Greetings,
I hope everyone is having a great summer! Mine is going quite well, in fact, the last 2-3 weeks have been the best since my accident. Things are starting to come together, and I feel like I have turned a corner in my recovery. It’s not one particular thing, but a culmination of things that I can look forward to.
I finally met with 2 people who are active in an organization called TAASC (The Adaptive Adventure Sports Coalition). My social worker Nancy has encouraged me to call them for a while because she knows that I love being physically active. I went to a volunteer kayak training session a few weeks ago, and got to try my luck at kayaking. I knew it could be a challenge because my balance and stability have been adversely affected by my injury. It took me about 5 minutes to get situated in the kayak and about 2 seconds to flip over into the water! Several volunteers jumped into the water to save me even though I had a life jacket on and am a good swimmer. Anyway, they ended up attaching the kayak-equivalent of training wheels onto the kayak, and I was the only participant who had to use these. It was definitely a humbling experience for someone who considers himself ultra athletic. My ego was a bit bruised as I waited for Steph to pick me up.
The best thing that I did was sign up for the next session of kayaking, not as a volunteer, but as a participant. I knew I needed to “climb back on the horse” and figure out how to master this damn kayak. These last 3 sessions I have paddled at least an hour or more on the Scioto River without getting wet! I guess the lesson that I needed to learn was that things might not come as easily as they once did, but with motivation, desire, and perseverance, I can still accomplish anything I put my mind to…or at least try.
There were 20 participants and 30 volunteers making sure we all had a fun, safe evening. About 15 of us went out together afterwards because this was the last night of this particular session. All of these folks are really solid people, and I am overjoyed to be a part of TAASC. I’ve also tried out a few of their recumbant hand-crank cycles, and I’m ready to buy one for myself. I’m already signed up for the next session of kayaking, and I may even try to waterski!
The handicap-accessible van was finally available and ready for the road about 3 weeks ago and it is awesome to come and go as I please. A special thanks to Scott Leaver and his crew for detailing the van. It looks spectacular! Tim, the boyfriend of my niece Casey, who also doubles as the foreman of my paint crew, installed a nice stereo in the van for me. So the magic bus is on the road looking and sounding great. So if the van is a rockin’…ah…forget it!
Our band, All Folked Up, had a little warm-up gig at the Peddlar Lounge, where we will be playing on July 5th around 8pm. We threw our instruments in the back of the van, piled in and drove to Grove City. It’s almost as if we’re back in high school practicing in our folks’ garage and playing gigs on the weekend. Most of the songs that we do are from that era, so it’s fitting. But we’re all looking forward to playing July 5th. And the golf outing is coming together nicely (see below for more details). It’s looking like it will be a great day. Huge thanks to Heidi and Matt for all of their work!
So as you can see, I’ve got plenty of things to look forward to. That’s why my outlook has improved so much. I’ve read that it takes 2-3 years to adjust and acclimate to life after an injury like mine. I know I still have far to go, but maybe I’m a little ahead of the curve as far as driving and being active are concerned. But that’s the only way I know how to live.
I was reading all of the old updates and corresponding blogs on Philsfight.com last night, and was choked up as I read all of the positive messages filled with love and support from all of you. You all have so much to do with my recovery because I would never have made it this far without you. I know that God has blessed me many times over as I continue on this journey. Like cousin Lynne wrote, I had to have you believe in me even when I wasn’t able to. This experience has made me stronger and tougher than I ever thought I could be.
I can’t believe the 4th of July is next week! Where does the time go? It only seems like 10 years since the last 4th. My grandma had a traditional party on the 4th after the Arlington parade. When she moved out of her house, the party was moved down the street to my place. We don’t have the wiffle ball death match anymore, but it’s cool to hang with family and friends. If you don’t have plans between 11am and 3pm on the 4th, please feel free to stop by 1417 Westminster Drive in UA. I would love to see all of my blog buddies. If I don’t see you next weekend, have a happy and healthy 4th.
