Update - 10/30/08

Matthew gave a "thumbs up" in his picture on the front page of the 10/23/08 issue of the Sedalia Democrat. The article tells the story of Matthew receiving the Brain Injury Association of Missouri's Courage Award. Terri Marr is quoted as to why she nominated Matthew for the award: "just because of where he began and how fast he's progressed. He's made vast improvements. He has such a great sense of humor, every day." The picture above is another picture taken the evening of the award ceremony. Matthew stands, surrounded by his family.

The following link will connect to the article right above Matthew's article which tells the story of people in the Sedalia community becoming acquainted with rhythmic therapy, including Matthew.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/news/heether_12241___article.html/participants_peterson.html

Update - 10/13/08

On Friday, October 3rd, Matthew received the "Courage Award" from the Brain Injury Association of Missouri at the banquet held at the Embassy Suites in St. Charles, Missouri. Matthew and the whole family were very honored for him to receive this award, and as his parents said, they continue to be thankful for opportunities to share their message of HOPE to all dealing with brain trauma (in all ways that trauma can occur). Thanks to Terri Marr, the director of Bridges in Sedalia, MO for nominating Matthew for the award.

Matthew soaked up all the attention that evening and following the presentation, he willingly smiled for pictures (LOTS of pictures) and gave his "thumbs up" sign regularly. He was a great sport and joked with all the people pulling out their cameras. His positive attitude and big smile were contagious and it was a lot of fun for all of us to be there to witness this special evening. All three of Matthew's brothers were present with him and his parents, as well as Andrew's girlfriend, Emily, Matthew's godparents (yes, that's me and my husband, Randy) and his cousin, Jonathan.

As Matthew stood for a few of the pictures and towered over his parents in height, we were in awe of how such a simple thing for most of us to do (to stand) was such an incredible accomplishment for Matthew. Check back to this blog this coming weekend. I hope to have a picture posted here that was taken following the ceremony. The picture is of the whole family with Matthew and long-time supporter and friend, Marsha Turvolv joins the group picture.

Praise be to God for all his blessings!

Rachel Asburry
Matthew's godmother