John Paul has come far over this past year. He spent 2 weeks in Harmarville Rehabilitation center this summer where he received speech, physical and occupational therapy. This was good for John Paul's recovery but hard on him and the family. He started outpatient therapy at UPMC Southside facility in August. He commutes twice a week in his customized van. This van has been such a blessing. It's become much easier to transport John Paul to wherever he needs to travel. His physical health is remarkably good. He looks great and is maintaining a healthy weight. Physically, John Paul is coming along slowly. He has limited use of his right side and even less mobility on his left side. With physical therapy, we are confident that he will continue to improve.

The equipment that was purchased for John Paul's care through the fund raising efforts of The JP Foundation has made life easier. The chair lift helps get him up the stairs and into his bedroom without much struggle. The custom shower has worked out wonderfully. He looks forward to the soothing sensation of the warm water-it helps to relax him. The stander will help in stretching and loosening his joints and muscles. Finally, his new computer has been loaded with John Paul's flight simulator game; it has provided both entertainment and stimulation for John Paul.

John Paul can respond to questions either vocally or with hand signals. He understands everything that's going on around him. If he's feeling up to it, when asked a question he will let you know exactly what he's thinking. He spends his time watching movies, listening to music, and flying his virtual plane. He was able to attend a couple Center Trojan football games, a band concert and his brother's baseball games this year. He helps brush his own teeth, opens doors and even helped make homemade noodles!