November 22 - FUNdraiser

A couple of months ago Ben and Jodi Archibald approached us about organizing a fundraiser for AJ. The Archibald family moved into our ward in late 2013 and Ben has been serving with John in our ward's Bishopric for the past year. We gratefully accepted their offer and things started to take off! The Archibald's invited everyone to help and the results were amazing!  With permission from Wendy Christensen, I'll share her account, recorded at: wwwlittlemomentsthatmatter.blogspot.com
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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Together, we make a difference!

AJ Hunt - November 22nd - Giving a teary 'thank you' to the community!

I was blessed to be part of a planning committee to help put together a community fundraiser for a young man named - AJ Hunt. He was in a horrible car accident in August (on his way to college) and was terribly injured. In fact, it changed his life forever! In an attempt to make a difference for he and his family, an event was created.

We had a group who organized a bake sale ... The community was amazing and we were so touched by the out pour of support. We all worked for weeks to pull this thing together.

We prayed the community would rally with us! At first, we set a goal to raise $3,000 dollars. Then we bumped it up to $10,000. Then we just threw a big number out - we wanted to raise $20,000 for AJ and his family.

We prayed again and went to work!

November 22nd at Jason Lee Elementary in Richland, WA

Our prayers were answered! People showed up all night. The place was packed... you could hardly move. The community rallied with us!

We had hundreds of donations from businesses and community members for our Silent Auction.
It was amazing and touching and SO inspiring!

I couldn't sleep that night just thinking about all that I had seen and been a part of!

We had live music, dinner for the family and good old-fashioned community fun! The real kind ... face-to-face!

It was the best event I've ever had the opportunity to be a part of ...
I attribute it to the sense of love, unity and purpose we all had in uniting to make a difference.

It's one of my favorite holiday moments - similar to George Bailey's Christmas miracle  in -

"It's a Wonderful Life"

Thank you to everyone who helped give hope to AJ Hunt.

The out pour of love and support will never be forgotten!
We created our own community holiday miracle.

More importantly, we made a difference ... together!

Miracles. They happen.

Special thanks to Sara Schilling for her support and coverage in the Tri-City Hearald 

And to Ben and Jodi Archibald for having the idea and vision to pull this entire thing together!

On Twitter & Facebook - #HopeforAJ 
(Thanks to all who helped us share on social media)

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As we entered the parking lot and saw so many cars already there, it was the first time AJ felt nervous since his accident.  You wouldn't have ever guessed it, because the whole night he spent talking and laughing!  Our whole family was part of the party and we relished in connecting with friends from our neighborhood, schools, and church. It felt like the FUN in fundraiser was unstoppable!

It was a humbling and overwhelming experience to feel that much love and good wishes from so many people that have been significant parts of our lives. We left the party filled with happiness and with a renewed energy!

The next day we were floored to find out that the cash on hand from the fundraiser totaled almost $25,000!  These funds will do so much to help provide AJ with the therapy and equipment he needs to make the best recovery possible.  He is committed to working hard in order to achieve the maximum recovery possible!

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*Update 12/15/2014 - John contacted HelpHOPELive for the total amount raised by the fundraiser.  After adding in the credit card donations to the cash on hand, the total raised was $36,000! Amazing! We are being cautious in spending these funds because there are so many things that are so expensive to consider buying.  We'll keep you posted on what AJ decides would be best.

Thank you so much!

November 21 - A Plane Adventure

Note:  Everything is more complicated when you are in a wheelchair.

With a friend's help, we were able to get 2 standby airline tickets so that AJ and I could return home for Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, the plane to Pasco was full so our choices became: 1. wait for the next flight to Pasco which was in 3 hours, but we were still not guaranteed a seat; or 2. we could get on a plane to Spokane leaving in 30 minutes where John would pick us up. We opted for Spokane and our adventure began!

When a wheelchair bound individual goes through airport security they have to be very thoroughly checked.  Since this was our 2nd time through security that morning, and the same people were still working, I was hoping they'd be a little more lenient, thus a little faster.  But, the procedure was the same so by the time AJ was done we had to run to make it to the gate. (I have to give props to airport security for keeping it safe!)

