I wanted to take a moment to say thank you to everyone for participating in the 12 Days of Christmas for Ben. It has been a beautiful experience for all of us, especially Ben. He felt your love and it moved all of us in so many ways. THANK YOU! Here is a quick recap:… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: THANK YOU

I love traditions. When Ben and I first married, we really tried to create meaningful traditions with our children that they would enjoy, even when they were adults and had families of their own. Christmas caroling on Christmas Eve in our pajamas is one of our most cherished. For the past 24 years, we have… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 12

Recently, I had a conversation with a dear and treasured friend who said that he was having a tough time coming over to the house to visit Ben. I didn't understand at first until he shared his innermost feelings of loss and grief at seeing Ben's decline in person. I wish I could have wrapped… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 11

Several years after we were married, my Nana said, "you chose wisely". She was referring to my choice in a marriage partner. I don't remember the context of the conversation or what had happened to make her say it on that particular day, but I do recall how good it felt and I have been… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 10

Ben turned 46 this year. He's young. We had plans. We wanted to visit the majority of the 30 plus exchange students we have hosted from around the world. We wanted to buy an RV when our kids were all grown and take time to travel from each of their homes to visit them and… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 9

There is an old Proverb that says, "A joy that's shared is a joy made double." These challenges have been amazing for Ben and our family. We've been so touched by your shared joy, and we hope that your burdens have been just a bit lighter, too. XOXO, Bridget

We are over half-way through the 12 Days of Christmas for Ben and if we ended today, his heart would be full! But, I'm hoping you can give just a little bit more. We laughed and cried and laughed some more yesterday with all of the memories you shared of your families and of Ben.… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 7

I never could have imagined how amazing this 12 Days of Christmas would be! Ben has been so touched by your kindness, generosity, and love. Thank you for helping make this Christmas season the best one ever for him and our family. One of the challenges we have right now is getting his wheelchair adapted… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 6

Being active has always been a large part of Ben's life. He played volleyball multiple times a week in the park, coached youth sports (Optimist Football and both girls' and boys' volleyball), sang music, and participated in the many activities our children were part of. Losing the ability to participate as an individual first and… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 5

Someone once said, "Where words fail, music speaks", and in our home that couldn't be truer. This morning on our way to cheer practice before school, the girls and I were listening to Dear Evan Hansen's, "You Will Be Found." Needless to say, we hugged a little longer before they got out of the car.… Continue reading 12 Days of Christmas for Ben: DAY 4