Today, as I watched my son walk a few steps unsupported down the hallway of the home in which he lives independently, preparing to walk his bride to be down the aisle in a few months’ time, I was struck by an inspiration… not difficult when you are watching a miracle walking.
I asked him to write something for the blog. He agreed. I merely cut and paste.
Some who follow this blog will already know that on July 4th 2009 my son was left for dead in an alley, a screwdriver rammed through his skull and deep into his brain. He was not expected to survive, and when, remarkably, he did not die, the prognosis held no hope for his future given the extent of the brain damage.
His decision making capacity, intellect, behaviour, language centres and memory were the areas that took the direct damage. Secondary damage hit him physically as well. He woke paralysed down his right side top to toe, unable at that point to speak, move or swallow. His co-ordination and balance were non-existent and he could not even sit up straight propped on pillows. Hi face had dropped, his eyes were crossed, his sight was impaired and we were told at one point that hopes of any kind of recovery were unrealistic. He is busy proving them wrong.
I am very proud to introduce my son, Nick Verron
Hello.
I’ve never written anything like these so apologies if I gabble. My Mum seems to think that people might want to hear what I have to say so here goes…
Where to start? My goal is to help even just one person with 
these ramblings. I guess the first thing I’d say is even when facing a real life nightmare is to do so with a smile. Experience has shown me that when you think things can’t get any worse, the next day those problems could seem trivial. I’ve teetered on the edge of a pit of despair many a time. A smile has kept me from falling. When life does knock you down (normally for me due to my arch nemesis gravity) climb back up. It is very easy at this point to focus on what you’ve lost.
To give you insight into what I’m about to say (probably not very well) I recommend reading “The Flipside” by Adam J Jackson, a truly motivational book I was urged to read by a good friend who was on the next ward from me following a car crash. She is now walking, working and looking at moving in with her boyfriend to their own place after a very shaky prognosis. My point being that she knows what she’s talking about. Anyway, I digress. You WERE warned about the rambling!
It is very easy to focus on what you’ve lost. I could say that I lost a highly paid job which I excelled in, a nice flat, nice car and was able bodied. Instead, I focus on what I’ve gained. This ordeal has completely realigned my priorities in life. Before I took everything for granted, so what I had I didn’t appreciate. They say “you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone”. How true that is. I kick myself for wasting the things that I had. So I urge you, go out for a walk and breathe in the air outside, appreciate the fact that you can. My ramblings will still be here when you get back, but tomorrow you may not physically be able to. Like my tattoo says, “possum ergo facit”, Latin for “I can therefore I do”. Please heed these words, I learned them the hard way.
September 2009, three months after the attack
This brings me onto my next piece of advice. Don’t live in the past. You learn from your mistakes. I believe life to be comprised of lots of lessons, each one when learned enabling you to pass a slightly harder one. I think that everything in my life had been enabling me to tackle the current lesson which started 4th July 2009. I’m hoping I’m near graduation… Hindsight’s shown me that these lessons at the time I would’ve done ANYTHING to escape, but realised later they’re responsible for who I am today.
Revisiting the scene of the attack 2012
I found another recent shift in my priorities for recently I found love. If you’d have asked me a year ago my number one priority I’d have said learning to walk. Now that had been knocked off its pedestal by my Faith. Brave Faith has come to another country to study, battling bipolar on a daily basis. I guess that’s something we have in common – we were both told we were attempting something impossible but did it anyway. Not many people would understand this, but I’m actually thankful for everything that’s happened since the attack. Amongst other things, it’s allowed me to meet Faith. More importantly it’s allowed me, by having to overcome private daily trials, to better understand problems she faces and how brilliant and strong she is to have got this far.
I must say that to appreciate how good some things in my life are, I’ve had to experience things at the opposite end of the scale to contrast them to. As Faith said (probably more eloquently) “you only see stars in the sky when it’s dark enough”.
Nick and a little Faith, engagement 2012
One thing that put my mind at rest I will share. I was so scared every day waking up thinking “is this as far as it is possible for me to recover?” Well I read that the brain doesn’t stop learning unless you stop teaching it! I read that an old man lost 98% of his brain function in a stroke but went back to teaching! People can regain mobility 20 years after being paralysed! I found this out from a book on neuroplasticity called “The Brain That Changes Itself” by Norman Doidge. This was recommended to me by a guy called Andrew Parr, a professional hypnotherapist who decided to help me merely out of the goodness of his heart. Anyone with / who knows / is interested in neurological problems should definitely read this. It completely changed the way I think about brains.
Why was it instilled in me that there was no hope of further recovery? I was discharged from physiotherapy in 2010 because “there was nothing more they could do for me”. Since that point I have made solid progress. Because I believed in myself. Oh, and countless hours of hard work. I do not think that I’m the only one with the determination needed to get this far. I do however think that if it were not for a fiery little Yorkshire hobbit, the medical profession would’ve sapped it from me (and worryingly probably have from many before me!) as for whatever reason they quash hope? What worries me more is people who have yet to be robbed of their determination! After all, isn’t hope one of Man’s strongest qualities? Contrary to what they’d have you believe, no matter how dire things may look, you can live, not just exist.
