RouhanaMaximus

2011-10-01T07:16:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen...I am desperately seeking some questions, some thoughts, some revellations to be brought to my attention. I suggest you folks get your thinking caps on and start doing some typing. I need your feedback to drive my ideas. If I don't know what you want, how can I possibly deliver the goods. If I don't have questions, what am I to answer?

Questions sometimes provide reassurance to a person's mind, body and soul. Quite often, it is a question that may lead to your answer. So to think of a question and then trying to answer that question, you are in-fact solving the riddle.

Asking questions, makes one think. Quite often people don't think things through themselves. Some people don't ask that question-Does this make sense? This can lead to poor decisions, and dire straits.

So all in all, two plus two is four, and yes, I do breathe oxygen each day to survive. And yes, I also ask questions-All part of being-HUMAN!

Charbster - See ya later

I've got some news for ya.....

2011-09-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

Three...Two...One...

Guess who's back? Back again? In case you can't figure it out....Charbie's back. Back to inform my favourite people that I am back this time to stay awhile. To tell you the truth I'm kinda scared this time around. Scared to type a word. Hesitant. This type of fear is unknown to the likes of me. This is why I've no idea what to do. "Not a clue of what to do," said the sailor. I have no idea what the answer is, heck, I'm not even so sure as to what the question would be.??? So what do you say we try to get a handle on the situation?

I certainly do feel as though I belong in a much happier realm than I am currently in. Sometimes I'm feelin' it, sometimes I'm not. When I am in groups of people I care about, like I was at the Terry Fox run, I felt it then. I felt as if there was magic flowing beneath my bones, beneath my very bones. I have the same feeling as the students walking by, sheer excitement, sheer interest in the people that I see. This is the feeling that brought me lots of victories upon which I felt tons of excitement.

Throughout my sports days as a teenager, I was in this happy realm. Once again, this brings me back to the question. What to do now that I'm no longer a teenager. What to do now that my time as an athlete at KES has ended? Bottom line...I am completely clueless of what to do next but I know it is time move on. Move on to find what you ask? This is unknown even in my simplest thoughts. All I do know is that I am in a constant search for my Utopia, and one day I hope to find it. Otherwise I am incomplete and in utter sorrow.

I speak of Utopia because Utopia is where your base is set. Your base as an athlete, your base as a person, your base as someone who is seeking forth for answers-the foundation of your curiosity/emotions. This is where I am lost. This is where I need help from my readers. I seek from you answers, or the easiest of advice you can give me. Remember folks, one simple word is all I need, or even mountains of words if you'd like. Don't forget, it has been six years since the accident, upon which I regret with all my heart, all my passion, and all my heart and all my soul.

In these past six years I have had some successes. I have done things that I was told I would never be able to do. You all have helped me along this journey, for that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Now I seek your assistance once again. Assistance in helping me find my Utopia. Assistance in helping me take that next step towrads recovery. Assistance in helping me overcome the trepidation that I currently feel.

However, at day's end it has happened again.... Hunger has grown in my belly. SO we'll see you next time. Until then, take good care of yourselves and try to use my words to both guide and support (help) you.

Signing Off,

Charbster

ATTITUDE

2011-08-15T06:45:00.000-07:00

The longer I live, the more I realize how my attitude plays the most important role in my life. Not only my attitude, but the other wonderful people who help me each and everyday, bringing a positive attitude with them. These people affect my attitude throughout each and everyday (from column A to column B to column Z).

I realize it is attitude which brings me my successes, hope, courage, bravery and fire! I understand that where there is positive also comes negative (sadly). However, keeping a positive attitude even when times are tough, short or even bald, shall lead to success. I shall always try to remember this each and everyday, as should you folks.

Anyhow, I hope my words have had an influential impact on those who choose to read them. I leave you with the following advice.....

If your hope is up, a least attempt to keep it up by growing positive energy through your attitude.

Charbster

Lost in the Abyss...

2011-06-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

I am feeling too tired to write. Tired and unmotivated. But yet, I shall force myself to make an update. I have decided to do this, not because of peer pressure, or even self pressure, but simply out of interest for the public eyes. Now I'm not sure folks if what I write is appreciated or hated so I ask you folks for input on the matter-Like or dislike? Does it woo you, inspire you, or bore you? Please let me know by sending me a message.

Tonight is dedicated to all the starving people, especially children, throughout the world. May God bless them, find them warmth and a place to sleep at night. Blessings to you all...

Signing off,

Charbster

Short and to the point tonight. Hope you don't mind.

Stress

2011-06-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

Folks, what is stress??? Is it just another excuse to not fulfil the task or complete a journey!? Or is it more than this? Is it something we can handle, or is it something beyond our control???

In life, we as individuals or as teams should capitalize on strengthening ourselves to the fullest of our potential so that we are able to perform each task full out. Sometimes we allow our own personal stresses to hinder our forward progress. Stress disallows the mind to think positively. Just think, if we can't think positively there is no real point at getting up in the morning, is there? We have allowed stress to put a blindfold over our heads and in doing so have created a negative day for ourselves.

Folks, in order to sidestep such a day of undoing we must put a positive forecast on our day to day calendar of life. Negative thinking will take us to negative forecasts such as sadness and even death. I urge you folks to not let stress take over your life. Instead, make it bounce off you, allowing you to start smiling every step of the way on your journey for successful achievements day in-day out!

To deal with stress just remember a few simple tips: Hmmmmmm what could those be...I'll tell you what those could be...

Instead of counting the negatives each day, count the positives.

Always try and be an optimist, pessimism will only sink you deeper into a grave world of sadness and despair.

Buy a boxing bag and take out all your frustrations on it, rather than the person who may be stressing you out.

Exercise is a very effective method in allowing the stress to escape from your bones.

Allowing your mind to rest at ease is another key component in flushing away the stressful symptoms.

At the end of each day would you like to say you had a good day or a bad day? At the end of each day would you like to smile or frown? Babies, like my nephew Gabriel, are here to teach us to smile. Babies have the ability to make themselves seem stressed out, when in truth all they are doing is living life. We as adults should, no we must, see the difference between a new born and ourselves. Perhaps we could learn a lesson from a newborn that tells us, my gosh, life is precious. And perhaps a newborn could take a lesson from us-Oh my gosh, I don't want to turn out like that:)

There's nothing you can't do if you put your mind to it, (except maybe fly, or digest lava). Eliminate your stresses and focus on the positives towards achieving your goal(s).

Signing off, but before I do, one last nugget of wisdom-and that would be,

"Keep your eyes on the prize. Once the prize is achieved, all else seems quite worthy."

Toodles,

Charbster

Peanuts Galore!!!

2011-06-13T14:18:00.000-07:00

It's true folks, summer is just around the corner! With that in mind what to do, oh what to do? I'm thinking this is the summer of joy and happiness amongst us all. Why create chances when chances are not needed? What I mean is, if I create a plan of enjoyment why take my chances and not even attempt to follow the strategies I have set before me.

