“A brand new day to try again, to think a new thought, to take different action. You have been given a new day as a gift. Use it wisely!”
I thought I would share an interesting article that my friend, Donna, forwarded me. It talks about the challenges of finding affordable and accessible housing when living with a disability. http://rismedia.com/2011-06-05/the-future-of-the-disability-housing-market/
As you know, I have experienced this challenge firsthand and still battle it on a daily basis. This is all the more reason for me to build, “The Quad” housing facility I’ve talked about. I have a rough floor plan in mind that would accommodate up to four wheelchair-bound individuals. The house would include a gym, accessible kitchen/eating area, large living room, theater room, “environmental chamber”, four large bedrooms with accessible showers, caretaker bedroom and a very large outdoor living space. There would also be an elevator/lift system in the house.
The immediate challenge is finding the land and acquiring the proper zoning permits. The next challenge would be soliciting support from local companies and contacts I have met throughout my working career, to help provide necessary funding. Ideally, I would seek to set up the facility as a 501(c)3. The next step would be to work towards creating a model program that could be replicated across the country so others could also benefit. This is where I could see an organization like the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation really being able to help out through some of its grants. Finally, there would be the fun challenge of pitching the concept of four quadriplegics living together as a type of reality/educational TV series. The show would focus on raising awareness and education of spinal cord injuries, as well as debunking the myth that a fun and fulfilling life ends with a broken neck. It sounds like a monumental task to take on, but those who know me will tell you that I wouldn’t want it any other way!
As I write this, I am sitting outside enjoying another beautiful day. The tomato plants are really starting to grow. The strawberries are in full bloom and very tasty! My newest addition is something called a “salad bowl” which is a very large pot of several different types of lettuce planted in it. Pretty soon I’ll be able to enjoy homegrown strawberry and tomato salads on a daily basis. The only thing really missing right now is an American flag to adorn the corner post.
Finally, I had an hour and a half interview yesterday to discuss my participation in clinical trials. What started out as a discussion around my experience eventually turned into a story about my life, overcoming challenges and plans for the future. One thing that this accident has not taken from me is my ability to talk — the Italian genes are still in full force!
I can’t thank everyone enough for all your prayers and support, so will continue to thank you as much as I can. Thank you! Stand strong!
Scott