Peace to all,
Love, Phil
P.S. My lawn and flowers look amazing. Special props to Kevin and Cathy Walsh for all their hard work planting bushes and flowers. Also thanks to Mom, brother Dave, and nephew Mark for their help planting, edging, and mulching. It looks awesome!
Phil-
You are a brave dude and I’m proud of you! You have taken giant steps lately and continue to show strength and courage each and every day.
It’s awesome you are back at it… ACTIVELY enjoying the outdoors…that has always been such a big part of who you are and it’s so good to know you’re ready and willing to take on these new challenges.
I can’t wait to spend some time with you in Columbus next week, Philly. Take it easy, one day at a time!
Love you, Phil!
Susan
By: Susan Barricklow on June 28, 2008
at 12:15 am
Phil,
What an inspiring message! Glad to hear you are mastering the kayak and looking to take on new challenges.
I used to have a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson hanging in my classroom that said, “Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.”
Sounds like you are growing!
Good for you!
Karen
By: Karen Randall Scott on June 29, 2008
at 3:57 pm
Phil – Great update from you – so good to hear the progress you have made. I know to you it may not be as good as you would like because obviously you are an active, perhaps impatient to be on the go person. Patience is so difficult to master – I am learning that myself right now with my husband’s illness – but it will prevail and be so productive as you go. And I do believe you will go faster as time goes on. You have come such a long way and God has surely held you in His arms during all of those difficult times. Sounds like life will definitely be looking up from here on – you have the greatest support group around. God bless you and keep up the good work.
Kathy Puccetti – friend of your Mom and Aunts from St Joseph Academy
By: Kathy Puccetti on June 29, 2008
at 4:37 pm
Hey Phil,
It was just a matter of time before you figured out how to be active again- congrats! I was just reading an article here in the Denver Post about a guy who is training for the Olympics on as a member of the hand cycling team; right up your alley.
We’re road-tripping your way next month and will try to stop by…
Robin and gang in CO
By: Robin Cameron on June 30, 2008
at 11:41 pm
Wow! I’m covered with chills to see how good you feel & how positive you are thinking!!
Looking forward to seeing you jam on the 5th of July!!
I’m speechless…can ya believe it??? No words of wisdom…but I can say this…when you put your troubles into His hands…you’ll never lose!
Peace to you dear Phil!
Kate
By: Kate (Oakley) Leaver on July 1, 2008
at 2:31 pm
…and wanders!! LOL (laughing at that one).
Reading before sending is a great things, isn’t it?
By: Ilona on July 3, 2008
at 10:44 am
Hmmmm, looks like my previous message got in the traffic and even “(Lost)In Translation” (good movie by the way).
But here it is:
Good for you! I am feeling almost jealous reading about all these things you are doing man.
Sounds like fun! (most of the time).
I had to laugh about you getting wet (: It reminded me of a childhood kayaking trip down the river we did with my dad and sister in 1wk, setting up the tent every night and conquering next part of the river each day… and I also remembered how freaked out we were when we flipped over, definitely getting wet, looking pretty confused and losing some of our stuff… It certainly was fun though!!
Can’t speak to playing instruments though. But I love music and it sure can do wonders!
So keep it up and enjoy the 4th of July.
Those are always fun with your wonderful family and friends.
Great to hear the yard is ready for it (:
Enjoy and take care.
I.
By: Ilona on July 3, 2008
at 10:49 am
Hey Phil,
Long time getting back to you this way. Please accept my sincerest apologies.
I have to tell you,Susie encouraged me to read your latest message this morning when we spoke on the phone. I can’t begin to tell you how much you are an inspiration to us all Phil! It’s evident that you have yet climbed another mountain successfully and your journey over the past year has brought you to a new place. Your courage is second to none in my book.
I so enjoyed your kayak story and again admired your courage to give it yet another try. Remind me to share my one and only skiing story with you sometime! I’m sure the 10 people I took down the slope with me still remember that one too! I’m just glad they had no idea who I was.
