You may know my son’s story. For once, I have no problem repeating it for those who do not. I have a very good reason for it that I have been bursting to share!
In 2009 my son was 25… a good looking, successful young man with a fast car, nice apartment near the coast and a very promising career. That ended on July 4th when he was left for dead in a Bournemouth alley, stabbed through the brain in an unprovoked attack.
I have written before of the terror of the next days as he underwent brain surgery to remove the shards of shattered bone from the left hemisphere of his brain. I have told of the weeks of heartache as we waited to see if he would live or die, while his brain bled and swelled, causing further damage to the brain stem itself and shared both the joy and the horror as he woke to what he himself has called a living hell.
He woke to paralysis down his right side, unable to speak, to swallow, even to drink. His sight was severely impaired, he had tinnitus and his ‘good’ left side was completely uncoordinated. Everything, even his face was affected. How his mind would be, we could not tell… he could barely communicate even with signs.
I have shared too the impossible, miraculous recovery he has made and my joy and pride with every step, both metaphorical and real, that he has been able to take.
It has not been an easy journey. He has fought with every fibre of his being, every ounce of determination and every drop of bloody minded stubbornness he could muster. There have been appalling low points when I have wondered if he could go on. There have been magnificent highs when I have bounced around like a demented hobbit at his successes.
I may be a hobbling hobbit tonight, but I am bouncing.
I am very proud of my son.
In the past three weeks, Nick has covered more ground under his own steam, using his own muscles and limbs, than he has been able to do in six years.
And on 9th August 2015, Nick will be taking part in the Para-Tri triathlon at Dorney Lake in Windsor. With him will be two of his physiotherapists from the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital. They will swim 750m and run 5km…. Nick will be cycling 20km.
This is typical of my son. He has only had the trike for three weeks and he’s racing…
… not only racing, but has set up an Indigogo campaign to raise funds and awareness for the UK Acquired Brain Injury Forum, a charity that supports those affected by acquired brain injuries.
Support is critical to families facing the results of acquired brain injury, through illness or trauma or any sort. Information, such as that provided by the UK Acquired Brain Injury Forum makes a real difference.
For much of his recovery, Nick has had no professional help… only his own determination and a bit of common sense and research from me. A year ago he decided he had gone as far as he could on his own and found a physiotherapist, Emily, at Elite Physical Medicine. She helped him a great deal, not only with his physical recovery, but with the fragile self-confidence of a young man left disabled. Emily also suggested he try the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for more specialised neuro-physio.
The staff and therapists at the RBH have been just wonderful and Nick has moved forwards in ways impossible to quantify. It was at their invitation that he decided to join them in the triathlon. You see, they believed in him… they allow him hope and confidence… and that kind of support is both invisible and worth more than anything else that can be given.
Many of you have been moved by my son’s story in the past. Please, support him in any way you can… by making a small donation, or simply by sharing this article and the campaign as widely as you can. It makes a great deal of difference to Nick, to me and to other families struggling with the results of ABI.
You can read more about Nick’s journey by clicking on the ‘related posts’ or using the blog’s search bar… and of course, I will be sharing news as he gets closer to the event. Please help in any way you can. Thank you.
If you don’t see the REBLOG button, click into the post by clicking the title to bring it up… and thank you!
UPDATE:
With magnificent support from the blogging community and others, Nick not only completed the triathlon, but raised £3000 for UKABIF. He later completed the gruelling London to Brighton cycle raid unsupported, raising further funds for charity.
In recognition of his efforts, he was nominated for and awarded the Stephen McAleese Award for Inspiration at the UKABIF conference later in 2015 where he stood and spoke of his journey.
This is SO wonderful!
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I think so too 😀
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I shall reblog and tweet right now. I would like to wish him all the very best and cannot express how amazing what he is doing is.
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Thank you, Richard… I am just so proud of him for this… and pretty much everything else.
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I’ve commented and LIKE-ed this comment of yours, Sue; but know that I’ve read each and every gracious response to your readers, and I’m mentally LIKE-ing them all (just didn’t want to flood your inbox with notices!).
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Believe me, Erik… today, I appreciate that!
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Reblogged this on Richard Ankers and commented:
Read and be amazed. True story, and worth every bit of attention it can receive.
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Miraculous and beautiful, thanks so much for sharing your family’s story! Love and Light to your journey! ❤
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Thank you so much. My son is doing something very special here 🙂
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He certainly IS and I wish All The Best for him, you and the family! 🙂
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Thank you 🙂 I really do appreciate that 🙂
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❤
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What a touching and heartfelt story. Here’s to your son’s future successes! I am sending much love and STRENGTH to you both. ❤ ❤
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Thank you so much, Colleen x
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You both must be so proud. What an inspirational story, in every way. As a Mum, I can only begin to imagine your journey. I’d like to think I know your joy today. Wishing Nick the very best!
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Thank you, Karin… I really am bouncing 🙂
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Reblogged this on William Chasterson.
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Thank you!
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What a story! He has overcome such an awful thing, you much be so proud of him. Wishing Nick all the best in his triathalon!
