FIRST WE would like to thank God because all things are possible through Him. We would also like to thank Christy Hayes for her expert advice, dedication, and tireless work on our behalf to make this book a reality. We had dreamed of someday writing a book together about our journey, but this would have stayed only a “dream” without Christy and her expertise. Our paths crossing happened for a reason, not by chance.

We would like to thank our family; Deb, Alex, Katie, and of course Grandma Connie, for being there every step of the way from the beginning. This journey would have been impossible without their love and continuous support.

We can’t begin to thank all the family and friends who have supported us through this experience. Chris would like to thank his college friends who took him to therapy, worked with him daily, helped not only make the college experience possible, but memorable. In addition, thank you to all of Chris’s caregivers, nurses, therapists, and doctors who took excellent care of him. Thank you to our hometown friends and family who organized fundraisers, remodeled and repaired our home, and made countless trips to Rochester to support us. For all of those people’s love and support we dedicate this book in their honor.

Lastly, Chris wants to thank Emily for her devotion, care, and love for him. Without her, Chris would not be where he is today.

We pray the message that comes through from this book is the power of faith, family, and friends, and that your responses—not your circumstances—determine your outcome in life.