Toyota Repair: broken rear door handle, interior panel, release lever

Question
I have a '99 Sienna in which the rear release handle broke off from
the latch which releases the locking mechanism.  I saw a previous
question like mine; however your solution does not make sense.  
The rear window does not roll down.  Since the door is closed, how
can one expect to pry off the interior panel when it's blocked by the  
rest of the vehicle's shell?  It seems like it will more likely break the
panel and/or the clips which hold it in.  Is t possible to remove the
"panel" on the outside of the rear door where the license plate
lights are contained to get to the release mechanism and make the
repair or at least open the rear door to get the panel off?

Answer
We have found an easier way:
Break off whatever is remaining from the old door handle
Look inside the opening with a flashlight, you can see the inner release lever
Use some sort of a small hook and grab the lever and pull it down and the door will open
You can then remove the inner panel and replace the handle.