Nick Verron
Santorini…Living 2012
Sue Vincent's Daily Echo 
Thank your son for braving the WordPress community with his story. He found himself in the midst of darkness and than a beautiful young lady is icing on the cake.
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They are a beautiful pair. Mad as hatters the pair of them… which makes them even more beautiful together 🙂
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“Why was it instilled in me that there was no hope of further recovery?”
I fear the answer comes down, ultimately, to cost. As a patient, we are no longer individuals striving to attain complete wellness, but are merely numbers on a balance sheet. Dehumanising the provision of health care, despite the best efforts of many within the profession, leaves little room for other than the most primitive of triage decisions; a cost versus potential outcome analysis effectively results in the ‘easy’ treatments being given priority. It’s been a long haul, Nick – just imagine how many aspirins your untimely discharge has afforded the various health trusts through whose care you passed. 😉
Looks like you’ve inherited a bit of the hobbit’s writing skill. Keep it up! 🙂
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From the hobbit (hrmph)… no aspirins.. they haven’t bothered treating or assessing for the past couple of years at all except for the eyesight.. they don’t even ruddy well know.
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Out of sight, out of mind. 😦 There has to be a better way to support those on a long term healing journey…
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One would think so.
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This is quite an inspirational story….one of faith, hope and love. It is a classic case of romantic miracle tainted by remarkable support and determination. Bravo Nick. Bravo Faith. Bravo Sue. May God Almighty perfect his healing. Amen.
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Thank you Charles. We have been blessed with prayers from around the world and across all faiths. And that is just beautiful.
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That’s quite a story. One that is scary, sad and miraculous all at once.
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It has held just about every emotion.. but I think the joy comes out winning.
Mind you.. the bike in your profile pic has stories of its own.. my younger son had one. There was, a deer… or was that the yellow one…I lose track….
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The bike is just a photo I took in Switzerland. For a weird self portrait of me look at the post “Street Photography, San Francisco, Closer to Christmas. Also, please excuse the constantly changing themes and colors.
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I’ll have a look. And I enjoy change 🙂
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Yep… that is surreal! I love it 🙂
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Hey , Nick .I knew of your story through your mom , my dear friend Sue .What can i say , pal ? You are a man of Hope , Love and Faith 🙂 Go on Living ! And Thank you for writing this 🙂 , João Cláudio
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On Nick’s behalf, my friend, thank you. 🙂
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Way to go, Nick. You are turning into a Teacher. 🙂 like your mother! (Like, but different. )
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There is a lot he could share, I think, Darcy… he’s reading these comments, of course 🙂
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How beautiful that your gift of hope brought an even more amazing gift of Faith! Truly inspirational, this story has stayed with me from when I very first read read about your incredible journey and recovery. Cheers to Living! All the best 🙂
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My son passes on his thanks. He has been deeply touched by the response to his post. 🙂
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Your son is inspirational! It’s fantastic that you urged him to write. Yes! We do want to know what he has to say. We will be definitely sharing this post at our humble little self-help blog. Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you. I think he has a lot to offer.. he is an inspiration to me also. 🙂
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Well, even a mother’s bias could be overlooked here! It’s agreed, then. He’s inspirational!
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🙂
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Thank you for sharing such an inspiring story!
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As my son wrote.. if it can reach just one person where it can do some good… 🙂
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I like very much what is being said here. With the right kind of attitude, things do change! I have the Norman Doidge book: ‘The Brain That Changes Itself’, on my bookshelf, and knowing that Nick has read it too gives me an insight into his situation of recovery. Thanks for this post, inspiring and real.
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I don’t think we have left any stone we have come across unweighed or unturned. Change may happen like it or not.. but the changes we want to see happen we have to make happen… and my son is a very determined young man.
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Hi! There’s an award for you!
I hope you will enjoy it! 🙂
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Thank you 🙂
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U’re welcome! 🙂
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I love Faith’s quote: “you only see stars in the sky when it’s dark enough.” God bless you on your journey. Maintain your positive spirit. The support that surrounds you is priceless.
I can understand your philosphy. I, too, have learned something from the tough times I’ve encountered. They say you can’t appreciate the mountains until you’ve seen the valleys. Keep on climbing, Nick. I wish you, Faith and your Mom, Sue, all the very best.
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Thnak you Judy, from all of us. x
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Nick – I want to comment but find I am speechless! I so admire your determination – good luck to you and Faith and thanks to Mum for sharing you with us.
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Thank you… Nick is reading all the comments this morning. The fact that he can in itself a tribute to his determination and courage 🙂
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Your tattoo is awesome. Best wishes to you and thanks for sharing.
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🙂
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Nick’s words and life are awesome! I also love the quote of his girlfriend’s: You only see stars in the sky when it’s dark enough. What a beautiful couple they make!
