Wednesday, May 28th through Thursday, June 19th

Hello again,

Today marks three years since Tori's injury and it seemed to have much less prominence in our thoughts as the previous two anniversaries. Having it not fall on Father's Day also helps keep that day celebratory as it certainly should be and it surely was this year.

Tori has been through a lot over the past three years and has certainly made progress in her recovery. It has been painfully slow and we have encountered numerous challenges but we continue to try and move her forward as best we can. Keeping her as healthy and comfortable as possible remain as top priorities as well and we have been blessed this past year as Tori has not had a serious illness. Again, we remain committed to caring and helping Tori in every way we can and we will never stop trying.

I described trying times for Maria and I in my last update primarily due to the fact that Tori should have and would have been thoroughly enthralled with life having her high school graduation, college preparation and basic entry into adulthood in full swing. It would have been truly exciting times for our entire family as well.

After careful consideration we eventually opted to take Tori to her high school graduation which occurred only a few days after my last update. Not only did we take her but we totally involved her in the commencement because no matter how hard it is for Maria and I, she DESERVED this opportunity to be with her class who all love and care for her so much. Her presence was welcomed and wanted by her peers and it was heard in their words to Tori and in their eyes as they surrounded or passed by her. Witnessing all of the support and best wishes given to her was all we needed to witness to know we made the correct choice to involve her even though it was extremely emotional for Maria, Whitney Brendan and I.Tori was dressed in her cap and gown and introduced to the crowd to tremendous applause and was given her ceremonial diploma. We spent a little time afterward meeting with some of her friends but Tori was ready to head home. I'm not quite sure what Tori thought of the experience as she remained calm and attentive throughout the experience but Tori's presence meant much more to her classmates than I anticipated and I am thankful we were all there for this moment. I would also like to sincerely thank the Timpanogos High School Staff for all of their support over the past three years and for helping Tori participate in the THS class of 2008 graduation!!

Thank you all for the continued love and support,

The Schmanski Family

Tim, Maria, Tori, Whitney and Brendan