Outreach on SKID ROW

So a couple weeks back Amanda and I got the opportunity to tag along with a "Street Team" from the National Veterans Foundation. It was a great trip. We hit LA's infamous 'Skid Row' with a van full of volunteers and boxes of pogy bait. We were on the scene to handout snacks and water to all those in need, but we had our eyes peeled for veterans who were in need of assistance. The NVF does some incredible things to help veterans who are down and out get back on their feet. Statistics say that 1 in 4 homeless are veterans and with our current campaigns those numbers are expected to climb. It's an issue we're looking to cover with coming ITB episodes. The NVF staff is more than capable when they head out on their regular outreach ventures. All of them have spent time in uniform and many have themselves spent time on the streets. It was great to see Tyrone, Mike and Carlton in action. They really pickup on the vibe of the streets and know the terrain.

We ran into vets from all the services and I shook hands and talked with several former Marines, many from the Gulf War era. Of course not all those who laid claim to time in uniform were legit. I think many thought the handouts were only for vets. You knew they were bluffing if there was any hesitation when asked what service they were in. I had to pull a few punk cards, but we weren't there to discriminate. We gave NVF cards with the 1800 helpline number to anyone we talked to and told them pass it along to veterans they knew.

I think it's easy to look at the homeless like animals. It's not until we've shaken their hand and heard their story, that we realize how a few bad choices or one hard break can spiral you into a life you thought you'd never lead. Makes you think.

Boots on the ground in Texas

So I just got back yesterday from our event in Austin. What a great night. Finally, I got to shake hands with the Legend that is Alan Babin Jr. along with the rest of his family. Once things we’re set in motion the night went as planned. Levon Ingram, an army vet himself and a great musician took the stage and played several songs he had written reflecting back on his time in Iraq. I welcomed the crowd, thanked them for coming and then a personal friend of the Babins said an opening prayer, which was followed by a few words from Round Rocks outgoing mayor. Then we killed the lights and rolled “Beating the odds”, In Their Boots’ documentary style piece, the crowd had come to see. From the standing ovation that followed the story, it was apparent that we captured the power of story that the Babins had lived. Rosie then took the mic acknowledging those in the crowd who had been there for them through their trials and thanking all who came. The VFW post commander Bill Bennett then addressed the crowd and I wrapped things up with Q&A session about the series. The night was a real success and from what I saw,when we go live on July 2^nd In Their Boots will be well received in Austin. Thanks to all those who made it out and thanks again to Rosie, Al Senior, Alan and Christy for giving us such an intimate and honest look into your lives. You’ve given us all a lesson in devotion, humility and courage. We look forward to sharing it with the world.

So the bucket ski.....or more properly known as the sit-ski....

Here is how it goes down. I meet my two coaches and they run me through the program. They tell me how my legs will be tied together and my arms will act as my legs. They tell me about how to get on the chairlift, which as I said before, makes me want to vomit. Noticing my cowardice, one of the coaches assures me I have nothing to worry about, that I'll be hooked to the lift; so even if I did fall out there would be a rope to keep me from plummeting to my death below. Sure I'd be dangling 50 feet in the air in a bucket, but he said I'd be safe. I only sort of believed him, but I decided to let the teaching begin.

They both ran me through a quick course on a dry platform before heading to the lift: Tuck my head if I fall. Don't lean too far to either side. Allow my arms to steer. Keep my head up. Look down the mountain, not at my hands, and don't be afraid!

With that, they pushed me out on the snow. There was no turning back. One skied beside me and the other was attached with tethers behind me to help guide me down the slopes. Off we went to the ski lift.

Okay, the truth is the ski lift was fun! I actually felt secure in my bucket. Once we reached the top of the mountain I was safely lifted off the chair and away we went.

Skiing is hard! Skiing in a bucket and using your arms is even harder!! Two minutes in, my upper body started to burn and I asked if I could fall (I told my coach I wanted to know what it felt like to try and get up), but the truth was I just wanted a break. As I'm "practicing" getting up, other sit-skiers were flying past me. At one point some coaches and an injured veteran asked if I was okay, which was a little embarrassing. So I pushed myself up and gave the let's go sign. I actually started to get the hang of it and before long the coach that was tethered behind me skied up beside me to let me know he wasn't holding on. Realizing this I immediately fell. But I got back up and kept going. 

The mountain was amazing. My coaches were amazing. I felt amazing.

When I got to the bottom, I was pushed to the unloading dock, where all the injured athletes get out of their sit-skis and into their wheelchairs. I got out of mine and looked around. I would be lying if I didn't tell you there was a moment where I didn't want to get out. I didn't want them to see I could walk. That's when I remembered a certain voice, "I do things here normal people wouldn't even try," Alan Babin had said the day before. It was true. And because of him and the other athletes, I conquered my fear and developed a deeper understanding of the true athleticism it takes to be a disabled athlete. But, I have to say, I didn't fully feel it until the next morning...when I woke up and couldn't move my arms.

You're invited!!!

I am so excited to announce that after locking down the VFW hall in Texas (THANK YOU SO MUCH ROSIE AND ALAN BABIN!!!!), IN THEIR BOOTS is coming to AUSTIN!!!! AHHHHH!!!!!

Come join us as we put on a sneak preview of the Babins' story, "Beating the Odds"at 7:00pm on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at VFW Post 8787, 500 VFW Road, Austin, TX 78753.

We're trying to get as many people as possible to come support the Babins and IN THEIR BOOTS. Also, local Iraq vet and musician Levon Ingram will perform. Bring your friends! TELL EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!

P.S. Host Jan Bender will also be in attendance. RSVPs are recommended and donations will benefit the VFW Foundation.

Rosie and Alan Babin

Alan Babin was an Army combat medic who was shot in the stomach while trying to treat an injured soldier in Iraq in 2003. His mother Rosie gave up her career and plans for retirement to become Alan’s caretaker every step of the way. Now seventy surgeries later, Alan is still alive; surpassing everyone’s expectations, including his doctors who thought Alan would never survive. Rosie and Alan’s story is one of amazing courage and valor.

Rosie joins us here as a guest blogger...

Dearest Angels:

I am so very grateful that Alan continues to break all the “rules” and prove that there is still so much to be learned about recovery, rehabilitation and brain plasticity.

I am grateful that we have continued to fight for what works for Alan and not allowed him to be pigeon-holed into what the medical professionals decide is best for him.

I am grateful beyond words for all of Alan’s Angels in our lives that continue to encourage, support and provide THE BEST for Alan and his fellow wounded warriors.

I know you will enjoy the pictures of our son working on standing. Praise God for His continued healing and for shining His face upon Alan.

In the Grip of Grace,
Rosie

cross posted from: Alan's Angels.