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I am, Ritu. Very proud 🙂 Thank you.
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I reblogged too! 😊
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Thank you so much, Ritu! 🙂
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Reblogged this on But I Smile Anyway… and commented:
An awe inspiring story… What great that can stem from horror…
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Tweeted and contributed. Please wish him huge good luck from me. Way to go!
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Thank you very much, Sarah. I truly appreciate that. He’ll be reading the comments himself, though 🙂
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Reblogged this on Covey View and commented:
An amazing story of determination & recovery of Nick, my friend Sue’s son.
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Thank you 🙂
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That is a real inspiring story Sue, let all those ‘can’t be bothered’ or nay-sayers read this and be ashamed. What a remarkable young man!.
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He is indeed, James. About as stubborn as they come. Yorkshire genes, you know 😉
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🙂
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I did not know about your son, and I am sorry for the unprovoked attack and what he and your family had to go through….however, his reselience is amazing he is an inspiration will spread the word ❤ You have every right to be proud mom
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Thank you so much. Nick himself says he would not change a thing… this challenge opened up a whole world for him that he used to take for granted.
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So sorry to hear about this awful attack and its aftermath. You must be so proud of your son, this takes a greater kind of courage, may he go from strength to strength! I’ll reblog also (if I can find the button somewhere – isn’t showing).
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Thank you, Claire. Both my sons have made me very proud. Nick’s journey has been a hard one, and not over yet. he is still determined to walk unaided… and I do believe he’ll do it too 🙂
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I’ll add some prayers for that one!
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Thank you 🙂 All prayers are welcome.
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Well there’s an even better reason for a celebration on Saturday, Sue! Great story and better times. Wish him well. Is the equivalent of break a leg, have a puncture? Whatever it is, may his wheels keep on turning.
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No punctures, please…!
But yes, a definite celebation needed 🙂
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Reblogged this on Song Bird Songs and commented:
A real fighter! Let’s spread the news!
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Thank you, Claire!
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Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
Fantastic news and a story of human grit, endurance and love a wonderful mum.. Sue tells more of her story when talking about PTSD tomorrow for Women’s Health Week.. Read this first… amazing.
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Thank you so much for sharing this, Sally. It is such a big leap forward for Nick 🙂
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Thank you!
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How well he has progressed, and fantastic that he is going to be competing in the triathlon after only having his bike for 3 weeks. Well done to you Nick! 🙂
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Thanks Judy. Brain and body can do wonderful things, given the chance… and the driving force behind it 🙂 He has gone far beyond any prediction 🙂
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He is a force to be reckoned with! 🙂
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LOL… you don’t know the half of it, and the bugger s my boss too 😉
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Ha Ha! Best you behave yourself then Sue, I bet he won’t stand for any nonsense! 🙂
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No, he doesn’t 😉
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Thank you for sharing. I cried while reading. There is much to learn from the way you and your family have fought the challenge. It is very good to know that he’s recovering. 🙂 It might sound a little funny, but I too feel proud, it takes much determination to handle such a life event. So glad you are making it through, gracefully.
Good luck to him. Best wishes and warm regards. Love.
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Thank you, Harmonie. We have all learned a great deal from the last six years… none of it is wasted experience and much good has grown from tragedy. 🙂
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I appreciate your optimism, honestly, I think I would have broken down. But this post is so thought provoking, you’ve taught me a a great life lesson that I will cherish forever. 😀
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Oh we all broke in pieces at times, Harmonie. But hope doesn’t just go away… it keeps on shining as long as you can keep on looking 🙂
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Totally get feeling proud of someone you don’t quite know or know well. Glad you had the courage to share it!
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😀 thank you, its very kind of you.
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Reblogged this on Edwina's Episodes and commented:
This is the kind of story that shows just how miraculous life can be. Nick is a real inspiration, and with his and Sue’s determination, they have battled against the odds.
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Reblogged this on Everybody Means Something and commented:
This is the latest inspiring development in Nick’s story. Determination, courage and the support of others, not least Sue, his mum, have been crucial to his progress. I just had to share it!
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You have every reason to be extremely proud. So please to hear that he is making major strides despite the terrible injustice that he endured.
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He has indeed been through hell, but has drawn so much from the last six years that he has grown immeasurably as a human being.
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I am sure he has inspired many to grow too. 💞
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More than he realises, I think. 🙂
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I’m pleased to make a donation – can’t wait to hear all the details on the big day! Rooting for Nick on this side of the Pond. 🙂
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Thank you so much, Eliza!
Two weeks to go… and so far he’s done over 200 miles of training 🙂
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Nick is one of my heroes! 🙂 Godspeed!
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Bless you, Eliza x
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What an amazing heroic journey.
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My son has done all he can to get to where he wants to be. He’s very close to that now, I think 🙂
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Reblogged this on Phoenix Rainez.
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Thank you 🙂
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What a beautiful story of strength, courage and determination. Your son is a true inspiration, and I can’t wait to hear how the event goes. Thanks so much for sharing.
