My world was shaken Wednesday night with yet another reminder of just how fragile life is for all of us.
Ryan Housholder passed away on August 15th at the age of 33 due to complications from a spinal cord injury.
Ryan was a friend of mine, and one of the first individuals I met after my injury. He was injured June 29, 2006, in a diving accident very similar to mine. I first met Ryan during my rehab at Metro Hospital. He came wheeling into my room with his mother, Michelle, with a big smile on his face. Here he was, stuck in a wheelchair, having to blow into a straw to make it move, yet exuding such a youthful enthusiasm and positive presence.
He gave me hope.
Ryan was also the one who introduced me to the cough assist system, having been implanted himself. As I have stated in the past, the device has been a literal lifesaver for me, and I won’t hesitate to spread the word among anyone whom I think could benefit from it.
Ryan served as an example to me. He was someone I looked up to after my injury as a reminder of how strong the human spirit is and how much difference faith can make in the face of adversity.
The devastating news of his death comes on the heels of the passing of Paris Adams.
Paris was a beautiful, young and energetic woman who worked out with me at Buckeye Wellness Center. She had a lot of spunk to her, and every time I saw her at the gym, her hair would be a different color! Her life became even more colorful 18 months ago when she gave birth to her son.
Paris passed away on July 31st also due to complications from her injury. Just five days earlier she celebrated her 29th birthday.
The community of spinal cord injury survivors is a tightknit bunch. It’s an exclusive group made up of individuals who have suffered and endured tremendous hardship. It’s very difficult to even begin to appreciate what living with a spinal cord injury is like. We rely one another for camaraderie, support, knowledge, advice, levity, motivation, and so much more.
When we lose one of our own, it really hurts.
Losing these two amazing individuals in the span of 17 days is extremely painful and disheartening.
Unfortunately, it’s also a stark reminder of the ever-present realities of living with a spinal cord injury.
However, I think it’s also important to honor those we’ve lost through the way we choose to live our lives. None of us ask to be severely injured, confined to a wheelchair, and faced with a multitude of challenges. Just as none of us should be denied the chance to live a rich and full life.
To my fellow SCI survivors, take this moment to pause and reflect on how you are choosing to live your life since being injured. I hope we are all able to rise above our hardships and continue to live with passion and purpose, even when it seems there are no answers to make any sense of why things happen.
All of us, whether injured or not, owe it to the ones we’ve lost to not waste the precious moments we are still so fortunate to have.
Rest in peace, Ryan and Paris.
Stand Strong!
Scott
Hi Scott,
This is, Lisa Adams, Paris’ mother. I was just sitting at the computer and decided to google Paris’ name, out of curiosity, I guess. When I did I found this beautiful article that you wrote. Thank you, for writing such beautiful things about my daughter. She was truly an inspiration.
I was so sorry to read this — such beautiful people – I will keep their familie, especially her little boys in my prayers. So sorry you have two friends pass so close to each other. 😢
Oh Scott. I am so sorry to hear about you’re friends. Even in this day and age it’s a stark reality of the dangers of immobility. Thank you for the tribute. I enjoyed reading their stories. Scott you are a good friend and logical voice for all of us that have loved ones with spinal cord injury or have a spinal cord injury.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Scott. That must be very, very hard. I’m praying for you and for all of Ryan’s loved ones.
Jody
Scott, I am with you in your loss of two dear friends. And I miss meeting with you! My new home is the Jesuit health center, Colombiere, in Clarkston, Mi.
Courage, my friend!
Fr. Frank Canfield, S.J.
Peace to you Scott. Losing ones we care about is so hard, but I pray you find peace.
Lynne
Scott, I am so sorry for the loss of your friends. It is so sad that their life was taken away while so young. My heart goes out to you and to their families.
Scott,
Sitting at my desk this morning thinking how relived I am it is Friday. I have suffered two major losses in 8 months. First my mom and then three months later my brother-in-law. I loved these two people dearly and the loss has been huge. Then this morning I read your post and I think, “there is Scott again, just when I need him most”. You remind me of the obvious every time I read your words; that life is fragile and that we have so much to be thankful for.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I can only imagine how close you had become with Ryan and Paris. Just knowing your heart is breaking makes mine that much heavier. But I am hopeful that God’s plan for each of us will be well worth waiting for and you my friend, have an express ticket to heaven.
Scott, you have provided a Beautuful tribute to your friends.
You have allowed all of us to be a part of their story as well.
Hoping your good memories of them help you thru this difficult time.
Scott: I am so sorry about the death of your friends. It is another stark reminder of all we need to be grateful for and of how strong and special you are. My love, Marilou
Hello Scott, I’m deeply saddened for your loss, I will continue to pray for you, there families and friends. Peace
Scott…my friend…I’m so sorry for your loss…hang in there my brother!
Oh Scott, I’m so sorry for your losses. My heart aches. Thinking of you. Keep Standing Strong!
XOXO
Brooke
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:13
Scott, your solemn words speak what your heart felt from the inspiration and friendship with Ryan and Paris. The Light they now walk to is as strong as the light they leave behind.
My condolences to you and their families.
My heart is heavy after reading this and yet, you lift my spirits and remind us all to be grateful every moment. My deepest condolences Scott.
I am so sorry, Scott. I pray tonight for their families, and that you find comfort that your friends are walking now with the Lord.
Sorry for your loss.
Stand Strong Scott!!
Sorry for your loss Scott. You have been such an amazing person in my life. I don’t have the words to express my admiration for you brother! Thank you for continuing to show the positive in this life we live!
Talk to you soon.