When one does not follow a plan or, the plan they have set amongst themselves, they have opened up the gates to failure. To make a valid point which one of you readers would like to fail today, or perhaps the next day? My guess is none of you. None of you, because you all have heads for if not, you would not be reading this. Failure leads to success, so don't be afraid to fail!

Failure is necessary because it helps us discover our shortcomings. It gives us a sense of the characteristics we need to focus on for self-improvement. If one is focused on the necessary task of failure he or she has set a fork in the road towards his/her success. For, on this road we are meant to have twists and turns that we must overcome one way or another.

Get to work folks. Another update is coming, and to prove to you this is true I shall share my opening sentence with you today...

"It is unknown what the first sentence will be..."

This goes to prove you can't trust anybody!

Signing off,

Charbster

Man, myth, or legend????

2011-06-09T14:56:00.002-07:00

Folks, today I'd like to talk to you about all the different angles we can approach our goals from! Such a question, like why or what, should only be answered with utter honesty...Let me think, oh ya, utter honesty, ah yes, such a classic tale of beauty or remorse, witchcraft or jealousy. I was in a serious mood but now my mind has gone completely wackered. Let's see where this takes us today, shall we???

Yes, I shall focus on, hmmmmm, the little things in life...

Today we talk about the little things. The small achievements that later can lead to a huge success or numerous small successes. By focusing on the small successes this will break the shadow line that is holding you back from your huge successes. To achieve goals you must go about it one step at a time. This is the case, for, it is the small steps that help achieve big goals and/or dreams.

Whoganakachackawhacka, this is an example of minds letting out the first thoughts, whatever or however crazy they may be, to the public. Letting them hear it, basically whispering it amongst their very ears! It will only take so much as a whisper to see a reaction; to see how the public reacts.

We shall continue on this topic at a later date. What you must keep in mind, you are going to have to keep an open mind as you read my supposed insight (while keeping in mind I may be crazy).

Signing off, your Commander in Chief,

Charbellus Maximus

2011-06-09T14:56:00.001-07:00

Bummed Out!

2011-05-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Man I feel so gone and out of it................ Gosh almighty do I ever feel lost, wacker-jacked, plus gone and out of er...

This is what I was thinking before I came to the realization that yes, indeed, I am for a fact down and out of it...Now that I know this, what should my next move be? Truth is I've grown completely sick of my current state of character and dialect! Man, have I ever lost it, one minute I am on top of the world, and the next below ground zero!

Each day I find myself asking questions and not being able to answer any single one of them. I am so lost in translation, lost in character, and more than anything else lost in spirit! Folks there is no wisdom to be shared today in today's write up. I find myself unable to seek anything except reason to smile! I am unsure I find myself completely unaware of what the future holds. All I can do is pray and hope for the best.

If any of you can or could help me in any way with your insight it would be well appreciated. Looking for any good ideas because I am anxious to bounce back! I truly miss, heck well beyond miss, the insanity I was once able to work with. Your assistance would be appreciated immensely!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just thought I would share,

Charbster

Thank you! Thank you! Couldn't have done anything without you!

2011-05-28T06:14:00.000-07:00

What they say is true, couldn't have done it without the help of friends and fans. Thanks to all the fans, and friends, "How y'all doing?"

Without my friends I wouldn't have realized that I was recovering. Without friends I wouldn't have had anyone to push me towards success. Without friends I would not have the help and guidance to the proper mindframe, not one bit! So thank you all so very much, bottles up and best of luck to all of you!

If you look at a square backwards what you may see is a rectangle... Meaning that we humans quite often look at the easily solved problems from the wrong angle. Which also means that easy can seem so difficult that instead of taking a step forward it may seem like you are taking two steps back.

This is where friends play an important role in all aspects of life. See if you look at your closest friend and you ask him/her, "What to do now?" usually they will answer you, honestly. Honesty is the best trait that a friend has. Not only is honesty a true virtue of friendship, it also helps divulge (identify) what the true problem is. By understanding the true nature of the problem it will assist you in solving the issue at hand!

Next time the topic at hand will be dishonesty and the nastiness that comes from it!

Signing Off,

Charbster G, Mally Rouhanis

Your best..and then some!

2011-05-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

Hocus pocus with sugar on top! Taking hocus pocus to a whole new level is what today is all about. Hocus pocus represents the energy and drive you push yourself with! Not being satisfied with what you got, certainly leads to a certain energy flow running through one's veins. This is the starting point of hocus pocus...

Take a freestyle wrestler for example, imagine what must run through his mind day in, day out. Can you even picture what kind of quests he must deal with week in, week out? Either you say to yourself, "I'm not strong enough, fast enough, agile enough," or, "What's the deal with me not being able to perform my best?" This is when you ask yourself, "What put me in this certain situation?" or "How did I get here?" By questioning yourself you will be able to get back on top of your game. See, questions lead to answers, and the answer to the question is WORK!

It takes mountains of work to create top performers! To become a top performer you must give your best, and then some. Your best with sugar on top so to speak! To do this you must remind yourself as you do the repetitions, that you want to be on top of your game. One more push! Remember folks, pain is temporary, while pride is forever!

Absorb the words written before your eyes. Make the words part of your mind, your character and then eventually your soul will comply!

Signing off,

Charbster

Creativity, Love, and the Importance of Fam-Jam!

2011-05-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

What's going on folks? This time I would seriously like-make that love-to hear some responses....

Creativity creates such diversity in people's characters. It opens minds and helps them create images and responses. It helps them create an entire new world in their minds, at least for me that is. Now you people are thinking, "That's a heck of a lot of creativity." Truth is, you got that damn straight! Now imagine creating a whole new world with simply your mind. Folks, we humans have the ability to create our own universe inside our heads. I am a perfect example of this. Ever since I was a young boy I have created beings, images, monsters, and such warfare as to mesmerize the minds of others!

Technology has advanced the human race to the point that our minds are stuck in the curb. It seems to be eliminating the creativity that humans once displayed! Instead of spending our days on the TV, computer, cell phone etc., just think, we could be building our discoveries by hand. We could be expanding our minds by relying less on technology and more on our thoughts. We could discover who we really are and what our true goals could be!

When it comes to love, wow, LOVE! Such a powerful word, perhaps the most powerful. For without love, humans would be no greater than... squirrels. Wow! Love creates drive, and drive pushes humans to excel! While love is a forefather to human excellence, it is also what motivates us day in, day out. It is the answer to our dreams, the answer to our cause and the answer we are all looking for!

Without love I wouldn't have the drive to live. Without love there would be no purpose to my designation of life. Because love is what everyone seeks and everyone strives for, it is the most powerful emotion known to humankind... By a landslide! To those who say and claim they don't need love, I've got news for ya... There is nothing that is more excellent than the love you have for something or someone! Without love I believe the human mind is lost for without the 'L' word you have nothing to push for, nothing to strive for, nothing to help make you push to you moment of excellence!

As a closing statement...when it comes to the creating of newborn babies... Wow, newborns, please give me a moment, my goodness. There is nothing sweeter, nothing cuter, nothing with as much potential as a newborn baby. For example, my new nephew Gabriel happens to mean the world to me! When I look at his face I have seen nothing cuter. He has such drive, such questions building deep inside him as he searches to find the answers and form new questions.
As a curious newborn I have got to say-WOW-I love this guy intensely, and his potential for future success!

