Today marks 11 years since my injury, which is exactly 25% of my time here on earth. I have spent the past one quarter of my life paralyzed with no movement or sensation below my shoulders, shuttled back and forth between bed and the wheelchair.
When I reflect on this, I’m not really sure how I should feel. Proud? Cheated? Resilient? Melancholy? There is a wide range of emotions that swirl around in my head.
What I do know, is that it feels a lot different than a quarter of my life. At times it feels as if the accident was a lifetime ago. Yet, at the same time I can remember it as if it were yesterday.
A friend recently asked me if I remember what it’s like to walk. I certainly do. And I hope that’s something I never forget. There are a lot of things I’ve lost, miss dearly, and hope I never forget.
I’m reminded of how Christopher Reeve once said that every year since his accident was harder than the previous. For me, this past year has certainly been one of the more challenging years that has tested me on many levels. I have spent most of the year flat on my back in bed, trying to heal a pressure sore that has led to a bone infection and resulted in the need for a central venous catheter to be placed in my chest for IV antibiotics.
The bed rest has been made more challenging by the beautiful summer weather that shines through my windowpane (although, if there were ever a year to be laid up, I guess 2020 is it). Additionally, I have dealt with increased shoulder pain that never seems to dissipate.
However, today also marks 11 years since God gave me a new lease on life; 11 years of new and beautiful relationships with remarkable people; 11 more years with my family who have been the greatest rock of support I could ask for (especially my mother for everything she has done), and the chance to spend ample amounts of time with my niece and nephew, whose innocence is infectious and provides healthy doses of what matters most.
While it’s easy to get bogged down by my current situation and think of days gone by, it’s also great to have so many gifts in my life which sustain me through the challenging times. It’s the latter I choose to focus on all these years later!
Wishing everyone a very safe and healthy Independence Day!
Stand Strong!
Scott
I took care of you when you had your power line placed. I’m reading your book now. I honestly cannot put it down. Your story has touched myself as well as my coworkers. Your unwavering faith is remarkable and such an example for all of us. It was a pleasure to meet you and care for you. God’s blessings and may his healing hands be with you now to get through this.
Scott
Your positive attitude and faith is such a great inspiration to me as I am reading your blog today. Hope that sore heals soon so you can get up and out into the sun.* God be with you
Hi Scott I met you awhile back
When you were in a nursing home in Westlake. You were looking to hire private duty nurses through the company I worked for. I have been following you on Facebook . You are amazing and strong. Keep it up you’re an inspiration to all
Xoxo Joyce
Scott,
I will say that you are a gift to me and to others. Through sharing your story and struggles, it has only opened our eyes to the struggles of others in your life’s situation. I have read your book and often share your story with others and about your foundation. Who knows, one day, because we shared your story, a cure or more help will come about. Happy 4th.
Proud, Scott. You should feel Proud. You’re crushing this.
I think of you often, Scott. I think about that verse, Romans 8:18. “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Don’t stop believing!
You are a light in the darkness that covers the world at the moment. Even if you don’t feel it sometimes, those who know you, even just a little bit, know and feel it.
Love to you, brother.
Scott; your words are so touching and meaningful; your attitude remarkable and uplifting, and your beign- strong and resilient. You continue to inspire. Hang in there, Much Love, Aunt Marilou
Scott: I’m truly blessed to have gotten to meet you and help out when called. Your positive attitude is an inspiration to me! Loved meeting your mom! She’s great! Hoping you can regularly get out into your yard that you so dearly love. Praying always for you! Carol
Scott, I am still praying that one day you will have use of your arms and legs. Miracles do happen! Miss our visits.
Happy Independence Day, Scott. I know this is always a milestone time of year for you. Sorry to hear that dang pressure sore has resulted in complications. I’m saying some prayers asking God to send healing for you.
I’m happy you’re looking at sunny summer weather outside your window and feeling it in your heart. Take care, my friend.
You have touched more lives since the accident than before
God bless you on this 4th
Scott, We have never met but I feel I’ve known you for years. You have given such a positive attitude to my two grandsons ( Marcus and Marcelo) that I truly believe will keep them strong as they continue through life. Keep the faith and stay safe brother.
Mike and I miss you, hope it’s possible to see you sometime soon. I make great margaritas and guac 😁
Scott – you are amazing and so inspiring and have touched so many lives . God bless you and continue to shine through you brother.
Scott, you are such an amazing person with an amazing attitude. Happy 4th!
God bless you.
Sue
Thank you once again Scott for your inspiration. Your positive attitude is so awe inspiring! God bless you!
have a nice holiday Scott
Shower in the dark day
Clean sparks driving down
Cool in the waterway
Where the baptized drown
Naked in the cold sun
Breathing life like fire
Thought I was the only one
But that was just a lie
Cause I heard it in the wind
And I saw it in the sky
And I thought it was the end
And I thought it was the 4th of July
Pale in the flare light
The scared light cracks & disappears
And leads the scorched ones here
And everywhere no one cares
The fire is spreading
And no one wants to speak about it
Down in the hole
Jesus tries to crack a smile
Beneath another shovel load
And I heard it in the wind
And I saw it in the sky
And I thought it was the end
And I thought it was the 4th of July
Now I’m in control
Now I’m in the fall out
Once asleep but now I stand
And I still remember
Your sweet everything
Light a Roman candle
And hold it in your hand
Cause I heard it in the wind
And I saw it in the sky
And I thought it was the end
And I thought it was the 4th of July
Scott, you are an amazing example of resilience & strength for us all! Your positive attitude and faith are amazing! God Bless You!❤️💪🏼
Thankful for your friendship Scott!
Thanks Scott! You are an amazing inspiration!
You are the strongest person we know, Scottie…❤
Your words are always amazing. You are an inspiration. Thank you for giving the world positivity and true perspective.
God bless you my friend. What so many of us take for granted each and every day, you remind me of never to do! Happy Fourth Scott.
Scott- When this Corona virus is eventually under control, I’ll come visit you! Stay safe.