Big Blessings ~ Wendy
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They are, Wendy.. a beautiful pair altogether 🙂
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Beautiful, inspirational, incredibly uplifting writing -I am so glad I read this, and I will cherish Nick’s (and Faith’s!) words as they are so wise -and remind us what dark times are there for and how to make the best of them all. Thank you for this wonderful piece 🙂
Love, Anna
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Thank you, Anna. That is a lovely sentiment to share.
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this is truly inspirational and it touched my heart. I am glad your son is making so much progress and has even gotten engaged! god bless and stay blissful!
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Thank you.. the pair of them touch my heart daily. Bleess you
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Thank you.
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🙂
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OMG! Thanks for sharing this remarkable story… Many blessing to all…
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My son is far from being the only one with such a wonderful tale to share, but he is the one I know best. And it is a tale worth sharing as he says, too often hope is sapped away by the generalisations of the ‘system’ that looks at a likely prognosis and thinks there is little hope. My son shows there is always hope. And with that, many apparent impossibilities are suddenly possible 🙂
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Sue, thank you for finding your way to my blog earlier and thus leaving me a trail to yours and to Nick’s story. Thanks so much for sharing your story and your so timely words of advice. Every word rings true. My 21 year old daughter had a brain tumor when she was fifteen, lost all her motor functions and has had to relearn them. She knows well that same constant enemy – gravity. She’s still primarily in a wheelchair, but has learned to be pretty much self-sufficient. That same thought echoes daily: is this as far as the recovery goes? So crucial go pursue more. Daily. To keep learning. To be thankful for everything. Blessings in your continuing journey and the new adventures ahead. Thanks again for sharing!
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You know how it is.. we have tried and continue to try just about anything. The system has been less than helpful for the past two years, but that, in itself, has allowed us to use common sense and innovate. And we’ve used anything from duct tape to ice cream tubs in an attempt to create the things that didn’t seem to be available.
It is all about the determination, the hope, the faith that things can and will keep improving, about not giving in or giving up, isn’t it?
And as Nick said, about learning how to Live and not simply exist. And he’s managing to do that, in defiance of his current physical limitations.
I’m glad I came across your blog. Thank you. Blessing to you and your family also.
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Thank you for your living and breathing (and working) inspiration. Blessings and joy to all of you. Nick, rock on!
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My son says Thank you 🙂
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My daughter is recovering from a brain tumor that was diagnosed 6 1/2 years ago. We, too, heard so many times that after a couple of years she would be where she would stay in her recovery for the rest of her life. Sadly, I came to believe the “experts.” My daughter, however, still has not. Thank you for reminding me what I told my daughter so many times: The doctors can measure the physical where it’s at right now, but they cannot measure the heart.
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No, heart, soul, determination and faith in the impossible.. not measurable in clinical trials so they are left out of the equation.
There is the generalisation too… that given the clinician’s experience of similar scenarios, it is unlikely progress will be made. That’s fair enough and they have to prepare us for worst case scenarios.. but only one doctor ever followed that with, ‘ but we simply do not know and he may surprise us.’
And he does. Daily 🙂
In Light, Sue
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So beautifully written and so inspiring. I am in awe of such bravery. Bravo to you all for persevering, Many blessings to everyone. Thank you for sharing.
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Thank you, Tahira.
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Wow, Nick! Your ramblings touched my heart and gave me a much needed boost to my outlook. I congratulate and thank you for all your efforts and inspiration! Thanks to the internet, and your wonderful mom, I have had the opportunity to watch your courageous spirit as you have taken each determined step towards the summit. I am overjoyed that you and Faith have found each other. May you and all those you Love be Blessed with great Health, Joy, and much Laughter!
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Thank you 🙂 Nick is (also impossibly 🙂 )reading the comments here and has asked me to thank everyone.. I add my own to his.
In Light,
Sue
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Wow, Nick! Your ramblings have touched my heart and given me a much needed boost to my grumpy outlook. Congratulations and thank you for your efforts and your inspiration. Thanks to the internet and your wonderful mom, I have had the opportunity to see your courage as you’ve taken each determined step towards the summit. I am overjoyed that you and Faith have found each other! May you and all those you love receive the Blessings of great Health, Joy, and much Laughter! You’ve made me cry, you’ve made me laugh, you’ve inspired me and given me somber thoughts to ponder…all in just a few paragraphs….some pretty amazing ramblings! Thank you! (Kat in Atlanta)
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Hello Nick! Wonderful to read your encouraging words here! And I say wonderful because it’s really so good to read some real honest deep thinking on a subject that a lot of people would avoid out of fear. For me it’s always fantastic to read about someone triumphing over the dark things of life – and there are so many, and I find most people don’t want to see them – I find that weird! I have in the past when I was in my twenties had to rise up with sheer willpower over a terrible illness that consumed a lot of my young life, and even today I still have problems, but have a far better quality of life than I did then. I know what it feels like to want to give in and die, and I know how it feels to suddenly acquire an awakened mind and realise I have to choose to live!
