Port Removal and Rotary Bike Award

Ryan will have his port-a-cath removed this Monday (03/03) at 7:30AM - please agree with us for the surgeon to have steady hands and for Ryan to be covered with God's shield of protection during all of this. This is the "IV" that goes directly into Ryan's heart and where he has received his chemo, had blood taken, received blood, etc. this past year. This is a huge milestone and we are very happy, but it is still surgery and we have the normal anxieties (whatever that is :)). Ryan is very, very anxious about it all because he knows that from now one he will need an IV in his hand when he is sedated for MRI's or when they need to check his blood - he has very vivid memories of that first IV - not good ones either. Ryan has a cold or sinus infection or something going on - so pray that doesn't cause any bumps in the road.

Now for the Rotary Bicycle Awards - I wanted to share with you what Addie and Ryan's teachers wrote about each of them ...... yep, I'm going to brag on them a bit.

Addie's written by Mr. Ippolito (her extended resource teacher):

The student I am nominating is a child who will always have to overcome adversity for the rest of her life. This student is an absolute joy to be around and her infectious personality and smile can only bring joy to others around her!
This student has accomplished many academics and social goals which have been set for her over the years. Although this student may not always be able to "give back to the community" in the classic definition of those words, she always gives love, respect, happiness and a general feeling of angelic "goodness" to those who are fortunate enough to be around her. (She just makes you feel happy to be around such sincere innocence). Therefore, she does help someone in need (daily) just by being in her presence and putting you in a good mood.
In closing, this student is a good candidate for this bicycle award because of the adversity she will always have to overcome in her lifetime. Let's give her some joy just as she gives back to us on a daily basis!

Ryan's written by Ms. Shannon

Although faced with life altering situations, this child's spirit has remained undaunted! He has faced treatments for a brain tumor with unwavering strength, like a warrior. I don't want this child to receive the bicycle because he has battled cancer. I want him to have the honor based on his personality, spirit, citizenship, kindness and caring.
His attitude about life, school, and learning has inspired me consistently through this year. With weakened motor skills, this child needs extra time to complete work in class, but never complains or asks for special favors, never making excuses. He always finishes each task with determination and perseverance. As we walk in the gym each day, he particiipates fully and completely, never quitting or slowing down. On the playground, he runs and enjoys the freedom, as though he hasn't a care in the world. He is open and honest with an exceptional sense of humor. He never hesitates to share with other students when they need help or materials. He is patient and kind to everyone, often including those who may feel left out, never hurting others' feelings.
Many of us could learn a lesson from this amazing child. He takes each day as comes, grateful for all that he has and all of the opportunities; yet, he takes no ones kindness and generosity for granted.
Someday, I hope that this child will know and understand what an amazing blessing he is and how much his attitude and spirit has brought to my life! On days that I questioned why I was here and what good I did for these children, he answered with a positive "can do" outlook and energy. He is a bright ray of sunshine and I am blessed to have the opportunity to work with him each day!


Yes.... I am sitting here in puddles and can barely see the computer screen ..... how blessed I am to get to be their mommy - what a privilege, what a incredible gift from Him Addie and Ryan are. You know the saying "God only gives special children to special people" - well, I'll let you in on a little secret, most of us who have children with special needs don't really like hearing that :) - you see, we completely understand that just as we were chosen by God for them .... they too were chosen by Him for us ..... they aren't just sitting around up in heaven labeled "broken baby" and then He has to find the family who can "handle" it ..... it doesn't work that way ..... they were knitted together exactly as they are to be .... He created them with just as much care as any other child ..... life teaches you that it is more about you needing them, than them needing you .... He gives us what we need.

Thanks for letting me brag on these two sweeties. A special thanks to the Sumner County Rotary Club - they generously donate these bicycles!! We are so blessed to have such incredible teachers ...... I'm sure many feel like Ms. Shannon stated and often wonder if they are making a difference ..... well, for the Carrigan family - that would be a YES!! I think most of our teachers see their job as a mission (as we all should really) ..... yep, we are more than blessed.