I'm Back!

I haven’t really updated everyone in a while. Lots has happened this summer! I ended my intensive therapy, I got a job, and got something that I’m really looking forward to! I started working at Autumglo which is a pet boarding place in Fredonia. I enjoy hanging out with the cats and dogs. But what I’m most excited for is my new bike! It is electric and manual, has a basket in the front and back, is foldable, and tip proof! I saw someone at the Cedarburg Strawberry Festival event with one and after further research we thought it was the best option for me to be more independent. As I’m getting the bike in the next couple days I will be replacing my wheelchair with it for long distances. This bike will give me a whole new level of independence as I will be able to bike with my friends, bike camping, and so much more!

In these past few weeks I have gone on a mission trip with my church, camping with my mom’s family, and up north with the Schumakers. Enjoy the update!

Mission Trip:

A few weeks ago, I went on a mission trip that our church organized. We were headed to this farm in Hiram, Ohio, which was run by people on the autism spectrum. I was super excited because my mom grew up on a farm, and she always tells me stories about it. Plus, I’ve always loved animals and being outdoors, so working on a farm seemed awesome. We got up really early, piled into a bus with all our stuff, and set off on the eight-hour drive to Ohio. Every day, we had different tasks, like cleaning out the animal sheds, weeding the gardens, and planting crops. But honestly, hanging out with the animals was the best part. Feeding the chickens and watching the goats were definitely the highlights for me.

Working with the people on the spectrum was so cool. They were super dedicated, enthusiastic, and had such unique ways of looking at farm life.

We didn’t just do physical work, though—we also had some deep conversations, learning about each other's lives and sharing our own stories. The trip wasn’t just about working hard; it was about making friends and building relationships. In the evenings, we’d all sit around and talk about our day. Those moments were some of the best parts of the trip for me. By the end, I felt really accomplished and connected to everyone at the farm. The experience taught me a lot about hard work, community, and diversity. Leaving was kind of sad, but I knew the memories and lessons from this trip would stay with me forever.

On our last day, we went to Cedar Point Amusement Park, and I was excited because it would be my first time on roller coasters since my accident. I was feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as we got closer to the park. Cedar Point was amazing, with so many rides and attractions. Since I’d never been to an amusement park before, the size of Cedar Point blew me away. The roller coasters were definitely the best part. Even though I was nervous at first, I couldn’t stop smiling once I was on them. One of the most epic moments was riding the Gemini or the Power Tower Drop. As we climbed up the first hill, my heart was racing, but as soon as we dropped, all my worries disappeared, and I was just full of adrenaline. Sharing these moments with my friends made it even more special, and I’ll never forget this day.

Camping:

Since I got my new bike, which is both electric and can also be used manually, camping was so much more fun this year. Every year when we camp, we bike to get ice cream, ride along bike trails, and walk to the beach every day. Last year, we had to end that tradition, but this year, I was able to come along! The freedom of having an electric bike made all the difference—it was easier to keep up with everyone, and I could explore more without getting tired. As we went to the beach every day I enjoyed swimming and floating in the water especially when it was ice cold! We played football and frisbee in the water. One of my favorite things to do while camping is our hammock challenge, a game my cousins and I made up. Each of us is assigned our own hammock and is allowed to bring three objects, but no electronics are allowed. The goal is to stay in your hammock as long as possible without falling out. It’s a test of patience, balance, and creativity. As of this year, I won 2 out of the 3 rounds, with my longest time being 2 hours and 50 minutes. It’s such a fun way to pass the time and a challenge that we all look forward to every summer. As I am super competitive I am looking forward to winning every round next year!

Up North & Uncle Eli's cabin:

Every year my dads side of the family all goes up north in Minocqua. My favorite parts this year were jet skiing, fires, water trampoline, and hanging out with my cousins. I have about 36 cousins and 21 aunts and uncles which makes for a fun time when hanging out!

Another annual tradition is to go to my aunt & uncle's cabin. My friends and siblings & I play in the water, king of the raft & this year we got to use their jet ski! My goal next year is to be able to do the jet skis myself!

Overall, it has been a busy and fun summer! Look forward to more from me and join us walking for the Mel's Charities Fun Walk/Run in Sept.