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Thank you, Melissa. He has worked so hard to get here… but he has 🙂
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It’s humbling. It really is. His fighting spirit – the strength that he managed to hold onto. It’s a truly, truly wonderful thing. I read one of your comments about the Yorkshire blood, and it made me smile (being from Yorkshire myself). But in truth it takes a special kind of person to fight back, so I can completely understand why you’re bursting with pride 😀
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I told the doctor, when he was still in the coma, that if he came back at all, he would come back fully. In every way except a few mechanical ones, he has too. The mechanics, he is working on 🙂
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Sue, this fabulous news! Congrats, Nick, on reaching such a hard won milestone!
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Thank you, Melinda… it is rather good, isn’t it? 🙂
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Terrifically good, no, great!
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😀 I sort of think so too 🙂
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Reblogged this on Barrow Blogs: and commented:
Please read this
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❤
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Wow! You have every reason to be proud of your son. In my eyes he’s a superhero! So many people would not have had the will and strength to do all that he has accomplished. You should also be proud of yourself as a mom. You didn’t melt into a puddle of self pity and loss, instead you encouraged your son and gave him strength. Well done. I’m proud of the two of you––everyone should be. 😀 Hugs&Kisses to both of you! ❤
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Thanks, Vashti… we’ve had our meltdown moments, all of us. 🙂 I don’t think it would be human not to, under the circumstances. But Nick’s focus has been pretty sharp all the way. 🙂 ❤
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What an inspiring story and heart warming story. Determination. yes, that is the key for lots of things. Thank you for posting.
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Hope, with a bit of determination as fuel, can move mountains, I think. Thank you, Gigi.
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Yes Sue, with determination even challenged and disabled Matica in my books is doing what she is doing, if she wouldn’t have that, she wouldn’t be loved and be cherished. It always comes back to it. Never let life pass by you, take it full and do the things you are meant to be done.
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I think you are right, Gigi… we have to embrace life and be who we are supposed to be… not who the world thinks we ought to be 🙂
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Reblogged this on Ramblings of the Claury and commented:
Never give up!
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Thank you!
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What an amazing story of courage! Blessings upon all of you!
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Thank you, Angie 🙂
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Wow. What a story and what a man!
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He has his good points 😉
Seriously, I have never known anyone to work as hard to achieve a dream.
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Must give credit to those that raised him too……. 🙂
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Thank you. 🙂
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Victory of human spirit! You did it together.
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Thank you, Inese. I just held the towel… he is all his own work 🙂
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Sue, thrilled to read this great news. Hugs to you and Nick. xx
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Wonderful, isn’t it? 🙂
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I’m rooting for Nick – have shared and contributed. He’s amazing. Go Nick!
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Thank you so much, mary. I can’t tell you how much the support means to Nick… and to me. His emails last night were so excited and exciting… most of them just three letter…WOW! 🙂
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He so deserves to succeed in this. Night, Sue.Jx
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Nick will ‘refuse to lose’… as always 🙂 Thank you so much for today, Judith 🙂 x
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Oh Sue, I’m all choked up and so glad you posted Nick’s story again. I had read it some time ago and forgotten the details. What a frightening experience for all of you. Nick shows such amazing determination. He looks great and I suspect he’ll compete like a champion. 🙂
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I learned the meaning of terror… so did we all in those first six months. But yes, he looks amazing… is amazing 🙂
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Has this article been sent to the hospitals and programs Nick has been involved with since he was attacked? They need to see what HE is doing to try and help them.
Brilliant post. And again, inspirational. Nick lives a “no excuses” life.
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There have been very few… Nick has come most of the way on his own. Even the current therapy is something he chose to do for himself out of his own pocket. But the Royal Bucks have been outstanding and they are running and swimming this race with him… and will publicise 🙂
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What an amazing and strong person your son is! And what an amazing and strong person you are! You both are an inspiration for everyone! Well done and keep it up! Both of you! All the best for the Triathlon!!!
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Thank you so much. Just being able to take part in this event means such a lot 🙂
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For sure! Well done!
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🙂
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Reblogged this on A Momma's View and commented:
What an inspiration and a lesson on not giving up! I’m looking forward to hear how the triathlon went! All the best and go for it!!!
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🙂
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Reblogged this on Nutsrok and commented:
Reblog from Daily Echo. What a guy!
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Reblogged this on Leonard Durso.
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Thank you!
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You are very welcome. You have a son to be proud of.
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I do, and I am 🙂
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this is so wonderful and amazing to see )
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You’ve followed Nick’s journey for a while now… I know you will feel it too 🙂
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This is wonderful. So happy for his progress. I’ve shared this on social media.
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Thank you so much, Michelle 🙂
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As a mother of a brain injured son, I am so very proud of your Nick! GO NICK!!!!! It brings tears to see the fight in him to overcome and take back everything he can. Nothing like a mother’s love to compliment the miracle, eh? God bless you, Sue.
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You’ll understand exactly how I feel this morning 🙂 Thanks, Annie.