This is how we were told AJ would board a plane:

1. He is taken before other passengers to get loaded on the plane.
2. He is transferred to a small, narrow chair on wheels that can fit through the isle of the plane.
3. The chair parks next to the isle seat he is sitting in and he is transferred to that chair.
4. Buckle in.
5. After landing, wait for all passengers to unload.
6. He transfers back to the small, narrow chair on wheels.
7. Exits the plane and is transferred back to his own wheelchair.
As Murphy's Law requires, it wasn't quite so smooth.


The passengers had already been loaded on the plane and were waiting for a mechanical problem to be fixed before taking off. Because of this problem the air conditioning was off. As we entered this crowded sauna :), we realized that AJ had been assigned middle chair! What was the possibility that the 2 workers could lift AJ (6'3" 185 lbs) over one person and into a middle chair with passengers seated on both sides and in front and back?  Luckily there was one isle seat further down the plane, so the workers headed for that one. AJ could not help the workers transfer him, but was patient as we all worked to get him into the chair and situated. He was fortunate to be seated by 2 kind women who helped him with his snacks and anything else he needed.  When we landed, these ladies patiently waited as the entire plane unloaded before AJ was transferred to the narrow chair on wheels and taken out. They loved talking with him and might have been willing to adopt him if he needed it! What a blessing to have such good people to be seated by.

John was waiting for us at the airport (in a wheelchair accessible van that a friend of a friend loaned us) and we headed home for AJ's first visit since the accident.

It was awesome to be back! We were welcomed by Bradley and Caleb's fine artwork and by a ramp into the house that was built in a flash by some caring friends. It felt good to be together again!

November 11-14 New Experiences

Although it was a short week of therapy, it was a good week!

AJ continues to work on transferring, building strength and learning adaptive techniques in order to increase his independence. He tried a couple of new things this week - the standing frame and a driving simulation.

Standing Frame:  It was exciting for AJ to be in a standing position again.  He said it felt weird to be so tall! After 2 1/2 months of sitting, he's getting a new perspective of just how tall his 6'3" body really is :)  

Here are some benefits of standing:

  Increases bone density and reduces the risk of fractures

  Stretches muscles, preventing the onset of contractures

  Improves respiration and voice control

  Enhances circulation and blood pressure

  Aids digestion, bowel function and bladder drainage

  Improves skin integrity by relieving pressure developed by sitting

  Improves wellbeing, alertness and sleep patterns

This is the 2nd time AJ has tried the standing frame. The first time his blood pressure dropped so low while he sat in the upright chair that they couldn't take him to standing. This time he took some blood pressure medicine that helped him remain stable. He went up 5 times and stayed stood for a maximum of 5 1/2 minutes. He will keep working on this until he can tolerate standing without the medication. 

Driving Simulation:  One thing AJ looks forward to doing again when he is able is driving. This week he tried a driving simulation in order to evaluate his abilities.  We were able to identify his strengths and set goals on what will help him progress to a level of being able to drive.  Here's a video of him doing some simulated driving for the first time. He'll need a little more practice, but pretty good!*

*Note - The computer was not calibrated correctly so the brakes don't work.  

That is why his speed is so high while he is pushing on the hand brake!

November 9 - Concussion....what?!

We knew the day would come... After meeting a few spinal cord injured people who told us about when they have fallen out of their wheelchair or had other accidents, we knew it would happen sooner or later.  We were hoping for later and not so severe!

This morning AJ was trying to bump over the edge of an area rug; but today we forgot to set the wheelchair tippers in place. So, he fell straight backward!  He hit his head hard on the wood floor, then his body and the chair fell to the side.  He seemed to have a split second of blacking out, but he was alert in the next moment.  It was especially scary because he went numb for a moment from his injury down and couldn't move his arms. But within moments his limited movement was back.

He went through shock for some time after the fall so we called the U of U rehab spinal doctor who told us to watch him and bring him to the hospital if there were any neurological changes. John and his dad administered a blessing before we lifted him to his bed and then we kept an eye on him for a couple of hours.  Although he seemed to be doing well, the pain in his neck continued and the skin on the parts of his body that have normal feeling were hypersensitive. So, we packed up and went to the ER.  By the time we got there, he was nauseated and his head was pounding.


