Tonight's picture was taken in May of 2009. Despite the fact that Mattie couldn't walk independently, he was inspired to use tape. He literally taped Linda (his child life specialist) to the chair. It was actually a clever activity, because in the process of doing this, Mattie got his body moving, and in essence was doing physical therapy. Linda and Anna (Mattie's physical therapist) always thought outside of the box when helping Mattie. They knew they had to intrigue and motivate Mattie to participate in physical therapy, because gross motor movements were painful for him. All of this happened almost 8 years ago, but it is these psychosocial moments and human connections you remember forever.
Quote of the day: There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up. ~ John Holmes
We started this item drive six years ago and time it with Mattie's birthday. I did this purposefully because it accomplishes two things: 1) it reminds people of Mattie's life and legacy, and 2) we collect gifts for Mattie's birthday that will benefit other families coping with childhood cancer.
All these items will help stock the Mattie Miracle Snack/Item Cart at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Our new cart at Children's Hospital at Sinai, isn't ready to receive such items yet, but in time we will be contributing toiletries to two hospitals. But why did we establish the Mattie Miracle carts?
When Mattie was battling cancer, our community support network provided all three of us with meals EVERY DAY for over a year. It did not matter whether we were in the hospital or at home, the items came to us. As time progressed with Mattie's battle, and it was indeed a battle, our community not only provided meals but brought us coffee, tea, and for me.... CHOCOLATE. I liked chocolate before Mattie's cancer diagnosis, but my chocolate addiction occurred during his treatment. Some people pop pills or drink, I pop chocolate. After Mattie died, I felt it would be a wonderful thing to be able to continue the tradition our support community established with us, but do it on a large scale. So the Snack/Item carts were born!!! Born out of tradition and the memory of a community who stood by us and supported us for more than 365 days!
1 comment:
Vicki,
I just love the picture of Mattie taping Linda to the chair. I love the intent look on his face. It is true, if one works hard enough and is willing and able to think outside the box, children will find their way to being interested. I am glad., Mattie had wonderful people working with him!!!
You know how I love your carts and its' mission. It is an enormous accomplishment !
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