Easter Seals Crystal Ball 2009

Here I am nearly ready for the annual Easter Seals Crystal Ball, 2-27-2009.

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<------- I'm completely ready for the annual Easter Seals Crystal Ball, 2009.

Easter Seals is a wonderful organization.

Easter Seals was pivotal in rehabilitation of my Traumatic Brain Injury.

Lynn and I attended the annual Crystal Ball for Easter Seals at the Hartford Marriott. I had my personal tux tailored. I looked good (please excuse me while I boast).

The tux jacket didn't need to be altered at all. I had the pant waist let out a bit. I already owned a bow tie so I bought a tux shirt. My appearance paled in comparison to Lynn. Look at her!!!!! Wow!!!



Many years had passed since I had worn my tux. I remember that I previously attempted to have my tux altered at a local men’s store . For many years I had bought my entire wardrobe there. A couple of years ago (after my accident) I was overweight. I was preparing to attend a formal event and I went to the same men's clothes store. The gracious store owner had sympathy and he comped a rental tux to me.

Welcome 2009

On 12/29/08 I drove a standard shift car when my long-time swimming friend, Bob (Mr. C), brought me out to lunch. It had been many years since I last drove a standard transmission car, and I did quite well (yet I did stall once).

Mr. C., has an interesting story related to the New Years date and I extract this from a recent email from him;

Here is the story of friend who provides Will Shortz with list of names new to news during each year. The program on which Shortz gives the quiz is the Sunday morning news on National Pub Radio... on a Sunday near end of year.

Anyway, about fifteen years ago, Will Shortz introduced an end-of-year news quiz in which he listed the names of people of whom most people hadn't heard the previous year. It struck me as being a good way to break the ice with my students upon returning after the Christmas holidays. Then it struck me that the faculty members might also enjoy it, so I ran off enough copies and put it in their mail slots. Pretty soon it grew into a tradition and my colleagues would tell me how much they enjoyed it, were embarrassed by how little they could remember, and looked forward to it every January.

Ten years ago I was all set with my cassette recorder and Will Shortz came up and ... horror of horrors, no people-puzzle, just a stupid game of categories. I went back to school with no quiz, and was almost lynched. I dashed off an SOS to Will Shortz and, bless him, he sent a list that he had been tinkering with but hadn't got round to broadcasting. My colleagues' appetites were satisfied, and we got on with the rest of the school year.

But at the back of my mind, I thought, if he can miss one year, he can miss another, and then where will I be? My solution was to collect names which I thought likely candidates and send them to him every year and see if he liked them. So I did. I waited by the radio late December 1989 and sure enough; the people-puzzle came on, and with it, on-air credit to me for compiling the names. I nearly fell out of bed!

In the last decade, he's only failed to use my list of names once, I suspect, because my email didn't get through. My friends and neighbors, who know I do this, sometimes suggest names for inclusion in the list, though I've usually beaten them to the punch.

So there you have it. A few seconds at a time, I'm gaining my fifteen minutes of fame. It's rather fun, actually.



1/18/09: Marley and Me (movie reviewed)
Last night we went to the theater and saw the movie ‘Marley and Me’. It is a fabulous, emotional movie. I read the book (see within Blog posting, "Comments about our recent move/Acknowledging how far I’ve come"). The movie did not deviate from the book. I cannot understand how this movie received any negative reviews. I have written before that I have difficulty getting emotional as a result of my TBI, yet I sobbed, embarrassing my family colleagues. Marley and me is the story of a Labrador mut, who's "The World's Worst Dog". Marley brings a family together, then ultimately dies. It's especially emotional for a dog owner/lover, that I am.

1/21/09 John (from New Jersey):
I wish I knew your e.m. address to have a discussion with you. I hope that I can give you encouragement and I wish you and your son the best. If you feel comfortable with having an email discussion with me, make another comment to my BLOG with your e.m. address included in it. I will not "publish" your comment, but, simply contact you via email.

2/22/09
John, let me clarify that if you make a comment with your email account in it, your comment will go directly to my email address. I will not publish your comment. Only I will see your email address.

Inauguration Day - Ballot Over the Bullet

A good friend went to D.C. for this truly memorable occasion. He photographed this scene, first-hand.

I volunteered at Gaylord hospital on Inauguration Day, 1/20/09. We watched some of the televised proceedings. U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) delivered the following welcome remarks during the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States.

..... “Those who doubt the supremacy of the ballot over the bullet can never diminish the power engendered by nonviolent struggles for justice and equality like the one that made this day possible.” .....

I believe that Dianne Feinstein's comment is a statement of strength in peaceful strategies. I did research on the WWW to acquire her quote, upon which, I was surprised at the widespread public attention directed at Dianne's remark.

TBI Recovery / Bicycling Progression Together

It helps me to stand back and put my recovery progress into perspective. These photos of me riding a bike accentuate my progress.

On July 25, 2007 I first rode a tandem bike with my friend, Phil, at Elizabeth Park, in West Hartford. On 9/19/2007 I was riding my bike with Fatwheels and by 5/19/2008 I rode a bike (alone) with my friend Al at the beach.

I welcome you to make a side-by-side comparison of the 7/25/2007 and 12/3/2008 photos and join me in the rediscovery of my life. The top photo is of me with Phil, taken recently on a bike ride along the CT river (and we climbed the infamous hill at Old Maids lane). If you wish to, please parse thru my BLOG to review the details of each posting. (Notice how chubby I was back in July 2007. It's difficult to comprehend that I was a competitive trathlete and marathoner in the past.)

I have donated my Fatwheels to Gaylord Hospital so that someone else can take advantage of them, as I did.

Our 27th anniversary: I exercised independance.

The entire day felt like old times, again. I acted independently. I planned and exercised time management skills. I researched the menu, bought the groceries, prepped the meal, cooked it, set the table, showered, and got all dressed up. I woke up and drove down to (the local) Gardiners market, where I bought a center-cut pork roast, the correct apples to make applesauce, and an anniversary card.

I swung by the local bakery for a couple of cinnamon buns, which we ate with the coffee that I made before I departed for the market. I brought Stella to run free at the Gazebo, and then I put on my apron and I became a chef. I prepared the applesauce, pork roast, potatoes, carrots and Brussels sprouts with walnuts. I even made a peanut butter passion desert.

Lynn cleaned out the fireplace and prepared the lumber. She left it ready to simply strike a match. After dinner I made a fire in the fireplace.

I've included a photo of the meal. (Notice Stella's head, in the background, below the platter.)

****** Appended 12/09/08 ********

We spent the weekend visiting our long-time friends and co-swimmers, John and Susy, who’ve bought (and relocated to) a lake house in Lee NH. We had a wonderful time. We let Stella run-free in their front yard, took a rugged hike at College Woods, visited the Christmas Dove shop, attended an open-house at an organic homeopathic shop, played card games, watched a UNH women’s hockey game, and swam at UNH. I’ve included some photos that document our weekend.

Easter Seals appreciation dinner

Lynn and I attended the Easter Seals appreciation dinner on Wednesday, November, 19, 2008. Lynn and I were the evening's speakers. I was the Easter Seals patient of the year, 2007. We did really well. I truly believe (and many attendees remarked) that we brought a personal aspect to the otherwise sterile fund raising activity.

