You take the bitter with the sweet

Some good news, some bad:
STATEMENTS FROM CHIACCHIA FAMILY

March 31, 2008 5:00 PM EDT - As the family paid their respects to his deceased grandmother, Darren took his first steps today. He was unsteady, but this is indeed a milestone in his physical recovery. His cognitive functioning remains more guarded. He is confused and illogical, but optimism remains.

March 30, 2008 9:30 PM EDT - Darren’s condition is basically unchanged from yesterday. He is able to be transferred from his bed to a chair, but cannot stand unassisted or walk. He also has difficulty maintaining his posture. The family is hopeful his chest tube can be removed early this week.

March 29, 2008 7:00 PM EDT - The United States Eventing Association (USEA) has continued their support for Darren in many ways, including placing an ad for donations in the next issue of Eventing USA and creating a poster for sale at Rolex Kentucky, where all proceeds will go to Darren’s medical expense fund. The family wishes to thank the USEA and the thousands of others who have provided prayers, cards, and other offers of support during this very difficult time.Darren remains in ICU and has begun communicating verbally, but his responses are inconsistent and illogical. Continue to pray for Darren as he attempts to pull himself from his darkness. Darren’s mother and sister Kim are now at his bedside, hoping to help him reconnect to the world he knew and loved.

March 26, 2008 - 8PM EDT Although still in the ICU Darren continues his gradual improvement, responding to commands and moving his extremities with more consistency. His left lung remains problematic with a chest tube still in place and draining fluids. Cognitively he is more alert, and able to indentify familiar faces. The hospital staff is pleased with his progress.