Three years later...

Hey Everyone!

Three years ago today, I was injured in Big Bear, CA by a freak sledding accident. I landed on my back causing a dislocation at my T10/11 vertebras. I was told that I would never walk again, but today, because of your support and donations, I am proving them wrong.

I recently finished my first semester at the University of Southern California (Go Trojans!). I have always wanted to attend USC. My older sister is a graduate and I’m proud to continue the tradition. I am majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Psychology. I am balancing my time between school and therapy. When I first started the semester, I felt a wave of independence. I was now driving myself to school and living on my own. I have a one bedroom apartment two blocks from campus. I have classes Monday through Thursday and I attend therapy with Taylor Isaacs on Wednesdays from 2:30-4:30 pm and Project Walk on Fridays from 2:00-5:00 pm. I come home Thursday nights and spend the weekend with my family. I am also the Secretary for the Lebanese Club at USC. And yeah, I love watching the Trojans play football at the Coliseum. It is a dream come true!

Despite the busy schedule, I have been making significant improvements in my therapy. I continue to use my Ankle Foot Orthopedics (AFOs) to walk independently. I have graduated from the walker to forearm crutches. These crutches are the step in between a walker and a cane. When I first transitioned I could immediately feel a difference. They are less stable when compared to the walker. But as you all know, I enjoy a challenge! They allow me to stand taller and promote a more regular gait pattern of opposite leg to opposite arm. My other improvements include stable standing balance, the ability to do alternate knee bends on the Total Gym, and overall better control of my legs.

Click here to view my 3 year anniversary video

Looking back at the past three years, it has been an uphill battle. I wouldn’t be able to keep fighting without your support, I have made it this far because of my donors and angels. I am getting closer to my goal of walking without any assistance. My donations have decreased and in order to accomplish my goal, I need your continued help. I need to be able to continue my therapy. I know the economy is bad, but anything you can donate will help. Please donate at www.helpjenwalkagain.com to fund my fight to walk again.

Thank you!

God bless and love always,

Jen Bou Lahoud