When Wyatt was diagnosed almost 15 years ago (Halloween is his diagnosis anniversary) we didn't know what the future would hold. We were worried, sad, heartbroken but over the years we have felt the love and support of so many and our outlook on the future has become brighter.
This weekend was one for the memory book. We were blessed with a visit to LSU from the Louisiana State Police Troop B. It was a day we will never forget. The troopers have been so amazing to us; our year would not have been the same without their love and generosity. The reason we have been connected to them is not lost though. Our dear friend's son Brody is diagnosed with DMD also and his uncle Jared is a State Trooper. He understands how hard life is with a child who has DMD and wanted to make sure we continue to live life and make memories because life does not get easier in the DMD journey. We could not be more thankful to them. We hope that through this we have raised awareness and this will help find a cure for Wyatt, Brody and all others with DMD.
As you have seen we have been on the road for the past few months making life happen. It's not easy though, the planning that goes into a trip is more than you want to imagine. When things don't work out like you planned you have to improvise...or fuss at people like Patrick did this weekend. For example when leaving the LSU game the ramps were blocked outside the stadium and crosswalks blocked by buses. Unfortunately this is not new, but it definitely makes the trip harder. If you know my guys they are easily frustrated and will let you know if you are doing something wrong. This time it was Patrick telling the bus drivers to get out the way and Wyatt was the one who was embarrassed. Others need to understand that blocking ramps makes it impossible for people in wheelchairs to get around...if you block a curb abled bodies can go up the ramp. It's not that hard to understand but if you take a look around it happens ALL THE TIME. Next time you are in a parking lot, look at the van accessible handicapped parking spots; those lines are reserved space for wheelchair ramps to be lowered so people like Wyatt can get out of the van. When cars take the van spots or someone parks in the lines it makes it difficult and unsafe to get Wyatt in and out of the van.
I'll get off my soapbox now, but know those in the differently abled community could go on and on. Don't get me started with flying and "accessible" hotel rooms. We need to do better for those who are physically disabled. We live in a time where everyone matters and is catered to, why are the differently abled left out of the mainstream story? I beg you to help bring awareness when you see something that is not accessible, because one day it may be your loved one struggling to get safely out of a street but isn't abled to because "it was just easier to park there" or "I'm just running in and out really quick." Think about what you would do if you were unable to get into a bathroom or on a plane for hours without having a bathroom to use. WE AS A SOCIETY MUST DO BETTER!
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