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Yes ma’am! It’s a joy beyond description. So proud of your boy – he’s my new hero❤️
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He’s been mine for a while now 😉
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I totally understand that❤️
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🙂 ❤
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Hi, Annie. I can’t begin to imagine your unique perspective upon reading this post. I trust you are finding your own beautiful moments and reasons to jump like a hobbit as you continue being all that your title, role and relationship involve with your son.
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Yes sir! Every moment a gift of joy
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Reblogged this on ladyleemanila and commented:
All the best for you, Nick!
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Thank you!
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Inspiring. Motivating. Powerful! Thank you for sharing this. I wish your son all the best 🙂
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Thank you, Prajakta 🙂
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I am speechless. Wow! What an inspiration!
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I think he needs to know that. Thanks Dale.
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I have spread the word…
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Thank you so much, Dale 🙂 It means a lot.
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What an amazing young man he is an inspiration and i’m sure his mummy has played her part to…..I don’t know either of you but I am in awe of the sheer will to go on and overcome..Good Luck 🙂
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He is 🙂 I’ve never seen such determination in action.
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I have shared on Fb and made a small donation and I hope he exceeds his target…amazing young man 🙂
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Thank you so very much! 🙂
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Inspiring story!!
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Thank you.
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My arms are filled with goosebumps just reading this. It’s just… Wow… I just can not express how amazing he is
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We have seen so many with such stories of quiet determination who have never been heard. If Nick can highlight what happens behind the scenes of such injuries, that makes a difference.
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So many reasons to be proud! Especially after all you have been through. All the best to Nick in his triathlon.
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Thank you so much, Julie. I am indeed proud!
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You have every right to be proud, as does he.
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I think so too 🙂
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Pingback: Women’s Health Week – The Gift of Friendship by Sue Vincent | Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life
That’s an amazing post. You’re rightly proud of Nick. Thanks for sharing, and best of luck with the race!
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Thanks, Nicholas. I have no doubt he will do it and do it well 🙂
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Reblogged this on and commented:
An incredibly moving story
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Thanks Cathy 🙂
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You’re welcome 🙂
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Pingback: Women’s Health Week – The Gift of Friendship by Sue Vincent | Barrow Blogs:
Reblogged this on Alison Williams Writing.
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Thank you very much for reblogging Alison.
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You’re very welcome. Will share on Twitter and Facebook too. Wishing your son the best of luck – looking forward to reading how it goes 🙂
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I’ll keep the blog updated 🙂
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So nice to hear about his recovery and exceptional will power! What an inspiration your son is!
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Thank you 🙂 he still has a way to go to fully recover. .. but he’s well on his way 🙂
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By the sound of things he’s not going to let anything stop him from making a full recovery!
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No.. he has no intention of allowing that to happen at all 🙂
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Truly wonderful news, Sue…we wish Nick well and bless his determination!
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Thank you both, and for reblogging. Making it to the start line of this race means he has already won 🙂
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Reblogged this on Anita & Jaye Dawes.
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I was led here via Edwina’s Episodes. My husband suffered a brain injury in 2005 when he was knocked off his bicycle by a van driver who shouldn’t have been on the road. Fortunately for us his injury was not as severe as initially thought and he made a wonderful recovery. Your story has reminded me that I need to refocus on how we, at the time of his accident, realised life can be short or unpredictable and we need to count our blessings. Over time we have slipped back into forgetting that. Thank you for the reminder and sharing your story. Your son is an inspiration. I hope all goes well with the triathlon.
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Thank you, Wendy… Nick is alreasy on a winning streak really 🙂
I am sorry to hear about your husband and can imagine how hard that must have been for you all. You are right, it does bring us to a realisation of how fragile our worlds can be… and a greater appreciation of what is in them.
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I also suffered a brain injury from a car accident (reckless driver) about seven years ago; my own mom’s strength when I know she wanted to scream and cry really helped me reach wholeness again. As a writer and musician, I could do neither for quite a while. My formerly excellent memory was shattered. I couldn’t even retrieve simple words or names of people I know well. So I get it. I’m so glad your husband made a full recovery.
And, Sue – though it’s been a longer road, Nick will get there! One day, one step (or pedal) closer …
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Thanks, Erik… I have every confidence that he will too 🙂
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May God bless you. It is not easy as a mother to see your child in any health trouble. A case as severe as this, I will say, you are a rock. Keep rocking his world. Prayers are with you.
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Thank you so much. He has come such a long way now 🙂
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So happy for you and Nick, Sue, what an amazing accomplishment. Lots of bloggers in my “inner circle” have reblogged this post. I’d love to make a contribution to his campaign..and will go there now. Best wishes. Be proud !!☺ Van
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The sharing and reblogs are amazing, and every comment makes a difference to Nick. he is awe-struck today. Thank you so much, Van! 🙂
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Our collective pleasure, Sue. ❤️
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Thanks, Van 🙂 ❤
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This is just such an amazing story Sue, thank you for sharing this journey of Nick’s and yours with us. He is truly blessed not least in having you as Mum being at his side. I’ll check about making a donation from South Africa but it may take a day or 3 …
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Thank you, Susan. There is so much potential for joy in events as extreme as this… and he is finding it.