When we arrived I spoke to the Easter Seals director of development. She asked me to make my address as personable as I could (i.e. to expose myself to the audience) and she warned me that not everyone had received a letter that I had previously penned to the donor community. That letter had some details about my history so I wrote the first paragraph during the cocktail hour before dinner. We spoke after dinner. Below is my prepared address, which I delivered mostly from memory.

I've been extremely nervous preparing to address you. In my past life, this event would have been nothing. I'll tell you what I mean by that. I've created a BLOG. For those of you who aren't familiar with a BLOG; a BLOG is a website. On my BLOG, there is a documentary film about me and my accident. In the documentary film, there is a scene of me addressing an audience, speaking Italian. Now, that is something to get nervous about. ......Avanti.....

I'm standing in front of you tonight
• as proof of the benefits provided by Easter Seals,
• to thank you for your past donations,
• and to reinforce the need to continue raising funds for Easter Seals.

In January, 2006, while working and living in Italy, I was in a serious car accident. That event changed my life forever. After three months in Italian hospitals, I took a stretcher flight back to the United States. I went directly to Gaylord Hospital. After seven weeks I returned home and I continued therapy as an out-patient at Easter Seals. I entered Easter Seals in a wheel chair and after nine months I was walking with only a cane. Today, I don't even use a cane. My progress was slow but steady due to the professional, dedicated therapists that worked with me.

My memory is poor but I fondly recall the outings we took that helped us regain normal lives, such as bowling, going out to lunch, and shopping. Easter Seals helped me to re-learn basic-but critical tasks, like following a recipe, placing a food order, dividing the bill, collecting money, and making change. Just this past March, Easter Seals helped me to reacquire my driver's license. I successfully passed on my first attempt and I now have my driver license which has helped me recover more of my independence.

As much as Easter Seals has helped my recovery from a traumatic brain injury, family support has been critical to my success. I'd like to introduce you to my number one care-giver, my best friend, my wife, Lynn.

At this point Lynn took over. She spoke from her heart, connected with the audience, and made a true impact. Lynn filled in the gaps about my career at United Technologies Corp., being persuaded to accept the consulting job in Italy, our life in Italy, the night of my accident, how I awoke from my coma in the Italian hospital and could no longer speak Italian, etc.

Lynn did an outstanding job.

Life at Our New Condo; Enjoying our dancing Cockapoo Run Free

Stella thoroughly enjoys running free at the condo and it gives me the opportunity to give her exercise when I might not otherwise be able to adequately exercise her, considering my physical disabilities. I've been bringing Stella to a community-shared area with a gazebo that's become an informal dog park, where various pet owners bring their pups to play together. Stella has many friends at the condo, some small like Stella (note Tucker and Abby) and others quite large (Haley). I have my method of being cautious while letting Stella run free; I keep her leash attached (notice Stella on the run with Haley laying next to her), but I let her run free, yet, I can easily secure Stella.

Stella now has many friends at our new condo. For a brain-injured person, these new, short-term, situations are challenging. For example, I have difficulty differentiating one dog’s appearance from another’s, but my limits are stretched to accurately remember the pets/owners names' and their related stories.
Stella gives us joy living here at our condo. There are so many reasons that we are thankful to have made the relocation from our large house to our condo, but that may be the subject of an entire novel.

****** Appended 11-30-08 *******

Haley Replaced Stella's Rubber Ball

Yesterday we received a note and a package in the mail. I opened the package and read the note,
---- Stella,
------ Sorry I ate your ball.
---- Hope to see you soon.
---- Haley

Haley is the large dog in the photo, eating Stella's rubber ball. I've added a photo of Stella with the large rubber ball / gift from Haley.

My daughter has encouraged me to create a BLOG just for Stella, but I object. My reasoning is that a dog cannot type (yet).

My progress continues

The other day, I made a bike ride with my long-time exercise friend, Lappie. In the past, Paul and I competed in triathlons and we biked/toured together. Riding with Paul again was special for me. We went to the ferry landing, climbed a serious hill (Old Maids lane) and back down, returned to the ferry landing again, then back up(hill) to the condo.

Paul sent an email to me the next day and he wrote that I am a regular guy and our bike ride felt like old times to him. I’m quite flattered.

Paul’s quite a character. He is in his mid-40’s. His wife’s in her early 40’s. Any day, they are expecting their first child. They have traveled quite a bit in the past. Paul is an avid mountain climber. In fact, this past Spring, he climbed Mount Denali in Alaska. I wish them the best in raising their baby.

****** Appended 11/30/08 ********

Complimenti, Sheila e Paulo Laps. Avete fate bene.
Chase Callahan LaPierre was born this morning at 6:15 a.m.
Chase weighed in at 8 pounds, 2 ounces. The whole family is doing well.

Today Stella is one year old.

Today is the first birthday for our puppy, Stella.
I first wrote about her when we got her last Christmas.
Do a search for Stella or Cockapoo and read more about her.

Buon compleanno cane.

Comments about our recent move/Acknowledging how far I’ve come

The new location that we live in is very quaint and picturesque. Lynn and I often take a bike ride on the back roads, along the CT river, and we include a demanding hill climb.

I have become very frustrated because I live with my progress on a daily basis versus getting a long perspective. It’s difficult for me to be patient. I prefer immediate results.

Children are so innocent and honest. We have to listen to their comments and appreciate what they are telling us.
We recently hosted the family of a friend, Eric, who provides massage on my left shoulder and also does cranial sacral massage.
In preparation for their visit, Eric had told his young son, Ethan, “Joe had an accident and Joe might not seem just right – you know his speech or how he walks”.
On the way home from dinner, Ethan said to Eric, “Dad, you know all that stuff you said about Joe? Well, I thought he looks totally normal”.

I am very self-conscious of my speech. I recently saw Gen, an acquaintance whom I hadn’t seen since my accident. Afterward, she wrote, in an email to me, that she has no problem understanding me, which gave me confidence about my speech.

Posted 9/21
On Saturday, 9/20, Lynn and I again biked to the ferry landing, we crossed the CT river and we split a cup of ice cream at a shop in Old Wethersfield, then we retraced our journey.

For the first time since I had my TBI I successfully completed a novel. I've had difficulty tracking the printed lines of text, but I found myself so captivated and interested by the story-line that I finished the novel, "Marley & Me", by John Grogan.

Another (post-TBI) first: I cried as I read this book. Crying is uncommon for me. A short time ago, it seemed that my tear ducts dried up, regardless of how sad that I felt.

I have also re-experienced the ability to break a sweat (and smelly at that) when I work out (e.g. ride my exercise bike). For a long time (~18 months) I could not exercise hard enough to break a sweat.

Recently, I went biking on the picturesque rural road that runs alongside the CT river while my friend Jeff rollerbladed. Jeff and I previously played volleyball together. Jeff is a mutual friend of Phil and we tried to arrange this bike ride together, as Jeff rollerbladed. In this instance we could not arrange a joint event. I hope that in the future we can arrange a joint ride because Phil is the very friend who brought me on my first (post-TBI) bike ride (on a tandem). I suspect that Phil will feel quite satisfied to visualize my progress since that tandem bike ride that we made some 5 months ago.

Appended 10/21/08

We recently when went to Hammonasett State park and I biked alone on the park road. Reading my BLOG helps me to keep a perspective on my progress. I rode a bike there with my friend Al, on May 19, 2008 for the first time since my TBI.

