My Mom told me about how he built the house she grew up in as well as at least 3 others. He also built a dam in the creek behind their house by hauling huge rocks one at a time and setting them into place. He built a giant outdoor fireplace out of granite blocks. He did all of this without the help of a forklift or a bobcat. He did it all with his bare hands and also while having FSHD; a form of muscular dystrophy.
When I look at the picture from the newspaper, I can't imagine how he was able to pick up and load 50-60 pound pumpkins to take to the market. He must have had incredible inner strength to deal with the limitations of FSHD. I have a feeling that he didn't let anything limit him.
I have often thought of him as I too have FSHD and have learned to overcome the difficulties of this disease. I have said to myself many times, "If my Grandpa can build a house, I can certainly climb these stairs."
I wish I could have spent more time with him, but unfortunately he died in a car accident when I was 9 years old. He probably didn't know he was an inspiration to many and I am sure he didn't know he would still be inspiring me 40 years later. I am in awe of what he accomplished in his 65 years, with or without FSHD.
So when people said, "You have what your Grandpa had", I hope they are right!
This is one of the many houses he built. |
This is the dam he built...amazing! |
He also knew how to have fun. |
Thanks for reading my blog. Feel free to share this post. To learn more about this disease and the fight to find a cure, click on this link or go to www.fshsociety.org.
Peace,
Phil
1 comment:
That's pretty awesome Phil!
I forgot you had a blog until Mom told me you wrote about Grandpa Vance.
I'll have to keep better track of what you're posting.
Keep up the writing,
Norm
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