I hope you have recovered from your surgery now? x
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You’re right, joy to be found when least expected! Nick is a perfect example!
The dental story is an ongoing thing, thanks you for asking – last week was the last bit of surgery and other stuff still to happen – but all in good time!
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he has found joy by being woken up… a tad violently, but sometimes that’s what it takes.
Glad to hear you are doing okay with that 🙂
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Wow – what a guy and inspiration. My hat’s off to him. Please tell him so!
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Thank you, Val… he will be reading the comments for himself… and every single one makes a difference and holds up a mirror so he can see himself as we see him.
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Wow, that is amazing. I was born with cerebral palsy all my life, so there is no possible way I could ever be able to know the pain of having your normalcy taken from you. Also, I wanted to say he sure is a good looking guy!
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Nick has said he couldn’t imagine how it feels the other way round either. He wouldn’t change things now, though. He feels he has learned too much from it all.
And I sort of think he is too, but I’m only his Mum, so I don’t count 😉
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One thing I’m always telling the kids I mentor … “normal” is all relative. Isn’t it? Loved your share here!
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Reblogged this on Hugh's Views & News and commented:
If you are looking to spread some goodness into the world today, then look no further than this post from Sue Vincent.
Meet Sue’s son, Nick, and join me in wishing him the very best of luck with the Para-Tri Triathlon he is participating in on 9th August 2015. Nick is such an inspiration to us all and has not let what has happened in his life from stopping him in supporting others. He is one of the most remarkable people I have ever read about.
I won £50 on the National Lottery this week, and what better way than to donate it to the Indigogo campaign set up by Nick to raise funds and awareness for the UK Acquired Brain Injury Forum, a charity that supports those affected by acquired brain injuries.
I hope I can persuade some of you to join me and wish Nick the best of luck with his Para-Tri Triathlon, and to donate a little something to the campaign he has set up. Full details are in the post.
Thank you.
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Thank you so very much, Hugh, for your support across the board with this. Nick and I truly appreciate it. You have no idea how much it means… but expect a bear hug Saturday… even if only a small bear 😉
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Pingback: Women’s Health Week – The Gift of Friendship by Sue Vincent | Retired? No one told me!
We have a nephew with a traumatic brain injury (that’s I guess what they call a ABI here in the states) and it has been very rough on the family – he looks normal but will do some very irrational things and thus needs to be watched all the time. I’m glad to read that your son is focused and I really hope he enjoys his marathon!
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We call it TBI here too. ABI includes the damage done by medical conditions too. A lot of the problems caused by TBI are invisible and the ripples do affect the family, friends and a wider circle. Nick has been miraculously fortunate to come through as he has… but there will always be problems.
Thank you, Jan.
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Jan, I know you know that you don’t have to necessarily be the “mum” to be a HUGE support, which I know you are doing, for both you niece and your sister (or sister-in-law).
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Wow! What a story! I found you through Hugh’s Views and News. Your story made me cry because of the horrible act of violence that was done to him and the journey he had to endure. But now I smile with the joy that a mother knows seeing her son accomplish such wonderful things. Such an awesome son you have! I have a 28 year old son and this really hit home for me. Wishing you and your son the best always! Good luck to him in the race. May God Bless!
P.S. I will try to share this …I am not sure I know how, but will try. 🙂
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Thank you, Arlene. It hasn’t been an easy road,but Nick’s success is all the more precious for being hard won. You never think it could happen to one of your own… and don’t believe it when it does. But we worry, don’t we? 🙂
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Yes we do Sue! As mother’s I don’t think we can help it! 🙂
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I have a feeling it goes with the job description 😉
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Reblogged this on Arl's World and commented:
This is an amazing story of sadness and joy. One persons story of triumph over tragedy. May God Bless this young man and his family. ❤
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How horrific… my heart truly goes out to you as this reminds me of how my son was left for dead by the roadside after a hit and run in Phoenix, AZ. Luckily (if one can say that) he wasn’t extremely brain damaged… but they had to rebuild his body and vital organs…
I’m so glad your son has turned out to be such an inspiration! Bless you Sue!
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That waiting time is appalling, isn’t it?
I am glad your son made it through. Nick ended up with many surgeries in the hope they would help, though nothing vital. I know you will understand, Kev, how I’m feeling about what he’s doing now 🙂
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Reblogged this on kyrosmagica and commented:
Please support Sue Vincent’s son – A true life story of overcoming the damage caused by an unprovoked attack to surviving and now racing in a Para-Tri Triathalon.
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Thank you!
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Wonderful to read this. His resilience and determination are a model…
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Thank you. he is a most determined young man.
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Reblogged this on The Sound of What Happens and commented:
An incredible, inspiring post from Sue Vincent about her son, indomitable and amazing as ever. He’s biking in a triatholon to raise money for people with acquired brain injuries, please support him and the cause!
