A Smile on the Horizon
September 28, 2006
It’s been 2-½ years since Amanda’s accident. Looking back, and remembering Amanda as the active, ambitious, and fun-loving daughter that she was, is a bittersweet pastime, but assuredly more pleasant these days than the uncertainty of looking ahead to the commitment of her long-term care. Just two-and-a-half years ago Amanda was enjoying a new soccer season, excited about being on the speed skating team, and hanging out with her friends in the fifth grade at Calvary Baptist Day School. Four summers ago, she was getting 
autographs from every Disney character she could find and loving the fast rides at Disney World. Five summers ago, she was enjoying riding the rails to various northern Italian places like Vernoa, Venezia and Lago Di Garda. Ciao ragazza bella!
Amanda loved life, people, and activity, and I’m glad that her first 11 years were full of adventure. She radiated joy, exuberance, and compassion. I hope that she, too, is able to reflect back on some of these many pleasant memories.
The past few months have been rather grueling, to say the least. Amanda’s spinal surgery in July went very well. Shortly afterwards, she developed gastrointestinal problems and other complications that landed her back in the hospital several times and then a whole slew of doctor appointments followed—wearing us all to the brink of exhaustion.
On September 18th, Amanda celebrated her fourteenth birthday. She shared her birthday party with her older brother Zach, who turned 15 the day before her birthday. Zach is now a freshman at Mount Tabor and is doing well in school. He is very supportive of all that we have going on.
And a new chapter in Amanda’s story is beginning! Next week, Amanda will be moved to Horizons (a residential care center), a wonderful facility in Rural Hall, about 15 minutes away from Winston-Salem that cares for children with severe disabilities. This was a very difficult decision to make; however, we all feel that this is the best place for Amanda at this time. She will benefit from around-the-clock nursing staff. Along with a beautiful setting, Horizons has both inside and outside facilities for physical activities including a gymnasium and a specialized playground. Amanda will be able to attend school
on site at Horizons where they will focus on her special needs. She will have a roommate and other children with similar needs to interact with daily. We will be able to visit Amanda at any time and can bring her home for the day, or overnight stays, whenever we like.
Please pray for Amanda, to give her comfort, during this time of change. This will be an adjustment for the entire family. As Amanda gets settled in, we will share more information regarding how friends can visit and provide support. I feel confident that the folks at Horizon’s will fall in love with Amanda. Her warm spirit and wonderful smile captivates everyone she meets!
Amanda!!
Im so happy to hear an update!!! I remember 5th grade with you and all of our happy times since we first met in kindergarden. I am sure that bringing you to horizon was a hard dicision for your family to make! I know they love you very much ( as do I)
I feel horrible that i have not seen you in a while! Im sure that you will absolutly love Horizon it sounds like a wonderful place for you and hopefully will help! I miss you alot! And cant wait to see you! When You get moved and settled maybe I can come see you! Hopefully!
I continue to pray for you every day! And remind others to pray for you as well! Your an inspiration to others being as strong as you are through all of this!
Ill talk to you later!
Morgan
Posted by: Morgan | September 28, 2006 at 05:47 PM
Amanda,
Sweet girl, I am excited about this new chapter in your life! How much fun will it be to meet new friends and have people around you who focus on you 24/7?!
You are in my thoughts always. I cannot imagine how much you and your family have had to overcome and endure these last 2 1/2 years. So many people are thinking of, praying for and loving you all. I hope that you can feel all of the love people are sending your way, myself included.
I would love to come visit you at New Horizons and read to you.
I love you very much and I'm so proud of the strong and determined young woman you are becoming.
Much love,
Krista
Posted by: Krista | October 05, 2006 at 10:08 AM
Amanda, We are excited to hear about your new adventure. Your mom, dad, brother and Cynthia will have so much more energy to do fun stuff with you. We hear that you have grown out of your stroller. We are sending some money to help purchase a new stroller. HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Maybe you will get the new stroller in time to do some beautiful fall walks before it gets too cold. Your family said that there is an awesome park near you. We will be over to visit in a few weeks. Love, Aunt Lisa, Uncle Dan and cousins Katie and Audrey from Asheville.
Posted by: Lisa Kayser | October 05, 2006 at 01:31 PM
Amanda, Horizon sounds like a wonderful place. I bet you will love making new friends and having school so close by. I especially hope you enjoy all the beautiful views and the cool playground. We will pray for you and your family at Sunday School tomorrow. Love, Suzanne
Posted by: Suzanne Passero | October 07, 2006 at 11:26 PM