[tonimichelle]

I went to rehab at Elkhorn Valley Rehabilitation Hospital here in Casper Wyoming. They have been in business a little over a year and have been packed since. The majority of their patients are stroke victims, amputees, and various other traumas. They also handle spinal cord injuries....and I was one of the first to stay with them. I also am one of the lucky ones bcuz I walked out their doors 2 months later. That was over 8 months ago.

I have been honored recently by being invited to become somewhat of a sci advocate. Elkhorn has asked me to speak with anyone with a sci and help to answer any questions that I can. I am extremely excited/scared of this. Today I started my new life.

You see, I have a love of people. Set someone in front of me and I can strike up a conversation that will last for hours. I was a waitress before all of this with a college degree in social work. I went to college, graduated and loved the people I waited on so much I stayed on.

Now I can combine my love of chit-chatting, helping people, and the experiences Ive went thru!

So I met Jack today. I only talked to him for a few minutes...he had company from California visiting. I think he's around 18. He broke his back, T8, practicing motocross a few weeks ago. I introduced myself and told him a little bit about my accident. When the realization hit him that I had been paralyzed from the shoulders down yet was standing next to his bed I saw his eyes light up. I quickly told him that not everyone walks after rehab but that his best bet was to work hard and never give up. He had a lot of questions about sensation and seemed to appreciate that I can relate to the numbness. I left him with the promise I would be back next week to see him.

**Funny part.... Jack's pt told me he is a hand full. His parents say he is stubborn and spoiled.........
I saw all this first hand! As I was leaving I saw Jack being put in the front seat of a Pathfinder and his chair being shoved in the back by his California buddy! Seems he didn't want to wait for his scheduled outing and made one for himself!

Thanks for letting me ramble!
Any tips or suggestions are welcome!....toni