dinner with me and it was really good to see him eat. I have really worried a lot about him through all of this. We laughed. We cried. I have a computer screen on the bar at the restaurant for customers to search the web and check their emails. The home page is set on this page. Dan noticed it and started reading. I noticed as he read your letters that he began to cry. He was also very suprised to see the picture of him and Matt and said he had never seen it before. He is so thankful for everything everyone has done and so am I.
The pictures that the Nurse Elizabeth sent me are so great. Dan actually told me about them ahead of time. Let me make everyone aware of the fact that they really drug Matt up alot before bathing him to avoid the pain. That is why he looks so happy, that and the fact that he is alive. My understanding is that as soon as the medicine starts to wear off that he is in some serious pain.

The Latest From Pearce "Muzz"

November 11, 2005, Friday (Afternoon/Evening) - Visited "The Matt" this afternoon/evening. Got to see him and talked with him. I harassed the hell out of the old boy and I believe he enjoyed it. He looked great in my opinion. He is still in a great deal of pain and has a LONG way to go. But he is a fighter and he is going in the right direction. I will not go into detail about our conversation because it would not be fit to print!!! I will let that to your imagination.

I can share with you some of our conversation that is FIT to print. I told Matt that when Gigi told me his nose was healing very well. I told her that was the worst news I have heard recently because his nose really needed to have something done to it. I told Matt that was a real log splitter. Also, I told him that I talked with his nurse and we agreed that if he continues to pull that feeding tube out of his nose, they were going stick it up his you know where and let him try and pull it out from there. A male nurse was there at the time as well as Dr. Evans. The nurse said you are being brutal with Matt. I told the nurse that you are expecting to much from this guy in that his ladder only has one rung and as I see it, he is a hellava lot better than I have ever seen him in my life. We got a lot of smiles out of Matt. That is good.

Dan indicated that Davie (Matt & Melissa son) visited Matt this afternoon. I do not know a lot of the details of the visit. I just hate to ask questions in situations like this that I do not know the answers to. Suffice to say, that when Davie left, Matt broke down big time. This good in my opinion. Dan question whether not that was the right decision. I indicated to him that I believe it was the right decision. Remember, Davie was waking up in the middle of the night thinking his Dad was dead. How much worse than that get?. Bottom line on this issue is how Davie will do tonight and what was his reaction. I will try and find out. Matt was overwhelmed and felt real good about the visit albeit he broke down.. I believe that is good!!!

Dan indicated that Matt walked down to the end of the hall this afternoon. I guess that is about 50 or 60 feet. Now how good is that???

Matt had a busy day to today having to go through the tub dipping and cleaning up tissue and removing staples. For all that was done today, he appeared to be ok. He was some what tired. Why not? You can see on occasion he has trouble focusing. Sometimes you almost need to get his attention and them speak to him. However, things are really gone in the right direction. It will just take time.

While I was there, Dan told Matt that you need to get all the fluids you can. Matt mumbled something like, Dad... in other words get off my case!!! He did pick up a container that had some kind of pudding and tried taking the spoon and feeding himself. He had trouble getting the spoon to his mouth. Dan said, Matt let me help you. Matt said, Dad I can do it. After several attempts he was able to get the spoon and its content to his mouth area. Some went in and some did not. Tears came to my eyes. No smart ass remarks on my part at this time.

I indicated to Matt that he has "leap froged" the other two Davie people that are at the Burn Center. Matt has been there a shorter period of time and in my opinion has progressed further. Guys, to that end, let's keep Chris Barnett and Todd Nayor (the other two Davie inmates at the Burn Center) in our prayers. Having said that, Matt is still a VERY sick individual and his recuperation will be a very long ordeal and will create a financial burden that none of use can comprehend. We can all help if we feel we can afford a few bucks here and there..

I believe that as the days past, Matt will continue to improve at a rate that no one ever expected. It was a fun visit.

Muzz

Aunt Vivian's Thoughts

I spent this morning with Matt. He is pretty exhausted today. He looks forward to being put in the "tank" at 10am which debrides the dead tissue/skin and makes him feel better (even though it is painful). They sedate him ahead of time too, which helps. I think he realizes that recovery is going to take time and now the emotional trauma is setting in. The doctor and nurses are terrific in the burn unit. I spoke with one of his docs and he was very encouraged that Matt will recover well.

