44

 I wrote a musical with Mr. Sweitzer called "44" to share my story....from swimming with dolphins to adventures with Austin to the challenges I have faced since I hurt my noggin.  The show was written for a cast of nine people to help be my "voice".  The skilled cast members - Kyle, Lauren, Megan, Brendan, Crystal, Cameron, Amy and Nathan have been fun to work with and get to know.  At our most recent rehearsal, we had not seen each other for at least a month.  We were so crazy and loud Mr. Sweitzer said it was like a big family reunion.  In October, we will be performing "44" as part of "The Same Sky Project" for  thousands of school students, to share our message of acceptance, hope and living a big life, despite challenges.  Yesterday we performed a staged reading of my show and there are some pictures below.  Here's the last part of the script.I hope you like it and will come see our show in the fall.

So, I want to tell you all if you ever snowboard or do anything that could be dangerous, 

listen to what they say and be prepared.  Wear your helmet!

But even more importantly, never take anything for granted.

Walking, talking, eating, hanging out with your friends

Your life can change in an instant

And whatever you do, tell your family and friends you love them!

On the morning I left to snowboard, on my way out the door, my mom said 

"Have fun Forrest!  I love you!" And I gave her a big hug.

She has never forgotten to tell me she loves me and I know that is the 

biggest reason I am here in front of you today.

Not everyone has a TEAM 44 beside them, and I am aware of that

But what you do have is your family, friends, teachers and mentors who you can reach out to

Since my accident, I have ridden a horse

Played lacrosse

Swam

Starred in my own show

Spent time with my friends

Graduated from High School

Marched in a parade with Toliver

Raised money for organizations like "A Place to Be"

If I have learned anything, I have learned that if you are a kind person and show others love, 

when you are in need, those people will be right beside you to cheer you on.

Thank you all for cheering me on and thanks to the awesome 44 cast for helping me tell my story!

- Forrest

"Underwater life is fun!  Swimming in the golden sun!"

"My brother, my friend, when it rains...you bring the sun!"

Myself, Kyle, Nathan, Brendan, Crystal, Cameron, Amy, Toliver, Lauren and Megan - the incredible "44" cast!