This all ties into my final topic-The importance of Fam-Jam. Family is the importance of life. Not only do they give us meaning but they supply us with the foundations of excellence. They give us support to lean on, which we can do with confidence behind our backs. The love between family members is quite necessary for any future champ to endure within his/her soul.

My advice I guess is to absorb what I have written before you today and apply it to life! Your life!

Signing off,

Charbster and his big time bro-Robster!!!

CR

You are not alone!

2011-05-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

Samantha Palumbo this is to you!

If I was to have had the same type of accident as you, there is no way on God's great earth I would have survived! The fact that you are living and inspiring not only me, but nations, is truly magical. I find myself extremely impressed with the role you have put on yourself, and that is an example of true, and immediate hope!

The way you are still able to smile, tell jokes and laugh, and get up each morning with such a positive outlook on life is truly and utterly REMARKABLE! The fact that you haven't given up hope proves, without any shadow of a doubt, you are a Goddess living amongst mortals!

I recently watched your video and was utterly touched and quite simply blown away by the details of your expressions. Samantha Palumbo, the world may think that we lost our chances of fame and glory. Now is our chance to prove not only to ourselves but to the world, that even with injuries as drastic as the ones we have withstood, greatness is just around the corner!!!

Sam, thank God you wrote me, I appreciate the correspondence on a level I can not even begin to describe! Thank goodness for our mothers (both goddesses as well) as they are gifts from God to both you and I!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sam and Diana you are both doing amazing. Like two peas in a pod-you are truly outstanding on every level of the recovery process.

Go out there and live your lives as if you are scared of nothing. Live your lives to the fullest and let nothing back you down... Remember if we've it this far Samantha and Diana there is nothing stopping us from being the happiest people on Earth!

Til next time folks, best wishes and good luck. And Sam, our lives will find happiness once again!

Charbster

Motivation-Tricks and Tools!

2011-05-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

First thing I would like to point out is that this is dedicated to the one, the only, Fiona MK Lewis Munroe. I dedicate this to Fiona, a dear, grand, friend who is ever so clever and witty!

Motivation is the enlightener of details! Motivation helps us develop the vision of what to do next. On top of being one of the key ingredients of becoming successful, it also allows one to perform to the best of his/her ability. For without motivation we humans feel lost in the abyss. Without motivation we would not have the initiative to drive ourselves down the road to success.

In general one motivates his or herself by thinking, "One more push, one more pull, one last drive!" These are the things you tell yourself when you are training for the game.

Friends (Fiona), the truth is, I know you may sometimes be feeling down on yourselves, but it is that final drive, that last push and pull that you must inflict upon yourselves. This is key for success! If you fail to give that last push or pull, for the time being worry not. You can try again next time. It is when you can not jump over the lump that motivation becomes a key component to the game.

When you look back at the accomplishments you have obtained in the past, there should be some very apparent reasoning for happiness. Now it is time to use that very feeling you had when you accomplished your goals to push above and beyond any mountain you see before you! Future vision is precisely how and why I built the body that I had. It is all about image folks. If you can imagine yourself on top of the world one day, I truly feel that you will one day be there!

At times in my life, I can't seem to find the motivation to bounce back from my injuries. I know that if I'm ever to reach my true potential I am going to have to climb over this mountain of scars, heart-breaks and hurricanes. In order to do this I am going to need the support (friends, family).

It is my friends and family that have provided me with much of the motivation that has helped me along my road to recovery. By talking to me and reminding me of the odds that I overcame I realize that I can bounce back into the main scheme of things. At the same time I also realize that this will take mountains of hard, excruciating work. Yet, I am ready and more than willing to get started on my venture back to the top!

All the power to you people!

Signing off,

Charbster

Insanity or Passion?

2011-04-30T07:04:00.000-07:00

Insanity and passion, what is the difference? Or is there any? Passion can often lead us to insanity. When you are so passionate about something, all your focus tends to be on that something, that one little thing. This closes your mind to other things. All your focus is on achieving or accomplishing this certain objective or goal!

Is this a good thing or bad thing? Could be both... On a positive you have the focus and ability to achieve or accomplish the task at hand. When you love something so much you have to do it, go for it, get it done! You must do whatever it takes to be able to do what you adore. Sometimes this involves narrowing down your focus to eliminate outside distractions.

When I was at the top of my wrestling game, my days were all about training to get bigger, stronger, more agile... From my perspective, this showed extreme passion, to others it may have appeared to be insane... Today, I see my past as a damn good thing, while it could be looked on as sheer brutality by others, perhaps even including me at times...

It is a damn good thing to feel passionate about gettin' the job done, whatever the job may be. This is true because when you are working with the urge you feel so powerful. You feel as though you are ready to take on the world. You feel as though you CAN TAKE ON THE WORLD!

It is important to get the feeling that you can kick the butt right off the edge of that stepping stone that is holding you back. It is important that you focus your attention on that one specific goal. It is important that you keep pushing yourself harder day in and day out! This, my friends, may lead you to the point where I once reached, the point of true and utter self righteousness!
And oh yes, I do plan to return to this place of pure magic, now how do I get there? That is an entirely different story!?!?!?

Til next time boys and girls, and adults of all ages, keep your good luck boots on, hands up, and wait for that referee to put down his towel!

P-90X - Charbster

Friends!

2011-04-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

Friends, it turns out you are so important that today's write up will be focused entirely on you! For without anyone to write to, or give feedback, how would one know if he's making the proper moves? Try this one for size... Picture yourselves without any friends, without anyone to talk to about your feelings with, without someone to turn to when the going gets tough. How lost would you feel? How speechless would you be?

The answer is folks, judging from where I'm at, complete and utter sadness throughout your entire soul. For friends, this is how I found myself sometimes... But don't worry... Help is close to home! I found my help by asking and talking to friends and care workers. You, my friends, helped and continue to help with my recovery process day in, day out. When I did realize what a strong, what a giant, support system I have behind my back, goodness gracious, what a marvelous feeling I had a-brewing up and down my spine!

Everything about you guys is, simply put, outstanding!!! Starting with how you make me feel. Whenever our eyes lock upon one another, it is a MAGICAL feeling. Blood flow=heart throb-Simply being able to talk with another about such feelings is the first step towards friendship.

Hakuna Matada my friends, thanks for all you have done, what you are doing and what you will continue to do! And worry not, the champ is coming back to town, today, tomorrow, and the next day!

Peace out,

Charbster

Mojo-ritis!!!!!!!!

2011-04-23T06:32:00.000-07:00

This is to all you gangsters out there. Keep on rockin' in the free world! Don't forget Santa is always watching so eat your Paisley. Winning at global events is a good way to seperate yourself from the average day in day out personal mojo. When you think of mojo, what exactly is going through your minds? What's that? You're asking me? Well I ain't got a clue. If you can write back to me and define mojo I might have to declare you as a genius.

Charbster xoxoxo

Feedback problem solved.....

