March 12, 2007
Today marks three years since that fateful day when Amanda fell off the roof and our lives took on a new meaning. There are daily temptations to succumb to discouragement, disappointment and depression, the forerunners of bitterness, as we remember the vibrant, intelligent, fun loving and artsy young lady Amanda was before her accident. I used to think that losing a child would be the most difficult circumstance a parent could ever endure, but having a child survive a traumatic brain injury, suspended indefinitely somewhere between life and death, is a deeper, much longer valley.
It has been over five months since Amanda moved to Horizons and she is doing very well. The staff at Horizons does a wonderful job tending to her daily needs and they do it with warmth and friendliness. It is apparent that the staff dotes on her and that Amanda enjoys them as well.
Amanda’s bedroom at Horizons is bright and cheery—done up in bright colors, with cards and pictures adorning her wall. The eighth-grade girls’ Sunday school class at Calvary Baptist Church has been decorating the door to her room, in step with the seasons. The Sunday school class also spent an evening during the Christmas holiday season singing carols for Amanda and all the children at Horizons. They did a splendid job and it was a magical night.
We are finally settling into the new groove and establishing routines. Typically, Amanda comes home to her dad’s house for overnight visits, two to three times a month. Mom goes out to Horizons and spends time with Amanda there, several times a week. Plus, Amanda and Mom have been going to Sunday school on a regular basis and they both enjoy the experience. See a special note to Amanda from mom: Letter to Amanda
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month.
The Brain Injury Association of NC (BIANC) has scheduled a “Walk and Roll-athon” on Saturday morning, March 31st at Kernersville’s Triad Park. Their mission is to create a better future for children, adolescents, and adults who survive brain injury by providing prevention, education, research, and advocacy. We are planning to push Amanda in her wheelchair and would love to have a group to join in and lend support. If interested, go to www.bianc.net and click on the TRIAD-AREA link and it will take you through the registration process.
"One hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, how big my house was, or what kind of car I drove. But the world may be a little better, because I was important in the life of a child."
-Dr. Forest E. Witcraft (1894 - 1967), was a scholar and a teacher
Amanda, i saw your mom today, and she asked me to check out your updates. it is so wonderful to see the glory of God come from you and your life. what an inspiration you have been to so many, including your mom. while i know that we don't always understand His ways, He truly is in control and really does know what's best for us all. i wish you peace and happiness in your new home at horizons, and i continue to keep you and your family in prayer.
lorraine
Posted by: lorraine | March 13, 2007 at 11:51 AM
Amanda, I am so glad that you are doing well. I'm so proud of you. You are one of the strongest persons I know and I truly look up to you for it. You're in my thoughts and prayers, always.
Posted by: Marcie Dickmann | March 23, 2007 at 07:49 PM
Hey Amanda!I am so happy that you are doing so great at horizons. I am sure their are alot of helpful nice people thier. You continue to amaze me with how strong you are. You are truly a blessing. I miss you so much! God is watching over you Amanda and I am praying for you as I know many others do. Thats great what the Sunday school class did! I hope you and your family have a wonderful easter! I miss you and love you and I will continue to pray for you!
Morgan
Posted by: Morgan Thomas | April 01, 2007 at 06:52 PM
http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/health_medical/article2396539.ece
Posted by: lorrie | April 10, 2007 at 10:58 PM
Amanda & Linda,
What an amazing update! I'm so happy to hear your news, Linda. You are right, God does have big plans for you & Amanda. I'm so happy you're finding peace and joy again. You deserve it and the Lord certainly wants you to walk in His presence always. You're a very special lady.
Amanda, your influence is far-reaching. Not only have inspired your family and friends, but those who don't know you at all. Thoughts of you remind me that each day is a gift that must be savored and cherished, that the people in our lives need to know how important they are to us, and that God's will is sovereign. Through it all, both the good and bad times, He is working out all the details and we can rest in the knowledge that nothing happens to us without passing through His hands. His love for you is infinite, Amanda. I stand in agreement with your mother that your day of healing will come!
You are always in my thoughts and prayers, precious girl.
Love
Krista
Posted by: Krista Holgate | May 11, 2007 at 02:48 PM
Hey amanda just thought I would stop in and see what was up. I miss you so much. This week is our last week of school. I am starting Reagan next year, I am really nervous. I hope you are doing well and enjoying horizons, I am sure you are. I love you girly, and Im praying for ya!
Posted by: Morgan Thomas | May 20, 2007 at 07:44 PM