Building a More Accessible Future, One Modification at a Time

Eventually, the day arrived for Hutch to come home. We understood that this wasn't a return to our old life; it was the beginning of a new chapter, one that demanded significant adjustments. We were determined to make it work, to carve out a sense of normalcy amidst the challenges.

Home modifications became an immediate priority, and we needed solutions quickly.

Our living room became Hutch's bedroom.  He wanted to be where all the action was!

                

Sponge baths were our initial approach, a temporary measure. But we knew Hutch deserved the comfort and dignity of a proper shower, so the search for a solution began.

Our first attempt was a practical one, found on Craigslist: a portable shower. Picture our kitchen transformed into a makeshift wet room. A thick, flexible rubber mat allowed us to wheel Hutch in. PVC pipes and shower curtains created an enclosure. A small pump drained the water into the sink. And a long, gentle hose from Lowe's provided the spray. It wasn't ideal, but it worked, giving Hutch the ability to shower again.

                         

The next hurdle was figuring out how to navigate getting Hutch in and out of the house. While our ranch-style home was a true blessing we hadn't fully appreciated until now, the front steps still presented an obstacle for Hutch.

Thankfully, we were surrounded by incredible friends. Chuck and Chris were the kind of people whose support you could always count on. Hutch and Chuck's friendship stretched back to Chuck's teenage years, a bond forged over time and unbreakable. Chris, Chuck's wife, was equally wonderful, and she and I had developed a deep and cherished friendship. Their connection to us ran deep; Chuck had been Hutch's best man, and Chris was one of my flower girls. We had also stood by their side on their wedding day.

Knowing our immediate need for accessible entry, Chuck, who was in the excavating business, stepped in without hesitation. Recognizing the barrier of the front steps, he spoke with his boss, and in an incredible act of generosity, they agreed to install a driveway leading directly from our existing one to the front door – completely free of charge! This paved the way for us to explore lift or elevator options to safely move Hutch in and out of the house.

 

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💖God bless our dear friend...you will be forever in our hearts💖

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