Note from a friend (and physical therapist)

Hi! My name is Roslyn Liberman. I am a physical therapist by profession, but primarily I am an old friend of the family. I was there when Brian and Estelle first met each other at a party. I have been involved with Ilan since he returned to UCLA hospital from Santa Barbara's Cottage Hospital. Ilan has struggled with numerous medical setbacks-infections and two failed neurosurgeries. Now he is more comfortable and medically stable and will be coming home in a month. But his present needs are great. He does not have speech yet or voluntary control of movement. He does communicate by blinking his beautiful eyes.

Yesterday, I was asked by Estelle and Brian to stop by their home to assess the environment for Ilan's return. There is so much that needs to be done, and quickly. The master bathroom needs to be gutted and the whole room needs to become a shower with a sloped floor for drainage. It is very important for his skin to have washing facilities. The sink and toilet must be moved and made accessible. Ideally doorways need to opened to allow wheelchair entry to bedroom, bathroom and patio. The master bedroom needs a complete rehab to accomodate Ilan. Without question ramps have to be installed.

Ilan has a tracheotomy and the ambient air must be very clean- so he would benefit from a hepa filter air purifier system, not taxing to his immune system.There are many pieces of equipment needed for his care, most of which are very expensive. These big ticket items include a van with special lift and a tilt-table for home use.

Please put on your community thinking caps. What is needed is a contractor to donate some time and/or extremely generous philanthropists to make things happen. If anyone can help, that would be wonderful or if you think you know someone you could ask for help, that would be wonderful. If you have any suggestions, please come forward and contact the family or me at work (323) 634-0221. Donations can be made to Rabbi Wolpe's Discretionary Fund for Ilan Ashkenazi.

If you know him, you know Ilan is very brave and strong. He wants his old life back and he will fight for it. It takes a village to help him.

Bless you all and let us only hear good news about Ilan's progress from now on.

Sincerely,

Roslyn Liberman