I wish Mike and I could make it to your July 4th gig. I know everyone is really looking forward to being there and I have no doubt that it will be anything but a blast. We would love to expereince the sounds of All Folked Up.
You enjoy your time with everyone this weekend dude. Life is good!
We love ya,
Beth and Mike
By: Beth James on July 3, 2008
at 12:29 pm
Hey Phil,
We returned home this morning from our weekend in Columbus. During the drive home we all shared “our favorite part of the weekend.” Mom, Jack and I all agree it was hearing you sing at the Peddler. What a gift to all of us to see you up there on stage with the guys. It was great! As Jack mentioned that night, you have firmly re-established your Rock Star status!
My second favorite part of the weekend was hearing you ad lib your “Shallow Phil” song at your house on the 4th. It was hysterical even though it was about some sad realities. I’m so glad you can express yourself with your music.
I was so happy to be part of your Independence Day celebration. I think it was quite a significant day and I’m glad we could celebrate your newly found independence with the rockin’ van.
It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly a year since the accident and I still can’t imagine how much you have faced in that time. One thing that is crystal clear in my mind is that you are loved by alot of people – alot of really good people. It was great to meet so many of them this past weekend.
I hope you keep making plans, whether outdoor activities or gigs at the Peddler, so you always have sometime to look forward to. I know there may still be the occasional bad day ahead but it helps to know what you can do and how good you can feel.
Thanks for a great weekend!
You are amazing.
Love,
Lynne
By: Lynne Assardo on July 7, 2008
at 6:58 pm
What fun we had at your event Phil!!! Let me first start by saying that Mary kept asking, “why wasn’t Phil in choir at UAHS?” Why weren’t you?
Secondly, totally loved meeting all your family. Mom, Dad, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, siblings what an amazing group of loving people!
I think that if I was ever orphaned…I’d come to the Henry’s family function & feel just as loved as a blood relation!
You’re a lucky person Phil. There are so many families that don’t love the way your family does. They are so many lonely people out there that have no idea of what support from family means. They are so many people that have cousins that they have only met twice in their life, but you…okay can we talk? You are one loved, blessed person, yes indeedy!!
I was great to see you just singing away, lost in the tunes, entertaining us all, what a gift you have and I can truly say that is only “one” of you gifts. You have many to share, many to discover and many people to touch…keep doing what you are doing. Like I said before, He has a plan for you dear Phil. It may not be your vision, but it is HIS vision & I’m begining to see you grow.
I’ll leave you all, all you Henry family & all you Henry fans with these words to ponder…
Every man’s life is a fairy tale written by God’s fingers. – Hans Christian Andersen
Peace to you all…
Kate xo
By: Kate (Oakley) Leaver on July 9, 2008
at 10:44 am
Hey Phil,
) Sorry we didn’t hear about the band’s gig last weekend but we will definately be there the next one!
So good to read your latest update! I just want to see pics of you in the kayak, please!
Molly & Tom
By: Molly Onstott (Mortley) on July 11, 2008
at 12:44 am
HI PHIL!
First of all, I whole heartedly apologize for not writing to you lately. I do check your website several times a week, but am not sure what to write to you.
After reading your last greeting, I smiled from ear to ear. You sound so good, and I am thrilled that you are finding activities that bring you joy and laughter(the kayak?)
Sure wished my parents, my sisters and I could have made the trip to Ohio for the Golf Outing. We were disappointed that we were missing your band’s performance and all. Sure sounds like it was a success and great fun! We were thinking about you!!
Keep up the positive attitude and spirit!!
Take Care!
With love,
Tricia
By: tricia kegermann on July 11, 2008
at 9:44 am
Our dearest Phil –
Today being July 12th, your Dad and I can’t help but look back to that day, a year ago, when we received the fateful phone call, informing us of your accident. The anxious hours that followed–hoping and praying for the best, then receiving the news that your life would be forever changed. So much pain, both physical and mental, took over your injured body and mind. So many plans for the future you envisioned for yourself were dashed.
