Bob Veillette: #TakeNothing4Granted
Imagine being trapped inside your own body. Your mind is still sound, your eyes and ears still function, but from your nose down you no longer control your body.
You can't speak. You can't move your arms or legs. You are unable to do anything for yourself. Expressing your thoughts, needs and desires requires blinking once for "yes," twice for "no," as someone points to letters on a sign in your line of sight.
Now imagine living that way, day after day, week after week, month after month ... for more than 10 years.
That is "Locked-In Syndrome," and that is the life Bob Veillette of Naugatuck, CT, has led since April 8, 2006. The former veteran, journalist, runner and pianist, who played many gigs to raise money for charitable causes, now lives at home under 24/7 care by his family and medical aides. Over the years he has suffered numerous additional physical setbacks, but has bounced back from them in remarkable fashion.
Health insurance covers only so much of his care. That is why his former co-workers at the Republican-American newspaper in Waterbury began the Bob Veillette 5K Road Race in October 2006 to raise money to help with is daily living expenses. Over 11 races, they raised more than $186,000.
Unfortunately, interest in the road race has declined over time, to the point where it is no longer feasible to operate it.
The needs of the Veillette Family, however, remain as urgent as ever. So friends and family have launched a new initiative to promote Bob's inspiring message to "Take Nothing For Granted."
This new initiative includes a Facebook page, www.facebook.com/BobVTakeNothing4Granted, created to remind and inspire people to take the time to appreciate all the positive things life has to offer. It also includes this GoFundMe campaign that will succeed the 5K Road Race and feature efforts to support Bob's care at home.
No, we are not a 501(c)3 charitable organization, so your contribution will not be tax deductible. But we hope you will consider making a donation, even a small donation, on Bob's behalf.
We do not take your interest in Bob's cause for granted. We truly appreciate your consideration, and any donation, in any amount, will earn our enduring gratitude.
To learn more about Bob, visit his website:
http://www.bobveillette.com/