Matt is so excited about this website. He was anxious to read everyone's comments. Keep the comments coming and the prayers too! Thank you, Joe, for doing the website. It has been so beneficial to him and the family. Viv

A Message From Dan and Gigi

Dan called me today and told me to be sure and put on the site how much he and Gigi appreciate everything everyone has done. He says they are overwhelmed by how many people have called, sent food, sent emails, sent money and prayed. They wanted to send their love and thanks.

A Letter To Me From Danny (Matt's Brother)

I sincerely hope Danny does not mind if I post this letter. Get the tissues handy.

Dear Joe,
There's a Story I shared with Matt, Most every time I got a chance to go into his room in the 3 or 4 days following the accident..I had never told it to him before and recited it to him each time I was alone with him in his room simply because one of Matts' nurses had told me that it is possible that he might could actually hear and recognize someone talking to him in his room.
I hoped that although he was in a drug induced coma he might recognize my voice and listen to my story and that it somehow might ease a little of his fear, and maybe my fear too, considering there was absolutely NOTHING else I could do for him at that moment in his life. I chose this story hoping if Matt could hear it and did hear it, that it might make his will to fight even stronger than it already was.

Me and R.W. Hampton rode together one time on the Padlock Ranch just outside of Sheridan Wyoming, Where the grasslands roll up into the Bighorn Mountains.
In the summer, We'd ride up into those mountains and drive down the young, wild horses to break for fresh saddle mounts.....Man, those young horses could run, And they loved to run and we'd run our mounts along with em' riding like July Thunder
Well, There'd we'd be, Surrounded by Horse Flesh, Horses all around- AND the smell of the leather and the horses and The Sound of their hooves pounding the ground and ALL those horses with their tails raised up and their necks stretched out and their eyes a bulgin'..
You see, what we'd be tryin to do, Is run em' into a pen, All these wild, young, un-broke horses ...So we could break em' and teach em' the saddle.
Well, Just as we'd get em' turned and Headed Right, There's ONE, ALWAYS......ONE ....That breaks free and makes a dash for the tall and uncut country..and he's special that one that breaks free and I light out after him cause I can see it in him , that if I can catch him and break him , That he'd make a great mount..
Well...There I am ...My loop a spinnin' ..And SOMEHOW, SOMEWAY, TIME JUST STOPS, STANDS DEAD STILL, THE REST OF THE WORLD GOES AWAY SOMEWHERE AND NOTHING ELSE MATTERS BUT CATCHING THAT HORSE !
Just as my loop sails out across the air .......There was a secret little part of me that Hoped I would Miss, So that horse wouldn't have to take up the saddle ..
When I would think that, I'd want to coil my rope up and ride off into the mountains and Live With The Wild Young Horses, And when I would feel THAT, I KNEW,.............I WAS ALIVE..

A Note From Roger

matt penny and i have been praying for you everyday and wishing you a speedy recovery because your dad and i want to whip you and joes but at the skeet club so hurry up and get well and meet hub and garth at the club to get the ass kicking of you and joes life, seriously we miss you and hope to see your smiling face asap love penny abd roger,

Matt and Dan on Hunting Trip

Call From Matt's Father Today

Dan called me today. He said Matt was sitting up and talking. He said that Matt told him the story of the whole accident today and that Matt remembers everything. Matt's temp has spiked some today so they put him on a new antiboitic. Matt also called his son "Lil' Davey" last night. An emotional moment I am sure. I have never told any of you the story of the first phone call to Davey. Davey knew his Dad had fallen in to the fire. On Saturday the day after the fire Davey was really upset and just wanted to talk to his Dad. Knowing that he would drive his Mommy insane they made a plan. They had Danny (Matt's Brother) call Davey and pretended to be Matt. He told Davey that he was going to be ok and that the doctors were taking good care of him and that he would see him soon. Davey then asked "Daddy fall in to fire?" at this point Danny lost it and Melissa took over the phone call.

Matt asked the nurse last night if the computer at his bed side could get the internet. He wanted to check out the website and the emails. The nurse said no it was just for monitoring his stats. Glad to see he is so alert. I asked Dan about Matt being allowed visitors and Dan said no that as long as he is in the Burn Unit he will only be allowed immediate family. Now that the infections are such great concern they have to dress in scrubs with mask. Dan asked the doctor when he could be moved to a private room and the doctor said that Matt would stay in the room he is in until the day he leaves. He would not predict how long Matt had to go but he did say several more weeks would be the earliest.