I agree with you on what you said about the medical profession! I stay away from them as much as I can, because I’ve found very little help there and have watched others fade away and die due to, misunderstanding, negative thinking, inappropriate treatment and serious neglect! My sympathies are with those who have no choice! You sound like you have a very strong mind and that will make you stand out in the crowd and be a real light for others to wake up and change their own thinking!
I have taken note of the books you mentioned and will look them up later today, they sound like my kind of books! My favourite book is Thoughts Are Things by Prentice Mulford, a very old book that I read when I was very sick, and it changed my thinking for life. I’m lucky to have an actual 1900’s copy of the book handed down to me by my dear dad, but their are many places on the internet where you can read it for free, if you are interested.
I’m so pleased to hear that you have found a beautiful woman who loves you, and what a perfect name ‘Faith!’ I really hope you go from strength to strength and find what a lot of people never find, real true love!
And if you ever decide to have a blog of your own, let me know, and I’ll be the first to follow!!
Suzy 😀
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Thanks, Suzy. There will be a book, the blog I’m still working on him for 🙂 I’ve emailed you message across to Nick in case he doesn’t check here tonight.
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hi nick! you are truly an inspiration…i myself am part of the medical profession and its sad but true that sometimes we give a very clinical conclusion regarding patient prognosis…have learnt something insightful from you today..so thank you..and good luck to you for the future 🙂
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Thank you. I have emailed your message over to Nick.
We understand the constraints of time, finances and paperwork within the system. Even the best are limited by them and by the need to give a worst case prognosis, so as not to raise false hopes… and sadly, in this day and age, to protect against possible litigation.
A little hope, a little ray of possibility, no matter how small, can go a long way to making the difference. Sadly we have seen too many in whom hope has been quashed.. so they no longer try and come to believe it impossible.
The system itself seems geared to substitution rather than restitution in recovery, so even those who work within the system and give their all to help patients may, sadly and inadvertently, be hindering possible progress.
I would dearly love to shift the goal posts…
Sorry for waffling. It is, as you can imagine, a subject close to my heart.
Sue
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This is amazing.
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Thank you. I think so too… and I get to see it happening every day.
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What a wonderful treat to come upon this today from you Nick ( & Mom). What an incredible inspiration you are. I’ll be thinking about this one through the day. Thank you both. Paulette
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Thank you, Paulette. My son seems to have that effect.. but don’t tell him I said so…;-)
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Bravo! What can’t kill you, makes you stronger!
In fact I have taken life for granted most times. Living intensly is rare but your post reminds me to make the most of the blessings that we have got.
Our blessing and wishes for your happy life ahead.
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On behalf of my son, thank you. Living a vivid life is something we rarely do unless something forcefully reminds us.
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Best of luck to them both! What a spirit for survival he has. As a student studying psychoneurology I was fascinated by this. Thank you so much for sharing his story.
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There is a lot more of his story on the earlier bits of the blog, if you are interested. But more importantly, thank you.They are a rather special pair. 🙂
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Reblogged this on My Latter Half and commented:
“It is very easy to focus on what you’ve lost….Instead, I focus on what I’ve gained. This ordeal has completely realigned my priorities in life.”
These words ring so true for me…this post is an amazing testimony to the power of the human spirit – and the human mind, and ultimately serves as a reminder that it’s often not just our prioroties which need reordering, but our entire thought process.
“I have made solid progress. Because I believed in myself. Oh, and countless hours of hard work. I’m actually thankful for everything that’s happened …”.
Ditto 😀
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Thank you, Lyann. My son’s journey has taught all of us who have watched him a good deal, I think.
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We can learn so much from others, especially our children. You and your son both have amazing strength and spirit 🙂
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Thank you, Lyann. I think we are all stronger than we think. We just don’t always realise it until we are given an opportunity to measure ourselves.
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Yes, I believe that is true 🙂
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I love your determination. Your comments concerning how the brain can recover and learn are inspiring. I do think patients and caregivers often give up too easily. Thank you for the reminder that we aren’t finished just because someone says we are.
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Thank you, Joel. We’ve met some incredible attitudes along the way, at both ends of the scale. It has been a painful but beautiful journey in many ways… and we are not finished yet.
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Wow. That’s all I can say.
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That says it all really, Steve 🙂
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Awesome and touching story. Thanks for sharing it, gabbling and all. brad
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Thank you Brad. I’ll pass your message along to my son, if he hasn’t seen it already 🙂
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Thank you Nick for sharing your journey and never quitting. You blazed the trail for others to have faith they too can succeed in moose size pawsability living. We love your post. Eloquent and heartfelt. 🙂 🙂
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Nick asks me to pass on his thanks. And you have mine too 🙂
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You are soooo welcome. We appreciate your family sharing their story! 🙂 🙂
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It is a story being played out in so many circumstances all over the world. Little comes to the surface and so little is understood. We’d like to help change that is we can, in some small way.
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We agree. It is moose size pawsability thinking and believing in action! Exactly what MaggieMoiseTracks is all about! Sharing the news. WOOF WOOF! His story would be perfect on our website when it’s live (couple weeks ready?).
