You are loved by Thumbuddy Special!!
In the news! On January 27th, TS received the “Excellence in Service” Award from the Illinois Therapeutic Recreational Section at the Hyatt in Chicago during Illinois Park Recreation Association Convention. It was a wonderful honor receiving this award, from our friends that we love to support, Special Recreation. We were nominated by Marianne Birko the Director of West Suburban Special Recreation Association. You may read all about it in the local Tribune section by clicking on the link below….
This past month TS spread the love with the purchase of 2 adapted bikes. Our friend Suraj, who received a bike 2 years ago, donated his used bike back to TS because he grew a foot in the past 2 years. Suraj received a new LARGER adapted bike.
Our friend, Mario also received a new bike. Here is his story from his therapist at Christ Hospital….
While biking home from school on a Friday afternoon just weeks before graduation from eighth grade, Mario was the victim of a hit and run motor vehicle accident. He sustained multiple, severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and many broken bones. Mario remained in a coma for 6 weeks and many days the medical team was unsure he would live through the day. Amazingly, Mario, against all odds, slowly awoke and began the toughest fight of his life. He could not breathe on his own, he had a tube to feed him, he could not walk or talk and he struggled with paralysis. Mario wore a helmet to protect his brain where a portion of his skull had been removed in the craniectomy necessary to save his life. Mario fought. Mom and brothers prayed. After a 5 month hospital stay and extensive rehabilitation, Mario was able to leave the hospital with the aid of a walker and wheelchair and begin the next phase of recovery at a day rehabilitation center.
Almost 2 years later, Mario was blessed with his first opportunity to experience the joy and freedom of a wonderful bike ride…at the Cycling for Hope event held at Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital. The smiles on his face were only surpassed by the tears of joy in his mother’s eyes. All Mario has known for a few years are painful tubes and procedures. His gracious spirit gushed with thank you and hugs when it was over. We are all better people because we shared in the life story of Mario. Thank you for your time and interest in learning about this champion!
Kathleen
I can’t think of a more deserving kid to purchase a bike for, you go Mario!!
Don’t forget the Carlucci Night is fast approaching! Saturday, March 2nd. We are in need of raffle prizes and silent auction items. Hope you will join us for a wonderful night out on the town! I attached the flier.
Sorry for the longer post, I thought you would enjoy this amazing story of Mario.
Can’t write how crazy Blessed we are to be in a position to give of ourselves with genuine love.
May God continue to Bless you and your family,
Mary Ellen
President of Thumbuddy Special