San Luis Obispo City Council Meeting

Ivy spoke at the City Council Meeting Tuesday tonight. Apparently there is the possibility that funds are to be reallocated and she wanted to show support for the police and fire departments by telling her story.

First, Frank started out with a short blip of what had happened to Ivy, making the point that Ivy was alive and making progress because of the quick response time of SLO City Fire Department Station #3. They were already at the scene administering fluids and CPR when the paramedics arrived. This was less than 4 minutes after the 911 call.

Ivy and I walked up to the podium next and Ivy told the council "I'm Ivy Alvarado from Arroyo Grande. I want to thank the firemen for saving my life". She then chocked up a bit so I emphasized again that the rapid response time enabled her to make the progress she was now making. In fact, today Ivy stood BY HERSELF for 7 minutes. And with that I began to choke up and had to walk away. The entire room, including the council members began to clap.

We had been sitting in the front row next to the podium for a good 45 minutes waiting for the item to come up on the agenda. By now it was 8:00 which is about the time of day that Ivy is wiped out and ready for bed. As we turned to leave, we were astonished. The room was packed with firemen, firewomen and other supporters. Everyone was smiling and thanking Ivy for her message and telling her to keep up the hard work. When we had reached the hall there was a lady standing there whom I recognized but couldn't place her or think of her name. Ivy said..."mom, you don't remember Claire my 6th grade teacher?!" Neither Frank nor I had remembered Claire's name.

Is there any doubt about whose memory works the best?

Melinda....still singing.."....every little thing's gonna be all right..."

PS I am trying to give updates at least once a week, but life is moving so fast. I have pictures to show you of the continued amazing progress Ivy is making. Keep tuning in...happy things are happening...and last night she WIGGLED HER LEFT TOES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!