Although Stacey is unable to speak and care for herself, she is fully aware of what is going on around her, her mother said. Doctors have told the family the wreck “sheared her brain stem” and it could take years for the brain to heal.

“She can move her toes and thumb some when we ask her to do that,” said Mrs. Sewell. “I’ve seen her moving her mouth trying to talk.”

No spinal injury

The wreck did not injure her spine.

“To look at Stacey, you would never know she was hurt,” her mother said. “There is not a mark on her anywhere.”

Dr. Carrick is known worldwide. He is professor emeritus of neurology at Parker College and is Logan College’s distinguished post-graduate professor of clinical neurology. His doctoral specialty is brain-based learning, and his work has been the subject of a PBS documentary, “Waking up the Brain: Amazing Adjustments.”

Stacey has been on a waiting list to see the doctor since August 2003.

The trip to Amsterdam will be expensive – between $5,000 and $6,000.

“This is our chance to see what can be done,” said Mrs. Sewell. “I feel it’s a trip we must make, no matter the cost.”

To help pay expenses, an account has been created in Stacey’s name at First American Bank in Athens.

“My husband Eddie and I would like to thank the Athens community for all of their prayers and support,” said Mrs. Sewell. “We are so blessed to live in Athens and be surrounded by loving, caring people. We know that Stacey realizes how much she is loved.”

As for Euting, Mrs. Sewell said his actions reveal his love.

“He’s been wonderful,” she said. “Stacey is his life. He’s very dedicated to her.”