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!