2011-04-23T06:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you Potatopotatoo for having such an interesting name, and for figuring out how to leave feedback. Because not everyone has a blogger ID, feedback has to either be left on the site's guestbook or to me directly on Facebook! Sorry for the confusion...

Dr. Charbster

Where is all the feedback?

2011-04-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

Friends, countrymen, and animals with tongues, where is all the feedback? Sorry, but feedback is needed so I know I am writing for a cause, for a reason. For friends, it's not as if these words are typing themselves onto my website. No no! They must be typed in by a man, woman or beast, and that requires effort! So please, be so kind as to take a moment and provide me with some feedback so I can feel as if I am putting in all this effort for a reason, for a cause!

Feedback will help me continue, because friends it is key to hear how well you are doing on your roads to achievment, to success. Bottom line, I want to hear how you all are doing! I would love your suggestions for my future posts. For it is you that provides the inspiration that gets me typing...

Thanks to you all for reading! Till next time,

Charbster

Exactly where will our minds take us next...?

2011-04-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

Where our mind takes us depends on our interests, for most I'd say. For our minds lead to what interests us. For what interests us leads to what we do each day. Without interests we are going forward in the wrong direction. My friends, without interests we are halted. We are put at a standstill. We fail to get anything done all because we are uninterested in doing anything!

People today seem to be focused on all the wrong things. Instead of focusing on how a bird chirps, let us try and focus on issues of far more importance: Issues like solving world hunger, global warming, universal peace, and you knew it was coming... unity!

Instead of spending our days focusing on our own interests, why not unite and focus on solving issues that will benefit humanity while keeping the rest of nature at peace! Instead of complaining try and be part of the solution. Meaning, put two and two together, one by one, and voila, the issue is solved!

Till next time folks, focus on the big picture, keep your game faces on, and do your part for humanity!

Charbster

Insanity Helps the World Go Round!

2011-04-13T14:24:00.000-07:00

Insanity helps the world go around. There are different types of insanity, positive insanity which leads to discoveries and negative (or bad) insanity. Many geniuses have had their ideas questioned, such as Sir Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein. Crazy ideas help open our minds to the way society looks at things. Each word, each idea goes to a different corner of the human brain before separating from the original idea. The key is folks, proving your crazy idea can be correct. It is then that the world will be in awe. At this point people begin to think you're a genius. When we get silly ideas in our head we should look to see if they make sense in the final picture before dismissing them from our crazy melons. Christopher Columbus thought the world was round. This idea was considered insane at the time. Knowing what we do now, was Chris Columbo really that crazy as he set out to sail the ocean blue? Crazy ideas take you beyond the norm. They allow you to think 'outside the box'. This allows us to come up with brand-spankin' new ideas which later lead to discoveries. Discovery is like starting a new chapter of a book. It begins a brand new forcast of ideas. This is where the genius ideas and inventions are born! If you are hesitant because you have ideas that you think are just wild and sporadic, write them down on paper and find or search for someone to share your thoughts with. Who knows, you may have the next Albert Einstein discovery...... Till later? Charbster

Saturday's Thoughts

2011-04-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

"If you don't understand success, you can't achieve success." For if success is achieved , how do we continue? In what area must we improve? Once a goal is achieved it is important to say to oneself, "Yay, I did it!" Soon after that it is time to identify a new set of goals for yourself to achieve. Set your sights higher within a limited amount of time, otherwise your forward progress may be halted or shut down by human diphosphates. Success is like rainbows. They show us all the lights, and colours, the ups and the downs. Sometimes they are clear, other times cloudy with a storm a-brewing. On the road to success, we all will find forks in the road, that try to put a hump on our progress. While one turn will lead you to your goals, the others will deliver you to failure, or worse........ Finding the proper way to turn is a task that requires experience. Experience allows you to recognize previously unsuccessful moves and correct them accordingly. Without the experience you can be doomed when making a decision for the first time. Embrace both successes and failures as both will help you make progress in life! Charbster

Back from the Crusades!

2011-03-31T15:27:00.000-07:00

Back from the Crusades you say...What could this back-scratcher be talking about??? He is talking about how to bounce back through the bushes and beyond-Back on top of the game! Back to the position you love! When one is here, he or she is in love with that moment. Once in this position, on top of their game, people love this moment. People can comply to championships, to character, but sometimes, yet sadly, they must accept failure. This is where failure is, I hate to say it, a damn good thing. Maybe even great. For without failure, one does not understand the true meaning of success. This is also known as the 'S' -word. Failure helps us learn what we did wrong, and assists us in improving our skills: Maybe leading to success in the future, all depending on how much we push ourselves and try to succeed in our goals. In my first year of wrestling I came in second at provincials, losing to a guy who seemed, at the time, twice my size. This inspired me to work out and increase in size and strength. I was taught, from such experiences, that as good as things get, they can always get better. The next time I went to the provincials I was able to capture the gold. Friends, just because you don't succeed the first time doesn't mean you should stop working. Keep giving it your all and the next time you will meet the challenge. For this is why we are alive! Alive to keep on pushing ourselves, making ourselves better each and every day. For friends, there is something I want you all to know, realize, grasp and aborb. I need you all to intake this... Learn from your mistakes. Advance your gifts, the gifts that God has given you! Remember, human betterment is a great thing-even better than chicken wings, cocktails and chocolate milk. Friends, errors and mistakes are bound to happen because we as humans need to use our mistakes as a stepping stone towards our own personal achievements! My amigos, till next time, advance, or at least try to achieve your maximum! Charbster

A crazy little thing called....cinnamon buns!

2011-03-28T14:44:00.000-07:00

So I'm walking down the street and I feel the urge to eat somethin' tasty, tasty, TASTY! So it is then I decide to go to Chaker's Right Stop to pick me up a few cinnamon buns... Mmmmm I can taste them now! WOW, such an utterly delicious taste. WOW, my friends, my gosh, I can not emphasize enough how dang tasty these buns of his are!!! They are tastier than an ice cream sundae on a hot summer's day. They will make your taste buds dance with an electric buzz of happiness! Guaranteed!... If you want to start your day off on the right foot, head over Chaker's Right Stop... And I guarantee it is there you will find whatever it is you are looking for- Delicious baked goods, fast, friendly service and a price that agrees with budgets big and small. Now open at 6:30 am to satisfy your daily taste buds on that long drive to work. Come for one, come for a dozen-New friends are always welcome... See you there, satisfaction awaits!!! Only $2.50 apiece for these delicious baked wonders. Listen to what this satisfied customers had to say... "Probably the single, best baked item I have ever tasted. I enjoyed it so much, I had four!" Rob Davies- Very satisfied customer. For those of you who have enjoyed Chaker's cinnamon buns over the years, email me your reviews and have your responses posted. Help give these delightful treats the legendary status they deserve!