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Tell me what you need and I’ll have it there for you. 🙂
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OK, great! When the web page is LIVE I would love to post Nick’s blog on our page. MMT’s is about life, not just animals. It’s also about the human spirit. 🙂 🙂 So, I will re-circle back to you and/or if you would please email me the link to: maggiemoosetracks@gmail.com so, I can have it ready to post? 🙂 🙂
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Will that do in a moment 🙂
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Pawsome as Maggie would say! WOOF WOOF 🙂 🙂
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Ani waves and says Hi 🙂
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😉 😉
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Pingback: Nick’s Post | Daily Echo
Truly inspirational story. An awesome spiritual application and determination went into the transformation of the picture in 2009 to the strong, balanced and mature spirit in 2012.
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He is a constant source of inspiration and pride to me. Thank you.
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This is absolutely amazing. I’m so sorry for the events kicking off this story, but the ending is absolutely inspiring. Good luck, Nick – and keep your Faith!
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We’re a long was from the finish line, but you just couldn’t come up with a better ending even in fiction, could you? 🙂
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At least a hundred people inspired by Nick’s story. Reading his story again helped with my difficult day, yesterday. 🙂
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It is incredible, Mick, and has done Nick himself so much good too. The comments and feedback have been extraordinary. 🙂
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Today is a star day! I got to meet you both. I am so impressed. There are no words, except to say cheers to you both and add me to your long list of fans……..
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Lovely to meet you, Cindy. And thank you 🙂
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Whoa, nearly in tears how! Thanks so much to you and Nick for sharing this inspirational story! I was aware of what happened to your son from other posts, but it’s different hearing the story told from such a personal perspective.
I wish all the best to you and Nick as he continues his recovery 🙂
Rohan.
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Thank you Rohan, he has that effect on me too.. frequently 🙂 The journey continues with never a dull moment. 🙂
In Light,
Sue
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Tip of my hat. To both. No more to be said.
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Thank you 🙂
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Such wisdom is mind-boggling. A timely reminder to be grateful for what you have, and an inspirational account of what not surrendering your own power can achieve.
I have always remembered a hymn I learned in kindergarten:
Jesus bids us shine with a pure, clear light,
Like a little candle burning in the night.
In this world of darkness, he must see us shine,
You in your small corner and I in mine.
Nick, and you, and Faith, are three of those candles.
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I learned that hymn too, Lizzy. I had forgotten it, but sang it in my mind as i read it. Thank you.From all of us.
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Hello Nick. You say you have never written anything like this before; well, I’ve never read anything like this before. I am honestly lost for words at how to let you know just how much I am affected by your story, your honesty and your strength of character – and faith. And now, on a light-hearted note, Faith for yourself! Perfect! Faith must be a really special person too. Her quote, “you only see stars in the sky when it’s dark enough” is truly thoughtful and I feel sure that you will have a wonderful lifetime together, safe in the knowledge that although you can’t always see them, the stars are always there. God Bless you both!
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Jane, thank you on behalf of my son and Faith. He does read all the comments, but delegates replies 🙂 They are an awesome couple in every respect. 🙂
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Your son is amazing. You are a proud mother. There are not enough words to express how impressed I am. Virginia
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Thank you, Virginia. Yes, a very proud mother.
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Wow. And I thought my petty little problems of the past couple of years had been an ordeal. Your son is not only amazing, as belocchio said, he is an eloquent writer and expresses himself beautifully. The rambling is part of the art. 🙂 I hope he will consider giving us an update on his progress and life with beautiful Faith.
Jennifer
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Thank you, Jennifer… I’m working on him 🙂 The response to his story has been phenomenal and has done him a great deal of good, I think. I hope he will write for us again.
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Thank you for sharing your courage and putting in into writing. Amazing and powerful. Nearly speechless but happy from reading.
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My son does that to me daily, Bert 🙂
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Thanks to both of you. You have a talent for life.
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Thank you 🙂
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Not only has your son lived and learned many lessons but he has taught them too!
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And he continues to do so.. I learn from him daily, with every step he takes.
Thank you.
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Reblogged this on lost creek publishing.
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Reblogged this on natalieelliston.
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Simply… thank you
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🙂
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And thank you for sharing this post. It continues to astonish my son that people want to read what he has written. 🙂
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What an inspirational blog to read this morning. Good luck to all 3 of you! Tom
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Thank you, Tom. I’m sitting here this morning designing their wedding cake, and still not quite believing just how far we have come.
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So inspiring:) I love reading your blog. I always leave with something positive. You are awesome:)
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Thank you, pat. *wanders off blushing…*
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Well put friend.
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🙂 On my son’s behalf ( though he does check in and read) Thank you.
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Bravo is not strong enough a word. Thanks for the lesson.
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On my son’s behalf, thank you.
