Minnesota Twins . . . Here He Comes!

Amazing news came to us early this week - Wyatt was nominated for an award sponsored by KARE 11, MN Twins, Courage Center, Dairy Queen and some other companies and WON! The award is called "Be a Fan of Courage" and he was nominated by one of his teachers, Mrs. Sue Baker.

Here is what she wrote titled, "My Hero":
"The little person that shows enormous courage every day is one of my special needs students - Wyatt! When he was born there were complications at birth and his right side is very impaired. He was also left unable to speak but through using some sign language, gestures, facial expressions and his GoTalk, the little guy gets his needs met!! He engages everyone he meets with a smile from ear to ear! He never gives up! His parents give him every opportunity life has to offer. He recently was given a special bicycle and we wondered if he would be able to pedal...The first night he rode it, he rode for over 1 hour non-stop with the biggest smile on his face you've ever seen. (I have a picture!) He is very athletic throwing balls with his left hand - he is accurate and strong! I love this little guy because he gives 100% to every situation and along the way takes us all with him. I have taught Special Education for 15 years and this little guy is and always will be close to my heart!! I want to nominate him because he defines courage in a way I never knew before. Go, Wyatt!!!"

When we were contacted, we were told that Sue's letter overwhelmingly touched the hearts of the selection committee and they were happy to inform us that Wyatt had been selected as this years "Be a Fan of Courage Winner"!

So what does Wyatt receive as this year's winner?
1. One year worth of Dilly Bars from Dairy Queen - yum!!
&
2. He get’s to throw out the FIRST PITCH at the Minnesota Twins Game on Saturday, July 31st.

The Courage Center is also hosting a 5k Walk, Run, Stroll that same morning. We are asking friends and family to help Wyatt and his family "give-back" to the organizations that have sponsored this award. If you are able to join us for the walk - great! If not, you can still support Wyatt by sponsoring him with a general donation. Remember, every little bit will help.

Our team name is 'A Wish 4 Wyatt'. You may register for the walk or make your general donation at:
http://5kyourway.kintera.org/faf/home/waiver.asp?ievent=421912&lis=0&kntae421912=D60C047D720840FA9FEEF8165D170DAE


Go Twins!

Friday, July 2nd

This is our last day in Germany before we start our journey back to Minnesota. Wyatt woke up hungry and full of energy. Thank goodness his side effects were short lived. All in all the trip went very well and now we just need to be patient and continue working with Wyatt to ensure that he can continue to thrive and make the most of his latest procedure.
We decided to spend our last day on the Rhine River. This was one of our favorite spots in Dusseldorf during our last trip. It was a beautiful day and we decided to take a two hour trip on the river.



The tower behind Grandpa is called the Rhine Tower. This is a communication tower and was built in the late 70's. Part of the tower is open to the public and has a restaurant. Beings I am not to fond of heights, we did not venture to the top. Maybe next time?!



The bridge structures along the Rhine are amazing and look like pieces of artwork - very cool!

Once we got back from the trip on the river, we sat at an outside cafe and watched the soccer game. Wyatt loved this as well and you can see him dancing after Holland scored!



We ended the day by walking through Alt Stadt (Old Town) to do some last minute souvenior hunting. Wyatt is an amazing little boy and I feel so lucky to be his mom. He teaches me many things everyday and my wish for him is that I can do the same for him. Afterall, it is the least I can do . . . .

Time to catch up . . .

Wyatt's re-implantation procedure was set for July 1st, 2010. Dwight stayed close by every step of the way which helped keep Wyatt (& mom) calm. Once Wyatt was put under and I made it back out to the waiting room, the procedure took a mere 6 minutes for the doctor. I was amazed on how quick they work, we were on the next floor in the recovery room within another 10 minutes.



I am so thankful that I brought Wyatt's DVD player and some of his favorite movies. The longer that he can stay still, the quicker that he should recover from the anesthesia.



Some of the side effects that are possible are headache, vomiting and leg pain. When we were in the hospital, Wyatt ate very good and kept everything down. Once we were discharged, I wanted Wyatt to get some more rest in our hotel room. He rested for just a bit and was getting antsy. We decided to take a bus and do a little shopping. He started complaining of a headache and kept grabbing his leg. A few minutes later he threw up. I ended up carrying him back to the hotel (whew!) and that's were we stayed until the morning. He is such a little trooper!