Inspiration

2011-03-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

Inspiration: To fire up the will of others, or the will of one's soul!!! Friends, on top of needing someone to lean on, we all need other people to help us take our first steps. Our topic today will be first steps. First steps are the key to the beginning of a new achievement. New achievement you say? This is what you should always be thinking about if you want to become the hero you have always dreamed to be. I know through and throughout my experiences that there is a specific line between success and disaster. Focus, aim, set your sights on the end goal. Without doing this you will end up back where you started. Inspiration is brought to each individual in a different way, shape, form or dialect. What inspires me, may not inspire you, or vice versa. Inspiration has the ability to transpire into the word we all love, and find ourselves seeking for each day - success! We must allow ourselves to look back and find/pinpoint the very reasons we seek inspiration! Understanding why we need it, will help us reach it, capture it, and absorb it throughout all our blood cells. In simpler terms, understanding why we need inspiration will help us determine what we need to move forward successfully. People generally turn to heroes when they seek success. As an athlete I would turn and look to my coaches, Kim Walsh in particular, for he helped me build the confidence and focus needed to succeed! "You only live once, may as well live it to the fullest." I challenge you all to adopt this line as your own personal motto. Folks, till next time, I would like you all to seek out and understand what fires you up and gives you the very reason to be/become champ! Charbster CR

Courage

2011-03-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article today in the newspaper. It was called 'Everyone Must Find Courage' by a wise lady named Monica Graham. It made me reflect...

We must have courage to continue on from day to day and to get us by our obstacles. Imagine how much courage it took me to stand up after my accident. I find it remarkable. The only thing is, being discouraged is an entirely different feeling that can and should always be avoided. I have experienced this very emotion on countless occassions. I know what it feels like to be loved, heck, even hated, completely different feelings altogether.

In order to be champ, not chimp, you have to deal with both. You can't allow yourself to be discouraged by either. You must deal with both in the same way. You must be proud, strong and fierce. You must be strong minded and able to do, or make do, whatever is necessary for the job to be done accordingly.

If you find yourself at a certain, particular roadblock, remember, roadblocks are no more than dents in the road. All you need is courage to climb over. By climbing over, you are building up your own strength. Making your own strength to travel whatever road you see as fit. The answer is courage. You must gather it up and use it in whatever way you can!

That's it for now folks, keep strong, focus on living strong, eating strong, breathing strong and feeling as if you can take on the world!

Charbster

Electrifying Hope!

2011-03-19T06:43:00.000-07:00

So on my walk back home today one thought was stuck in my head-The ability to maneuver like I did before my accident is approaching. Progress has been made folks and I feel that there is hope. Hope, I like that! Friends, hope is why we wake up each morning, get out of our beds, and get ready for the day. How successful our days are, totally, and completely, depends on us.

Hope is the force that drives us to complete the desired task. It is what gets us up in the morning. It is, my friends, the reason God has given life to humanity. If I am ever to walk again, if I am ever to live the life I once lived of power, persistence and excellence, I must have hope to help me!

Hope is going to help me recover. It will improve my recovery process. Hope seems to electrify the positives in one's soul. Everytime I meet a new challenge, it puts a lock on my procedure for enhancing my odds of accomplishment. In simple terms, it puts a lock on me moving forward with my recovery.

If you are to read this today, try and put a lock on the information that is written before your very eyes. Live your life with prestige and passion. Hope is what you need to win these attributes. Think deep, and live your lives with hope and passion.

And hey, if you want to go to McDonalds today, to a fast food restaurant, or whatever, don't forget, hope alerts. That's the beauty behind it folks. You can grab hope wherever you are at on Earth, or wherever you are at in your life!

Till next time folks, good luck with your battle!

Charbster

Headaches!!!

2011-03-17T12:00:00.001-07:00

Ouch! Why does my head hurt so bad? Well folks, the truth is, we all get headaches, though I'd like to believe that none of us appreciate a headache.

HEADACHES = MAJOR BUMMER

To come about this issue one must be proactive. The key is to stop the pain before it even begins. There are many different causes of headaches: traffic, alcohol, horseback riding, up and down motion, and dehydratrion. In order to stop the pain before it begins, we should probably avoid the alcohol, horses, busy streets and so on and so forth. If you have a Basenji dog you are in luck, cause, don`t forget, they don`t bark. They can be quite stealthy!

Trouble begins when you are not proactive. Sometimes that little pain crawls into your head before you have time to react, which means it is important to stay on top of your game and the plays you are about to call! The plays you call depend on the situation you are involved with at that moment in time. Consider you have broken down in the middle of forbidden tribal lands in the lost city of Endor-Definitely a headache moment-How do you make it go away? Truth is folks, I'm truly not too sure what to do in this case. I could take some medication but that would only put weakness into my character. Maybe I should just take a nap, and pray I don't get attacked by the locals.

Ironically, in writing this, I have developed quite the headache. Outta here for now, peace-out!

Charbster

2011-03-12T06:58:00.000-08:00

To whom, or to what, should I write about today? Perhaps about Norma G, my favourite lady! Nah, sorry ma! Today I should probably write to you guys about whatever I feel like writing. At this moment right now, that would be Blah, Blah Blah. Thanks Kei$ha darling. I am the man of your dreams, sitting here in Windsor, Nova Scotia. Can't wait to get your call.

While I wait for your call let's talk about something that could change the universe. The fish-bird.... What would you guys do if you ran into a fish-bird, flying around your heads? Personally, I would probably be in awe of this jaw-biting situation. Imagine how wonderful this would be for the fish population. Now fish could chase after birds, instead of vice versa. This would cause a rapid change on the food chain, similar to a 'food chain storm' so to speak.

If you find you have trouble picturing a fish-bird, picture a fish with wings. As hard as that is to imagine something tells me that such a creature could very well exist with us on this Earth. Imagine a pet fish-bird. How cool would that be? You could name it something like- 'Iguanagong'. Then you could say to your friends, "Meet my good pal, Iguanagong. He is a law-abiding citizen." Their reaction is impossible to predict.

Having fish-birds would open our minds. It would open our minds to, my gosh, so many different ways of life. Imagine life with a donkey-rhino, or a zebra-hippo. You could even have a tiger-elephant. Imagine a cat, as big as an elephant, with a seven foot trunk. Can you imagine how far a cat like that could jump?

Before you know it this imaginary character could come to life. Are you ready for it? Are you ready for such a creature? I know I am. For the Lord certainly does work in mysterious ways.

Comment on what you think of this perpendicular question. For those who comment, please leave an email address so I can send you a response!

Until next time, peace out to the world. To my brothers and sisters-Take care of yourselves. To all those out in the wilderness, I wish you peace, joy, happiness and personal well-being.

Take care,
Charbster

Troubles in the Neighbourhood!

2011-03-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

The truth is folks, life... can be a bummer. We can either whine and complain about our own lives, or we can stand up and decide to start making changes from here on and beyond. To complain means you are getting nothing done, ZERO, zilch! Folks, in other words, we have managed to accomplish nothing.

We must learn how, and when, and how much to push ourselves. Without such knowledge we won't be able to get the 'job done'. Complaining and complaints will only put your progress at a standstill. In order to avoid such an event we must cast a smile on our faces, put our good luck boots on and start registering a solution for our negative thoughts and feelings.