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oh this is wonderful I commend you and your son. Please pass this on to your son – ‘you are an amazing and inspiring example to the rest of us – not just how you have kept up your determination – but your apparent lack of resentment and regret. That’s a huge bit of emotional work you must have done and you are thereby an shining example of love in action, one of the stars in the night sky. Well done!
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Thank you, Wyon. My son will be told and he can read your comment for himself. But you are right. It is perhaps the greatest of his achievements.
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Thanks sue, love to you both
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🙂 Thank you.
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I am crying. I cry easy, you know me better and I know you better.
I am in tears. Not of sadness but of UTTER JOY. Your son is a COMPLETE inspiration to anyone who is in any pain, or has anything happen to them bad. It had passion, love, courage, hurt, will!, sorrow, hope, power, strength, desire, it said never quit, it spoke of be happy no matter what.
I have not read all the replied but they will be similar to mine I guess. That had a power about it that made me realise I can do anything now. I doubted this: http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/2013/03/16/i-am-going-back-to-soccer-management/ 10 minutes ago, I now don’t. I know I can be the success I was before.
Your son touched my heart and I demand you tell him he made me cry and he made me realise I need to fight for what I believe the same he did. And I am proud of him and if he is ever in the Area, the 1st pint is on me. I am all over the place here lol
That was just, I have no words…
I just need to cry…x
Shaun
(Hugs) x
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Hell Shaun, I have to deal with this inspiration every day 🙂 You can imagine how proud I am myself…
He will read your comment for himself. He checks when I tell him there are new comments.
But thank you, on his behalf and mine.:-)
And hugs back.
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Thank you for teaching me something new…
Truly, sometimes we do forget what is important yeah?
Shaun.
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After the events of 2009 I don’t think we ever will again. It changed all of us very deeply. x
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I know. I really do.
From a horrible story emerged a beautiful, wonderful amazing story.
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And do you know, the two biggest things it has taught us are love and laughter 🙂
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Two of the biggest things on my Menu, really, go down my wall to the Billy Connolly stuff, lol
Love and Laughter can take all the pain away from me, even just for a moment..
Yeah x
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I already have, he’s a favourite of mine. 🙂
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The Woman on the bus
“Is she running still?”
PMSL 🙂
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🙂
Right.. back to the sewing machine 🙂 Time is running out fast here 😛
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HA HA HA HA
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We are launching a school in one weeks’ time.. deadlines loom and students arriving from across the world.. I’m actually serious 🙂 I have a lot to get finished…..x
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Well go woman..go..sew like your life depended on it… lol
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It sort of does 🙂
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ohhh…
You best get off the pc pal…
lol
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Reblogged this on Looking for reasoning to a complicated world and commented:
I cried. I still am. This kid nearly died through being attached, He is teaching us STUPID adults who argue over SHIT how to live and love and care. I am in UTTER BITS. Anyone who knows me knows I will kill a man for hurting my kids, but I have a big heart. This empowered my soul, my spirit and reinforced my desire to do this http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/2013/03/16/i-am-going-back-to-soccer-management/ 10 minutes ago I doubted, how can I now? I can’t..
Please read this, please…And allow this young man to teach you how to express true love and how to be good. I hope it was ok to Re-blog this Sue, it touched my soul. Your Son, wow, you must be the proudest Mum in the world. Just wow, I am crying like a baby infront of my family here, but emotions are good, it shows you care. Thank you for teaching me a lesson Nick.. Shaun
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Thanks Shaun for sharing this – I now have a wonderful new blog to follow 🙂
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🙂
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Reblogged this on The Blurred Line and commented:
Please read this remarkable story of courage in the face of tremendous adversity. I know of at least two people this story will have personal resonance for. Never give up trying.
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Thank you to http://prayingforoneday.wordpress.com/ for re-blogging this powerful, heart-wrenching, tear-jerking story of faith, courage, inspiration, and triumph. Words cannot express how deeply your story and Nick’s powerful testimony touched my heart. All things are possible with God. Your son is living proof. Thank you and Nick for sharing a beautiful story. God bless you.
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Thank you.
His courage and gallantry makes me glow with love and pride every day. So does that of his brother who quietly gives love and support to both of us.
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Awesome! Sounds you have a great family that is full of support and love. I commend you. 🙂
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We have, small though it is in numbers, it is a wonderful family. 🙂
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That’s awesome. 🙂 Small or not, family is all we got. And to have one that’s wonderful, supportive, and close means a lot. Thank you!
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🙂 There is that saying that you choose your friends but are given your family. hand on heart, if I could choose my sons, I would choose the ones I have.
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Yes, I am in agreement with that. People ask me if there was one thing I would change with my children,what would it be and I answered, “it would be nothing because I love them and thank God for the ones I have. We are on the same page. That’s a blessing.
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It is. I agree with you absolutely.
Even if they do refer to me as the hobbit…. 😉
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How funny 🙂
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🙂
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Mainly because, I am told, I am vertically challenged…
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I literally busted out laughing out loud when I read this. It’s okay to be vertically challenged. I am too. But I am beautiful 🙂 I take it they’re tall.