Over the next 10 hours they monitored him and took a CAT scan and an MRI.  The CAT scan showed that his head and neck were okay, but the last screw in the fuzed vertebrea looked crooked. The doctors could not determine if it had been damaged or if the CAT scan was just at a strange angle.  So, they took an MRI also.  Thankfully, the MRI came back normal -- there was no damage to his surgery site.  So, were released and went home with the diagnosis of a concussion.

Sunday came and AJ felt terrible!  Throughout the day his head would start pounding and he would throw up repeatedly. Later in the evening though, he started to feel better and was able to keep dinner down. By Monday he had a little headache but felt much better.  He didn't go to therapy on Monday, but was ready to roll by Tuesday.  Concussions are terrible!

Moral of this story.....REMEMBER TO PUT THE TIPPERS ON!!!

November 7 - New Therapy

This week has been such an adjustment!  John and I are sharing the responsibilities of assisting AJ now that we are at home. It's great that we could spend so much time with him at the hospital because we are using all that training now.

AJ's has therapy each day at the U of U Sugar House clinic.  On the first day, the new OT (Nicky) felt some firing in his triceps! It is super exciting that his part could be healing and receiving some signal. In the order of healing in the spine, this muscle group would be the next to come back.  It most likely will be a slow process, but she has big plans and high hopes for him. She was also impressed with the amount of movement he has because she thought with his injury he would not be this far.

His new PT (Kristen) was quick to get him to the gym to start working on strengthening and hook him up to the FES machines.  She evaluated him as being strong with good flexibility. AJ's looking forward to learning how to transfer (move from one location to another) without help and start using the standing/walking machine.  Basically, he's ready to work hard!

November 1 - He's Out!

We're out of here!  

After 9 1/2 weeks of being at the University of Utah Hospital & Rehabilitation Unit, we are heading for home.  The transition is a little overwhelming, but it's all going to work out! Here are some pics from his last day...

Pic #1: A nice note from one of our favorite nurses. We became close to many staff members.  

Pic #2: AJ's OT (Dan) gave him an official U of U therapist shirt. AJ was stoked!

Pic #1 - The balloon Leisha & Matt sent has survived all 9 1/2 weeks :)

Pic #2 - AJ last time in his hospital room

Pic #3 - Our final nurse (Craig) poses for a quick beard-bros pic. He was great!

Pic #1 - John getting the scoop on medications and check out instructions -- complicated.

Pic #2 - AJ getting into the "new" van and ready to head home (which is Grandma's house)

AJ's new room and bed. Yep, it's too short again - haha!  What are ya gonna do?

October 31 - Reverse Trick or Treating

AJ got a little restless on Halloween night.  October 31 was our original check out day, but instead we would leave the following day (Nov. 1).  His friend Richie visited and brought pizza (like they had in California) which was a boost, but still AJ was looking for something more...

Then he came up with the idea of visiting the other patients and giving THEM Halloween candy -- essentially, Reverse Trick or Treating!!!

We visited many patients, family members and friends. As we lightly knocked on doors, I imagined what AJ must have been like on the streets of Nicaragua less than a year ago, introducing himself to strangers and sharing a gift to lift their spirits. He was caring about others and serving in whatever way he was able; and it was exactly what he needed!  I was grateful to be his 'companion' during this thoughtful-fun activity.

October 22 thru 30 - Ode to Dad

This week John stayed here with AJ while I went home for a week with Brad and Caleb. It was a great opportunity for AJ because there are some things (in our family at least) that you really need Dad for.  Like.......Speaking Spanish with you when you feel like it; Getting excited and crazy as you watch football and basketball games together; or, Teasing and joking with you even when you're partially paralyzed!

In all honesty, there are certain things my boys would rather talk about with their Dad. While John has been here AJ has had that talk time as John has served him and happily participated in all his needs and daily care. What a guy!

We feel so fortunate that John is able to come and stay for this extended period of time and that he will be here as we transition out of the hospital.  It's impossible to replace a great dad!

October 19 - Church Talks

Today was church-talk day for the Hunt family.  AJ and I got to give talks in the hospital branch while Caleb delivered a talk in our home ward! AJ and I were happy to share our testimonies and thoughts especially because the Branch President told us we should only take up to 5 minutes each. :) I don't think Caleb felt the same as us, but we heard that he did awesome on his talk about developing Christ-like Attributes!