Matt's Condition Day by Day

Day 1 Saturday
Matt has been placed in a drug induced sleep and is on morphine to contol the pain. All of the areas have been wrapped and the healing process begins. There is concern about his left foot not getting enough circulation and fluid that is possibly in his lungs. At this time his tempreture is moderately high but to be expected. He is breathing on a ventalator. He is being fed through tubes.
Day 2 Sunday
Matt's fever spiked a little today but the doctors immediately got that under control. Pulse in left foot is very weak.
Day 3 Monday
Matt's foot is now warm and has a good pulse.
Day 5 Wednesday
The doctors are watching the fluid levels in his lungs. The have rewrapped all of his burns on his face and they show signs of improvement. Tomarrow they have planned to operate.
Day 6 Thursday
The operation was a huge success. The doctors did all of the skin grafs needed. When Dan asked the doctor on what he felt the doctor said 100% recovery.
I will try to make this more detailed as I get news but for now all looks great and we pray to God for a speedy and successful recovery.
Day 7 Friday
A week has now past and Matt has made huge steps. With the operation over the major concern will be infections. There is still some fluids in his lungs but the doctors expect this and are treating it appropriately. I will only make post now if something of major concern developes on Matt's condition.
Day 8 Saturday
Let me make everyone aware. Matt is making huge progress everyday but by no means is he out of the woods so please keep those prayers coming and keep his family in your minds. Today the doctors took him off the vent for about 30 minutes. That means they cut the morphine off and his oxygen supply. They had hoped he would make it for an hour but after about 35 minutes he started getting agitated and they reconnected him, but this is a start. Everyday they will try to increase the amount of time. His vital signs look good. His blood count is a concern and there is still fluid in his lungs.
Day 9 Sunday
Well with every 2 good days we have to expect 1 bad day for now. Matt's temperature rose today and the fluid level in his lungs is still much concern. They did not remove him from the vent today. Tomarrow they will check all of the grafs and clean most of his wounds. He woke today for just a short while and appeared to be pretty upset. Dan said he woke because of him growing immune to the medicine they have him on.
Day 10 Monday
Matt's tempreture is still up and the doctors have found an infection in the blood stream. They are still looking for the cause. I am lagging just a bit. I'm trying my best not to be a pest on the family during these tough times. Late on this night they removed Matt from the vent. Melissa stayed with him all night to make sure he was ok.
Day 11 Tuesday
Matt is now awake and is starting to try and speak. There is still a temprature and he is still very drugged up. The nurses rewrap all of his burns and says they are looking great. Matt complains of being thirsty and hungry. Imagine that big ole Matt complaining about being hungry after not eating for 11 days.
Day 12 Wednesday
Dan's first comment to me today. "I saw a man get out of bed today!" I mean you got to be kidding but no Matt really did today stand and go sit down in a chair. Temprature is still up a little and Matt is in obvious pain as sweat drips from him. Please everyone and I do mean everyone if you are reading this site please email me a short message to place here so that one day when Matt reads it he will realize just how much love and concern there is for him and his family. Wednesday night: Aunt Vivian writes: "So far it looks as if the grafts are taking. Both hands are still covered with dressings. He has been pretty confused but is becoming more oriented as time goes by. The prayers are helping. Thanks for all everyone is doing to help Matt get through this. Keep praying. He needs his friends and family very much right now." Viv
Day 13 Thursday - Post from Nikki - Great news again this morning. Matt is doing really, really well. He went from being 75% confused yesterday to 25% confused today. Hopefully that means all of this medicine is getting out of his system. He is getting really frustrated because he wants "real food" and they will not let him have anything. The nurses put the feeding tube in and Matt pulls the feeding tube out. I asked Dan about the skin grafts and he said that they are looking good. The doctors told them that there are a couple of small places that may not have taken, but they can fix those in a year or so.Dan wanted me to let you all know that there were over 300 hits to the website yesterday. He wanted to make sure that I let everyone know that he appreciates everything.
Day 14 Friday
Dan called today and said that Matt's fever had finally broke. They were going to take him to the scrub tank today. They have already removed some staples and plan to remove more after the scrub. Matt has been eating some milk shakes and other soft foods. He tried to eat some pizza but had a rough time. They still have the feeding tube in. Matt tries to talk and when he talks to much his oyxgen level in his blood stream drops and his heart rate goes up. The pnemonia has almost all cleared up. Today at 4:00 they were going to bring little Davey to see Matt for the first time.
Day 17 Monday
Matt is sent home on this night.

