Christmas in Middleburg celebration 12/6-12/7/13

What an incredible, miraculous, amazing difference a year can make. This time last year Forrest you had not spoken in a year and a half, you could not stand unassisted, swallow water, or eat solid food. In spite of several minor setbacks and three surgeries this year we have been blessed in so many ways. As we sit by the fire enjoying pizza and our first snow of the year, we are basking in the warm glow of this weekend's celebrations. 

Friday night you participated along with many other courageous and talented individuals from A Place to Be music therapy. The audience was movied to laughter and tears as each performer shared a special piece of their own journey through the power of music. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efJOxA7-nD8

Unfortunately,  the room was too crowded for your sidekick, Toliver, to safely join you for this performance. But Saturday he was faithfully by your side as you both greeted visitors and passed out CCI brochures at the Community Center. Then you, Caroline, Amy, Rob, and your CCI companions Toliver, Shelley, Redmond, and Sterling proudly marched together in the Middleburg Christmas parade with other amazing individuals and their CCI companions. This time last year you could not stand up without assistance, but Saturday you walked the entire length of Middleburg, smiling and waving and bending down to introduce Toliver to the children as he graciously offered them his paw to shake. 

We have so much to be thankful for Forrest; your unconquerable spirit, your resilience, your unshakable friends, and all of the nurses, doctors, therapists, teachers, and prayer warriors, who have made this miraculous year possible.  Next week you turn 21 and your brother Austin will be home to celebrate with us. We can hardly wait to see him home again!  With love and gratitude overflowing, Mum