Corporal Joshua was wounded in January of 2007. He took a gunshot wound to the neck and was paralyzed from the shoulders down. He can barely see and hardly speak. He constantly suffers from infection of some sort or another and there are scary times when his life is in jeopardy.

He was engaged to be married when we first talked to his family, but the engagement has since broken off. The two of them are still friends and she visits quite often. This is a difficult circumstance for any young couple and they are doing the best they can given the situation.

When Joshua was wounded, he landed face first and lost some teeth. He is now having them repaired so Mom said she’d send a photo of his great new smile. His ongoing recovery has been a long and hard road but has frequent bright spots according to his Mother.

Many people have made sure Josh’s service and sacrifice has not been forgotten. He loves hunting and has been able to do that with a little help from friends. Mom said he did ‘shockingly well’ once he figured out the setup. Getting outside and being in natural settings helps his mind and body feel like himself again.

A local non-profit group heard about Joshua and built a new home for him. It is fully accessible and a place where he can ‘chill’ and feel comfortable. It was built in 2008 and he was presented the keys on January 31, 2009.

His wheelchair is designed to allow him to ‘stand’ as well as sit and that helps with his circulation and muscle tone. A Marine Mom arranged to have custom sheepskin pads sent to him so inevitable bed sores can be minimized and his comfort level can improve.

He has a ‘spell board’ for communication using letters of the alphabet and has a sense of humor that comes through even when communication is minimal. Recently he spelled that he wanted COOL shirts. Mom took that as a challenge, realizing he had no faith that a mom could find something really cool. Stay tuned for that outcome.

He has regular therapy and some recent testing produced a temporary ability to speak. Mom heard the words, “Hi Mom” and she said, “It was manna to my ears.” She says it is painful for him to try speaking and would love to be able to get that restored. She has not given up hope in that area and neither has he.

He has a dog, Motley, who takes good care of himself with a doggie door and an invisible fence. He and Joshua spend their time together. Motley expects visitors to bring treats and gives slobbery kisses to all who do, especially Joshua's brother. When he's not doing that, Motley hangs out next to the wheelchair or in Josh’s lap.

Joshua has come a long way and still has a long road to travel…but, as he told a reporter who asked him how he deals with his new reality… "It is better than death."

Your cards and letters serve to give the family time together. Hearing your encouragement and enjoying the various notes and thoughts that come in each envelope are cherished moments.

Mom says, “They not only lift his spirits, but mine as well.” Thank you for continuing to lift their spirits by sending notes. You are doing a great service to this family.