It’s been over a month now, and Cole has had a tremendous journey since his accident on January 3, in which he suffered a spinal cord injury at chest level. Castlegar residents have banded together in support of this incredibly courageous boy and have shown us that community unity is strong in the heart of the Kootenays. Also, to all those that have said a prayer, offered support, or simply paused and thought of Cole - If it were possible, I would thank each of you personally, but I think the next best thing is to keep you updated on Cole’s progress along his journey.
Now that Cole is at Sunny Hill Rehabilitation Centre, he has gradually moved on to a new set of challenges and a completely new “typical day.” He is out in his wheelchair much more often now than just a week ago! In fact, he is rarely in his bed during the day now. Instead, he completes a different daily schedule that may include school work, recreation, swimming, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other activities that he chooses for himself. He has met many other children, each with their own set of unique challenges and has made a few new friends. He is wheeling himself around for most of the day and is looking forward to when he has a wheelchair designed specifically for him.
On Tuesday, we (Brad and I) were excited to take him for the first time into the swimming pool. His therapist remarked that she has never seen a child so at ease in the pool for the first time after this type of injury. We said it was not surprising as Cole has always enjoyed swimming in the Kootenays his whole life! According to Cole, it was really a “cool but weird” experience for him to be able to be in a vertical position.
A very good reason to smile was brought about by a visit from Rick Hansen just this past Monday. Cole waited in anticipation and his eyes were fixated on the clock as it neared the time that Hansen was to arrive. Cole was beaming with excitement! When Mr. Hansen did arrive, I left the two of them to talk in private for a while and when I returned, the conversation was still very much alive. Hansen and Cole discussed the different sports that Cole might be interested in, as well as what he was interested in before the accident. They compared injuries, talked about what research is ongoing in regards to spinal cord injury, and Hansen described a few of the different vehicles and equipment that he owns to keep doing things he loves such as camping, fishing and cycling, all of which Cole enjoys himself. Watching silently from the corner, I witnessed what seemed to be good friends who had never met.
I will never forget a point in the conversation that once again reminded me how extraordinary Cole really is. Hansen had been describing how he felt immediately after his injury and how he did not cope with it very well at first. Cole stated, “Well, I have a pretty positive attitude, so I guess that’s good.” Hansen agreed and encouraged Cole to stay focussed on the positive. “It’s the hardest part,” Hansen said. Cole went on to say, “I kind of feel like this is my destiny… because if this didn’t happen to me I probably wouldn’t meet people like you or the other people I’ve met… I hope that I can do something good with this.” It was at that point that my breath caught and I had to remind myself to breathe. It was a truly magical moment.
I was in awe, full of pride, and up until that point had been feeling more of the stresses about how our family is going to adapt to allow Cole every opportunity that he deserves. The shock was wearing off, so I was immediately reassured that if Cole can go through this with that kind of wisdom, with that kind of view, then anything is possible! I have never been so moved in my entire life and I feel blessed to be a part of his journey.
Nearly 45 minutes later, Hansen exchanged emails with Cole and assured him that he would make time to respond to his letters and concerns. He said, “It doesn’t matter where I am, I will be able to connect with you.” With that, he wheeled out of the room and showed off some of his manoeuvring abilities which brought on another broad smile from Cole. For the rest of the day, Cole seemed much more determined to stay in his chair and try to do things as independently as possible. My heartfelt thank you goes out to Rick Hansen for coming to visit Cole, it was truly an inspirational experience for him.
After the visit I realized how incredible it is that Cole’s attitude has never weakened. He has shown courage and wisdom beyond his years and continues to focus on what he can do. He is setting goals for himself as to what milestone he can conquer next and has matter-of-factly stated that he is “OK” with his spinal cord injury. Each day presents a new challenge, and some days are very hard and it can cause him great pain, but he endures it and works through it to find something to smile about every single day.
Once again I would like to thank the community for all their support and prayers. I would like to say a special thank you to Ruth and Tim Kenna, owners of Dairy Queen, for hosting a Blizzard treat day for Cole – 397 Blizzards sold in February – WOW! In addition to the proceeds of the blizzards, donations were also received for a total contribution of $1,767 for Cole! We are so very grateful for continued prayers for Cole to maintain his courage, strength, and motivation.
God Bless.
- Amy Walters (Cole’s Mom)
CASTLEGAR NEWS NOTE:
Saturday, Feb. 19: “Robson Rocks for Cole Hoodicoff” will be a night of celebration and support held at the Robson Community Hall. Two Bands: “Amusing Yours Truly” and “Thunder and Lightning” will be playing live music all night, and there will be a chance for open mic later in the evening. Cole himself has helped create a video that will also be shown. All proceeds will be deposited into the Cole Hoodicoff Trust at Heritage Credit Union. This is a licensed event and
designated drivers will be available. Homemade chili and buns will also be served. Tickets are $15 and are available at Johnny’s Grocery, Banjo’s Pub, and Castle Glass. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.