Beginnings

My wife was seven months pregnant at the time of my accident.  Not only did she have to deal with her own health, but also take care of me especially in the first few weeks.  I was taking over 20 pills a day with Christmas a week away.

Those first few weeks were the hardest on her.  She had to make meals, clean the house, deliver ice and pills, and every day it would be harder for her.  At the end of the day, we were both thankful to make it through, closer to recovery.

In the first week, Robyn sent a plea for help out to our neighbors and friends.  The response saved us from many cold and hungry nights.  Our cabin is heated mainly by a wood stove.  Our community made sure there was always a fire with stacked wood inside.  Our friends prepared meals for us, went to the grocery store, took out the garbage, ran errands, and helped with household chores.  We literally had a prepared meal every night for over a month.  We also hired a neighbor to come twice a week to help.

I really didn't appreciate all the activities that go with living in this “modern” society.  We have smart phones, brilliant vehicles, stores that sell everything, the Internet, and when you’re crippled things quickly become impossible.  By grace, we found a way to make it through with the incredible kindness of friends.  Thank you.

In the first few weeks, it took me 20 minutes to go to the bathroom.  Everything was a long process of using the walker to get where I wanted.  My life consisted of the bedroom, with well planned trips to the bathroom or kitchen.  Once I arrived at my destination, I'd have to think of how to accomplish my goal using one hand while balanced on one foot.  Making a sandwich with one hand takes forever!  I used to rock climb a lot and this experience reminded me of climbing.  I was always planning my next move without ever taking my hand of my walker for balance.  I am very grateful that I never had an accident.

By February, I was able to maneuver slowly through our home.  I was able to do dishes while sitting on a stool, carry wood with my walker and a grocery bag strapped to the handles.  Things were getting easier for me, but much harder for Robyn.  She was getting fuller and the baby was moving more.  The pregnancy was approaching full term. 

On March 9 2012, I had my 12 week doctor appointment.  They took x-rays and the doctor cleared me to start putting weight on my leg.  Although the bone was still broken, the screws and plates did not shift and there is evidence of bone growth.  This was an excellent doctor visit, and to celebrate we went out to lunch to our favorite restaurant in Frisco.  The next day, I worked hard at therapy and was able to walk short distances using only one crouch.  A week later, our daughter was born.

March 15

Sophia was born at 2.54am on March 15.  This little angel came right on time and played a big role inspiring me to walk again.  Without her, I know my recovery would not be this far this fast.   The past four months have been one of the most difficult.  It has also been transformative.  Robyn and I are bonded tightly and completed with a baby daughter who demands us constantly in the present.  Our journey together is just beginning, and I hope it is a long one. 

To all of you who have gone out of your way to help Robyn and I over the past four months, Thank You.  It is a very special gift to help those in need unconditionally.  It is also a difficult gift to receive without the pressure of guilt or worthiness.  Robyn and I will always remember this time as a moment of growth in our lives.  Our little Sophia is a fine symbol of our shared community.

Love Peace Abundance Truth and Happiness