My nephew just had a shunt...

needforspeed

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installed(?) behind his right eye to relieve pressure on a cyst. The cyst has formed on part of his optic nerve so they can't remove it completely. When fluid builds up, it causes loss of vision, headaches, and seizures. This is the third time in 2 years that he's had what amounts to brain surgery. He came home today and he's doing pretty good.

What absolutely breaks my heart is this: he's a natural athlete, but because of the seizure risk, he's restricted from sports. He showed tremendous promise as an outfielder who could hit for average as well as power. He's 6'4", weighs 245 lbs and wears size 17 shoes. It would kill most guys to have that kind of size and not be able to participate in contact sports.

So, how does he cope with the sports restriction? He plays in the band. Keyboards, drums, guitar, bass. And he encourages others who face difficulties. He volunteered his time in places like Pass Christian, Mississippi, delivering supplies to victims of Katrina. Even though his own home had nearly been destroyed by another Gulf Coast hurricane. He tutors other students in science and math. His newly rebuilt home has become a safe haven for kids who are struggling with all manner of issues. I'm very proud of him and today I'm concerned for his health. But when I'm tempted to have a pity party for myself because life rained on my parade, I think of my nephew, Tony. He's living proof that when life gives you lemons, you can make lemon bars and sell them at a benefit bake sale.;)
 

28bringinthewood

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Wow! Very inspiring story. You are right... he must come from good stock! :)

Seriously... thanks for sharing! I wish him all the best!
 

the kid 05

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MichellesMan;1448889 said:
He's 17. Soon to be 18.

get him a chopper so you three (him, u , and his pops) can go for a ride and go fishing :) just a thought
 

needforspeed

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the kid 05;1450999 said:
get him a chopper so you three (him, u , and his pops) can go for a ride and go fishing :) just a thought

His dad has been experiencing bike envy ever since I bought that Kawasaki. :D

Seriously, they live in FL. I live in IA. Good ride, but I wouldn't want to do it very often.
 

the kid 05

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MichellesMan;1451065 said:
His dad has been experiencing bike envy ever since I bought that Kawasaki. :D

Seriously, they live in FL. I live in IA. Good ride, but I wouldn't want to do it very often.

wow, thats a kawasaki? its good to see they dont only do pocket rockets, very sharp looking.
 

needforspeed

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the kid 05;1451124 said:
wow, thats a kawasaki? its good to see they dont only do pocket rockets, very sharp looking.

Thank you. It was my birthday present to myself.

Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic
fuel injected
shaft drive
front dual disc brakes
air-adjustable shocks
1600 cc V-twin (rubber mounted)
hydraulic-assisted clutch
4" slash-cut exhaust pipes with baffles
 
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