Victory Moments

There are some days where it’s too much to feel like the day has been a win (or even a draw). Instead, I’ve been trying to identify important occasions or situations that are wins and last week, I dubbed them “victory moments.” We’ve had quite a few in the last 10 days. 

I know this update has been awhile in coming: spring break delayed its writing and sending. And believe it or not, March 22 marked 6 weeks since David’s accident. Longest 6 weeks ever. 

Thankfully, after 2 weeks of 💩(dating back to the re-opening of his wound) David had a darn good week (week of March 23):

• At the 6 weeks mark, David was due for X-rays of his neck and spinal cord. Despite the infection and the surgeon needing to open up the wound just 2 weeks ago, the pins, screws, and rods in his spine have taken hold - and he no longer has to wear his cervical collar! He described it as a symbolic victory; and in my mind it was solid sign of improvement and progress. 

• On Monday the 23rd, David’s confined-to-room order was lifted - and his first activity was a rec therapy trip to the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. 

• Shepherd has a really special peer support program that involves its program alums coming back to meet with current patients. David was paired with a 20 year c6er who described playing “murder ball” - now known as wheelchair rugby. 😬 They had a good conversation - thankful for this kind of connection. 

• David attended the wheelchair clinic, where he was measured for his “permanent” motorized wheelchair - or at least the one he’ll use for the next few years. Both staff and company reps carefully measured him, he picked out the color, and a few other features. Definitely delayed gratification - it won’t be ready for 3 months (!!). He’s continue to use the Frankenstein power chair for as long as he’s at Shepherd and then will be given a loaner until his custom one is done. 

I got a huge shot in the arm from my former Lung Association colleagues who were gathered for their 2026 advocacy day: this incredible Team Sward photo. And while that was hard to top, seeing them all in person on Wednesday night was even better. So many hugs, so many well wishes, all the love, all my gratitude for them.  

The whole family rejoiced when London had her own victory moment - a week ago Saturday I took her for her wellness visit, flagging 2 different lumps. After the removal of a larger-than-a-golfball-sized malignant tumor last September (they got it all), it was hard to imagine that London wouldn’t be the latest Sward to succumb to 2026 and its 💩 but our vet called on Wednesday evening to say both of the biopsies were negative!🌹❤️🥳 We are hopeful this is a good omen overall. 

Another update is coming soon - sharing more about our family weekend in Atlanta - reunited and it feels so good! 

Thank you for your love and support! 

Erika