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a mere 6’2″ to my 5foot…
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You know… that’s what I figured. Wow. I’m only 5 1 1/2 but my kids a little taller. They don’t have much on me and I’m alright with that.
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Bless them, both my lads look down from their great height, as if I’m shrinking, yet still seem to look up to me 🙂
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How truly inspirational. I sometimes thinks some of the happiest people are those who have the most unbelievable stories to tell. You have a very brave son, and you have all the reason in the world to be incredibly proud of him!
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I have two sons of whom I am equally proud.. when something like this happens.. the kind of thing you see on the news and never think can touch your own life, it changes many things. It has been a joy to watch them both grow and unfold through this horror and learn to Live.
Thank you.
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It sounds like they had a good role model 🙂
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Thank you 🙂
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I’m still wiping tears from my eyes. Words are not able express all the emotions I just felt while reading your post. Your son is amazing, and he has amazing people in his life, and how truly blessed I feel to have read such inspirational words and thoughts about his heroics–and he’s a hero, no doubt about it. It’s the ordinary guy who does extraordinary under what seems like an impossible circumstance that is a real hero and that is your son. As a mother and a (new) grandmother I can imagine how immensely proud you are.
WOW! Is all I can say. And this: My daughter and grandson (who will be 9 months old in 3 days) are on their way over now. As soon as they get here I’m taking my grandson on a walk and we’re going to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. I’m going to take pictures of him. We’re going to laugh and play, and during all of this your son’s story is going to be in the back of my mind. Thank you so much for sharing it. (He should think about writing a book and sharing his story with the world.)
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Thank you, Lissa. That is a beautiful reply.. and Nick will read it.I always felt incredibly lucky to have had a wonderful relationship with my sons when they were young.When this struck, I think it was that love that pulled us through what should have been disaster and out into laughter on the other side.
Enjoy your grandson.. and congratulations…:-)
The book will happen. We are just waiting for he and Faith to write the happy ending 🙂
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WOW – Family is the BEST!!! Thanks so much for sharing your story:) Here’s to Living the Beautiful Life and Never Giving Up Dreaming! Happy Friday – Happy Weekend
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Thank you 🙂
And happy Friday to you too 🙂
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Wow, thank you so very much for sharing this – I am so inspired and incredibly in awe.
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On my son’s behalf, thank you 🙂
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Wow and thank-you so much for sharing this… your son is truly inspiring…
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Thank you. I think so too 🙂
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This inspired me and helped me more than I can tell you. I guess if your son’s goal was to help just one person, mission accomplished a million times over! I think he’s my new hero, for sure. I write a lot about my battle with a terminal illness that I’m WINNING, raise God. I was supposed to be dead YEARS ago.
(this is what’s going on now)
Btw… I’m going to share this also with a young man I’ve met through WP. He has a lot of spinal chord injury from a freak accident while playing basket ball. He’s also winning and is able to walk again. Wow. You guys just inspire me so much. I wonder if you can share Luke’s story with your son? Here’s the link:
I think you’ll love Luke the same as I’ve learned to love him. Maybe we can all draw strength from each other.
Much love to you and your beautiful, strong son Nick! You guys ROCK!
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Thank you.. I was just reading your story. You really are a very strong lady and you can add my prayers to the list, for whatever is needed.
i will certainly pass Luke’s story along to Nick, and he will read your comments himself.
Bless you,
In Light,
Sue
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Thank you SO much for the prayers and the light.
Nick, thank you so much for sharing your story. It’s just what the doctor ordered, for me! Sometimes good things really DO happen out of really crappy circumstances. I know I can say I’m a better person for all I’ve been through. I’ll bet you are too. I also know you can do and be anything you want to be. Nothing is stopping you but you.
I’ve shared with Luke this link so that he can see another man as strong and loving as himself.
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My thanks on Nick’s behalf until he sees this. I have sent him the link to Luke’s site and a note on your comment 🙂 I’m sure he will take a look… though not this evening as he is with his Faith 🙂
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Living is WAY more important than reading blogs! lol I’m loving that he’s getting out as much as possible and that “his Faith” is able to remain strong with Nick, in her love for him. I’ll bet that’s the reason he’s so dedicated to getting better.. that and that he has the love of his beautiful mama and family!
SO excited for Nick and Luke to meet in their down time. Luke is busy so much of the time living and in physical therapy. It’s a struggle for sure but one that Luke is also happy to devote time to because he knows he’ll only keep getting better.
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That determination seems a common streak they share 🙂 Meeting little Faith this year was just the most beautiful thing that could have happened to the pair of them. She is an exceptional young woman as well as a talented one.They are both daft as brushes too, of course, and engage in some startlingly madcap stuff.. and i love that 🙂
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HAHA! I’ll bet it’s entertaining to you too! I guess I didn’t realize that Nick only met Faith this year. I must have missed that part of his story. SO freaking cool. Glad they’re of the same mind and love to have fun 🙂
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The mere thought of faith on rollerblades being towed on the mobility scooter to the supermarket brings a smile to my face 🙂
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LMAO!!! Hillarious! Puts a smile on my face too 😉
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I just wish I had pictures….