GREAT NEWS !

I picked a great time not to talk to the family. The past 2 days have been absoulutely wonderful. Late on Monday night they took Matt off of the vent completely. He is now breathing on his own. His temprature has started to drop and he is awake and talking. They still have not allowed him to drink or eat. He keeps complaining that he wants a gatoraide.
Today, Wednesday, he told the nurse to untie him that he was wanting to get up. The nurse told him no. A little while later a physical theropist came in and Matt asked again. This time even though reluctant the attendant untied Matt's hands and Matt turned his legs out of the bed. After some time he got to his feet and with some helped walked over to a chair and set down.
On Tuesday they rewrapped all of his wounds and said they are looking great. He is still not completely out of the woods. The drugs are still playing with his mind and keeping him knocked out but what an amazing day. All of this information was just given to me by his father Dan, whom I can say for the first time in many days had a smile on his face. We all know how big and strong Matt is but I truely believe it is the love for his family that is driving him to this level of speedy recovery.

Letter to Matt from Ken

Hey Matt, I am so happy to hear you are doing better. I know the night of your accident is probably a blur now, but my family and I saw you, with Dan and the kids, the night of the accident. On the way home that night we all laughed and talked about the good memories we have of your friendship, and the way you always joke around with us. We are grateful to be friends with you and your family, and we continue to pray for your complete recovery. Everyone I talk to is pulling for you Matt, and I admire the fight you have shown to beat these injuries. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Ken McDaniel

An Email From One Of Matt's Co-Workers

I just want to say that, "I am sorry to hear of Matt's accident". I worked with Matt for some time, he always has a smile on his face. He has such a great sense of humor and could make anyone laugh! I always enjoyed hearing Matt and Dan's stories, I always cried laughing until my cheek bones felt like they were going to fall off!
Matt and the family have a lot of Friends that Love them and God will see to it that he pulls through just fine! Keep the faith and stay strong.

God Bless

Sincerely,
Tiffany Craig

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Perce's Update and His Account of the Accident

On Friday evening, October 28th, Matt was using a Skid Steer to clear and place brush, trees etc. in a burning pit, that he had dug on his property. While placing the last stump into the fire, he had the bucket raised and the load shifted causing the arm and the bucket to topple forward and into the fire. Consequently, the Skid Steer followed the bucket into the fire. Matt was trapped between the burning embers and the Skid Steer. By the grace of God, he as able to free himself and DRIVE himself to the Davie County Hospital. On the way he called 911 and advised them that he was on his way. On the way he also called Melissa, Dan and Gigi and advised them that he had burnt himself up and he was on the way to the hospital. Once again, God was looking out for him. There was a Trauma Team from Chapel Hill at Davie Hospital. They had just stabilized a patient that they were transporting back to Chapel Hill. Also, Davie EMS was there waiting for him.

He was taken to the Baptist Medical Center (Burn Unit) in Winston-Salem. He suffered second and third degree burns over major parts of his body. The burns to the scalp and facial area are healing nicely. In addition, he inhaled flames and burnt his lungs. This was and still remains the major concern. He has a build up of fluid on his lungs and an infection has set in. They are treating the infection with antibiotics and are making progress All other burns are cosmetic, so to speak. He is on a ventilator and is on a morphine drip. They are trying to wean him off both. This past Saturday, he was off the ventilator for 30 minutes. That is good news. This is going to be a slow process. This week he had skin grafts to eight areas of his body. The surgery took 5 hours. They only intended to do four grafts. Since things went so well they did eight grafts. That is good news.

