Long Week

This was a very long week for my family.  This is the first time someone has been severely injured in the family.  Obviously, it was made worse by the tragic circumstances.  We have all been looking forward to the wedding.  We knew it was going to be not only a beautiful ceremony but a tear jerker.  No way was my brother getting down the aisle without some tears giving up his baby girl!!  The shock that this happened during the happiest time of Kate's life made it seem so much worse.  All week I have heard how amazing Kate has been.  How hard she works.  Her great spirit and kindness.  None of it surprising.  That is who she is.  Today I was able to spend several hours with Kate and her family.  It was a humbling experience.  Kate is handling the most difficult time of her life with such strength and grace.  She has come so far in such a short time.

Kate is a teacher.  She is filled with so much compassion.  She is in a wheelchair.  She has a huge neck brace.  She is working hard to get strength and dexterity back in her arms and hands.  Right now she has no feeling from her chest down.  She asked me to brush her hair.  I was thrilled to be able to do something to help her.  It took over two hours.  We would be interrupted by so many things.  She has classes.  She has therapy.  There is so much going on. 

Kate is still planning her wedding for July 14th.  Not the big, fancy wedding in the resort.  Could just be in the rehabilitation center chapel with parents.  Nothing has been planned.  I hope they find a place big enough that immediate family can be included.  I do not want to miss the joy on Kate's face when she marries the love of her life.  I was so touched watching them together today.  No matter what else is going on, she is still our Kate.  I was glad to see that today.  I feel a sense of relief that with the huge support system she has, Kate will get the best care and have the most normal life possible. 
There is still a small chance that Kate will regain feeling in her legs.  I am praying for that miracle.  If it does not happen, I know everything will work out.  Just not the way we planned.