Before the TBI, I was a very good, passionate chef. Recently I’ve regained my interest in cooking food. I've been cooking pasta with sauces such as home-grown garden fresh basil and tomatoes with roasted peppers, and home made pizzas. Here’s some pizza photos:



When Lynn was on an errand out of the house and I was home alone, I took an 8 mile bike ride on a nearby country lane, that has a serious hill climb >80 ft of elevation that has become my tour mid-point. I repeated that ride 3 days in a row. Cautiously, I carried my cell phone in my bike jersey pocket. I called Lynn before I left, when I was putting my bike shoes on, and I called Lynn when I was safely back at home.

I have a good friend whom I previously did triathlons with. He owns a bike shop. He has offered me an opportunity to repair bikes in his shop. Relative to my previous career, this work may seem trivial, but I continue to make progress and I'm excited.

Successful Move

We recently sold our large (over 4,300 s.f.) federal colonial home, where we had lived for the previous 16 years, and we relocated to a condominium in a nearby town. Moving is a huge transition, but while suffering from a TBI, it’s especially disorienting. On one of the first evenings in our new condo I wandered into my daughter’s room and I asked her which room I was to sleep in. Now I can laugh about it, but at the time it was very upsetting.

On August 31, I made my first (post TBI) ferry crossing over the CT river with my bike. We rode into a local old town suburb and had coffee with my sister. Then we went to a local lake and I swam most of the way across the lake.

Lynn and I now, regularly, make a bike ride to the ferry landing. We continue along the CT river past many rural farms and make a hill climb. When we return, we must make a serious hill climb into the condo development. It's really quite incredible that I've progressed to the point that I'm riding a bike on public roads shared by cars.

My Latest Biking Adventure/Goodbye Fatwheels

Appended 11/15/08
I recently accepted an opportunity to volunteer at Gaylord Hospital, where I received some of my accident recovery therapy. Gaylord has a great, catchy motto; make Gaylord Hospital the best place to begin again.

I plan to donate my Fatwheels to Gaylord, so that someone who can benefit from them can use them. I'm really glad that I discovered them and I'm equally happy that I no longer need them. Goodbye Fatwheels!!!

I made a huge adventure (which demonstrated my recovery) this past weekend when my son, Paul, was home. He, Greg, and I made a bike ride from my home to Wickham Park in East Hartford. I used Google maps to record the mileage and I’ve plotted the topographic course of the final segment to assess the hill climb that I completed. The total bike ride measured 19 miles and the hill measures 100 feet in vertical change over a .54 mile distance. Not only is it a challenge to balance a bicycle, in general, but to climb a hill is quite an accomplishment. I climbed the hill without standing on my pedals (while remaining seated on my bike). It is quite often difficult to keep my recovery in perspective, but I’m still making large steps. I have to keep reminding myself that I was unable to walk and feed myself in the not so distant past. There’s a photo of me and Paul at the overlook of Wickham Park with the city of Hartford in the background.

On Saturday afternoon, 6/21, I rode my tri/road Klein bike (from which I recently removed the Fatwheels) up Line St. (that forms the Manchester/Glastonbury town line), as Lynn ran, and thus I have recaptured that former ability of riding/balancing a (fast) road bike. It was kind of hairy because the road shoe soles are quite hard and slippery (whereas the mountain bike shoe soles are soft rubber so they are easier to walk around in). I removed the pedals from my mountain bike and placed them on my Klein, so that now I can ride my Klein with mountain bike shoes. I'm recapturing my old life, one step at a time.!!!

Above, there I am, standing at the top of Sunset Ridge in East Hartford, on the bike path, with Hartford in the background.


Date: June 22, 2008;
Once again, I completed another big adventure today. My friend, Greg Best, and I made a bike ride from my house to the bike path that runs along side I-384 into East Hartford. We biked at least 18 miles. I rode my Gerry Fisher Big Sur mountain bike, with cleated bike shoes clipped-in to my pedals. We’ve decided to make this bike ride a weekly ritual and we invite any of our friends/supporters to join us at 9:30 a.m. We plan to meet at my house and depart/arrive there. You’re welcome to park at my house. Please call me for details. We documented the adventure with these photos.

Here I am (photographed by Greg) with a close-up on my pedal cleats and my clip-in pedals.

Here is a close-up of us on the bike path, standing at the top of Sunset Ridge, in East Hartford.

My first (post-TBI) bike ride adventure.

I made a HUGE adventure this morning. Greg (my friend) and I biked from my house, along the bike path, to East Hartford, for a total of 15 miles. I documented the trip with photos and there they are.

My therapist recently said to me “your biggest accomplishment is probably your last”, meaning that I’m extremely driven and I’m constantly expecting to surpass my previous goal. He’s begun helping me to deal with this personality trait. Many people have mentioned that they (secretly) thought that I would never again be on a bike in any form or manner. I am thrilled to be riding my bike (alone) again. His comment/analysis is true, however each new accomplishment helps to motivate me to persevere and continue improving.

Very quickly this personality trait takes precedent: very soon I'm going to bike ride on my other mountain bike, with clip-in pedals. It's actually more dangerous with sneakers in rat-trap pedals (such as on the orange Klein, shown above). Therefore, clipped-in pedals will be safer. The photo below shows that I've already achieved that goal. I should stuff a pair of sneakers into my biking jersey, so I can walk around when I stop pedaling.
Lynn (my wife) ran and I biked on a nearby street, so this photo (on my side street) doesn't indicate how far I've progressed (riding on a tree-lined street that traverses town property).


Again that personality trait emerges…… I (secretly) think; then, I'm going to bike ride on my Klein road bike. I've been removing my FATWHEELs from my Klein (which you can see on my BLOG, on the article titled ‘On the Road, Again’) and I’m now about ready to test it out.

I'm riding my bike again

I've been riding my bicycle, without FATWHEELs, up and down our street, to the cul-de-sac, to enjoy my freedom and to get some exercise. I am now pushing my independence and I have aspirations of making these bicycle rides more adventurous. Then I will truly test my independent spirit. It was quite liberating to make this bike ride on my own.

I rode Al's bicycle (without FATWHEELS) alone

I spent the weekend with my buddie, Al, and we went to Hammonasett Park and I made my inaugural SOLO bike rides (and we made many), in a very controlled environment.
Here are some photos (see, I even have proof). I'm real proud of myself.

The Kindness Center

On Sunday, May 04, Lynn and I attended a seminar held by The Kindness Center in Biddeford, ME and Lynn's friend, Michael Chase, who retired from professional photography to begin hosting The Kindness Center acknowledged my presence at the seminar. He has viewed my documentary and found it so inspirational that he has a link to it on his website. You can view the documentary via
http://www.thekindnesscenter.com/Friends.html.

Joe's Journey Feedback - transcending

This is a portion of a note that my son, Paul, received from a good friend's younger sister who is living in Spain. I was so touched by this comment that I am compelled to publish it.

"i have really enjoyed and gained quite a bit from the documentary and continue to check in on the blog and read the new posts. i falter words appropriate to use without sounding too sappy or trite but want it to be known how well done i think the documentary was and how each time watching it, it stays with me. im so glad to see/read as of late what a turn out the film has had...again, deservably so. just now i sat and watched it with my spanish roomates and while they dont speak english they definitely understood and took alot from it, more than you would think. i thought to share that because i think it brings further truth to how power(ful) it is; your faces, the music, the photos, they speak loudly on their own."