Solutions are heading your way. How do we come up with a solution that biffs us out of our funk? The answer is coming, my friends. One idea to pull ourselves from such an evil state is to clear our heads by doing something that takes our mind of our worries or issues. Walking, listening to music, watching TV, playing video games are all outlets for us to take our minds off the big issues. The problem is, by deflecting the issues, we are only welcoming them back to bother us once again. In order to successfully handle the root of our problem, we must tackle it head on and come up with a solution.

To everyone that has helped me on my road to success, thanks, cheers, and bottles up! The champ is coming back to town...

Charb

Motivation! Monday Blues all over again! Greeeeaaaaaaatttt!

2011-03-07T14:07:00.000-08:00

What's the cure, I ask myself, again and again and again. As it turns out I have no idea. It 's different for everybody. It's true my friends, we all have different issues-issues and problems. So the question is, how do I motivate myself and what's next?

The truth is, the answer is different for each of us. The fire that burns within, is what I consider motivation. With that said, we all must dig deeeeeeeeep within ourselves to find the fire that lusts within our very bones! With such knowledge shared I want you to stand up on your feet and shout out to the world...

"Watch out...Here I come!!!"

What motivates me, is the thought that I could be inspiring and helping others by sharing my words and experiences. The fact of the matter is folks, you want to get big, you want to get juicy, you want to get in the best shape of your life, its gonna take lots of hard, and I mean HARD WORK, patience and dedication to get yourself there.

Next update will be a surprize so prepare yourselves,

Charb

Feeling Tired...

2011-02-28T13:55:00.000-08:00

Hello Everybody,

How you all doing today? Today's topic is a little bit lighter than the others, and here we go----

So when I got up this morning I had planned myself a productive and busy day. Within the first half of the day I began to tire. It is then I realized my day may be busy, but productive, ah.... forget it! Call it the 'Monday Blues'. I knew much was not going to get done. It was then I put two and two together and came up with - whatever happens, happens. I will try and make whatever happens, happen for a reason.

So then I asked myself... How do I cure the Monday Blues? Turns out, Monday Blues are healed the same way boredom is healed-Through activities, fun and acting. Whatever the activity may be it is up to you. Spanking your partner in a game of chess, squeezing your pal in a game of poker, or just having a little alone time playing a game on your computer, it's all up to you. It is up to you my friends.

The beauty behind acting is you can play any role that comes to your head. Like for instance, one day I could pretend to be a monkey, the next a donkey, and the next a Basenji dog. Point being, the main thing is it will relieve you of some of that boredom and hopefully pull you out of your Monday Blues!

The irony of the situation is, I started this post on Monday and now it's Wednesday....The good thing is, the Monday Blues are gone! Now I can sing Blah Blah Blah with Ke$ha, unless of course I am still a Basenji dog, because they don't make noise.

Peace out,

Charbster

Dorcas-Thanks!

2011-02-26T07:28:00.000-08:00

Dorcas, you are my favourite alley cat. With the way you praise and your emotions, your faith in me is truly inspiring. THANK YOU SO MUCH, DORCAS MY FAVOURITE ALLEY CAT. By the way, I owe you a date... a date out. And this time I will do the paying, and will walk you down the aisle...at the A&W. If you were being serious with what you wrote me last time, I can not wait to get started on my road to redemption. When I start this book of mine, in the end there will be one name to thank. Can you guess whose name that is????????? ???

Love you Dorcas! Peace Out!

Charbel

Passion

2011-02-21T14:07:00.000-08:00

Passion leads to championships! Championships lead to pride. Pride leads to success. In other words, passion leads to success. Ask yourself, what do I do? I could take the easy road and do nothing and become nobody. Or, I could walk the hard walk, and push myself through hard work and become champion, someone to be proud of!

We all know the importance of passion. Number one, it gives us direction. It gives us a goal to succeed. Goals give us something to strive for, to achieve. Once achieved, we can add them to our playlist! Number two, passion gives us the strength within ourselves.

We have passion, we have success. We have success, meaning, we have ourselves limitless potential. Sometimes it takes a little success to see what we are doing is good for us. It has a positive influence on both us and others. Once you have met with success once, you'll want a second date, leading to third, a fourth, a fifth and sixth-heck, leading to an eventual marriage!

Married to success. Imagine that! The pride this would bring to one's soul. Soul you say, soul is what you have hidden inside yourself. It is the fire; burning deep within your soul that is the very reason why you find yourself doing what you are doing at this moment.

To make this marriage possible one must continue achieving. You have to keep the fire burning inside your heart. To some people this fire is naturally there. For others, they must dig deeper than deep to simply find it within themselves to continue along this road to success. Without mentioning the championship.

In order to reach one's goal, one has to push, and push, and push and push some more, to make it to the breaking point. To make it to the finish line. To make it to a place where no person has gone before. With these words, ladies and gentlemen. With these words said, and shared with you, get up off your seats, clap your hands, and scream out to the world...

"I'm Alive! Ain't Nothin' Stoppin' Me Now!!!"

Next Moves!

2011-02-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

So I'm thinking down in the lonely streets of Windsor, Nova Scotia...Down in the lonely streets I wander, what's my next move, I say to myself??? What do you people think I should do, now that I have hit this plateau thing-a-ma-jigger? What a headache I got, twisting my head around. Which then leads to utter confusion...Utter confusion you say? How do we sort out this little mass called life?

Next moves, it is safe to say, are some of the most important things to consider. Without next moves, you are stuck in the same standpoint. All you folks out there, THE NEXT MOVE is pivotal for your recovery/rebound to the top. You have to think, why do I have to make a next move? Understanding helps us improve upon what has already been built. Understanding also gives you a direction. Having a direction is most important to drive you towards success.

Reaching Potential

2011-01-20T14:26:00.000-08:00

Ask yourself, what is potential? Potential is the amount one can accomplish with or without a timeframe. The most important thing is that people try to reach their maximum, full potential. Once you have reached that point of excellence, it is only then you can call yourself a seeker of excellence. That is what it takes to reach your full potential.

No one knows what their true potential is, or really, how to get there. But friends, if you do reach most of your potential, there are no limits. THE ONE THING I WAS NEVER GOOD AT WAS BELIEVING IN MYSELF. Now I know that it is most important to have a good, strong standpoint in the self esteem department for this provides you with a good starting point.

Friends, ask yourselves, what is a dream I have? What is the first step to take to make the dream a reality? One, two , three, what are you waiting for? The time is now! My heart is pounding and racing with thoughts and feelings. Where do we go from there? You may ask yourselves... The answer is... all up to you!

Til next time, I welcome your comments!

Charbel

Mesmerized

2011-01-17T14:23:00.000-08:00

Why don't we do some work? Why some days, I don't feel like working at all. While you may think for unexplainable reasons, actually they are quite explainable. The thing with geniuses is sometimes when they have thoughts of sheer and utter wisdom they tend to dissolve from their minds before they can program them onto paper or any other source of record. That leads to utter resentment because people forget what they were thinking.

How do you make the unexplainable, explainable-suddenly and utterly explainable? First you have to scratch the surface either with your paws or your knowledge. Like hands on the table, you have to dig your claws in deep. This gives you a foundation in moderate detail. If you are not interested in what you have read so far, (scratching the surface of ) it means your mind is limited and I suggest you stop reading this article at this point.

