Dear Cassie,

It saddens me to read of someone as young as yourself having to struggle against so much pain and so many limitations.

A car accident broke my body and my brain - but not (I hope) my spirit. Like you, I worry about the future: How will I pay my medical bills?; Will my marriage hold together?; Will I lose what little is left of my independence and become a burden to others?; How will I make it through this day of pain and all the other days of pain to follow?

I will not lie to you - there are moments when I feel absolute, black despair. Then I try to remember that people love me and to take pleasure in watching them flourish. For example, I'm sure your granddaughter is a real cutie and that the flower you planted together will be beautiful.

I also remind myself that medical knowledge advances quickly. Things that were science fiction only ten years ago are routine procedures today. When science is able to help me, I want to be here and ready for that.

I also hope that this forum will remind you that you are not alone. There are people here who know exactly what you're talking about: benefit from their experience, refresh yourself in their empathy.

Hang On