Hello all,
Sorry it has been so long since I’ve updated. Ben is doing well. He is “temporarily” taking a break from all “out of the house” physical therapy. We decided that after 10 months of constant, non-stop therapy, he needed a break. He continues to “stand” daily with the use of a standing frame. This piece of equipment helps regulate his blood pressure, helps with leg spasms, and will ward off osteoporosis. He also receives training with a personal trainer that comes to our home for an hour every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. As he gets stronger he is also getting more independent. He has been transferring himself independently from the wheel chair to the couch for several months now. He is enjoying being a 16 year old. He and Ken spent the weekend in North Wildwood with our friends the DiRugeris’(Thanks Dave and Denise!). Although the beach was a little difficult to access, Ben enjoyed the boardwalk immensely. Since this little excursion was such a success, we have decided to spend a week in Wildwood in August. We can’t wait.
On the addition front…it is complete and it is amazing. As I walk through this new space I am filled with emotion as I recall how so many people have come together to make this addition a reality. Ben can be almost totally independent in this new space and he loves it. We are officially moving him into his new bedroom this weekend. As soon as the furniture arrives, we will be able to fully utilize the entire space. On Sunday, July 19 we will be having an “Open House” for all to come and see Ben’s new space. I will give more details as the date arrives. We want everyone to come and see the results of all your hard work and donations over the course of this past year. The barn raising it complete and we now want to celebrate.
As we approach the one year anniversary of Ben’s accident, we are all filled with mixed emotions. At 11:15am on June 14, 2008 our lives changed forever. Ben, Ken, Mason and I are continually trying to adjust and adapt to this “change”. Some days are better than others but for the most part I am immensely proud of how each of us has dealt with this catastrophic event. We are forever grateful for the support we have received from family members, friends, and the community as a whole. We wouldn’t be where we are today without all of you. So at 11:15am on June 14, 2009, I will stop whatever I am doing and say a little prayer. I will pray for Ben’s continued recovery, I will pray for continued strength, and I will thank God for all of our blessings…because there are many!
Dawn
