I visited a church down in Somerset, New Jersey, today.
There was a celebration for two reasons. It was the congregation's first meeting in their new building. It was also the first day that my little patient returned to her church.
"L" was injured in a car accident on September 11, 2004, and was paralyzed from the neck down. Over the past few months, she has blown us away daily by her astounding progress. She has now regained the ability to walk with one small brace and a walker ( http://www.pbase.com/jenfu/image/39597616 ). Today, she walked into her church to the applause of loved ones and admirers.
"L" is not in this photo. She was too busy being greeted by everyone in her congregation! This is a photo of the kids playing in the lobby of the church. This little girl was walking by and noticed the kids in their secret hiding place, playing games. She ultimately got the courage to crawl underneath to join the other children. I feel that "L" will follow a similar path. Her injuries and remaining disabilities may initially be a barrier for her but she will find the courage to "crawl under the screen" to join the other children, too.