The family of Doug Roof would like to share a life-changing event that Doug was involved in that has left him paralyzed from his chest down.

On May 28, at his home in Fairmount, Doug was injured after he dove into his swimming pool. He was taken to the Marion hospital by Fairmount EMTs, then transferred to the Fort Wayne Lutheran Hospital.

After X-rays, it was determined that he had broken his fifth, sixth and seventh vertebra, the sixth being shattered and a badly bruised spinal cord with a small spinal fluid leak. After surgery and rehab at Lutheran Hospital, he was flown to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Ga., on July 16.

Today, he remains there having rehab almost daily.

We have become increasingly aware of the variety of adaptive equipment that Doug will need to be independent in his daily life. For example, a motorized wheelchair, a regular wheel chair, hydraulic transfer lift, home/bath renovations and a special vehicle, all essential when Doug leaves the Shepherd Center.

Only a small portion of this equipment will be covered by his insurance. Donations may be made to a trust fund established in his name at Star Financial Bank, 931 E. Main St., Gas City, IN 46933. Checks payable to Doug Roof Medical Fund.

Doug is a 1997 graduate of Highland High School.

There is a Web site, www.caringbridge.org, where you can see Doug’s progress, pictures and sign a guestbook to let him know you are thinking about his life change and to wish him your best. Just enter the word dougsrecovery and you will be able to access all the features of the site.

His address is The Shepherd Center, 2020 Peachtree Road NW / Room 205-A, Atlanta, GA 30309-1465.

Juanita Roof and Denny Roof

Anderson