Our first few weeks at Craig

Hi all,

The first three weeks at Craig have been even more than we could have hoped for. The days here are filled with hard work (lots of it :)), positivity, and progress - all wrapped within a wonderful community. We’ve been surprised and grateful, both by how attentive, knowledgable and upbeat the staff are and by the optimism and openness of the other patients. Everyone here is working relentlessly towards recovery, or supporting those who are, and it is truly inspiring.

Justin has been working very hard every day and has made tremendous progress learning how to live with his injury. His doctor team continues to be impressed by his fervor for pushing his limits, and have quickly learned about his competitive nature. He spends ~4-6 hours every day working out - in physical therapy, occupational therapy, group fitness classes, wheelchair classes, mat classes, and his own supplementary gym time, etc.. Tomorrow he will be in the pool for a workout for the first time!

He’s been taking advantage of the recreational therapy programs here, and has been able to get off-campus to participate in a number of fun activities. He’s been to archery, visited a cross-fit studio and notably has gotten into adaptive biking. He’s even considering joining the big race coming up, Pedal 4 Possible, in June (https://craighospital.org/pedal4possible).

Below are some highlight photos from our time here. We hope you enjoy and plan to post again soon!

<3 KT

Justin in a standing frame during physical therapy, which helps get weight on his leg bones

Justin and his parents riding adaptive bikes with the therapeutic recreation department!

Justin meeting Kevin Ogar, a world class CrossFit and power lifting athlete, Craig Hospital Alumni and owner of a local CrossFit gym (he has one heck of a story)

Justin getting ready for mother’s day (For those of you who know Randi, you know we could write an entire post about what an amazing and devoted mother she is and has continued to be during this time. Oh, and for those of you who know Larry, he was definitely the one in charge of the steaks and lobster tails :))

JP and KT date night