Middle School GraduationOnce again, Neil will don cap and gown and join the processional with his classmates. According to school authorities, Neil is just one semester of Lit IV shy of officially graduating, so they are allowing him to participate in the ceremonies with the understanding that he will be finishing his class eventually.
Four months ago, I never would have guessed this would be possible. After spending long, long days in the ICU with our still and silent son, I would sometimes come home at night and sit in his room and cry. The sight of his backpack in the corner and textbooks on the shelf were painful, as were the letters that kept arriving from the school to all seniors about preparations for graduation.
As Neil began to "wake up" from his state of impaired consciousness, he slowly became aware of what was going on in the world without him. Visiting friends talked about senior games and activities. He knew he missed the prom. So we tentatively called the school district to ask if it would be possible for him to have at least this one positive memory from his last year of high school. School and district personnel were on Neil's side and took it through the appropriate channels to make it happen for which we will be ever grateful.
What happens after graduation is still up in the air. He dreams of attending college, so we're working toward that end. The school district can offer him some support and training for up to two more years, so we'll be taking advantage of what is available there. Evaluations this summer ought to get us going in the right direction.
Throughout our experiences of the last months, we have cried much, prayed often, and mourned for what we envisioned his life would have been like, but we never lost hope and we never will. Faith in a loving God, time, and lots of work by many individuals can make miracles happen.
4 comments:
There is a quote that is on my desk and I look at it everyday. After reading your post today, I thought I would share…”The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.” Miracles can happen when we have faith and we believe in God’s will. Congratulations on your graduation! I am so glad that they are letting you participate in the ceremony, YOU DESERVE IT!! Go get ‘um!!
I am so glad he will walk in graduation. He is such an inspiration and I am sure the other kids will be so glad to see him there. Neial, you will achieve your goals, you have the stregth and faith to make it happen. Love ya!
We are so happy Neil will be able to walk with his graduating class.He has worked so hard the past 4 months, he deserves to attend this activity. When is the big day? we'd love to send a card.
Carl and Cindy
I was so happy when I heard Neil is going to be able to participate in the graduation. You all are in my thoughts always. I can only begin to imagine and feel the pain and heartache as well as the joys and the triumphs of the journey you have all been on. I often have tears as I read your beautiful words. Thank you for continuing to share with us..and to share as well what love and faith ( as well as some hard work!) can accomplish.
NEIL.....WAY TO GO! SO proud of you and all you are doing and how far you have come!!
Much love to you ALL!
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