June 3, 2015 -- 13 years after

June 3, 2002 was when our lives dramatically changed. Our precious son was on life support, and no one gave us hope for him.  I trolled the internet for some reassurance that would give us hope. I found no happy-ever-after stories for devastating brain injuries. There was one writer who helped me put it in some perspective. This woman had a special needs child and she wrote about coping with her disappointment that her life had changed. She said that it was like having spent time planning a move to Italy, and anticipating the joys of that move. However, the plane landed in Iceland and everything was different than she had planned; she had to live in Iceland. That analogy has stayed with me, and it has helped us to put one foot in front of the other and do what needs to be done.

Our lives are now focused on doing what needs to be done for Ross and our family. It has not been easy; there is never enough time to do everything. Our son is happy, he continues to regain motor and cognitive skills. We sometimes think of what could have been, but most of the time we delight in his progress, in his humor and his loving kindness. Ross’s comprehension and communication are increasing. For example, this morning he wanted to lie flat in bed and roll to the right on his side. All of his instructions to me were verbal. At one point, he asked me, “What do you want from me?” I said that I wanted for him to feel better (his allergies are bothering him),and I wanted him to be happy. I also thanked him for working hard, and being enthusiastic about challenges. His response was a smile and a nod.

Thank you for your prayers, love, and support. We are truly blessed. We could not do it without you.

Betsy and Rusty Dillon