Sarah van Bruggen

4 months ago

This month we reached the one year mark from Bridge's accident. I created a slideshow to help Bridge remember what an absolute warrior he has been and to acknowledge and thank the many people - family, friends, neighbors, nurses, doctors, surgeons, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, teachers, and strangers, to name a few - that helped him and us in so many ways this past year. It's been an emotional month as I've looked through all the many photos and videos to try and best capture the real moments of both heartache and joy that we've experienced. I share this in hopes that you can all see the miracle of his recovery, and feel our sincere appreciation for all of the support we recieved through this.

The anniversary of his accident fell on Easter Sunday. It felt so fitting to have Jesus as our focus that day and to watch Bridge sing the same song (in church with a group of children) that I sang to him in the hospital on the day of his accident. It was a full circle moment.

There are images of Bridge on a ventilator, with road rash on his face, with lots of IV's, staples on his closed incision, etc in the video. Just wanted to give a heads up as I realize this can be sensitive material. Also, the voice at the end is Edmonton Oiler Kyle Turris, who spoke with Bridge on a zoom call while at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital and gave him the most genuine pep talk.

My heart will forever go out to the loved ones of the warriors who never got their second chance. When we didn't know if he was going to make it, I without a doubt have never experienced anything so bitter and heartwrenching. I don't know the depth of the hurt that is experienced with losing a child or family member but I acknowledge those who do and give my utmost love and respect to them.

Bridge has watched this multiple times and is comfortable with me sharing it. His remark after watching it with some of my family was the sweetest, "I made it!" ...and I will never take that for granted. Fight on, fighter. 🎶 ❤️ Stollery Children's Hospital Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Sturgeon Community Hospital Neurosurgery Kids Fund for KING & COUNTRY Jan van Bruggen ... See MoreSee Less