An Email from Perce Muzz

By now many of us are all aware of Matt's tragic accident.The question always arises, what can I do. In my opinion other than to include Matt and his family in our prayers, any financial help, encouragement etc. would be in order. To that end, please review the stuff (typical of my vocabulary) below and do what your heart tells you to do.Guys, this is going to be a long ordeal, sorry to say, but that is the way it will be. Five years, is the minimum. In my opinion, outside of prayers, financial consideration will help alleviate that aspect of the ordeal. So, if you have a spare $5, 10 or whatever over the months ahead, consider deposit it in Melissa's Savings Account as indicated below. We all know it will be very much appreciated.I encourage you to click on the website that Joe at Ivan's in Salisbury has established. If it does not bring tears to your eyes and chills up your spine--you may want to take your pulse, because you may not be alive.Muzz
Anyone wishing to contribute to Matt and Melissa's cause should do the following:
Make checks payable to: Melissa Marion.Send check to:
BB&TAttention: Lynn Sheek
1109 Yadkinville Road
Mocksville, NC 27028
(In the lower left corner of the envelope write, type, print etc.
Melissa Marion) Lynn Sheek's Telephone Number at BB&T is:
(336) 751-5956 Lynn will deposit the checks into Melissa's Savings Account and keep a tab of the contributors and give the listing to Melissa..This approach will enable her to use the money as she sees fit.
I believe this is a win--win for everyone. Makes our efforts real simple.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES-- SHOULD YOU SEND CHECKS, MONEY, ORDERS ETC. TO THEIR HOME ADDRESS OR TO MATT AT THE HOSPITAL.
If you would like Melissa and Matt's home address or Matt's address at the hospital. Or if you would like Dan and Gigi's home address please email Joe at Bartenderjoe@hotmail.com

How to Read This Page

You should start reading this page at the bottom and come up.

God's Will Will Pick Us Up

In 1995 at the height of his career, actor Christopher Reeve was thrown from a horse and suffered an injury to his spinal cord that left him paralyzed from the neck down. To all of us it appeared that for Superman life was over, but Christopher Reeve lived nine more years bringing hope and inspiration to millions of people confined to wheelchairs. The foundation he established has contributed twenty-two million dollars to paralysis research. His life after the accident was a testimony to the saying, “One can keep on going long after one can’t”.
I believe the point of this seemingly contradictory thought is that we have within us a far deeper reservoir of strength and determination than we know or understand. In the normal course of daily life our immediate resources for the epic journey of the human odyssey are quite sufficient but when devastating moments come that tear our hearts and rip our souls we reach deeper seeking a way to keep going after we can’t. Remarkably, many are able to do it.
I know a woman who has fought for a number of years a raging battle with cancer. Her courage and faith are God given and as such are an inspiration of major proportions to those whose lives are touched by her daily expressions of joy and hope. Graciousness has become her middle name and prayer has become the key that unlocks the door of God’s great and abundant strength.
I have seen many people cave in and give up in the face of life’s hardships, set backs and severe losses. They become overwhelmed because they do not believe they have the strength to stand against the onslaught of injurious circumstances.
Those who keep on going after they can’t have learned to look beyond their own resources and life’s conditions to God whose power alone can lift them into a new tomorrow. Faith is not a guarantee that you can overcome every obstacle but it does promise that God can.
In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus faced a devastating moment. He turned it over to God and kept on going. He gives us the key. In prayer, turn life’s injurious moments over to God and keep on going. On the cross life seemed to be over for Jesus but three days later he rose from the tomb. In the end, not even death can keep us from going on after we can’t.
Child of God, don’t ever give up or give in. Trust God, go to him in prayer and discover that you too can keep on going long after you can’t.

Dear God,
We pray that when life knocks us down you will pick us up and set us once more on a path that is in keeping with your will until in the end it leads us into your eternal presence. Amen

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:37-39

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The Miracles !

Even though most of us would think what a horrible tragedy this is, I am the other guy. I am the person that screams what an amazing Miracle. I promise you 99 out of 100 people that this would have happened to would have perished in the flames. 999 out of 1000 would have never been able to crawl to the truck and drive themselves to the hospital. When Matt arrived at the hospital there was a team of 4 professional fire life savers from Chapel Hill's burn unit that just happen to be there. What are the odds of that. I would honestly say you would have a better chance of winning the megaball lottery then to survive all of this. So, was Matt just that days lucky winner? No ! Matt is one of God's many miracles. I do give God much of the credit but it was another child of God's that did a lot of the work and that is Matt's father Dan. If Dan had not trained Matt so well on his ability to be strong, to be the best, to always rise to the occasion and to always strive to survive I feel I would not be telling this story. Matt's parent also taught him of God's love and how strong the family is and it is my belief this is what pushed Matt to survive through this horrible accident. I am truely blessed to be able to witness this miracle and to be allowed to tell the story.

