Journal Entry from my Dad

January 19, 2013

Yesterday was overcome with one of my fears day for Wesley. In this entire process Wes has been a champion at overcoming fears. I have to smile as I think of some of those fears and how he has conquered them.  Since his accident Wes has wanted to get back on the ski slopes. This is something he truly loves to do. It is a whole different ball game when you have to sit and you do not have the control or strength in your arms that you once had. (He is making great progress in this area but it is still far from normal) It does not help matters that he doesn’t have any control over his legs yet.

He was very apprehensive about doing this but deep inside he knew he had to. It was awkward at first as he battled his fear of falling. He learned how to fall and was told he would fall often. Once he got that down he was eager and ready to go.

The volunteers at Eagle Mount ski program were amazing, kind and gentle.  I wonder if they realize the impact they make on people’s lives as they volunteer their time so unselfishly. It kind of restores your faith in humanity to know that there are many people willing to share their talents. We have met so many that have been willing to help Wes in all aspects of his life as he overcomes fears.

Wes started out the afternoon learning the basics. He went down a smaller mountain twice as he got the hang of balance, control, turning and slowing down.  It was a little fearful to get on the lift for the first time but after that it was smooth sailing. After the smaller mountain if was off to the big mountain and he did that much to the amazement of everyone three times. He went well past the allotted time and the volunteers were more than happy to let him keep going. Wes will do this every Friday for the next 7 weeks. He was surprised at how many muscles he used and this morning his arms were just wiped out. He was leaning sideways and forward and he also worked his core muscles.

Karen was a little emotional as she recalls all the fun times we have had as a family skiing and then to recall the accident and in less than a year Wes is back on the slopes.  We did not ski with him this time. It was nice for him to be free of us and especially his mother worrying. We look forward to the day when our entire family is skiing together and making happy memories. 

I promise to do a better job keeping up the blog. Look for more horse pictures and swimming this next week. Thanks for all your support and please keep Wes in your prayers.