On a Roll in 2011
Many people have heard of the great things God has done for and through Damian Jr. in 2010. From standing in January, to walking in a walker for the first time a few months later, and ending the year by actually riding a bike. He is ON A ROLL, and there have been many small miracles that are continuing to blow us, his parents and caregivers, away. Things like becoming very proficient at his touch pad talker computer, and actually becoming more vocal and saying words that he previously couldn’t.
Damian Jr.’s life is a constant wonder to all who are in it. We, his parents, are convinced that this is what God has always had in mind for his life. With all of these progressions, we are trying to make sure that he continues to step far beyond the expectations set for him. I am constantly reminded of the Neurologist's words in the first dark days, “All we can do is hope and pray that Damian Jr. proves us wrong.” One of the challenges with global brain injuries is the ebb and flow of progress. You easily can see a rocketing forward of advancement and then a regression. We are not anticipating a regression, but we are focused on making the most of the gains while Damian Jr. is making them. It seems like wisdom to make the most of every opportunity, as you never know what is going to happen in the future.
We have had 2 wonderful developments. One is Damian Jr.’s ability to ride a bike. This is amazing as it gives Damian Jr. the strength and muscle coordination to walk free from assistance. The challenge is that we had to return the demo bike as it was borrowed. The bike company was gracious to allow us to use the bike (which is slightly to small for him), but need $4,000 dollars to get Damian Jr. his own. So he is currently “bikeless” as we have had to return it.
Another huge development is that a family member has donated a Jeep Grand Cherokee to us, which is AWESOME. You can only appreciate that development if you have seen us try to squeeze all of his equipment in our full size car. It’s like a game of ultimate Tetris, and in the cold or rain it’s plain difficult. The car has become beat up, and the reality is that some of Damian Jr.’s necessary items are left behind. The struggle with the Jeep Grand Cherokee is that it needs a new engine. We were able to get our mechanic to donate the labor, but to purchase an engine there is still a shortfall of approximately $2,000.
So there is a lot more work to do to assist in Damian Jr.’s development. We are filled with faith as we see a future where Damian Jr. is more mobile and the family can continue to provide the care this special little boy needs. These two expenses were not a part of the initial fundraising campaign as these two opportunities have recently presented themselves. So, we are excited about what the future holds for Damian Jr.’s development, and our family’s ability to support him.
Written by Damian Sr.
**WAYS TO HELP**
If you are able to pray, PLEASE do so and for other children with complex medical needs.
If you would like to help by sharing contact info or resource, please feel free to contact us via facebook or email (zboyd1@hotmail.com).
If you would like to make a charitable donation, below are the details for online donations through Helping Hands Ministries. A medical project fund has been established for Damian. All those who give to his fund will receive a charitable donations receipt from Helping Hands.
• 1. Go to www.hhmin.org
• 2. Click on “Make a Donation”
• 3. Click on "Donate to Helping Hands Ministries Approved Projects"
• 4. View "Project Category" and Click on "Medical Project" in the drop down menu
• 4. View Project list and Click on "Boyd Family" in the drop down menu
• 5. Complete Information
Thanks for your support!