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Hi Sue I’m new to your blog! I saw Richard’s reblog of your son’s glorious news. I’m speechless and don’t know what to say. I guess to share from my momma heart. I think as a momma we never think of our children suffering any type of calamity, sickness or illness! I’m always amazed at the depths our souls reach down and rise with our kids as they heal, mend and move on to victory! This is a beautiful story. It is a testament to how blessed you are and what a blessing you story is to those that read! Blessings on your day! 😀
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Thank you so much, Michelle for soming over to comment. I was rather used to all the minor injuries and accidents the boys managed to inflict upon themselves, but no… you never imagine anything major happening to them… except in unguarded nightmares. We do move with them… and hopefully grow with them, when anything happens to them. 🙂
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I was encouraged by your son’s story. My girl has been chronically ill since the age of 2. She’s now 22 and what a wonderful testimony it is that she still lives. I’m amazed that our kids have strengths we have just begun to discover! As a momma you know it’s there but gosh when you see it well, it slays me. I wanted to make deeper connections on WP and this one on this day…well I don’t know what to say but thank you! We never now who is reading do we? With a waiting heart I am and rest. You’re an amazing mom! I can tell! 😀 ❤
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I am a firm believer that there is purpose to all things, Michelle and since startignat the blogging a few years ago I have met some amazing people… not just online either. I have learned a lot too, and had many things put into a new perpective.
The human spirit is an utterly amazing thing… and we tend to forget that our kids are small humans with just as much of that inner strength as adults. More so, sometimes. I am glad to hear your daughter is still with you. I think my journey has been easier on the heart than yours ❤
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Reblogged this on The Eclectic Poet and commented:
Because we need to keep this one rolling. Go Nick! 🙂
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Thank you so much for sharing this story it is umbelivable and very inspiring! Give a message of love to your son from me he is a great example of “Never give up and never loose the hope” I wish him all the best for his race and journeys and surely I will follow your Blog! 🙂
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Thank you so much 🙂 Be assured that my son is reading all the comments for himself, and taking much encouragement from them. 🙂
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I am happy to hear that and you are an amazing mother 🙂 much love to you I am a mother too
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Mothers understand these things 😉
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Yes 🙂 I just follow your Blog I would love for you to do the same so that we can stay connected 🙂
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Done 🙂
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Thank you that’s great have a wonderful day 🙂
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You too 🙂
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Reblogged this on Jane Dougherty Writes and commented:
Such determination! You have every reason to be proud of your son, Sue!
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Fantastic. And I’m sure he’ll keep improving. There’s no stopping him. All my love to you and your family. I’ll be thinking of you all.
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Thank you, Olga. He has no intention of stopping now 🙂
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Hi, Sue. I read a brief (and at the time, cryptic) comment from you on … one of Diana’s posts, I think … earlier today, mentioning Nick. It seemed that people there (or at least she) knew who you meant, so I didn’t ask. Now I know, and I’m glad I do.
Not only did I read your engrossing post, but I read every comment of support and love people sent, after Diana’s reblogging brought me to your post of today. Yes, what a wonderful outpouring of support from the online blogging/writing community!
Things like this sure help you put life into perspective, don’t they? You learn very quickly how to separate out what “real problem” is – which becomes much different from your criteria before the event. You find gratitude in things taken for granted so many days prior. You allow yourself to jump up and down instead of being reserved or worrying about how you look doing it.
No one would wish such a thing on anyone. But as Nick said of himself form this side of things, he wouldn’t trade it, for the perspective and soul work it has done. As a mum, you might secretly still opt for the do-over card if you were able, as would be expected of a mum; but you’ve found your strength in each other at the right times.
Your choice to share the journey you and Nick have been on – raw and real as it is – is spreading some of that hard-earned perspective and strength to others even now. And I know both of you will continually find new ways to do that, to speak truth and love and groundedness and what’s important into each other’s lives and the lives of many more.
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Thank you, Erik.
As a mum, I might wish my sons… for both of them were deeply affected by this… need not have gone through this at all. Yet if I were to be able to turn the clock back and change the future to one of those ‘if only’s… I don’t think I would… not unless Nick himself chose that course. he has grown too much and learned to take joy in living. It is as if, he says, a reste button had been pressed, allowing him to wipe the slate clean and start again.
I have said so many times today… I am proud of my son… of both my sons. They have shown their mettle over the past six years.
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I just added another layer of perspective, knowing you have another son – because you had to be mum to BOTH of them, in different ways. And when one suddenly requires so much extra care and emotional attention, that is not easy. I’m sure a good dose of understanding had to go around. But please convey somehow to BOTH of your sons how stellar we all think they are. You could not have been as strong, nor Nick, if anyone in the mix hadn’t chosen to keep getting up during the process, no matter how many times you felt like staying down.
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At the time I had two sons and stepchildren too, all young adults and all traumatised… and all their friends.There wasn’t much room to fall down.. we were so tightly packed we had to stay standing 😉
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Love that phrasing (and just may borrow it).
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Help yourself, Erik 🙂
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A story of amazing courage from both of you. Happy to support you.
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Thank you, Hilary.
