Vincent has always been a social and active boy. Before early 2018, he attended all school dances and was practicing as he entered middle school to join the track team like his older brother. His brother and he were both interested in archery, but it wasn’t offered at their school then.
After complications with shunt malfunctions and seizures, Vincent lost most of the strength in his legs and his balance. He was usually able to walk some with a cane and braces, but dances and track were out. He lost contact with people after school. Then Mr. Allen became a teacher at Pineville Independent and with other wonderful staff offered archery.
Vincent’s arms were still strong. Though he had trouble standing, Mr. Allen and other older students would help him maintain his balance, while Vincent took the shots. He was able to participate!
Archery is a sport that does not require the ability to run or jump, but still helps core strength and focus as well as eye hand coordination. His doctors were very encouraging and agreed it was a good fit. It was wonderful to see him back in contact with friends, making new friends and learning a wonderful skill. He went to a competition before the pandemic but had to pause.
Since that time, he has had more procedures that interfered with his ability to practice, but now he is back. He tells me about practice, which arrows hit and which …hum…don’t. He laughs about the one that shattered. He is more stable and doesn’t need the help everyone was so kind to offer. He is regaining his interest in people and doing things outside and in the community and we are so grateful.
