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Josie Ratley, teen nearly beaten to death, is making progress slowly (New video)

Josie Ratley's first public appearance on June 27th. Pictured with her mother, Hilda Gotay Ratley.
Josie Ratley's first public appearance on June 27th. Pictured with her mother, Hilda Gotay Ratley.
Credits: 
Sun-Sentinel, Joe Cavaretta

On March 17, 2010, only months after brutal attack of 15 year-old Michael Brewer (doused in alcohol and set on fire by other teens), Josie Ratley was nearly beaten to death.  Since then, it has been an uphill battle for her.  Three surgeries on her brain, extensive rehab and mounting expenses, Josie Lou Ratley is a survivor.

Since returning home in early June, Josie Ratley has been undergoing physical and occupational therapy.  On Monday newly released video gave us the glimmer of hope as she was able to write her name. (Watch video below).

Josie Ratley, with help from National Voices for Equality, Education and Enlightenment (NVEEE) has a long journey ahead of her.  The generosity and support from the community, friends, family and NVEEE has been overwhelming. 

Two months ago, the volunteers from NVEEE videotaped the teen trying to write out the alphabet. The letters were illegible. Now, she can clearly write the letters of her name.  This may seem like a minor accomplishment to some people, however in Josie's progress it is tremendous.

Wayne Treacy, the teen accused of beating Josie Ratley nearly to death, is being charged as an adult and in jail awaiting his trial.  His 13 year-old former girlfriend, Kayla Manson is being charged as an accomplice, however as a juvenile.

The Ratley family continues to need the support and help from our community and anyone that can donate.  Learn more at www.nveee.org.

Sources: Sun-Sentinel

Watch video below.


 

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Broward County Parenting Teens Examiner

Sue Scheff is an Author and Parent Advocate. She founded Parents' Universal Resource Experts in 2001. P.U.R.E. is an organization that helps...

Comments

  • Anonymous 1 year ago
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    We should all focuse on Josie and helping her get better.

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