Hall Pass

We now are in our 9th week at the Shepherd Center and Matt continues to show progress in his rehabilitation. Over the last three weeks he has had a steady stream of visitors in addition to celebrating his 16th Birthday on April 11th. He has had cousins, aunts and uncles, friends and his Grandfather make the trip to Atlanta and these visits are a great source of strength and inspiration for Matt. He feeds off the visits from friends and family and the results are obvious. I wish you could all see in person how far Matt has come in such a short time. He has been eating constantly and that has made him much stronger and getting stronger has allowed to him to breathe more and more on his own. I am happy to report that just last night matt slept through the night breathing on his own and he is very close to getting off the vent for good and having his traech removed! A huge step forward! In addition, because he is eating so well, they are getting ready to remove his G-tube (feeding tube)!

Most important is his mindset. It has been amazing to see the change in his focus on his situation. He has moved away from the shock and sadness of his situation and is focused on his recovery. His personality, sense of humor and demeanor are back and he is so full of energy each day. He has said "he will fight everyday" to get better and that "he will skate again"! His determination, strength and resolve are truly inspiring! We are so proud of him!

One exciting piece of news - Bobby Farrelly (Director of Dumb and Dumber, Something About Mary, Fever Pitch) and his Co-Producer Kris Meyer , both Boston guys) stopped in to see Matt on his Birthday. They are in Atlanta filming their new movie Hall Pass with Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikis, Jenna Fischer and Chistina Appelgate. During their visit they invited Matt to come to the set. So this past Monday we traveled to the set and they used Matt as an extra in one of the scenes. Matt will be in the movie and be listed in the credits. Matt had such a great day and the Farrely Brothers, Kris and the entire crew could not have been more gracious to us. A big thrill for all of us and our thanks to them for their generosity!(see picture)

We'll keep you posted on Matt's progress and please continue to keep Matt in your prayers!

Michael