The Purpose

The main reason I am writing this page is for family and friends to stay up on Matt's amazing progress and how he fought the fire and will win ! Everyday is another shining moment in the long road to recovery. Through God's Love, Our Prayers, The Doctors, Matt's Strong Will and Courage, and the Support of all his Family and Friends and even complete Strangers Matt and his family will pull through this.

The Family

Almost anyone that will read this story already knows the family. A family from Davie County in Mocksville, NC is not much different from the average family. 3 kids 3 dogs 4 grand kids 3 garages. But what makes this family different is the amount of love and caring they give to each other, friends and strangers. Dan and Gigi are the parents. Three children - Matt Ginny and Danny. The four grandchildren - Elizabeth Christin Davey and Rose.

The Burns

With the help of Danny, Ginny and Aunt Vivian I have sumised this of Matt's burns. He was burned between 15 and 20 % of his body. Most are 2nd degree burns with some 3rd degree.
Danny used the jeans that Matt was wearing to help decide where the burns were on the lower torso and then the days after we got more details from the family. Danny destroyed the jeans after careful evaluation to erase one of the memories. Matt is burned serverly on both knees, his left leg, left arm and hand. He was wearing some good boots so his feet were left most untouched. He has burns on his left ear, left eye and nose. These are all considered to be 2nd degree burns and should not require surgery. His knees and legs will require some grafs.

The Phone Call

It is 5:30 on Saturday October 29th. I am setting up my bar at Ivan's getting ready for a busy Saturday night. I have spent the day with my family at a local park celebrating my 25th reunion of Salisbury High School. The phone rings, I have caller i.d., so, I see it is William M. calling, well I know that is Dan and I am excited to hear from him because he has been out of town for 3 weeks out west on some business trips. It is not Dan but his daughter Ginny.
I immediately down shift and start to worry has something happened with Dan? Dan just had a kidney surgery months before so I have really been worrying about him but before I could ask Ginny says Matt has been in a bad accident. Well if you know my I can never wait for you to talk I start asking questions left and right and then finally I shut up to listen. She says Matt has been burned bad in an accident at his home. She tells me that he is at Baptist Medical Center's Burn Unit. She finishes her story and my assumption is that a piece of farm equipement has turned over on him and that he was burned underneath. Obviously Ginny was too upset to get in to too much detail and of course here comes bar customers. I am completely speechless and if you know me that is nearly impossible. Roger a good friend of mine and of Dan comes walking in to the bar. He has guest with him but I have to tell him the news. I pull him to the back room to tell him and I fall apart. The worst of it is that I can't talk to Dan and that I can not leave work to go to the hospital. I also have the second part of my reunion from 9 to 11. The most I can do for now is pray.

The Accident

Please understand that I write this with only the ability to recreate the accident from what Danny (Matt's Brother) has sumised and with the help of Ginny and Dan. If you know Matt you know his determination to get things done. It is Friday night at Matt and Melissa's home. Matt has a pit in the deep part of his backyard that he burns yard trash and wood in. He starts the fire. The plan is that it will burn overnight and a friend named Paul (?) will come over in the morning to help him use a machine called a skid to help with some of the bigger pieces. Well we can only assume that Matt thought the fire would not make it through the night and decided to go ahead and use the skid and place some larger pieces on the fire. While attempting to place a larger piece in the fire the skid fell into the pit with Matt on board. The way the skid is designed is with a cage around the driver so that if it rolls over the driver will not get crushed. The cage is opened at the front so that the driver can get in and out. In this case that is a bad design because it means that Matt has to go towards the fire to get out. All of this is a guess because Matt has not been able to tell us anything as of yet. Matt obiously gets out on the right side of the machine because most of his burns are on the left side of his body. He then has the courage to crawl his way out of the fire and get to his truck. He starts to drive himself to the hospital. He calls Melissa in the house to tell her what has happened. He did not want to come in the house of fear that the children would see him. He then calls his mother and tells her he is headed to the hospital and then the phone goes silent.