Charityfocus.org now plays Joe's Journey

Silas gave me another of his many gifts when he called me and reported that my fortune continues to improve. He told me that less than a week after being featured as the Karmatube video of the week, our documentary film is featured on http://www.dailygood.org/ or charityfocus.org. Please don't pinch me or I might snap out of this dream. It appears that I am inspiring many people.

The response has been no less than overwhelming. Responses keep flowing in fom http://www.dailygood.org/, from http://www.karmatube.com, from my BLOG, and even from Lynn's website.

Karmatube: Documentary Update

I really wish I could post on my BLOG all of the comments/replies that I've received about the availability of the documentary film on Karmatube, but that's not possible. Please accept my heartfelt, personal gratitude.

I'm Behind the Wheel Once Again

On my birthday, 3/18/08, I passed my driver evaluation and was authorized to resume driving. I have been given me a few valuable stipulations; limit my driving to familiar routes and eliminate distractions in the car (loud noises, music, engaging in conversations). YIPEE!! I hope to see ya on the road.


On Tuesday, 7/8, I drove ALONE to the Wirtalla's home to swim in their pool (we are good friends with them). It was my first SOLO driving experience since my accident!!! I am grateful that my family had faith in my abilities and that they allowed me this opportunity.

I’m (once again) stimulating my brain

I'm resuming my former activities. I pursued and received my Masters of Science in Electronic Commerce on-line from the University of Maryland, remotely. Now, I’ve just completed 2 non-credit college courses at the local community college, Manchester Community College. One course, Intro to Windows Vista was on-line. VISTA is the Microsoft Operating System that's now replacing Windows, so that I can better manage my new VISTA p/c. At the same time I completed an in-class course, Introduction to FrontPage, software for developing and maintaining webpages.

EnlightenNext Film Showcase 2-20-08: Event Reviewed

The following invitation was forwarded to me by Silas Hagerty, who filmed "Joe's Journey" the documentary about my recovery.


Dear Friends,
On December 5, 2007 a new movement in media was born. In the heart of NYC, a group of about 40 filmmakers, entrepreneurs, writers, actors, businesspeople, financiers and committed souls on the path of real and radical transformation in culture, came together around a vision of cohering a community of practitioners in media that together would define a new experience of cooperation, creativity, cultural development, innovation and sustainable change through all forms of media.
On February 20th, 2008, we will re-gather to showcase projects that inspire us, build creative collaborations, touch the heart and soul, and value what is of real value in consciousness and culture… and then see what happens!

This is an invitation to be a part of a movement in culture and consciousness that is authentic, cutting edge and makes a real difference. As we showcase filmmakers, projects, innovators in media and cutting edge models for financing, production and distribution, we additionally take the time to interact in an enlightened dialogue about what actually makes these projects evolutionary and powerful. In that, we are a learning and evolving community of media-makers out to make a measurable difference in the world.

This event is hosted by Tim Murphy with the support of EnlightenNext, a non-profit organization.

Please join us on Wednesday, February 20th, 2008
At the EnlightenNext Center in NYC
243 West 30th St, 11th Floor
6:30PM-10PM
*invited contribution of $10-25 for the value you will receive
No one will be turned away for declining the invitation, or a tight budget
Light refreshments and snacks served

Silas, Lynn (my wife), Paul (my son), and I went to NYC to attend this event. We showed the documentary film, which was extremely well-received by the audience. Then we fielded questions from the audience of ~60 people. It was very emotional, inspiring. and rewarding. Paul, fortunately, responded to the first question posed, which broke the ice and calmed my nerves.

A very astute observation was made quite frequently: brain injury is not the most significant aspect of the film. The strength of our family was a very clear topic conveyed in the film.

I was overwhelmed by the number of people who came up to me afterward that told me they were inspired by my story. It was a very emotional evening.

Today marks the 2-year anniversary....

**** Addended 2/27/08 ****
Related to what I note below, I saw my physiatrist on 2/5/08 and he started me on a med named Aricept to improve my cognition. It is typically prescribed to Alzheimer patients. To date, I've experienced no poor side effects. I feel as though there has been a fog lifted! He is waiting for me to confirm that I have experienced good results then he plans to administer Aricept in conjunction with another med. I look forward to commence this new med.

**** Addended 2/5/08 ****
Well, the bittersweet day passed. I went out to a celebration dinner with Lynn, Kate, and my M.I.L., Alyce, and it was very nice. Earlier in the day I, coincidentally, had an appointment with my physiatrist who paid me a remarkable comment (hence I will remark); he said "In my 15 years in practice you have made the fastest progress I have seen. Your motivation is unmatched." A STRONG STATEMENT, if I might say so.

**** Posted 1/31/08 ****
Well, it’s arrived.
Today is the 2 year anniversary of the auto-accident that nearly claimed my life, leaving me with a TBI and a "life interrupted". I want to verbalize so many thoughts that I have in my head, so expect to see this posting grow.
ENJOY LIFE!!! Smile ( ;^)

If you're wondering what are the daily activities of a man who 2 years ago suffered a "bad TBI" (then you probably don't have much to think about), I'll attempt to summarize the activities that make up my days. I'm probably not the average TBI survivor, so what I'm doing at the 2-year point may not be "typical".

I spend probably 3 or 4 partial-days at the gym/swimming pool trying to regain the fluidity of my strokes (and practicing one of my few exercise/activities that I'm still physically capable of). Simply the activities of preparing the equipment/toiletries and changing/showering are truly exhausting, in themselves.

Since it's wintertime in the NorthEast, I spend a bit of time collecting starter wood (and, if necessary, sawing or pruning) and tending our wood stove fire. But if it weren't winter, there'd be the lawn to cut, rake, and clean-up.

I've begun an on-line course at MCC (the local Community College) and soon after I'm enrolled in an in-class course. This coursework (and upkeep of my BLOG) exercise my reading/writing skills and thus I continually update my computer skills.

I actively keep the household financial matters in order and I keep-up with house maintenance.

I'm also scheduled to attend a driver reaction-time evaluation to resume automobile driving on my own. I remind you that I still have a valid drivers license (as scary as it seems). Regardless, I want to feel confident that I'm taking every precaution seriously.

Mille Grazie, Silas, per il nostro Documentario

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Silas Hagerty for all the efforts he volunteered to produce the documentary. I, also, want to thank Silas for his gift to me; a website, www.joedamon.com. Silas and I got to know each other quite well throughout the production of the documentary. He is very dedicated, generous, hard-working and talented individual. I can be sure of this: whatever Silas puts his mind to will be successful. I will be an honored guest of SmoothFeather.com (Silas’ “gift-economy” endeavor) in NYC on 2/20/08 for a film unveiling with ~50 guests and I’ll have a chance to meet the audience and address them.
Also, in Boston, in March, the film has been invited to enter a film festival, where it will compete. Lynn, Silas, and I will attend. Here's wishing you well, Silas!
My calendar is filling up!!

I will return to my stated Mission, which I have violated.

The Mision stated at the top of my BLOG is:.....

"This BLOG will keep folks current with news about my latest progress, thereby eliminating the need to send mass emails. You can come and go as you please."

I have been in violation of this mission. I have sent too many "mass emails", especially lately. I am Sorry. Please forgive me. I promise to concentrate on adhering to my stated mission.

