Danny Dean Update - Wake Man Walking
He promised to walk away from the hospital
Date: 4/28/04
Author: Danny Dean
Forward: David Williams
Related Items:
Danny Dean Walks Video (Quicktime, 7.3 mb)
Danny Dean Update - 2/11/04
Arizona Wakeboarder Danny Dean in ICU
Many of you have been following Danny Dean's story since he tragically broke his neck in a trampoline accident in January. Since then, he's spent the majority of his time in the hospital hoping that he would regain the use of his body. Danny has shown an incredible amount of courage as he's struggled to get over every hurdle thrown his way. Danny vowed to one day walk out of the hospital he's called home for the past three months. Danny still has a long way to go, but we're very pleased to bring you his recent thoughts and a short video of Danny's progress.
Danny Dean
|
Going through the hardest part of my life has taught me things about myself and others around me that only a tragedy like this could inspire. I can't say that I would go back and do it again just to be able to develop the great relationships I have now with my fiancé, mom, dad, future in-laws and countless others, or to learn what I know now. Yes, I do wish I would have received these blessings of knowledge and strength another way, but I believe there is a higher purpose behind my injury than what I alone have learned and achieved.
I left Barrows Neurological Rehab in Phoenix, Arizona on Tuesday the 21st of April. Getting out of the hospital in the condition I am in was a dream of mine since January. It’s only the beginning of a long road, but I know that it's only uphill from here. The therapists were the best anyone could ask for and the nurses and staff are some of the most unselfish people I know.
Danny Dean
|
My support group has grapevined its way across the country, reaching people who care about, but have never met, me. My dad and I have tried to understand what it is about my accident and story that has intrigued so many to follow its progress. I can only assume and hope that this kind of interest, concern and love is the true heart of people, and not what we see on the news.
My condition right now is still far from normal, but getting better every day. I have forced myself to use my legs as much as possible to get around the house. I have fallen a few times, blacked out and had difficulty breathing, among other things, but that’s expected I guess. I’ve found that therapy doesn’t have to be with a specialist.
One of the best therapy sessions I have had was attending the first event of the Arizona Wakeboard Association on Saturday the 24th. To be out at
Danny Dean and fiancé, Natalie
|
the lake again with the people that helped my wakeboarding progress in the past, to be able to help out and ride in the boat again helped clear my mind of all that was wrong with my body. It helped me refocus on one of my goals, to be on the water again wakeboarding.
I’m still young and have so much to look forward to. My job is still waiting for me, my clothing company, Enemy of Evil, is up and running and the 17th of July (yes, this July) I will marry my beautiful fiancé, Natalie. We were just approved for a home loan and hope to find one soon.
I believe that I will recover 100%. I have seen so many that will never be able to say that these past few months. "Why me?" has become a phrase that I hope we all can avoid using in our lives, no matter how big or small the trial. I have been truly blessed throughout this trial and hope that I can always remember to never take anything for granted, like scratching my nose.
Return To WakeWorld News
|