It seems like yesterday, yet, it seems like a century ago. So much as transpired since that day. Remember when I told you of my, always, asking God “When are you going to drop the shoe on our family–so blessed with good fortune, good health and happiness?” You answered, “Well, I guess I took the hit for the family. But, better me than one of the grandkids.” Your very selfless answer took me aback. I saw an inner strength in you I did not know existed–a strength that has carried you, and us, to this point.
Though you have always presented an upbeat face to us and to others, we can only imagine the private thoughts and fears that have tortured you over the past year. You have so bravely carried them alone. But, much of that pain and anguish have given way to hope and trust that a bright and fulfilling future lay ahead for you. The struggles you’ve endured, and the question “why” has given way to “why not”.
If we have learned nothing more, we know that the kindness and love of many, many people have been your salvation through all of this. In the face of darkness, a light always shines, and that light has been the outpouring of love of family, friends, and even people we had yet to meet. Could you have ever imagined that so many people would rally to see you through these harrowing months? You are one very blessed person to experience such, compassion, love and caring. We know you will always hold them dear in your heart, as will we.
The road map of the remainder of your life is still uncharted. But, each day we see you reaching out for new experiences, becoming mentally and physically stronger, and creating new opportunities for yourself. It gives us such joy and hope to witness it. There are so many neat things in store for you. You are definitely in God’s plan!
As you regain your independence, we draw back so as not to thwart that independence. But, know, dear Son, that we are here to help you reach any goals you set for yourself, and to assist if you reach a dead-end in the road. We’re just an eight-minute drive and a phone call away.
We’re so very proud of you, and love you so much.
Mom and Dad
By: Mom and Dad on July 12, 2008
at 9:37 am
Phil,
We have been thinking about you a lot lately. So hard to believe it has been a year. You have been in our prayers every day and we just pray a simple prayer that you get the strength you need each day to do what you want and need to do.
The love of your family and friends is so overwhelming. I can’t imagine what you all have been thru. To read your parent’s note above is just so beautiful and at the same time it is clear how hard it is for a parent to see a child suffer.
No one knows what you have felt and gone thru. At times, maybe you get tired of hearing how much of an example you are to people. Hell, you never asked to be an example!
I just want to say that whatever is down the road I know you will tackle it.
Words just seem so inadaquate at this “anniversary” time. Just know you are always in our thought.
By: Bill and Kathleen Williams on July 13, 2008
at 9:51 pm
Hi again, Phil! This is Marilyn, Wayne and Heidi’s sister (the refined one. lol) Even though I haven’t met you yet, you cross my mind so many times and I recently asked Wayne about you. He said you boys had a nice visit. I was so glad to hear that.
Phil, I just read the comments posted above from your parents and I can’t tell you how much those words touched my heart. You are sooo blessed! And here I thought I had the best folks around.
You take care of your handsome self and remember Wayne is only a phone call away. He loves to be asked to do things for people. I know – I just moved and he did most of the work. lol
You keep the faith, young man – you are an inspiration to many!!
Consider yourself hugged, Marilyn
By: Marilyn on July 24, 2008
at 1:05 am
Mr. Phil~
How are you dear man? I’m hoping you are enjoying the beautiful summer!
Your Mother’s words were so touching, what a great family you have! You are blessed indeed.
I heard on the radio this morning on my way into work a lady talking about how God sometimes hands us “difficult” situations in our life, & He has a purpose for this “difficult” situation. Perhaps it is to help another person, or to grow as a Christian, but either way we must trust Him to guide us down His path.
I’m feeling like God is moving you on down that ‘yellow brick road’ towards the rainbow and as you keep on truckin’ and taking it one day at a time….you’ll come to realize His plan and that you are OUR pot of gold, OUR hero, OUR inspiration, and to many other people that will cross your path in your life time, you will also be their inspiration!
Have a very, very peaceful day Phil!
