Happy Thanksgiving

More Than A Day

As Thanksgiving Day rolls around,
It brings up some facts, quite profound.
We may think that we're poor,
Feel like bums, insecure,
But in truth, our riches astound.

We have friends and family we love;
We have guidance from heaven above.
We have so much more
Than they sell in a store,
We're wealthy, when push comes to shove.

So add up your blessings, I say;
Make Thanksgiving last more than a day.
Enjoy what you've got;

Realize it's a lot,
And you'll make all your cares go away.

-By Karl Fuchs
 

Snow!

Between last night and this morning, we received a big snowstorm. Although some places got it worse than others, above is a video of my backyard. Despite the weather, my niece Avery was able to get outside and build a snowman. I can’t believe she’s already 6 years old!

Jenni

Abilitech Assist

There is always new technology evolving for people with disabilities. I recently came across a device called the Abilitech Assist. It is the first "powered orthotic device with shoulder assist that is designed to support users' functional activities of daily living. Powered by springs and motors, the hybrid system is custom calibrated to allow for independent movement to lift objects weighing up to 12 ounces. The body vest, with integrated lumbar sacral support, makes the device feel weightless and allows for extended use."

By assisting flexion of the shoulder and elbow, it has the capability to make it easier for people with upper-limb weakness or injury to improve their movement. For example, lift a utensil or pop can up to their mouth. Recently someone from their company came out to my house to show me the device, hoping that it would work on me. Although I don’t have enough muscle movement for me to be able to use it.

The woman who came out told me they are working on other devices that would allow someone with my level to improve motor function. Here is a picture of the Abilitech Assist:

Jenni

Speaking Again

The other day I spoke at Hopkins high school to a class called Peer Insights. I’m partial to speaking to them because I love the concept. It’s designed to integrate people with disabilities and their peers that gives insight to all types of situations. I was a junior in high school when I took the class (after my accident). We went on field trips, had guest speakers and did a lot of fun activities. This was the 3^rd time I spoke to this classroom; the last was in 2017.

During my speech, I shared my story and talked about the challenges I've been through and the obstacles I have overcome. I also spoke about how I continue to stay positive despite my situation and what I'm doing now. They had tons of questions and I showed them my vent and how I move my wheelchair. I only spoke for about ½ an hour, but it was enough time to get in everything I wanted to say.

It didn’t faze me that I hadn’t spoken in a couple years. I wasn’t nervous like I used to get when I first started speaking. I would like to get into doing it more often. I used to do a lot more speeches, especially when I was Ms. wheelchair Minnesota in 2011. Lately I haven’t really had the chance or the opportunity. Although now if asked, I would for sure accept the offer.

Jenni

Winter Weather

It’s that time of year again. We’ve had a few days already with just some snow flurries, but today was the first time that snow stuck to the ground. Although the temperature is supposed to rise again tomorrow so I’m sure it’s not going to stick around yet.

I have mentioned before, but it’s difficult to take Brody outside for a walk on days like this. I haven’t taken him out for a few days because of the temperatures. I do remember when I first got him that I could bear the weather a little better than nowadays. Now that I’ve been getting sick more often, I’ve been more cautious about going outside when it’s too cold.

I’m hoping that this year’s snow and cold doesn’t get too bad. Although I do live in Minnesota, so I expect it at some point. At least I’m able to get outside sometimes now as opposed to when the weather shifts below zero. Then I’ll have to resort to more indoor activities such as playing board games and watching movies.

Jenni

Life

I live by this saying. Every now and again we are reminded how fragile life is. Some people take for granted even just the littlest things. Unfortunately, at least for me you don’t really know how to NOT take life for granted until you have a close call.

Jenni

Celebrating Another Year

Today marks the 17^th year anniversary of my accident. Every year I take the time to reflect on that day. I’ve talked many times about the accident, shared how it happened, and how my life has changed since. The first post that I wrote introducing details about it was in 2009. One thing I talked about is who was behind us when the accident happened.  

I was going through some paperwork the other day and came across a letter addressed to my family from a woman. She was the first car behind us and after witnessing it called 911. Within it she stated in depth details on what she witnessed, how she assisted, along with info about herself. The woman also left her information and at some point, was contacted. I do remember her visiting me in the hospital to see how I was doing.

It brings me great comfort knowing the efforts done by others in helping after. I don’t think I would be where I am today if the sequence of things happened any different. Thank you to everyone for your support and comfort along the way.

Jenni