in the united states of america we celebrate thanksgiving day--a day to help us remember to be grateful for all we are blessed with. it's a time when we reflect on what we are truly thankful for. family, friends, food, shelter, jobs, health, and freedom are at the top of most people's lists: those things are definitely on mine. i have one other item that i can add to my list that most people can't; one that i am truly and deeply grateful for...my wheelchair.
i had never really thought about being grateful for my wheelchair until i read an article a few months ago about a policeman was shot and paralyzed in the line of duty. he talked about about how much he hated his wheelchair. he shared how he didn't even want to see it or be near it. he then spent 2-3 years in intense physical therapy trying to regain what he had lost so he would never have to sit in a wheelchair again. he had very little success in walking, even after all that he did in therapy to change his life.
i don't know if that man ever came to terms with his accident or being paralyzed or his wheelchair, but the article got me thinking about my own life. before my accident i never dreamed about being thankful for a wheelchair! how blessed i am to have not only one, but a back-up manual chair in case mine breaks and a power chair that is my "outside toy" which i use to chase my kids around the neighborhood. i usually get a new, updated version every 5-8 years. my wheelchair is lightweight, designed for my body, and is comfortable. my wheelchair enables me to be independent, to live my life how i want to (with just a few limitations!), to enjoy the world around me.
from a charity organization that finds and distributes used wheelchairs around the world to those in need, they estimated only 10% of the world's population who needs a wheelchair actually has one. only TEN PERCENT! in the 23 years i've needed a wheelchair, i've always had one. i've owned 6 in my life. i've never had to stay in bed or been confined to my house or have had to drag my body to get anywhere. i am truly blessed.
happy thanksgiving! roll on!!
