Ted's enthusiasm for both of
his worthy charities was contagious. He canvassed the
neighborhood with pledge sheets in hand, raising close
to $800 for both organizations.
Ted's participation does not
occur without significant physical struggles. He uses
cuff crutches to get around, and chose to use his wheelchair
for one race and his bicycle for the other. When asked
which route he preferred, Ted said "The long one."
Several others joined Ted's Hammer Team and enjoyed camaraderie,
fresh air and giving back to those in need.
Much was gained from
these experiences. Money was raised for worthy causes
and Ted received prizes. Best of all, however, was the
boost to Ted's self esteem. He is not shy to say, "I
proud myself."
Matt's Story
Standing Tall
As a young boy, Matt Eaton
energetically climbed trees to read his favorite book,
sailed freely on Round Lake with his uncle and maneuvered
toy boats in a creek near his home. Matt's mother described
him as joyful - walking on the tips of his toes like a
"spring buck." Chopin and Beethoven, Matt's
boyhood cats, were named by Matt for two of his favorite
composers. Matt's life was full of music and activity.
His gifts were obvious.
L
ife
changed dramatically for Matt after being struck by a
drunk driver. His traumatic brain injury left Matt unable
to walk, speak or eat. Since 1986, Matt has lived at Tyler,
one of Hammer's homes. With the support of Hammer staff
and his physicians, therapists and family, Matt struggles
with day-to-day activities, but his gifts still shine
through.
Music is Matt's gift. The sound
of Matt's laughter fills his home as his favorite tunes
play. Each morning before work, Matt begins his day listening
to a number of musical selections, from classical to hip-hop.
During this time, for both medical and personal reasons,
he is positioned freely in a new standing frame. Generous
donors who support our Quality of Life Fund are to be
thanked for helping Hammer purchase this for Matt. Today
Matt stands tall, holds his head high, savors his music
and enjoys the trees outside his bedroom bay window.
Though his words are silent,
the message is clear. Matt lives to his greatest potential
- each day finding satisfaction with support from Hammer
staff members, professionals, friends and family.
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Patty's Story
Patty Rogers
loves life and lives it to the fullest. She doesn't miss
out on much - basketball, dances, worship services or
events at church, coffee, advocacy meetings on behalf
of her housemates and herself, or cruising around the
neighborhood on her three-wheel tandem bike named "General
Lee," Patty glows with a smile and spirit that says
"Life is great!"
Patty has a developmental disability
and also suffers from arthritis, most especially in her
knees. By 1997, her condition advanced to the point where
Patty's mobility declined, she gained weight, and she
was in constant pain. Mary Lou, a nurse at Hammer tells
people, "You are in charge of your health. You can
do more for yourself than I can do for you".
A
few years ago, Patty enrolled in a membership at The Marsh,
a center for balance and fitness. Three times a week,
she takes advantage of the services The Marsh provides.
Patty feels better overall, has lost weight, has increased
her self-esteem, and regained her confidence in her ability
to participate in activities.
The Marsh staff is great. Always
friendly, the desk attendants give Patty just what she
wants - a warm welcome, a soft towel, and a locker far
away from her staff! It makes Patty's day if she finds
Cece (the membership director at The Marsh) in her office
to give and receive a hug. Cece has been instrumental
in making Patty's experience possible and she says, "Patty's
being a member is a privilege to the Marsh. Her influence
and happy side are noticeable and contagious."
Dave, Patty's trainer, set
up a program based on Patty's goals and physical limitations,
giving her choices and challenging her to push herself.
"She catches on so quickly on how to do the exercise,"
says Julie, Patty's current trainer. "And she is
so faithful to her commitment to be healthy. She is just
so fun to work with. Patty is not only a Marsh member,
she is a friend."
The teamwork of the community,
Hammer staff and Patty's determination and faithfulness
is an inspiration to all. Thanks Patty!
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