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I did not know your son’s story. Such great news after such heartbreak. Wishing you both all the best!
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Thank you 🙂 It is indeed good news 🙂
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I was deeply touched from your son’s story! Such an amazing person with huge courage and thirst for life. Everybody should be proud of him:)
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Thank you, Emily. Looking at what has happened on here today… it would seem that they are 🙂
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Sue, I’m trying to make a donation, but the site is throwing errors (perhaps because I’m in the States?). Please visit my blog ( http://www.TheBestAdviceSoFar.com ) and check the sidebar (from a laptop or desktop) for my email address. Drop me a line, and we’ll figure out a way. Maybe I could PayPal it to you?
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There should be a Paypal option available on the campaign website, Erik.
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Got it. Just a temporary site glitch, it would seem. Donation in! Little by little …
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Thank you so much, Erik 🙂
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Sue I was mortified to read about the horrific event that took place with your son. As I felt the horror reading about what had happened, my heart went to joy after reading more about his victory in overcoming. Peace and love to both of you. And congrats Nick on the triathalon! 🙂
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It was hard. But Nick has outstripped every prediction for his recovery, Debby, and he isn’t finished yet… not by a long way. That’s all that matters here 🙂
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It was hard. ButNick has outstripped every prediction for his recovery, Debby, and he isn’t finished yet… not by a long way. That’s all that matters here 🙂
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Absolutely Sue. Rock on both of you!!! 🙂
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Thanks, Debby 🙂
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This is a wonderful story! I find it amazing and inspirational…Wish him all the success..blessings and prayers… 🙂
Have shared it on Linked.in and Twitter…more and more people should know about him.
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Thank you so much, Maniparna. No doubt my son will read your good wishes for himself 🙂
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You are most welcome… 🙂
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Pingback: Great story of triumph | Broken Brain – Brilliant Mind
Reblogged this on georgeforfun.
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Reblogged this on georgeforfun and commented:
Wow, a real fighter, not quitter and worried more about others than himself. No wonder you are such a proud Mom, you have all the reasons in this world to be proud of your caring and giving Son. Congratulations
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This story is worthy of a book, Sue. What a tremendous amount of praise both you and your son deserve. Your son is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and definitely his mother’s son. Mother’s never stop advocating for their children!
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We have both started books, Noelle… and every time I have my happpy ending, he goes and moves the goal posts 🙂
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Reblogged this on Teachezwell Blog and commented:
What power there is in motivation! Read this story about a young man who has suffered brain trauma and is literally racing to victory!
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Thank you for sharing this. This is amazing and I wish him all the best as he enters the triathlon!
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Thank you… I have a feeling he will triumph, even if he doesn’t ‘win’.
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Yes, he will! And I think in some ways has triumphed already.
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So do I 🙂
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I agree that this is the material for a book. So inspiring, Nick. Brave man. http://judydykstrabrown.com/2015/07/30/blank-is-the-new-blank/
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Thanks, Judy… the books have been underway for a while 🙂
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Reblogged this on Thoughts by Mello-Elo.
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Thank you for reblogging, Eloise!
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My heart goes out to you and your family. His strength is an inspiration.
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Thanks, Eloise. He is something special, I think… even though I am his Mum 🙂
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Wow! What an inspirational story. You have a wonderful son and clearly you’re a wonderful mother 🙂
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Thank you, Esther.. he’s not half bad as a son 😉
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Such an inspirational young man! I could write an essay about how his courage and determination are helping me in my own journey with my daughter Carys… But don’t worry, I won’t lol! I hope my donation went through… It didn’t bring me to the usual page I was expecting, will you let me know please Sue? And best of luck with the triathlon… Although I’m thinking it won’t be needed…
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Thank you so much, Ali. That his journey is of any help will mean an awful lot to Nick… and he is reading every comment.
No donation is showing your name, yet, Ali, but they don’t always go up straight away.
Looking forwadr to tomorrow 🙂
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OK I’ll check back
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🙂
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Reblogged this on aliisaacstoryteller and commented:
Meet Nick, a most inspirational young man. He’s achieving amazing things! Please support him on his journey by sharing his story, of donating to his cause, if you can.
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A beautiful post about an amazing, brave young man and his incredible mom. Good luck to Nick. But you know what? He’s already won – big time.
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My view exactly 🙂 Thank you!
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Hi Sue, I’ve only just found your blog via lovely Sally Cronin. I am so moved by the story you share about your son. Bournemouth? Horrifying. As a mother of two adult sons and a daughter, this gives me chills. Although my daughter, amost 23, is an Aspie, so doesn’t go out. I hope they caught the bastard/s who did this. I know the place well, lived in Dorset, in Somerset now. I am just so very sorry but what an incredibly inspirational story you share about your darling, brave, amazing boy. I will share the link on Facebook. Also…saw you over at Geoff’s blog and it looks as if I’ll be meeting you at the bloggers bash tomorrow. Really looking forward to it, great to meet you here too 🙂 ~ Sherri
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Hi Sherri, it has to have been every parent’s worst nightmare… but thankfully, it looks as if we have a happy ending 🙂
Yesm, the young man who did this was caught and given seven years, the maximum the judge could impose. Not enough perhaps, but an ‘eye for an eye’ wouldn’t change things for Nick, would it? And that is what matters.