I spoke first, sharing my testimony of the power of our thoughts and how important it is to keep our thoughts positive and thankful.  I know this choice enables us to keep the Spirit close and to feel the Savior's peace. For many years I have been inspired by a talk called 'Mastering Our Thoughts' by Kevin Whitehead.  The principles taught in it have really helped me during our time here.

AJ spoke on the importance of maintaining hope. He started by citing a plaque that has been in his hospital room (given to him by a good friend) that says:

"Hope reflects belief. Hope believes in the better, in the higher, in the possibilities. Hope rejects cynicism. People with a higher level of hope believe that though events may not work out they will not be defeated. Hope is the dream of a soul awake."

He then spoke briefly about the Plan of Salvation and how we can have hope through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.  His words were simple, honest and powerful. It's clear he strives to live his beliefs!

October 29 & November 5 - Jazz Fever (Reintegration #6)

Brother Schneider, a member of the hospital Branch, gave AJ two tickets to the Jazz season opener against the Houston Rockets.  AJ and John were psyched to go, but we are required to take a therapist with us. So, Brother Schneider "found" a 3rd ticket and our OT, Mckenzie, kindly went along. During the game, Thurl Bailey (a retired Utah Jazz star) sought AJ out to introduce himself and encourage AJ in his recovery.  AJ didn't recognize him at first but after John said his name AJ was amazed to meet him.  Although the Jazz lost, it was among one of the best outings yet!

A week later, the next game came by way of Uncle Dave, who was given a couple of tickets to the Jazz game vs. the Cleveland Cavaliers (LeBron James, baby!). All 3 of them sat together in the wheelchair section for one of the best Jazz games yet! (They beat the Cavaliers on a last second shot. Woot-woot!)

It's so nice that AJ has the chance to do some activities he enjoys.  It lifts his spirit and allows him a way to step away from the seriousness of his situation for at least a short time.

October 17 & 18 - Re-integration #4 and Role Reversal

On Friday, we took a delicious trip to IHOP for AJ's 4th outing. I found a new appreciation for the difficulties individuals in wheelchairs have as we navigated through tight seating areas and wrestled with a heavy bathroom door!  As we face this next stage of life in a chair, there will be many adjustments to make. I was grateful for the kindness and patience of people around us! Life is better with nice people around!

Alexis arrived later that night, which means more fun is on the way! Sometimes AJ combats the difficulties of this situation by making jokes.  So, we really shouldn't have been surprised to walk into his hospital room to find this:

Too far? Maybe...but, they got a good laugh out of it! Thankfully, Alexis only needed the collar for a few pictures. You gotta admit, these kids have fun wherever they are with their great attitudes!

October 16 - No Touchy

At this point AJ must have assistance in all of his activities, but as he gains strength he also gains a desire to do things on his own!  These are awesome desires for him to have because it will move him towards independence.  Yet, this also creates a challenge for his dotting mom! :)  Instead of getting frustrated with all of my loving "help" we have incorporated the simple phrase -- "No touchy" (You might recognize it from "The Emperor's New Grove") This funny saying helps us get on the same track with each other through humor and understanding.

Putting on his pants is crazy hard! Sometimes these tasks seem impossible! But, with practice and continued blessings, it's something we look forward to in the future.

Dr. R came by AJ's room quite late tonight to share some information from a conference that had just ended.  The presentations included cutting edge technology that is just starting to become available in the US for spinal cord injury (SCI) victims. Who knows....maybe this is part of how AJ's miracles will come :)

October 15 - Slowly, but Surely

We are slowly but surely learning to be patient in AJ's healing. The experts assure us that although it is slow, his progress is impressive for this injury. It makes me realize just how severe his spinal cord injury is.  Here are some new skills he has acquired:

*Put shirt over his head and pull it down in front, with assistance pulling it down in the back.  (We are still mystified at how he will take a shirt off!)

*Leaned over the sink by using his shoulder and head momentum (no core strength) and then braced himself on the sink with his arms.  Then turned the water on and off (the handles on the sink are shaped like levers so that eliminates the need for twisting with the wrist or using hand).

I got very excited tonight when AJ was able to control the rate at which his left index finger relaxed after an episode of spasticity. I realize that this is not the same thing as lifting his finger from a relaxed position, but I figure his mind is commanding his finger to interrupt the

Spasticity is a side effect of paralysis that varies from mild muscle stiffness to severe, uncontrollable leg movements.  Generally, doctors now call conditions of extreme muscle tension Spastic Hypertonia (SH).  

