December 2000, Happy Holidays!

We hope all is well with anyone still keeping up with or stumbling across this page.

I just wanted to let everyone know how well Kelley and our family is doing. It just proves that after a major devastating situation that one can survive intact. Yeah sure, we have a different existence than what I envisioned us having a few years ago but it is a great existence none the less.

No matter what you have planned or envisioned for the future, it is rare that it works out that way without some glitches along the way or a 180 degree about face altogether. The thing is you have deal with the cards life dealt you.

Kelley is doing great. Just look at her now compared to 2 years ago. Unbelievable for what that kid has been through.

She is still in her wheel chair most of the time, we use a walker to keep the strength in her legs built up but she must have someone there to steady her. Balance is still the issue and although we see advances in other major motor skills such as drawing, writing and the such, walking is not one that has improved greatly. We have high hopes that as time passes Kelley will regain balance and be less dependent on the wheelchairs.

The best thing is that Kelley has not had the every 6 week fit of depression that was plaguing her before. The "There's nothing to do for a kid in a wheel chair" type of realizations that she may never walk again that she had, and I couldn't blame her, I'd be angry and depressed too if my life changed that much. We made some modifications to the house and her room that make it more accessible and easier for her to be more independent and I am sure that helped alot.

Her school work has been fantastic, straight A's and even A+'s along the way. She has made some new friends along the way, and even begin to get a little typical 14 year old boy crazy... oh joy :-).

We still have the MRI's every 6 months instead of three and so far they are coming back clear, but I must say everytime there is the slightest hint of headaches and such Chantel and I still get a little edgy, I suppose we always will.

I hope that I was an aide in letting you know know Kelley's doing now, if you want to know more or have any questions email me.

Here's a picture of Chase and of the two kids together.

I again thank you for keeping up with us and wish all the best for you and your family.