1/30/01

To All,

I wanted to take a moment to update you on my progress. On Friday the 26th of January Candi packed up our belongings at the hospital and headed for home. We decided to leave three weeks earlier than what the doctors had recommended. However, we are working with a company called Rehab Without Walls and they essentially do the same thing the hospital would without having to stay in the hospital. This adds to our load, but the trade off is peace and quiet and more time with the girls and Candi. Candi has taken on a new role of Nurse Ratchett. :) It's good to be home.

I am so thankful for each of you that have responded to this website. You have no idea how huge a part of the healing process you have been. I have cried more tears of joy than you will ever know. Many of you have sent overwhelming wishes for recovery and I have never read so many inspirational messages. Each of you have touched my heart.

On Friday prior to leaving the hospital I stood on leg braces for the first time since my accident. I took my first step with assistance and my Physical Therapist (Darrell) smiled the biggest smile I have ever seen. I sat back down in my wheelchair, cried and praised God. Just six short weeks earlier I laid in bed and didn't know if I would ever breathe on my own or feel anything below my neck. I believe in miracles and my doctor does as well. The last consultation I had with her she told me that the odds of my progression were one in a million. I've had other experts say that there is no neurological explanation for what is happening. I'm certain that your prayers explain it all.

I met many great people while in the hospital that I will never forget. So many people inspired me through their daily perseverance. Please pray for Linda, Isaac, John, Kees, Curtis, Gilbert, Maria, Ben, Darren, Marcello, Darnell, Leroy and Zack that God will continue to work in their lives and bodies.

To say merely thanks would be way too small. I hope each of you can celebrate in the miracle that your thoughts and prayers helped to create. Every day when another part of my body flinches or moves, you're right there with me.

My family and I are forever grateful. God willing these legs will walk again and every time I take a step, it will remind me of each of you and your kind words. I have a long way to go before even thinking about walking on my own, but I'm confidant that God will not give me anything that I or my family cannot handle.

In His Grip,

Dan