For AJ the SH rarely interferes with his daily tasks, which means he will not have to be on medication for it. When he is getting ready for bed we can count on a spasm shooting through his body when we touch and move his feet.  They start from the foot and radiate up through the hands. Some people can use these spasms to their advantage, so we'll shoot for that!

October 13 - Feels Like Christmas!

Aunt Michelle brought AJ a gift -- his very own BYU football blanket!!!  She made it extra large so that it will actually cover him while he is in bed.  It's a bold move here in Ute country, but AJ remains loyal to the Cougs.

Since AJ's accident happened on the way back to school, his luggage with most of his clothes have been packed in the back of our car for the last 7 weeks.  AJ is getting tired of the slim pickin's in his clothing selection, so we headed outside to look in the car for something else. He started off just picking out a couple pairs of shorts, but then he saw some socks, then some shirts, until finally we just took all of the clothes with us! He was so excited it kind of felt like Christmas! :)

I have found that incorporating the simple, usual things of AJ's life before the accident (like styling his hair and wearing his favorite clothes) helps him recognize himself as AJ the independent, smart, good humored man.  Instead of only being a patient in rehab.

October 12 - Fast Sunday & Family Supper

We were back to our hospital branch for church today! Branch President Camac, and his wife have been so welcoming and supportive.  AJ was able to partake of the sacrament with very little assistance. He used his wrist strength to take a piece of bread from my hand and eat it. Then I placed the cup of water in his hand and he drank it by himself.

As if that wasn't awesome enough, he felt inspired to bear his testimony.  He spoke about his knowledge of the Plan of Salvation and the resurrection, and he expressed gratitude for that knowledge because it is what has kept him going through this trial.  He also recognized the peace he feels when he reads the Book of Mormon and how he has been blessed by the power of the priesthood. The Spirit was strong as AJ and others bore their testimonies. It was powerful.

AJ is pretty funny. After church today, a branch member told him that therapy may hurt but that just means it's working.  AJ agreed with him, coining the new phrase, "Pain is paralyzation leaving the body." haha - New bumper sticker??  AJ's great sense of humor keeps things light and fun.  In the afternoon/evening we had friends and family visit, and also had a big family-style dinner & dessert!

We love Sundays!

From left to right: Gabrielle (David's caregiver), David (a fellow patient-friend), Jim (David's friend), Grant,
Aunt Michelle (fellow cook & week-long helper), Uncle Jim, Aunt Denise & AJ

October 11 - Strength & Balance with Determination!

It was an exhausting day for AJ as he pushed a wheel-chair on different surfaces, and worked on the mat to improve balance.  Here's a little glimpse into the work from today:

First, AJ used a power assist wheelchair on a hard surface. The goal is to be able to give it a hard enough initial push to engage the electric wheel. Then the electric wheel powers the chair forward. At first it was hard for AJ to have enough power to engage the motor, but he got the hang of it pretty quickly.

Second was taking that chair onto the carpet.  Needless to say it was a lot harder! But AJ wouldn't give up!

Then AJ went to the mat to work on balancing. If you can imagine it, AJ is balancing without using any of his core muscles or triceps.  He is only using his head, shoulders & arms (biceps), Exhausting!

It is inspiring to watch AJ work so hard and be so blessed with a peaceful spirit as he gives his all.

October 9 - "Over the River and Through the Woods..." (Reintegration #3)

For AJ's 3rd outing we took a trip to Grandma & Grandpa Hunt's house. Our family has made lots of fun visits to Grandma's house through the years, so it's a special place for AJ  to be! Grandma and Grandpa were so happy to see him and AJ had a great time visiting with them.

As AJ visited with his grandparents, the therapist and I  measured the house and discussed the possibilities of living there when AJ is released. AJ will need special equipment, but it's hard to decide what equipment to buy since a lot of it will require remodeling, and AJ may not need it for very long.:) With that in mind, we were happy to discover that the home will only require minor remodeling with some specialized equipment.  So, living at Grandma and Grandpa's will be a done deal if our therapist can get the insurance to allow the equipment that we need.

