After spending some time in the rehabilitation unit, it's obvious that having a life-changing injury is not unique to AJ. As he has reached out to other patients in the unit, we have learned about the many traumatic injuries and illnesses that are being fought here every day. The connections that are created by reaching out to each other has created a community in the rehab where love and support are felt. (Definitely a hidden blessing for us!) Here are some of our rehab-friends' stories:
- McKensie - 17 year old pianist sustained a traumatic brain injury from being T-boned on a 4 wheeler at a family reunion. She is relearning how to function - breathing, talking, self feeding, etc. She went home on the day of her High School Homecoming dance!
- Brian - 40 year old father of 4 who was struck with Guillain-Barre Syndrome after a battle with pneumonia. Although he is paralyzed from the neck down he is hopeful for a full recovery in the next year. His kids are way excited to have him home!
- David - 50 year old triathlete was hit by a van and dragged 80 yards while on a run. After losing his left leg from the knee down, he looks forward to regaining his voice, strength and independence again. He hopes to participate in another triathlon in time.
The similar thread these friends share is a hope and desire to improve, and family and friends who love them and support them. As they have left the rehab and headed for home, we wish them well, miss them, and look forward to connecting with new people. We have always felt and been grateful for the strength of friends and family, but it's nice to know we can improve every place in which we find ourselves!
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