Hello all!  Ben has just completed the last of his expected surgeries for the foreseeable future and it feels like a big step for us.  Literally, we hope!  Ben had another follow-up ankle surgery last week, his post-op consultation yesterday, and next week will be the first time in THREE MONTHS that he will be cleared to put weight on both legs/ankles so he can begin to stand again.  

All of you know Ben and know how much he loves to move- running, hiking, skiing, biking, rafting, paddle boarding, pickle balling- so these three months have been a mental challenge for sure.  He's a menace in his power chair and we've been joking that all his years of playing MarioKart are finally paying off.  Before he gets back to ANY of those physical activities, we've got to get him standing and walking first.  That work starts next week, so any good thoughts you have for him are greatly appreciated.

Ben has been back to work part time and actually made a visit to campus a few weeks back. He's attending his research group meetings and is doing work with a few of the committees he serves on at UO. He continues to knock our socks off with his recovery and sense of humor.  I often see him during his appointments and he's got a twinkle in his eye and I know he's just cracked some sort of joke with one of the medical team.

Ben doesn't see himself as brave or as a hero, but I can tell you that there isn't a braver soul out there and isn't anyone with a better heart. Thank you for your love and encouragement because even heroes need support!