I am writing to you today in deep gratitude. As most of you are aware, my life took a dramatic turn on November 23, 2015. In the blink of an eye, a day at the pool with my family in Mexico altered in my life in almost every conceivable way. As we enjoyed our time in the sun, a trip down a water slide ended in catastrophe when I hit my head on the bottom of the pool. The resulting injury – a crushed C4, 5 and 6 vertebrae – left me a quadriplegic.
And yet I’m writing in gratitude? You bet.
-I am grateful for my cousin, who was with me at the pool. He recognized I was in trouble and acted quickly to turn me over and stabilize me. Because of him, I am here today.
-I am grateful for the trauma team in Mexico, whose diligent care prepared me to be medivaced to California for surgery. Because of them, I am here today.
-I am grateful for the skilled rehabilitation staff at Craig Hospital in Colorado, who gently but firmly pushed me to regain some mobility and learn independent living skills. Because of them, I am here today.
I am grateful for my Oregon-based medical team and my incredibly dedicated OHSU therapists. Because of their care and support, I am here today.
-I am grateful for my community of friends and family, who provided moral support that kept me buoyed and optimistic in the darkest times. Because of them, I am here today.
-And, finally, I am grateful for my parents, McGregor and Shannon, who have tirelessly devoted themselves to being advocates, insurance lobbyists, caregivers and companions. Because of them, I am here today.
Gratitude has become a strong motivator in my life transition. I am determined to be more than “here” today – I am determined to work again, to drive again, and to live as independently as possible. I continue rigorous therapy and exercise and plan to move to an apartment in the fall. I am also preparing for the arrival of Elle, my mobility service dog, who will join me in the summer. I look forward to returning to my job at HP Enterprise/Aruba – I can’t wait! Most of all, I am focusing on reciprocating, for many years to come, the love I have felt from all of you.
Many of you have asked what more you can do as I start the next chapter of my life. I am so fortunate that I am insured. Insurance has played a critical role in my recovery, covering millions of dollars in medical, therapeutic and disability fees.
The reality of living an independent life, however, goes well beyond what insurance will cover.
I am grateful and humbled that friends and family have connected me to Help Hope Live, a trusted nonprofit organization that has been providing community-based fundraising guidance and support to those in need for more than 30 years. Funds raised with Help Hope Live will help to offset injury-related expenses that are unmet by insurance. Please consider becoming part of my “Journey of Hope and Independence” by making a charitable contribution. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