Really looking forward to tomorrow too. Should be fun 🙂
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Reblogged this on beyondtheflow and commented:
Hi All,
As you may be aware, I have a neurological condition which severely affected me when I was 25 and had surgery. It was a hellish time, particularly as a young person mixing with the elderly at rehab while my friends continued to party. Please read Nick’s story and respond in any way you can xx Rowena
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Pingback: My son, the triathlete… | hbhatnagar
Reblogged. I wish you both the best.
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Thank you so much!
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He is an inspiration to many. My wishes and blessings to him. 🙂
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Thank you so much.
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Reblogged this on graemecummingdotnet and commented:
I’d be lying if I said I’d followed this story avidly. Even so, I was aware of it, and had dipped into the occasional post from Sue that gave me a bit of an idea about it.
As chance would have it, I met Sue in person for the first time yesterday (Bloggers Bash – you must have heard of it), and finally took in the enormity of what had happened to Nick six years ago.
From the little reading I’ve done already, it’s clear that Nick is a fighter who is not prepared to give up. I can only hope that, if I was faced with the same circumstances, I’d have the same courage and determination – though frankly I doubt it.
Sadly, the chances are that others will, and they’ll need all the support that can get when the situation arises.
Do read this post from Sue and, if you have the means, support this fantastic effort. It certainly puts in the shade anything I’ve tried to do in the past.
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Graeme (and everyone reading), your meet-up at the convention triggered a thought I’ve had in the last few days over this. How cool that we as bloggers, if we stick with it, have the unexpected opportunities afforded to us by having gained an audience who listens to what we say! As I say, I’ve thought often in the last few days as more replies and support have continued to come in, how big of an impact Sue has been able to have in helping Nick to gain notice of and support for this important and personal cause. It may not be why we start writing, but it is another very real reward at times like this.
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Erik, only just spotted this (it didn’t flag up on my site), otherwise I would have responded sooner. Anyway, I think you’re right about the opportunities this blogging and personal contact have presented to us. The blogging community in any event does seem to be very supportive, and we can all be grateful for that.
To be fair, though, I do get a sense that the world in general is becoming a more thoughtful and caring place. I know it doesn’t seem like it when we see the news footage but, let’s face it, only bad news sells. What we see there is generally a small pocket that’s being magnified by media. In practice, there seems to be an increasing trend for people to reach out and help each other when the help is needed. And, strangely, that can be rewarding in itself.
May we all continue to move in that direction
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Reblogged this on Stuart France and commented:
An exceptional effort from an exceptional human being…
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What a great story of hope and inspiration! I can’t wait to go back through and read more about your son. I came here by way of hughsviewsandnews.com
I am sorry I don’t have much I can offer your son’s cause, but here is a little I can give: Please tell your son there is so much greatness waiting for him in this world. Even on down days, he cannot forget that. I acquired a brain injury (stroke) when I was twenty-seven. That was in 2003. I woke up deaf, blind, mute, and with severe paralysis. Twelve years later, I still find myself making improvements. Just when the world says, you have maxed out and there is no more improvement, listen to that quiet voice whispering, “There is still more to gain and do.” That voice, that determination, and that great new trike are going to take Nick further than anyone could ever predict. I have a feeling he is going to have a great ride! Enjoy every moment.
Warm Regards,
Tara
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Thank you so much for sharing that, Tara, that is exactly the message Nick wants to share too. He knows he hasn’t finished yet, in spite of the mainstream medical services’ acceptance that a limit had been reached… he has far surpassed those already and continues to improve. Hope is an appalling thing to take from people.
I think you are right… he is going far… in many senses 🙂
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Pingback: If We Were Having Coffee – After The Bloggers’ Bash Special | Hugh's Views & News
Thank you, Hugh!
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I just got the email alert that Nick reached his goal! Just wanted to come over and say … HOORAY!
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Thank you, Erik 😀
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Sue, I am glad he has indomitable spirit and your love surely helped him, too. Your son is awesome. ♡ 🙂
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Wow! From reading what happened I never would have believed this! How wonderful! Nick sounds like a very determined man.
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About as stubborn as they make them, I think, Cathy.
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That’s how he did it!
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Pretty much 🙂
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This is such a beautiful, pride building post – I feel a great sense of pride in that you and Nick have traveled a road many will never understand: from the beauty of life to destruction and then with a commitment of love, back to the beauty in which you both began life. To read this from last year and to know now of the adventures Nick is about to undertake and you are currently undertaking, I let out a great sigh of pride knowing how great things can be achieved. 🙂 Bless you Sue!
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I am incredibly proud of my son…as you may have noticed. Both my sons, for this affected everyone and Alex has faced his own journey quietly and with love…and the odd spectacular crash on his motorbike. It has been an unnatural situation to live through, but it has brought some extraordinary blessings, especially in the people we have met.
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