I now have a Website

My friend, Silas Hagerty (the gifted, young man who directed the often-mentioned documentary about me) presented me with this gift and it's initial contents will automatically direct visitors here, to my BLOG.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly : A movie review

Yesterday (1-10-08) I saw a fabulous cinema “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly”.
I cannot express how strongly I was moved by this film. I was accompanied by the strongest person whom I know, Lynn, my wife. You MUST see it!! I cried uncontrollably (which I am physically incapable of). I enclose, here, a review copied from the local newspaper, The Hartford Courant.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Synopsis
In 1995 at the age of 43, Elle France editor Jean-Dominique Bauby suffered a stroke that paralyzed his entire body, except his left eye. Using that eye, he blinked out his memoir and eloquently described the aspects of his interior world, from the psychological torment of being trapped inside his body to his imagined stories from lands he had only visited in his mind.

The cinematography in this film was exceptional. Coming from someone who understands what it must feel like to be JD (yet the comparison stops there), one truly felt as though one had exchanged bodies, via the filming technique. In my humble opinion, one could truly sense the frustration of having lost the ability to communicate, while, in his mind, he knew very well what it should feel like to be a participant. One must truly be amazed by the determination and patience of JD and, in part, of his wife and of his speech therapist.

Stella, Our New Puppy!!

Breeder's photo of Stella before we purhased her (11/19/07).


Kate holding Stella (12/18/07).

Stella (Means star, in Italiano. She’s bilingual!!!!) has arrived!! We received Stella on December 18, at just 9 weeks of age. I’m completely unbiased, but she is BELLA!

We opted to wait until 8 weeks before accepting her from the breeder, to allow her to remain with her breeder to attend Puppy Pre-school (and graduate with a REAL diploma). Stella's birthday is 10-14-07. Now, she recognizes her name (only if spoken in Italiano) and the magic words “make Potty” (shush!!!). To say it mildly, we are in LOVE!



Kate, in her car, with Stella (12/18/07).

The following was found in Wikipedia to formally introduce readers to the type of dog we have purchased/acquired. As you will read below, Stella is a pure Cockapoo. Both her parents were Cockapoos!!


Cockapoo

The appearance of Cockapoos may vary
Alternative names
Cockapoo, Cockerpoo, Spoodle (AU)
Country of origin
United States

Classification and breed standards
Not recognized by any major kennel club
A Cockapoo (also called a Spoodle or Cockerpoo) is a hybrid dog, bred by crossing an American Cocker Spaniel (or English Cocker Spaniel) and a Poodle (in most cases the Miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle), or by breeding Cockapoo to Cockapoo.

History
Cockapoos have been known in the United States since around the 1940s. They have continued to increase in popularity, and many Cockapoos are now the result of breeding Cockapoo to Cockapoo rather than of a direct cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. Cockapoos have also become very popular in other countries. In Australia and Sweden, they are usually called Spoodles, and can be the result of mating either the American Cocker Spaniel or English Cocker Spaniel with a Poodle, or of breeding successive generations of Spoodles.

Health
Both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels can suffer from luxating patellas (loose knees) and progressive retinal atrophy, and dogs should be tested for these problems before breeding. Like many floppy-eared breeds, Cockapoos can be subject to ear infections, and it's important to keep their ears clean and dry. As with a lot of smaller dogs they tend to be quite long-lived, and it's not unusual for Cockapoos to live to 15 years of age or more.

Characteristics
Strictly speaking, the Cockapoo cannot be described as a purebred because it does not 'breed true'. In breeders' terms, 'breeding true' means that the pups of two mated specimens will have more consistently predictable characteristics, and will resemble both their parents, rather than exhibiting the varying characteristics of the dog breeds in their ancestries.
Breeders usually try to retain the smaller build of the American Cocker Spaniel, while retaining the wavy quality of the Poodle's coat. Like Poodles, they will usually need regular grooming, as well as clipping every couple of months.
There are currently three Cockapoo clubs in America that are working towards developing the Cockapoo by breeding successive generations, and establishing the Cockapoo as a recognized breed.

Giro di Vittoria

I coined the title-phrase Giro di Vittoria, meaning "tour of victory" and we proceeded in appropriate spirit.

We completed a 26 day trip to Italia, about which, I will post more detail and photos. Stay tuned!!

To begin the epic sory, here is an excerpt from an email that we sent to our Italian friends on September 5, 2007, before we left on our trip.
………………………------------------>>>>>>>
We arrive in Italia on 10, ottobre. We will be staying at a Bed and Breakfast called
Parteno .
The address is Lungomare Partenope 1
The phone # is (+39) 081.245.20.95
We remain there until 18, ottobre

We hope to visit with all our friends in Napoli during the 9 days we are there. We will have access to the internet while we are at the B&B. I have an old Italian cell phone and I hope to have that working while we are in Italy. I'm not sure if the old number will work. We will let you know.

We continue on to Minori, on the Amalfi coast for the weekend (19-21, ottobre)
We will then drive to Foggia on Monday, 22,ottobre and stay until Wednesday,
24, ottobre. It would be great to visit Joe's friends at Alenia while we are there.

We continue our journey to Chieti on 24, ottobre until Friday, 26 and we will stay with Lillian and Ernesto Orsini, who own the farmhouse that Paul and I stayed at while Joe was in the hospital at Villa Pini.

We then travel to Volterra and arrive on Saturday 27 and stay at our friend's Massimo and Inger, who own a farmhouse called Podere Fraggina, where we have stayed many times in the past.

Thursday, 1 novembre , we drive to Finale Ligure to visit Antonio Assereto and his family. His father, Roberto, hired Joe to work in Italy in 2004.

Monday, 5 novembre, we drive back to Roma and fly back to the USA on the 6th.

Ciao tutti, a presto!
Lynn and Joe…………………………------------------<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

We saw our good friends, Oreste and Cristiana who live(d) below us in our home (palazzo) for the 2 years that we lived in Napoli. They live(d) on the ground floor (which, in Italia, they refer to as “piano terra” and we lived on what the Italians refer to as “piano quattro”). They have 2 daughters, Giulia, who is now 4, and Laura, who is now 2. I had never before met Laura. Oreste is an engineer, who has begun his own firm, designing wind generators, to economically produce energy. Oreste just patented the design of his wind generators.

We also met Rosario, who I knew as a manager at the train-producer, Ansaldo Breda, which was one of my clients, and his wife, MariStella, and their sons, Rafaello and Marcello. Rosario had recently been promoted to the manufacturing chief (capo) of the Napoli factory.

To sum up the trip in a single word, BITTERSWEET. It was a VERY emotional experience, to say the least.

At the last minute, our son, Paul, also, was able to join us, too. Paul needed closure from his massive task of caring for me. Lynn and I seriously needed closure to this chapter of our lives.

***NEW POSTING****
We enjoyed a very relaxing stay recently at the Parteno B&B, along the bay in Napoli. We reserved the front (sea-side) room and we could easily walk or take the local city bus to nearly any Napoli location. Here is a wonderful photo (by my sweetheart, Lynn Damon) of a fresh-delivered morning capucino & breakfast (cafe e prima colazione pronto nel mattino) to make your mouth drool, with a view of the Bay of Napoli in the background.

Saul Raisin also suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury

If you know me personally or based on the content of my BLOG, such as the photo of me and Lappie riding my exercise bike in my basement, or from my BLOG posting “About Me”, or from the photo of me on my FatWheels training wheels, I am, obviously, a bicycling enthusiast. I am captivated by the story of Saul Raisin, featured in the October 2007 issue of Bicycling magazine, entitled "Yes, You are looking at a Miracle".