One more complication....The van we bought arrived yesterday, so we thought it would be good for AJ to test it out while he was at the house.  As he was rolling into the van, suddenly his forehead made contact with the door frame!  Yep...he's too tall for the van! haha  The therapist said that it's because of size of the wheelchair and that he can order one that will work. But, hey, it just gives AJ one more reason to be in a manual chair when we leave here!

October 7 & 8 - Trails Expo

Downhill Mountain Bike

AJ had an informal outing when we went to the TRAILS Expo. TRAILS (Therapeutic Recreation and Independent Lifestyles) is a comprehensive outreach program, for individuals with spinal cord injury or disease that includes recreational activities among other things.  AJ's doctor founded the program and has helped it grow over the past 10 years. At times he will identify an activity that members would like to participate in (like kayaking), and then he will ask the U of U engineering department to create a piece of adaptive recreational sports equipment to fill the interest. For example, a bicycle that is powered by hands/arms; a sail boat that uses a blowing mechanism to control the sail; or snow skis attached to a chair that is manipulated by a joystick.  It was also a social activity where hamburgers and hot dogs were provided. AJ had a good time looking at all the different items on display, talking to friends and meeting new people. What was going to be a quick trip to see what was there turned into a 3 hour activity! This is a program that AJ may really like to participate in as he recovers. They get together for weekend activities where the equipment is available for all members to use! Pretty Sweet!

AJ and a friend who was released from rehab 2 weeks ago.

On a side note, the accident report came in the mail today. To be honest, I was caught off guard at how hard it was for me to read!  There were so many choices made (ones that we have all done without consequence) that combined to cause this horrific accident and change AJ's life forever.  AJ also wanted to read the report. As he read it aloud, he considered each detail and seemed satisfied when he got to the end. Some of the facts were new to him, but he said that he felt okay and that everyone makes mistakes. I'm grateful for his generosity, charity and ability to focus on the future.

October 6 - And the Winner is...Salt Lake City!

With just under a month before discharge, we needed to make a decision on where AJ will receive his initial out-patient treatment.  For the past few weeks we have gathered information and studied our options. We have discovered that there is no simple path where everything falls in place!  Every possible plan is complicated and there are some questions/issues that just cannot be resolved at this time. A talk given by Elder Bednar called "The Spirit of Revelation" helped me to push forward with faith:

In many of the uncertainties and challenges we encounter in our lives, God requires us to do our best, to act and not be acted upon (see 2 Nephi 2:26), and to trust in Him. We may not see angels, hear heavenly voices, or receive overwhelming spiritual impressions. We frequently may press forward hoping and praying—but without absolute assurance—that we are acting in accordance with God’s will. But as we honor our covenants and keep the commandments, as we strive ever more consistently to do good and to become better, we can walk with the confidence that God will guide our steps. 

 Sometimes the spirit of revelation will operate immediately and intensely, other times subtly and gradually, and often so delicately you may not even consciously recognize it. But regardless of the pattern whereby this blessing is received, the light it provides will illuminate and enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding (see Alma 5:7; 32:28), and direct and protect you and your family.           ~David A. Bednar, April 2011 Gen. Conference

So, with much prayer, we have decided to stay in the Salt Lake City area at least through the end of the year. The equipment, expertise, and community support that is available here for AJ is amazing. Although our family will have to continue to live apart, we feel peace in our decision and have received confirmation that the Lord will provide a way for us!

October 5 - A Beautiful Day for an Outing (Reintegration #2)

Sunday was General Conference! John, Brad, Caleb and Alexis all came into town so we could spend this weekend together. We had tickets to go to Temple Square in Salt Lake City to watch the talks live.  (Shortly after the accident, while AJ was in the post surgery care unit, John told AJ that we had been given tickets by our Stake President to attend conference, if AJ was feeling up to it.  From that point forward, AJ made it his goal to be able attend.  He worked hard at it and made it a reality!)  Our assigned seats were in the balcony but as we were looking for the way to the balcony, an usher told us that we could sit in the Plaza level! Wheelchair BONUS!

Pertaining to AJ's Recovery, two important facts stood out to me:

1. Preparedness = Success - We couldn't just hurry out the door like we are used to doing. There was a lot of preparation that had to be done, including bringing 'emergency' supplies and planning in extra time for parking and getting through the crowd.  I was thankful for a wise therapist who allotted plenty of time for our activity!

