January 26, 2006

Dear Loved Ones,

(Ryan) My cousin, Mercy, brought chicken enchiladas last night and also the nicest card. I would like to share the scripture Mercy shared with me from Luke 12:4-7. In one of the verses Jesus says, “Indeed the very hairs of your head are numbered.” Mercy goes on the write, ‘That is how well he knows you. He knows your situation and He cares.’

(Bridgette) Ryan started running a fever and having the chills again while he was writing today’s blog. They say the first few months of a spinal cord injury is like riding a wild roller coaster. I’m a believer.

Ryan has continued to go to his therapy classes and is working hard to learn to adapt to his new world. We are very proud of him for his determination to make the best of his situation. We are grateful he has been taught by great teachers; at school, at church, in scouting and at work. Thank you for the impact you have had in our son’s life. We are also thankful that Ryan has always taken the opportunity to grow in the Gospel and to have a personal relationship with his Heavenly Father. We feel blessed to have him in our family.

Tomorrow, Ryan has a surprise visitor coming. Tyler will be flying to Denver from Charlottesville, Virginia, to spend the weekend with Ryan. I can’t wait to see Ryan’s face when Tyler comes into the gym while Ryan it doing physical therapy. Barry and I are so appreciative of the love Ryan’s brother and sisters show to him on a daily basis. Whitney, Justin, Callum and Isabelle are a constant source of laughter, strength and love to Ryan and to Barry, Kate and I. We miss having Hayley and Ryan (Hatch) close by and always enjoy hearing from them.

Thank you for the words of encouragement you have sent to Ryan through your emails, phone calls, visits and cards. We know that Heavenly Father is taking care of Ryan and our family through your acts of kindness. Thank you.

With our love,

Bridgette, Barry, Ryan and family