Kate
By: Kate (Oakley) Leaver on July 24, 2008
at 10:33 am
Hey, hey Phil,
It was great to see you and the family over the 4th. Thanks for the hospitality. I appreciated the opportunity to see y’all again. Friggin amazing how fast all of your nieces and nephews have grown.
It was also awesome to see how well you can get around. Seemed like you were all over the place….in and out, out and in. Glad you’re mobile, its fitting.
Say howdy to the family, see you next time. Maybe we can go kayaking together sometime. Later bud.
Todd
By: Todd Reinwald on July 29, 2008
at 4:09 pm
Hey there Phil!!
Hope you are well…you know I was thinking, we all need a Phil update, a Phil blog…it’s been since 6-27, and we need to know what is happening in your world! I’m sure many will agree with me. We all log on, check out to see if you have commented & if others have…but we REALLY need to hear from you. Okey-dokey?
Peace to you!
Kate
By: Kate (Oakley) Leaver on August 4, 2008
at 3:51 pm
Dear Phil,
I know I haven’t written in a long time, but as I told your sister, Susan, I think of you and your family just about every day–how could I not? As the anniversary approached I became an ostrich with my head buried in the sand. I just didn’t want to think about bad things. What a coward I was! But you couldn’t be a coward. How could you not think about bad, hard things. Of course, I always made sure to hear news of you through Rob and Maurisa, so I knew about your driving and other activities and each time I heard something good, I felt happy. What am I doing, talking as if this is about me…? It is about you and yours and I have finally read everything here from the time I left off, the sad and the good. I am glad I did, not just because you are doing soooo well but because I was glad to hear the voices again of your family members and friends. They are all so open and loving and wonderful and put me to shame for my cowardly absence.
I am so very glad for all your progress–my prayers for you and your family have never stopped. Bravo! Kay
By: kay huebner on August 13, 2008
at 10:37 am
Hi, Phil.
Just checking in to say how much we enjoyed seeing you last weekend. We had so regretted that we weren’t able to coordinate better to get in for the July golf tournament, and we really wanted to visit with you while we had the vacation time this summer. I’m glad we were able to squeeze in a weekend and that we got to see you so much: at the Peddlar, at your mom and dad’s on Saturday night, and most of all, on Friday afternoon at your house. It was great to see you maneuver around so well, to check out the wheels, to see the petting zoo, and to sit in the backyard for a few hours and just laugh and laugh at your stories, particularly of Nancy’s driving. We marvel at your good spirits and, of course, your musical and athletic endeavors. You are amazing, Phil!….and you go ahead and “integrate” as long as you need. You have earned an A+ in our book over this last year, and now here’s to an even better year ahead!
Love,
Jill
P.S. We hit a detour and major traffic around Merriville, Indiana on our way home, and Tricia turned to me and said, “Looks like you’re not going to break your record.” I know you can relate to my frustration, Speed Racer.
By: Jill Braverman on August 13, 2008
at 11:44 pm
Speed racing cousins unite! There is strength in numbers. Just remember, we’re on our way to becoming our mothers…in one way or another. What will the next generation say about our driving?
By: Lynne Assardo on August 14, 2008
at 10:12 am
Phil – it has been over a month since I was able to meet you at last at the 4th of July party. To finally put a real face to the amazing story I have been watching evolve was fantastic. Of course reuniting with your Mom and Aunts was a gift in itself. You do have a beautiful family. Our Summer has been a blur – as you know we are fighting for my husband’s life and survival of a deadly tumor. I can certainly relate a bit to what you have been through over the months. But God works in mysterious ways, and He has surely brought you through to an awesome discovery. Just enjoy each day and smell the roses. I recently rec’d a little card that says “When we have done everything we can, God does everything we can’t”. You can be sure it is hanging in a prominent place as a daily reminder of God’s wondrous ways.
Thank you so much for allowing me to be a small part in your celebration last month, and to follow your progress as the last year has developed. You are still a great inspiration and still remain in my daily prayers. God bless and keep you.
Kathy – friend of your Mom from St. Joe’s
By: Kathy Puccetti on August 18, 2008
at 4:44 pm