Saul was a 26 year old identified as a hopeful bicycling future-professional, but he endured a terrible crash and suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury. First, I strongly suggest that you find a copy of the Bicycling magazine and article noted above and read it. Second, I highly recommend that you visit Saul's website and read about how the TBI affected his life. The magazine is a one-time snapshot of his accident and his recovery. However, his website is an ongoing chronicle of the events of his life.

Or look at Dave shields website for Dave and Saul's book, Tour de Life. I received a Dave Shields' autographed copy of Tour de Life and a "Celebration of Life" bracelet (like the ones popularized by Lance Armstrong) as Christmas presents from dear friends of mine.

I've been reading Tour de Life and I've learned some astounding information about brain injury. Here is an excerpt that demonstrates this:

"Slow down Saul. Your manners are embarrassing," Yvonne said.
"The brain uses huge amounts of energy," Pat explained. "Repairing it requires lots of fuel. Metabolism can more than double for brain-injured patients. It's good that his appetite is so big."
Metabolism doubles? Saul normally ate three to four thousand calories a day. Could he really start putting away eight thousand calories every twenty-four hours. She put her hand on Pat's. "I can't tell you how refreshing it is to have someone explain simple things to me. For weeks I've been confused and terrified by my son's behavior. It makes a huge difference to know he's doing what should be expected."

Easter Seals' Medical Rehabilitation Patient of the year (2007)

I was awarded the 2007 Medical Rehabilitation Patient on Tuesday, September 13, 2007. I attended a Board of Directors meeting at Easter Seals, at the Windsor campus. It was quite formal. I was one of a few annual awards presented by John Longo, the chairman and the past president of Lynn’s (my wife’s) High School class (where she was, simultaneously, the Class Treasurer). Other awards were made to the “business partner” of the year, volunteer of the year, etc. We were individually presented with a wooden plaque and a floral arrangement (of mums) and we were treated to refreshments. Each honoree’s accomplishments were personalized and photographs, capturing the moment, were taken.

You have just read the culmination of a (far too long) story. The process began back ~September, 2007. I attach an email from

Mr. Bruce Wassung, BS, PTA
Director of Medical Rehabilitation
of
Easter Seals Greater Hartford Rehabilitation Center


that I received on Aug 31, 2007 @ 9:53 AM

……….
We cordially invite you to an Easter Seals staff meeting honoring staff members and patients we have had the privilege of working with this past year. You have been nominated as our "Patient of the Year". The meeting is at 4:00 p.m. on September 11th. Allen Gouse and I would also like to discuss volunteer options per your previous email after the meeting. Allen is very interested in utilizing your engineering background.
……….


I'm ecstatic and so very honored.
I only wish that my entire family could be co-honorees.

On the Road, Again

Some people, who know me well, may be curious about my ability to “re-learn” how to ride a bicycle again, with my impacted balance issues, but I have found the solution. I recently visited a favorite bike shop (from my old life), Pig Iron Sports in Glastonbury, and my buddy Billy (also the shop owner) recommended that I evaluate the product pictured here. I researched and purchased a set at www.fatwheeels.com . I installed it and I am in the process of executing a tiered plan for, again “feeling the wind in my face”. Below is an extract from the www.fatwheeels.com website……………

..>>>
Safety in bicycle riding should be a priority when choosing your equipment. Riders who have not yet developed an adequate sense of balance may choose to utilize training wheels to provide stability. During the learning process, and in some cases, throughout life, Fatwheels training wheels can make the difference between an active life and a sedentary one.
Fatwheels "Outriggers" for 24", 26", 27" and 700c bikes. Made in USA of Laser cut, TIG welded, aircraft quality aluminum mounting brackets, and "Skyway" brand fiberglass reinforced nylon wheels, this product mounts to the bike's frame and will carry heavy (up to 250LB) riders. Very strong and light. Price: $179.95 per pair with 12.5" wheels, $199.95 per pair with 16" wheels (plus shipping) ALL OUTRIGGER BRACKETS ARE NOW POWDER COATED BLACK. IT IS A VERY TOUGH, ATTRACTIVE (AND EXPENSIVE) FINISH!
<<<<……………………………..


In mid-September, my close friend, Lappie (pictured in this BLOG, below), installed my “training wheels” (the Outrigger product) on my Klein, ex-tri bike, and I went for a ride. It was so liberating!! I now have more freedom! I continue to utilize my carbon-fiber framed, Scott, on my trainer.

Cutting the Lawn : Feeling like a Real Man

As of this moment, I'm a Contributing Member of Society . Believe it or not, I just cut the grass, with my heavy-duty, walk-behind, 48", Giant-Vac mower. Before I cut the grass, I checked & topped-off the oil and I checked the gas level. Afterward, I hosed the grass-clippings from the mower and I washed the air-cleaner element with a water and detergent solution. Now, I'm going to take a nap. Buona Notte.

The Documentary Premiere

We had a very successful event, Friday, July 27, 2007, on the lawn, at our home, commemorating the premiere of a documentary, chronicling the life of a TBI patient (me, in this case). According to the forecast, there was the threat of a thunderstorm, but good luck prevailed and the weather remained perfect all night, highlighted by the moonrise of a nearly-full moon. With approximately 80 people in attendance, the film lasted about 20 minutes. Preceding the documentary, we showed Joe’s Progress, which Lynn had compiled of photos that she had taken, or, that she found in her collection, and following the documentary we viewed another documentary, also filmed by Silas Hagerty, chronicling the struggles of a paraplegic named Zack.

Adventure with Al 7-29-07

I gave Lynn the day-off from being my care-giver and spent the day, rekindling large segments of my former life, with the help of my dear friend, Al, who was (unknown to me) celebrating his Birthday. Lynn exchanged me, into Al’s care, in Durham, CT, and we proceeded to his home in Madison, picked up some gear, and went to the town marina, where he docks his NEW boat. We loaded our gear into his canoe, then, began the first mini-adventure, an on-the-water transfer to his new boat, then, we topped-off the fuel tanks and ate some fabulous lobster-rolls at…… Then we headed out to some of my old, favorite, fishing grounds. We fished, somewhat successfully. We geared-up with plugs (poppers and swimmers) and I was able to place my casts where I intended. I hooked and landed 2 striped bass. Then I was trusted to navigate his boat back to the marina, where we unloaded the gear, cleaned the boat, cleaned ourselves up, and loaded the gear into his car. He, then, proceeded to Hammonassett State Park, where I was allowed to drive his car through the parking lots and on the Park roads. I did quite well, but I was surprised at how much more difficult it was than I had imagined, mostly due to the reduced, fine-motor, skills of my left side (especially my left arm).

Construction/Renovations on our House and Property

I want to congratulate my son, Paul, who completed the design and build of our patio. He was patient and methodical. Lynn, actively photographed the evolution.
The design is comprised of 2 sections, a rectangle outside the existing sun-room, attached, via a small rectangular section, to a larger square section that contains the fire-bowl and a set of Adirondack chairs He prepared the entire base layer (removed the (previous) grass and soil, leveled the foundation, installed a paver retainer) and finished a large rectangle just outside the kitchen window and the sun-porch, laid the connecting segment to the outer (fire-pit) square and he finished that rectangle, too. We bought a NEW gas grill, some new cushions, a chase lounge, and a fire bowl with a removable, copper base and a ceramic-tiled lip. We cleaned the sun porch up a bit and assembled some Adirondack chairs and placed them on our new terrace and we installed a new water fountain in the sun porch. It's quite ZEN!!!




