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Jenna Privette Out of Hospital, Still No Feeling in Legs

Doctors are hopeful for a full recovery as Lakeville girl heads back home after suffering paralysis below the waist—the result of a hockey injury.

Jenna Privette, a  on Jan. 7, is out of the hospital according to her parents.

On a Facebook page dedicated to supporting her recovery, her mother, Penny Rich-Privette, said she was released on Sunday, but warned there is still a long road to hoe.

"It is hard when you want to get up and walk but there are two legs that say, 'not yet ... only in God's time," Penny said.

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Doctors continue to believe Jenna's prognosis is good, and have described her injury "as a concussion to her spine," saying it's not a severed spinal cord, like that of , a Benilde-St. Margaret’s sophomore who was paralyzed during a game on Dec. 30. He's not expected to regain the use of his hands or legs.

But Jenna's brother, Jake, said she still doesn't have feeling or movement in her legs.

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Meanwhile, Jenna's mother says she's been humbled by the outpouring of support she's received since her injury.

"Words can't express how we appreciate every prayer, posting, card, flower and (the) support from people all around the world," Penny said. 

In addition to dozens of letters from classmates at her school, St. Croix Lutheran High School in West St. Paul, Jenna also received a surprise visit from retired NHL star Jeremy Roenick.

"He took one of her bracelets and told her to watch his show (on NBC Sports Network) next time and he will be wearing it. It is nice to see these role models taking time out of their lives to inspire our youth," Penny wrote.

Jenna's Facebook page has more than 2,800 followers.

Want to help?

A special bracelet with the message “Jenna #23; In our hearts” is for sale for $5 each with proceeds to help with Jenna’s medical expenses and can be purchased at St. Croix Lutheran High School.

In addition, an account has been set up and donations can be sent to “Jenna Privette Fund” at the , located at 66 East Thompson, West St Paul, MN, 55118. Donations can be dropped off at any Anchor Bank location or at St Croix Lutheran High School.


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