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Wow ! The strength it takes to come this far !
I had faced a minutelly similar situation and always wondered why I hadn’t been thankful of all the blessings I have ever had. This is a story of Faith and bravery and compassion and ispiration. What an astonishing couple they are 🙂
Many blessings your way dearest ! You all made my day wonderful and made me feel I have a lot to look forward to.
Regards,
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They are indeed and extraordinary couple 🙂 Thank you, Maryam. Daft as it seems, I am sitting in tears reading your response 🙂
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I will have my mother take a read of this as well as she has something in common with you 🙂 Mothers suffer, rejoice every speck of time with their children. I saw my mother changing every bit as I did during my time, so I can understand your part in it too, just a little, I am sure !
May you all be blessed with happiness and health, always 🙂
Regards,
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Thank you, Maryam.. I don’t think we ever take these journeys on our own, somehow. 🙂
And that’s what Mum’s are for 🙂
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Thank you for sharing your story about Nick. Hi my name is Lucas, I think it’s amazing that you posted on my birthday, it’s like you’re speaking to me. I had a spinal injury on 2011 Dec was initially rendered unable to move from the neck down. I’ve been working so hard and can now walk but with difficulty. I still feel pain but am very hopeful. I was recommended to your blog from Michelle, which was great. I would like to start a new friendship with you, and I know this is out of the blue, but if you guys would ever want to talk, I’m all ears 🙂 and great work Nick!
Your friend,
Lucas
http://www.leveluphealth.wordpress.com
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Hi Lucas,
I remember.. Michelle spoke of you.
Nick is away at present… in Singapore, meeting his family-to-be. Which just goes to show that nothing is impossible 🙂
I’ll pass your message over to him!
No doubt he will be in touch 🙂
In Light,
Sue (Nick’s Mum)
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I am a recent follower of your blog, so I had no idea of this story. This in of itself is a testament to the fact “There before the grace of God go I” – that there are those in worse positions than us who have risen above and conquered their trials, the only thing stopping the rest of us is our doubt and fear, our willingness to listen to the naysayers instead of consciously making the decision to defy them.
Handsome groom, beautiful bride – many blessing and much happiness to them both 🙂
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Thank you, Lilith.
Yes, it is the kind of event that you see on the news and never think could happen to you or your family… and when it does life turns inside out.
My son’s determination and courage has been incredible, and continues to inspire me daily.
He still has a long way to go to a recovery that will never be complete physically, but he lives with a joy in small things most of us miss because we take them for granted.
Faith too has enormous courage and faces her own challenges daily with courage and beauty.
But today was just pure joy. 🙂
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A truly inspirational account. How fantastic is that!
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… and he is still going 🙂
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Pingback: The magic of believing | Daily Echo
A great, well written and inspiring testimony.
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Thank you on behalf of my son, Robert. I believe Nick has mentioned you to me.
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You must be so proud of Nick, Sue, His determination, strength of character and will to succeed has brought him so far. It is wonderful to see how he has surpassed every medical expectation, due to his (and no doubt yours),sheer bloody-mindedness to find different ways to get his poor, battered body to respond. The fact that he has found love and Faith is no doubt, the icing on the cake. Wonderful story. -)
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Reblogged this on Nick Verron and commented:
A little pre–blog written on my mum’s blog a while back. It’s absolutely amazing that I can look back in reflection and know that what I felt passionately about back then, I am changing today. And the whole Faith thing – well, that was the reason it was in a very dark place the next year. But everything happens for a reason. “Until you’re broken for awhile, you don’t know what your made of. It gives you the ability to rebuild yourself stronger than ever before”.
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Pingback: Possum ergo facit – I can therefore I do. | Barrow Blogs:
I’ve only just seen this, Sue. Made me cry – tears of sadness and then of joy. So glad there is happiness in the future for you all. Inspirational!! Lifted my spirits. Thanks to both of you.Jxxx
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Hugs, Judith xxx
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Awesomeness! So happy for you guys!!
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😀
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Reblogged this on Anita Dawes & Jaye Marie and commented:
So pleased you have found your soul mate, Nick… I hope the pair of you go from strength to strength…
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Sadly the relationship didn’t work out for Nick x
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Oh no, that must have been an old post… what a shame…
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It was… and yes, a great shame.
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I’ve been enjoying Nick’s blog and am delighted to hear about his impending wedding. I imagine that will mean a little less work for the Mum, and I wish Nick and Faith a lifetime of happiness!
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I think he should perhaps have amended that post… the wedding happened, but sadly, a swift divorce given what occured.
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How sad the marriage vows didn’t stick. Nick deserved better.
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He did, Noelle. I think pretty much anyone does.
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Inspirational.
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🙂
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I love Nick, your Son and you, Sue. I’m happy for Nick now he have Little Faith, Congratulation.❤❤❤😁
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🙂
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