How do you make mathematics count?

If you are interested in learning more, on this topic, leave a comment. I love hearing from all the readers.

2010-12-11T06:29:00.000-08:00

Pleasure...Why do humans need, NEED, ya, I say need, success to make them happy? Need is a key word for our message today. What is a need? A need is, my friends, a counter clockwise frame of mind. It not only answers the questions we ask ourselves day in, day out, it helps us push to find the answers. The answers to our everyday questions such as: Why do I look the way I do? Why should I go to work today? Should I quit, or start a bad habit today?

The answers, my fellow readers, are yes, yes and YES! Some people in this world have trouble distinguishing between a 'want' and a 'need'. At this time of year, this can be troublesome.

A need is something you must have, to make part of yourself, if you want to accomplish your goals.
A want is is an unnecessary, inexcusable format to success.

A need is what you need to survive while a want is an extra. Extras are not what you need, they are what you would like to add for your own pleasure. Adding extras when there are those who still don't have their needs, is plain ignorant. Ignorant because it is like a slap in the face to the people who need. You wouldn't want a slap in the face would you?

Not only do I want to get better, I NEED to get better. For not only my sanity but sanity to the whole human race. For I believe I have a lot to offer. For the experiences I have been through, fought through, and LIVED through have been life changing. Life changing in a sense that it has taught me life is so beautiful.

Stay tuned, next time I'll be writing from the village of the bull fighter.

Remember..." 'Tis the season to be jolly." See you all when I get back from Calgary.

Charbel

Personal Discoveries

2010-12-08T14:02:00.000-08:00

A personal discoverely = Gold on a stick!

If you accomplish something new, what's next is truly inspiring. You may ask yourself, "What is this bozo saying...?"

Wait, hold on, he is saying, "Through deep thought and effort a new discovery could be afloat."

The greatest personal discovery I have made is curiosity. Curiosity may have killed the cat, but you know what folks? It ain't gonna kill me. Curiosity expands the brain and decides who is genius. Absolutely nothing in the world should limit the human mind, but yet, the tiniest thing
seems to do the trick.

One of the keys to success is to not put a time limit on yourself, the other key I keep in my basement. What I mean by that is, you shouldn't expect yourself to discover the answers to the biggest questions by tomorrow, or the next day. They are bound to be answered throughout time. If you try to seek all the answers right away, you are simply pushing the wrong buttons and can expect a slap in the face sooner or later. If you think you have a time limitation, you don't. For who put that limitation on you? Huh? Who?

Befriend someone with similar interests so you can make new personal discoveries together. As a team you have limitless potential for two is better than one.

Without personal discovery one will never get to know his/herself. You must search your feelings to find the answers to the questions that you ask yourself. If you think you're Mumbo, try and find your Jumbo!

Tune in next time for we shall cover whatever topic you'd like. That means you must write me!

Thanks for reading, see you next time,

Charb

2010-12-04T06:27:00.000-08:00

Charb, by his own words......

If you ask yourself, "What can I do today?" or "What's something new I can start?" Great news, you have just taken the first step towards this little thing called SUCCESS!

If you have a drive to be inspired but find yourself each day without the inspiration to work, what you need is one simple word..."MOTIVATION"...

This word holds the ten most necessary letters for your SUCCESS! Without motivation, you can't find the drive to push and pull to reach your goal. Remember folks, one step at a time. For, if you go for leaps and bounds you may find yourself back in the same spot tomorrow.

To have success, or be a champion, one needs, repeat NEEDS, strength, honour, intelligence, respect, integrity, solitude and repetition. If one goes through each day without these characteristics they will not be living their life to the fullest. For friends..."What goes around, certainly, comes around." If you know what a true warrior is, you know precisely of what I speak.

And friends, today, that is my quote of the day. Tune in next time for my views on personal discoveries.

Til then, peace, joy and happiness to you all!

Charbel

2010-11-29T17:52:00.000-08:00

November 2010

After long weeks of setback (they seemed to be forever!), Charb started to get better very quickly!

His appetite came back! always a good sign for recovery and better health in his case ( those who knew Charb from before will know what I am talking about!) At his birthday, Nov 8th, it was obvious he was getting better!

Eddy Pepperoni ( you must remember him from last Nov, when Charb carried the torch, Eddy made it his top priority to be there walking beside him!), yes Eddy was in every Monday to lift his spirit... and his body!

He started to exercise a bit, than more and more, with Abby Lynch, a former wrestler and rugby player! and now Charbel's trainer!

And here comes Mr Rob Davis, a skilled teacher who practices Socrates method: let Cahrb talk and say what is in his mind; if he does not talk, throw a challenging question at him... and listen to the flow that comes out! 'cause the New Charb LOVES to talk!

On top of that, comes another good therapy: Swimming!

Couple years ago, Charb started some sporadic swimming in Acadia University and here in Windsor, but this time we hope it will continue for a while... It is so close to home, in King's Edgehill School, it is supervised, and he has the best team: Abby Lynch & Sam Bland...

Norma & myself keep pushing the buttons!

"See how lucky you are, BearCharmer! You have the most caring, enthusiastic, skilfull people working with you! Just say YES!

... and let it RUMBLE!"

Note: Check some videos on Facebook!..

October 25th already!

2010-10-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

We haven't updated the blog for so long!
First, Charb wanted to be on facebook! So we uploaded
some videos, specially the summer ones from Lebanon...

Second, we have not broken any new records... as more of
walking and going to the gym, or swimming and wrestling...

Third, since he came back from Lebanon, he was depressed,
so depressed... to the point he has being sick for over a month!
Withdrawal? lack of interest? of appetite? (he is hardly eating
a thing! even BANANAS do not mean much to him anymore!)

He has lost over 15 lbs! mostly muscles! Dizzy most of the time,
walking has become hazardous, exercise is NILL! and the TV
has taking over!
He gets better for few hours, but soon collapses down into inertia!

He is not like the BEAR we knew right now!

And for the first time in 3 years he is back taking medications!

But this is Charb! Every step back is followed by a big jump ahead!
At least we hope so!

If you are interested in some pics and videos, try his face book.
I will try to post some of them to blog, soon...

Hitting the gym at KES

2010-04-29T02:22:00.000-07:00

2010-03-26T06:13:00.000-07:00

What is up in March/ 2010?

Well, thanks to Trevor, Charb enjoyed going
to the gym... his old- and wild- dream!

He doesn't want to go easy, either! But Mom is very concerned!
"300 lbs??? Are you crazy?!"

He will keep going there as long as he works out,
not just socialises in long talks!
Meanwhile we still thinking about the pool and the
benefits of water exercises!

Note: Dear Diana!
Thank you so much for your comment! Norma use to
read your blog all the time and was sad when you
stopped! We understand the reason, we had to shut down
our first blog, too!
We love to email you, but do not have your address!
Better still, how about face book? We will be glad to add
you as a friend!

2010-02-28T08:47:00.001-08:00

A note at the end of Febr2010:

All the focus lately is on WALKING ...on 2 feet!
Balancing and walking!
What is more normal for humans?
A process so seemingly simple for us,
so out of reach after being in a coma for months,
and in bed for years!

