Bobby

Bobby's Journey - A story of overcoming the odds.2002 This was Bobby's senior year. He loved to run! He was X-County co-capt. He set the school Track record in the 3200-meter and qualified for "States" twice. He also enjoyed woodworking and cooking. Family, friends, teachers, and coaches happily received carefully crafted gifts from him. 2003 His passions for running continued after graduation and he joined the Bryn Mawr Running Club. Over time, it became clear that something was affecting him. Even so, on May 11th, he joined over 34,000 other participants in "The Race for the Cure", and finished 6th in the 15-19 year-old division of the race. A doctor's appointment, the next day, resulted in tests that would pave the way for the biggest challenge of his life. He had a rare malignant tumor and his spine. It's removal required surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. His road to recovery began with physical therapy. Then he fell, resulting in yet another operation at the original site. This time, he was told that he might never walk again. Bobby looked at that as a challenge and, again, began physical and occupational therapies as soon as possible. He added fine motor practice and more strength-training to his schedule. 2004 He achieved his first goal; to leave his wheelchair and walk! Using only crutches, he walked past his suprised doctor! He became interested in digital photography, surprising family and friends with his wonderful photgraphs. 2005 Bobby continued to work hard, making crafts and strength-training. He left his crutches behind for a cane! 2006 As he learned new skills in graphic design, he began turning his photographs into works of art. He also had a successful craft show. This year, he also reached another milestone; he walked into the gym without his cane! 2007 This year is another year of new opportunities and goals. Most of the time, he walks without his cane, except for long walks. Everywhere Bobby goes - to the gym, to church, on vacation, to visit his brother on an Army base, backstage at American Idol Tour Concerts, to visit friends, or relaxing in his yard with his dogs (his pug and the family boxer), he continues to bring a smile and a word of encouragement to everyone he meets. At the 2007 Pottstown Relay for Life, Bobby made the whole survivor lap without his cane!His motto says it all: "Never give up! You don't know what you can do until you try!"