Further, my brother’s friend, Ryan, finished faux-painting the sun-porch and we completed the installation of a “lava-stone”, Sicilian style, table-top, which we brought back from Italy and mounted it to a (locally) custom-built wrought-iron base.

On Sunday night, 7/8, we christened our new patio and fire-bowl. It went real well! Our friends, Tim and Deb; and Susy and John were very impressed!
We thoroughly enjoy sitting on our terrace, having a cup of Java, and a bowl of frosted mini wheats.

Adventure III .... Riding my Bike on my Trainer

Today was the first time, since my knee (meniscus clean-up) surgery (on 6-11), that included a ride on my bike (a carbon-fiber Scott, 30-speed (a hub of 10 gears on the rear derailleur and 3 larger, drive-gears) on a trainer, instead of riding on my recumbent bike. I pedaled so vigorously (22 minutes) that I worked up quite a sweat. This (sweating) was a bit novel, not having worked up a sweat in more than a year.

Adventure II .... Camping in VT

We went “cushy-camping” in Groton, VT, with a group of photography comrades of my wife, Lynn’s, who have made this event an annual “happening” 2 weeks before July 4th. The terrain was a bit difficult with many tree-roots and loose stones. I survived the “challenge” and I appropriately nicknamed myself with the acronym ODMF (One Determined M@@**&F$$).

An Adventure Log!! Fishing in ACK (Nantucket)!

We flew out to Nantucket (ACK) Friday morning, instead of Thursday night, due to the local Thunderstorms. The flight was great, - very picturesque. We flew from Brainard Airport in Hartford to ACK, then we got picked up by our friend's parents and we drove to their great, modest, house on the South end of the island, Madaket. Saturday, we caught (raked) many clams and we had some great meals; linguine with clams, clam chowder. We went fishing Monday (though we got shut-out the previous two days). Casting with the right hand is strong, but reeling with the left hand has poor feel (lousy motor skills). I look forward to trying to perfect my fishing touch, in my old stomping grounds (Hammonasett, Duck Island, Kelsy Point)!!!

Monday, I caught 3 bluefish, from shore, alone (except Lynn clung to my shorts so that I would not loose my balance and fall in). We cooked up (Cajun) some fillets and served them as sandwiches!

Thanked the NKC church congregation for their prayers and support

On Sunday, June 17, 2007, I attended church service at North Kingston (RI) Congregational Church, near the home of my brother-in-law, Scott, his wife Sharon and their 3 boys (my nephews). S&S, some 1,5 years ago, had asked their congregation for their spiritual support. I attended church to allow the parishioners to meet me, the evidence of their thoughts and prayers.
The below text was prepared for delivery, but the portion I presented was limited to the BOLD, text.

…… Introduction by Scott Alemany, then I spoke….

There are many people here to whom I am indebted. Thanks to your generosity, having been requested by Scott & Sharon, to say prayers for me, their brother-in-law, whom many of you had never met. I am thrilled to get this opportunity to, personally, say "Thank-you". I can never express my gratitude. I can never say "thank-you" enough- for your thoughts and concerns. I am one fortunate soul to be standing here in front of you, today.
Thanks!!!!

The remainder was prepared, but, not presented……

Back in the days much closer to the accident, that caused my Traumatic Brain Injury, it felt as if I was in a dream state and I have a very poor memory of the details of those days. But, now, being somewhat recovered, I am much more aware of my surroundings and the reality of what actually occurred to me has taken-hold. I realize that the time will not come, when I awake from "this nightmare", but, everyday, I am, actually, living in "REALITY". Recovery has become a "double-edged sword", because I realize that I will "someday, but, not immediately" regain the "unfortunately superior" intelligence, that I can still remember, so well, that I can almost taste it. And the same can be said of my past athletic successes and my past ability to earn money.
Today, while I would like to maintain memories of the enjoyable times from my past, the same memories are also too painful because they haunt and terrorize me about how different life is today relative to "life before TBI".

Documentary Premiere (Planned for Release)

We have decided to host the documentary premiere (see Archived article, "Filming of A Documentary") here, on our lawn. We have scheduled a rain date in consideration of potential rainfall (inclement weather). We plan to hold the premiere at dusk, inviting attendees to bring their own picnic dinner and their own lawn chairs. The video will be projected onto a large screen, typically used for presentations. At this point the date has been set for Friday, July 27, with the rain date set for Sat. July 28. We plan to mail/email formal invitations, but if you do not hear from us, please contact me here!!!

We plan to return to Italia (to properly say "Ciao")

We plan to refresh our Italian language before we return to Italy in the Fall. We evaluated the programs offered by 2 language schools, Inlingua, and Berlitz. While I was employed at P&WA, I successfully took language lessons from Inlingua and my language skills progressed until I was nearly fluent, so I am a bit biased. We selected Inlingua over Berlitz based, mostly, on price. The Berlitz price was nearly double that of Inlingua, and the difference in the service and the quality of instruction does not warrant that discrepancy.

Do I Need More Suffering?

I had a knee arthroscopy surgery scheduled for Monday, June 11, 2007, to “clean-up” some “floating bodies”, such as cartilage and bone fragments. I hope that this surgery eliminates some of the intense pain I have been experiencing in that joint. I have had 2 previous arthroscopic surgeries on the same (left) knee. My training partner and triathlete friend, Dr. Dan Veltri, is doing this surgery and did one previously (about 2.5 years ago, although my memory is blank on this particular event) and he (Dr. Dan), having seen it, first-hand, before, is convinced that the current damage was exacerbated by the traffic accident that caused my TBI.

Living with a TBI - Updated 5/07/09

Here are some notes on what it’s like to be me.

-My "motor-skills" have noticeably SLOWED, especially on the "impacted" side /areas affected impacted during the TBI-causing accident (Left Side)
-My past life returns to me in flashbacks
-There are definite moments when my intelligence returns
-I’m frequently cold
-I have a memory of about 10 seconds in duration
-I have very little patience
-I behave as though one who experiences O.C.D. might (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
-I’m very irritable
-It feels as if I always have food stuck in my teeth
-I feel as though I’m experiencing life on the outside of a fishbowl, looking in
-I can't eat hard foods, such as crusty bread
-I can't eat "hot" food, both in temperature and spiciness
-I prefer to have food heated up in the microwave, not in the toaster
-It's quite easy for food to "go down the wrong pipe", making me cough
-My existence seems surreal
-I aggravate my friends/family and they, fortunately, tolerate me
-”Healing” is a double-edged sword; realizing my enormous improvements is marvelous, but realizing how much further that I can improve is overwhelming. I realize the differences between the “before TBI state” and the “after TBI state” and it's quite saddening.

