When we moved to Salem 26 years ago, we immediately felt at home in our small town. It was important to us that our family be a part of a community. In August of 2012 we found out the difference between being a part of a community and belonging to a community. Many of you know about the tragic accident that took our son’s Aaron’s life and left our other son Steven with a traumatic brain injury. It was during this life-changing crisis that our community joined together and without being asked, took care of their own.
When we received the devastating news of the accident in the early hours of August 13, 2012, we left our home not knowing when we would return. We were in no condition to think about all that would be needed in the hours, days, weeks and months that followed. That’s where our community of family & friends; old and new came to our rescue. Our home was taken care of inside and out. Our four boys were loved. Fundraisers were planned. Care packages were delivered. Many times, my husband Carlan and I would discuss a need and before being voiced, it was met. As we approach the five-year anniversary, we have the assurance of knowing if we publicly shared a need, it would be met by you…our community!
There is no way in our lifetime that we can personally thank everyone that played an integral part in our journey. We sincerely thank Shawn at the Salem Times Register for helping us spread a community-wide thank you. If we attempted to name names, we would miserably fail. You know who you are, you have impacted our lives in a way that we can never repay. Family, friends, churches, healthcare professionals, our employers (past and present), good Samaritans, the list goes on…you have in the past, and continue to remind us that we are not alone.
Despite the numerous major surgeries, years of physical and occupational therapy, balancing college and work, Steven has gone above and beyond to keep the promise he made to his brother Aaron to never give up. Carlan and I have proudly watched in awe as Steven has made his comeback. He is an inspiration to everyone that has the privilege of knowing him. Steven is a daily reminder of God’s healing hand. On those challenging days when I just don’t think I can take another step, I remind myself of all that Steven has been through physically and emotionally…that puts everything into perspective and keeps me going! His heart is full of compassion for others, especially for those that are hurting.
At this season in our life, our parenting role is very different than what we planned. God had a different plan, it’s not a plan that we understand, but we trust Him to give us strength and wisdom each day to honor Aaron’s brief, but beautiful life coupled with celebrating Steven’s recovery and cheer him on as he reaches each established goal.
Thank you for traveling along with us on this roller-coaster journey. You have an open invitation to stay the course, as we know God isn’t finished yet.
-Norma Myers
