An Anniversary

July 12 marks a lot of things for me. It marks basically a whole new something. I was practically dead from July 12 – July 18.  This is sorta like a birthday for me, kinda but not really.

I was at the beach, Kiawah Island, last week with all eighteen members of my family (including a new baby!). Essentially, a week ago last year was the last week that I lived as a “normal” teen and person.  After experiencing our family vacation again, having been through my accident, everything has clarity. Throughout the past year, I was absolutely yearning and pleading for Kiawah to come around again. And it’s so awesome and amazing that I made it! …but now the week is over and the countdown begins again (352 days to go!)

I reflect on the past year, and I’m sure as hell that I went through some earthly-type of Hell. I swear it wasn’t easy to become who I am and what I am today. It took so many doctor appointments and medications and perseverance to be where I am today. It was a struggle, but this whole thing has made me so much better – better at life, better as a person, and I most importantly am more secure in who I am.

Family Photo

Cousin Carly and her baby, Cadyn

the best grandpa, Daddy Hayes!

 One Foot Down - Peter Bradley Adams

you could say that this is fate 


that left you alone standing here 


it's like you've traded the world

for
 a chance, a ship to steer