Decades ago when I was in high school, I read of a tragic swimming accident in which Joni (then Eareckson) Tada, dove into the Chesapeake Bay, hit her head on a sand bar, and became a quadriplegic – paralyzed from her neck down. She was a gifted painter and learned to create beautiful pictures holding the brush in her mouth. Wow!
Fast forward decades to my accident. I was blessed to have use of my arms since my damage was mid-back, thoracic vertebra #5-6-7. I reread Joni’s books but this time through eyes with a different understanding. I was struck by Joni’s admission that she was grateful for her paralysis because it was the accident that brought meaning to her life. What?! I could not believe I would ever feel that way. Here it is 10 years after my accident on March 19, 2014. I still would not say I am thankful for my injury. I AM thankful for these past 10 years of life.
Today I celebrate my being alive for 10 extra years and counting. Some of what I appreciate experiencing over the last decade include, but certainly are not limited to the following:
Our one son passed his medical boards and became a Pain Management Doctor, opening his own practice Relieve Pain Center. Our other son earned an advanced degree in marine science and became the supervising scientist for squid research. Our daughter-in-law completed all her medical (MD) training and is now physician co-manager and medical director of the epilepsy program at a large hospital. We were able to meet our son’s girlfriend and get to know her as a bright, caring, focused young woman working on certification in nursing as her second career after years in shoe design and corporate management. I would have missed all of that.
I began this FastHugs blog which is about and for others with spinal cord injuries. I also add current research on progress toward only empty wheelchairs (Reeves Foundation goal). I would have missed this.
I wrote a manuscript for a nonfiction book for children and adults to better understand those with mobility challenges and how they can accomplish and overcome challenges in amazing ways as they develop from preschool to getting ready for college. I am likely the only person who was a K-12 public school superintendent who is a paraplegic. This gives me insights into children in preschool through high school and their needs. I’m still looking for a publisher. I’m contemplating an adult, non-fiction book of my life. I would have missed all of that.
I was able to give back while serving on boards for our condo association, the women’s group at our church, and our property owner association which includes over 1,000 dwellings along a large body of water. I was awarded the lifetime award for our chapter of a national women’s group. I would have missed all the people I have met, worked with, and grown to love. I would have missed all of that.
I was able to capitalize on my experience coaching and judging Olympics of the Mind which relies on creative problem-solving. I have certainly needed that in the past 10 years. I would have missed that.
Following my accident and my months in rehab, my Mom sent me a card each day. I would have missed participating in and seeing her through to the end of her amazing life until nearly 98 years old. Children aren’t supposed to die before their parents. I would have missed that.
I cannot say thank you to God for this paralysis or through which it has put my loved ones. I can say that my whole life, before and after the accident, I was a Christian. I have always believed it is well with my soul. My faith has become stronger and richer through this experience. It is as if I’ve seen through a film before and now feel God’s love deeper. I know that God declared that He knows the plans He has for me. Those plans are to prosper me and not to harm me, plans to give me hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) I am so grateful for his gift. I would have missed that.
The richest and dearest reason I rejoice for the last 10 years of my life is two of the most precious children ever. My granddaughter is bright, articulate, always busy creating, takes charge including others in her ideas, and loves to swim and dance and draw. Our infant grandson is quickly winning over his world with his infectious smile. He is growing and developing well, giving those who love him images of his future. I would have missed all of that.
Rejoice and watch for your blessings.
FastHugs 