Update - 10/3/10

It was very exciting to witness Matthew walking down the road to the finish line at the Missouri Brain Injury Association Walk-a-thon "Journey for Hope" in September! Matthew had friends and family cheering him on as he walked with a cane and his therapist, Paul, was by his side. The cheerleaders at the finish line certainly got Matthew's attention (and maybe were a little bit of a distraction - but he kept going). Then everyone cheered Matthew's friend, Chris as he too got out of his wheelchair and walked across the finish line.

Thanks to all who supported the walk-a-thon!

Later that afternoon Matthew's first art show was held at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School. As guests viewed Matthew's art completed from his art class at State Farm Community College, they were serenaded by a violin and piano duet. Here's one example of Matthew's artwork.


Recently Matthew had a "miracle day." He was with his mother helping Grandma celebrate her birthday. He rode in the car - NOT in the wheelchair but in the front passenger seat. He got out of the car and WALKED into the restaurant where they had lunch. Matthew sat in a REGULAR chair during the meal, then walked out the the restaurant and got back in the car! THEN, later while their car was being serviced in Sedalia, Matthew and his mother got to go for a ride in a convertible - with the top down! It was a banner day for Matthew.