2. Independence is Freedom - It was so great to get outside to just enjoy being in the beautiful weather and being out in public. The therapist added an extra hour to our trip so we could explore Temple Square -- and we did!  AJ led the way, going wherever he wanted to. (It was helpful that the area is very wheelchair friendly, too.)  We even ran into a couple of friends from Richland!  That kind of independence and freedom is priceless.  We returned to rehab feeling refreshed and renewed!

A few pics for fun:

AJ's seat cushion is not long enough to keep his legs stable, so Brad gave up his dress belt so AJ could use it to strap his legs.  The issue: Brads' pants are about 2 inches too big! (As you can see by his 'clown pants' pose. :) )

                       My questionable attempt at photo bombing.                      The handsome Hunt Boys less 1 :)!          

                        (Pretty sure they gave it to me - haha!) 

October 3 - Goals

One goal AJ has is to be able to use a self propelled wheelchair when he leaves at the end of the month. In order to do that, he has to develop more core skill (right now he is without core strength or movement). Today, after working on the FES machine with upper and lower body, he worked on moving from a tripod sit to moving his body forward and stretching.  His strength is increasing, but it remains a difficult skill to master.  He also noticed his neck is getting sore as he is using more of those muscles.  It's great to watch his strength grow!  Here is a video of his awesome work:

October 2 - New Look and New Skills

THE C-COLLAR IS GONE!!!!  Yesterday, Dr. Montgomery ordered some x-rays to check for healing.  They came back today looking great, so the doctor said AJ can take the brace off - after only 5 weeks! He doesn't need to wear it unless he feels concerned.  We were happily surprised at how quickly AJ adjusted to having the collar off.  He didn't feel vulnerable at all without it!  The only thing he misses is that now his mouth falls open now when he falls asleep - haha!

The OT introduced AJ to dressing himself today (in the series of pictures below you can see the therapist teaching and helping AJ). Without use of his hands and without full strength and flexibility of his arms and shoulders, this is an extremely difficult task.  Yet, with assistance, he is beginning to develop these skills. It's so interesting to watch the therapists teach him techniques that will compensate for his loss of mobility. The independence is priceless!

September 30 - A Taste of Home

Today Dr. R did the ASI-A testing again.  AJ has improved from C5 to C6 on the right side, which is great!  The left side is still at a C5 level, but it is gaining strength.  Through the rest of his body there is no change of movement, but there is increased feeling.  Overall, AJ is doing well and slowly improving.

We continue to be so grateful for the visits from friends and family. This evening some of my friends from home were traveling to Provo and stopped by. Even though AJ was not very familiar with them, we all visited and had such a great time! It continues to amaze and humble me at how our burdens are lightened by others' acts of love and kindness. <3

A Taste of Home: Washington apples and homemade brownies!

September 28 - Hope in the Future

Today AJ dawned his Sunday clothes for the first time in a month -- even down to his church shoes! Needless to say, he was looking quite handsome ;)  

Alexis, AJ and Grandma Beecroft

The sacrament talk today compared the "Trail of Hope" on Parley Street in Nauvoo, IL with our own difficult journeys in life. I had to smile because we just took a family vacation to Nauvoo this past summer. AJ had only 1 week he could take off from his summer sales job, and he chose to spend it with us touring the church history sites. So, he knew exactly what the Trail of Hope was! In case you're not familiar, beginning in February 1846, thousands of Latter-day Saints worked their way down Parley Street as they began their exodus to the west (being forced out of their homes by mobs and the government). Quotations of those who passed in sorrow are now posted at regular intervals for visitors to read.  Here is one that the speaker shared:

“My last act in that precious spot was to tidy the rooms, sweep up the floor, and set the broom in its accustomed place behind the door. Then with emotions in my heart…I gently closed the door and faced an unknown future, faced it with faith in God ...” Bathsheba W. Smith

I felt inspired to consider the path that my family is on.  I know God wants us to make time to be together as a family and to build relationships that are built on love and respect.  This is what we did on our trip to Nauvoo! And with continued faith in His plan, we will keep building those relationships as we travel down this unfamiliar journey of recovery!

Nauvoo Trip, 2014 --- AJ, John, Caleb, Becca & Bradley