Walking at the Race in the Park for Breast Cancer (Updated 6/21/07)

The day before Mothers Day, 5-12-07, the Race in the Park was held in New Britain. I over-trained to participate in the race (running laps at the track, entirely on my own) and I re-injured my left knee, so I had to compromise my goal of completing the 5K run and settling for the 1M walk, which I am very happy with. My friend, Al, has played such an active role in my running rehabilitation. I hope that this is not too shallow, but I owe him a big THANK-YOU. Also, Al struck my emotions when he made the presentation of his “week 600” plaque. I remember, so well, helping him to celebrate the 500th. In fact, I recently found photos commemorating that occasion, also with Al.!!! I cherish and value him as a friend who always sacrifices his own conditioning to be a part of mine.
In the previous week, I successfully ran a lap at the MHS running track with my friend, Al, who has been my buddy since our college days. We completed a lap, holding his arm to give me stability, in just 3 minutes, 55 seconds, after completing a lap just prior, completely solo, in just 4: 24. I was actually running, not merely walking fast, and it gave me a sense of accomplishment. It was especially significant to complete this milestone in the presence of Al, who has been my camping buddy since our UConn days and who credits me with introducing him to many competitive individual sports. In fact, one year ago, when Lynn heard about my serious accident, she called Al to inform him about my condition and he dissolved his sorrows while completing a run at Hammonasett State

You see, it was also significant to accomplish this milestone with Al, because we have shared a dream to commemorate our first, in 199x, road race together at the 5K Race for The Cure, in New Britain.

Another valuable thing happened Saturday. We (Lynn and I) met up with the race director, Beth Shluger, who knows me well, and she invited me to volunteer at the Glastonbury (Shamrock) Duathlon on Sunday, 5-20-07. This type of activity (giving back to the sport) has been a goal of mine. Last year, 2006, I volunteered at the Hartford Marathon, also directed by Beth, and I value the opportunities she provides me. I hope to see you out there!! Buona Fortuna!!

Quote of the week

Updated 3/26/08
"You must give up the life you had planned in order to have the life that is waiting for you." ......... Joseph Campbell

Updated 6/29/07
“I run because I’ve never been much of a car guy. I run because if I didn’t, I’d be sluggish and glum and spend too much time on the couch. I run to breathe the fresh air. I run to explore. I run to escape the ordinary.
“I run to honor my sister and unite my family. I run because it keeps me humble. I run for the finish line and to savor the trip along the way. I run to help those who can’t. I run because walking takes too long and I’d like to get a few things done this lifetime.
“I run because long after my footprints fade away, maybe I will have inspired a few to reject the easy path, hit the trails, put one foot in front of the other, and come to the same conclusion I did: I run because it always takes me where I want to go.”

......... excerpted from the Ultra Marathon Man by Dean Karnazes.

Filming of a Documentary

My son’s friend, Silas, visited with us from Monday, April 23, until Monday, April 30 to record a documentary film, about my injury, and, mostly, about the progress of my recovery. My hope is that the documentary serves the purpose of answering "what it’s like for me and my family to live with a Traumatic Brain Injury", to raise awareness of the severity of TBI, and to the under-diagnosis of potentially-serious injuries.
Silas is a graduate of the University of Vermont, attended a year of film school at the Maine Photographic Workshop, has worked professionally at MTV, and has recorded many non-profit film documentaries. His website can be viewed at www.smoothfeather.com. He will make several copies of the documentary on DVD and it will be more widely available on his website. We are planning to host a premier of the documentary, when it is released, and to donate all proceeds to a deserving charity.
Silas has also created a BLOG, http://smoothfeather.blogspot.com/ where he has placed a preview of the documentary he is producing about my recovery. Check it out, at your leisure!!
Please note the pointers to Silas’ web sites at the end of my BLOG under the section named, “Silas's film making website info”.

Participating in Yoga Class

We (Lynn and I) survived two Yoga classes at the town recreation department and I did well. My balance is a bit of a challenge and the routines certainly bring one’s flexibility to new heights.

Visit to Maryland for Easter

We went to visit Lynn’s sister’s family (Beth, Tom and 2 fine young adult children, Tommy and Annie), in Kensington, MD, for Easter from Friday, May 6 to Tuesday, May 10. We decided to fly down and back, instead of driving, as we have done many times before. We took advantage of my condition to utilize the benefits available to the disabled, such as use of a wheel chair in the airports and special rights for disabled visitors to the Smithsonian’s’. We had a great time. We visited both the air & space museum, near Dulles airport (not the more common one in the Smithsonian) and to one of the art exhibits. As part of our weekend, we partook in the religious service, at Beth’s church, Easter morning, we drove through nice neighborhoods to enjoy the famous Cherry blossoms, we played therapeutic games of Scrabble and of Ping-Pong and we attempted a run on the track around a nearby park.
When we were in a café during a lay-over in NJ, we met a nice gentleman, from Texas, who had overheard our conversation and was intrigued by the mention of my accident and had lived in Italy. He had, coincidently, served in the U.S. forces and had been stationed in Napoli. He was familiar with many of our old haunts and he went on to tell us that he has just 3 children, but now is the grandfather of some 14 grandchildren. At this point, the airline pilot we had met, Cameron, came back to our gate to provide to me his email address. I accepted it and I gave him the address of my BLOG, suggested that he check it out in the future, and said it was nice to meet him. When I had met Cameron, he had noticed the Triathlon Florida Ironman T-shirt that I was wearing, and he had struck up a conversation about competing in triathlon and had told me that he was in training to compete in the Lake Placid Ironman, in June of this year. I had told Cameron that I actually did not complete the Florida Ironman, but had a friend who had completed the event several times and had done Lake Placid several times. Thus, we agreed to share a common interest in Lake Placid. Cameron commented how remarkable my recovery was and commented that if I could possibly complete an Ironman in the future, that ABC might want to document my tale in one of their human-interest stories.

Veterans of Dance Class

We completed a continuing-education sponsored class in dance at the Bev Burton Dance Studio, and studied the Cha-Cha, the Waltz, the Foxtrot, and the Swing. It was a very big challenge of my mental capacity and of my balance ability. Completing this class has given me a new appreciation for the burden I am to my wife, Lynn. Sometimes I rely on her to support my balance troubles and to refresh the dance steps as we progressed. I hate to be such a burden to her, especially when I consider how simply I would have managed the same exercise in the past (prior to my accident).

Running a Maiden lap on The Track

Within the past week, I successfully ran a lap at the MHS running track with my friend, Al, who has been my buddy since our college days. We completed a lap, holding his arm to give me stability, in just 3 minutes, 55 seconds, after completing a lap prior, completely solo, in just 4: 24. I was actually running, not merely walking fast, and it gave me a sense of accomplishment. It was especially significant to complete this milestone in the presence of Al, who has been my camping buddy since our UConn days and who credits me with introducing him to many competitive individual sports. In fact, one year ago, when Lynn heard about my serious accident, she called Al to inform him about my condition and he dissolved his sorrows while completing a run at Hammonasett State

Our daughter, Kate, has quit smoking and has targeted the same race, The Race for The Cure 2007, to commence her formal running career. We hope to make The Race for The Cure 2007 a joint running event.

Swimming in Florida

We went to Orlando, Florida, on Saturday, March 24 and returned on Sunday, April 1. We stayed at a time-share condo of our friend(s)Susy (& John) Roberts, with the main focus being “to reacquaint myself with swimming”. It was certainly a success. The condo unit had a nice 25 meter pool, with lane lines, and we swam every day for early morning (freestyle) laps before the pool got crowded with kids. I brought my wetsuit to improve my flotation and to keep me warm (and my goggles and Lycra cap). I first did laps on Saturday, March 24, and only completed 1.5 laps, without a stop. On the second day, Sunday, March 25, I swam 11 laps. On Monday, March 26, the result was 20 laps. By Tuesday, March 27, my accomplishment was 30 laps, and by Saturday, April 1, I was up to 40 laps, or 1000 yards.