Gabrielle Gifford Opens Her Eyes for the First Time Since Shooting

Representative Gabrielle Gifford gave her family what they have been waiting for. She opened her eyes and reached up to touch her husband Mark Kelly's face. Her family has longed for this moment since the second the shooting occurred. This proves Gifford is strong and is a survivor. This is a miracle in the making considering the shot was at point blank range. It just shows that the love of her husband, family and close friends can conquer any obstacle thrown her way.

Two of her close friends from Congress Sen. Kristen Gillibrand, D-N.Y. and Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla as well as her loving husband were with her when she opened her eyes for the first time. According to news reports, Gifford began to show signs of waking up when they were talking about memories they had shared with Gifford in the past.

According to sources, Gillibrand told reporters, "We knew she could hear and understand what we were saying. The doctor said this is amazing what she's doing right now and beyond our greatest hopes."

Wasserman Schultz says, "It felt like we were watching a miracle. The strength that you could see flowing out of her, it was like she was trying to will her eyes open."

US President Barack Obama announced Gabrielle Gifford had opened her eyes moments after he left her hospital room in Tucson, Arizona during his speech at the memorial service to honor the victims of this terrible tragedy. President Obama announced, "Gabby opened her eyes. So I can tell you she knows we are here. She knows we love her. And she knows that we are rooting for her through what is undoubtedly going to be a difficult journey."

Six people lost their lives and 14 injured during this horrible tragedy. Thoughts and prayers go out to all affected by the heinous crime that was committed. No one should have to suffer the way these families have suffered.

Sources:

Herald Sun - Congresswoman opens eyes after President Obama's Visit

Forbes - Congresswomen describe Seeing Gifford's Open eye