Monday, August 11, 2014

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!



7 comments:

  1. Great job Forrest! Your words are beautiful. Some people search a lifetime to have this much knowledge.

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  2. Keep up the good work, Forrest. It's been a real privilege getting to know you and your great family through following the Blog Since Jan of 2011. What an awesome road you have all traveled, and are still traveling. I've kept you in my prayers, and pray for the Very BEST outcome on your upcoming surgeries.

    Love and Prayers,

    Joyce and Wilbur Ellis in Missouri

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  3. I met you several times in Middleburg and even though I am now living in Florida I still follow your story and keep you in my prayers. Your journey has been inspiring and I know your life will continue to be full, happy and healthy because you are the epitome of faith, hope, and courage. God bless you.

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  4. This is dynamite! Forrest, you make my heart sing!
    Pat

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  5. HOLA FORREST!!! I just read the article about you in the WP, saw your pictures walking and smiling and I can't tell you how thrilled I am! You are even singing!! My best memories of our time together include your awesome smile and you singing karaoke in Spanish. I still have that video somewhere. You are a role model for all of us with your perseverance and hard work. Keep it up! I send you a big hug and my thoughts and prayers to continue on that path.
    I don't teach high school any more and moved to Arlington, VA. But still think of you and our time in the Spanish classroom singing and having fun.
    Sra. Ruckman

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    Replies
    1. Thank you for posting such a great message. We would LOVE to see that video if you can find it. It would be helpful in speech therapy too!

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  6. Hi Mr. Awesome....Between articles in THE Fauquier and the Washington Post, you have (deservedly ) become quite a celebrity!!! Rightfully so as awesome as your journey has been.....Did you even think about KRHS yesterday on the first day of classes for so many of your friends, teachers, and mentors??? So proud of your completing your diploma, starring in plays and musicals to spread your story of determination and joy, and in general being a great guy!!! I'm so proud to have met and spend time with you....US Government seems like so long ago and how far you have come since those days...Keep travelling the road :with all your support there will be no more detours!!! Sharon B.

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