As always with Charb, it slows down to a still....
then he shouts up and surprises every one!

2010-01-21T16:13:00.000-08:00

Well, the new year is going fast!
Jan 21 already!

Charb's focus is in walking ...

and wrestling with Ed!...

Good luck Charb!

Happy Holiday Wishes...

2009-12-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

To our friends,

visitors

and community members

For years you have shown us
understanding, help, support and respect…

You have posted your prayers,

your wishes and hopes...

You have followed Charbel's gigantic and

astonishing progress...

Your encouragements and

positive comments

pushed us even further in our

tentative ways - and our determination-

to improve!

It all combined and culminated
on Nov 20th, at the Olympic Torch Relay,

when Charbel got the honor to carry the Torch,

and by your enthusiastic presence,

your comments and the ongoing encouragement that never faded!

You have made us feel special, loved, cared for and honored
to be Canadian and to be part of this fantastic community...

As we thank you all for making us feel so proud,

we extend our
best wishes for a Merry Christmas

and a Happy and safe New Year…

The Rouhana Family.

Dorcas, you are awsome!

2009-11-23T22:28:00.000-08:00

Since there is a tremendous amount of videos and pics,
please follow this link to see a lot more:
http://picasaweb.google.com/rachelra/Torch2?authkey=Gv1sRgCKHX-o_u4KXCTg#

For Dorcas Requests!!

2009-11-23T18:05:00.000-08:00

"It is my day! I am going to be a celebrity!'

Pass it on...

The flame still burning inside!

Fired up!

Let them gather around me...

Oh, Megan!!!

2009-11-22T09:09:00.000-08:00

Accident victim gets Olympic moment
Former athlete thrilled to carry torch
By GLEN PARKER (From the Chronicle Herald)
Sat. Nov 21 - 4:46 AM

Dreams do come true.

Charbel Rouhana, 24, once imagined competing in the Olympic Games as a wrestler.

A car accident in September 2005 ended that ambition.
But his dream of being a part of the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver became a reality Friday when Mr. Rouhana triumphantly carried the Olympic torch into his hometown of Windsor.
Surrounded by former King’s-Edgehill School classmates, teachers, family, friends and supporters, the rugged former wrestling and rugby star was visibly elated by the special opportunity to participate in the torch relay.

"This is the best day of my life. I love you all," he yelled out to the crowd.
Left in a coma after the accident, family and friends never left his side. Mr. Rouhana’s father, Chaker, and mother, Norma, worked tirelessly with their son, and the
family was rewarded in December 2006 when he came out of the coma.

His King’s-Edgehill coach, Kim Walsh, was on hand Friday to cheer on his former star athlete.
"Charbel was one of the best athletes our school has ever had. He wrestled at the national level and was recruited by Simon Fraser University. He made an amazing recovery after the accident," Mr. Walsh said.
"Our entire school will be out supporting Charbel and Mallory Sanford, our other torch runner."

Now able to get around with the help of a wheelchair, Mr. Rouhana delivered a short and poig- nant message to the crowd gathered for the relay Friday morning.
"You only have one life. Live it to the fullest," he said.

The Flame within!

2009-11-22T04:49:00.000-08:00

It came! It went!

But memories will live for ever!

When Charb woke up in the morning of Nov 20th,

he said to mom:

Do not tell me what to do, today!

Today is my day, and I am going to be a celebrity!"

And he was!

Ctv News, the Chronicle, the Hants Journal!

And for sure all the friends who came from all over the places!

We thank all of them, and all who could not attend physically

but were with us by heart and thoughts!

Everything was for a success:

the weather was gorgeous,

the Olympic team amazingly cooperative and helpful,

the crowed cheerful!

In brief: The best Day of His Life!

2009-10-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

The Olympic Torch is coming to Windsor!

To all of you, friends, I like to announce an exciting news:
I have got the honor of carrying the Olympic Torch!
Here is the e-mail I received:

CONGRATULATIONS Charbel, On behalf of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay presented by Coca-Cola and RBC and supported by the Government of Canada, we're pleased to confirm you are one of 12,000 Olympic Torchbearers who will soon hold history in your hands when you carry the Olympic Flame in the Vancouver 2010 Torch Relay. Your story will help create our path of northern lights along the 45,000 kilometre journey of the Olympic Flame.

Date:
November 20, 2009
Your meeting time:
9:00 AM AST
Your meeting place location:
Exhibition Park/Arena (221-239 Wentworth Road, Windsor, NS, B0N 2T0)
THE DETAILS OF YOUR RELAY SEGMENT
Community:
Windsor
You will be carrying the Olympic Flame for a distance of approximately 300 metres. Your segment details are:
Starting along: Exhibition Park Parking Lot
From: Exhibition Park and Arena
To: Centennial Drive
On: Wentworth Road
Approximate time of your segment:
10:02 AM AST
Your torchbearer number is:
OTR022-048

The honor of your presence at that time will be
much appreciated! See you there!

A busier summer!

2009-09-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

From playing games,
to helping with dishes...

From fighting with Ed, the pepperoni guy,
to walking the ramp downhill- and even uphill!-

To riding the Envoy without

wheelchair!

...and going places!

Getting up and... swimming!

2009-09-28T16:36:00.000-07:00

Charb got to Windsor pool before the
lift was installed: going in with his wheelchair!

With Krista helping, he familiarised
quickly with the team at the pool...

Taking advantage of Ellen's visit,

we walked few steps...

And Mom took over in the store,
asking Charb to "show off!"!

More on the right track!

2009-06-20T13:24:00.000-07:00

June was a smooth transition to previous months,
where Charb just continued to show
a bit of improvement,
especially in standing and stepping
(while assisted)...

At the cottage, he had to go to the 2d floor,
and he pushed himself backward on the steps!
A first since the accident!

He was OK on the couch for 3 hours,
walked back to the steps,
and, using his strong hands
and not as strong feet,
went down forward this time!
No damages reported!

Everyone was clapping and all happy
to have him come to us
instead of us accommodating to him!

In another occasion, Charb helped me
by wrapping hotdogs...

He did a very good job ...
till we took his picture!
He declared: I'm quitting now!

and he did!

Bravo Charb!

May 2009 Breakthrough

2009-05-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

First, we say "Thank You!" to Dorkas!
...And "a late" Happy Birthday!
We will have a big celebration this summer!

Back to Charb, here he is! In his van, and no wheelchair!
It is the first time in three and a half years!

Thanks to Wanda's dedication and hard work,
the efforts paid off! With Justin's help, she
was able to move Charb in the passenger seat!

"I wanna be driving", he said!
Hopefully soon!

"OK, let's go!"

Justin took him for a spin around town...

and ended at the beach!

Charbel Rouhana - Guest Book Archive

2009-05-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Charbel Rouhana - Guest Book Archive

Dare challenge him!

2009-04-27T15:12:00.001-07:00

Responding to challenge!

The good thing about Charb being in the store is meeting with people!

He gets inspired!

He gets fired up! He gets moving!

Normally he says NO to any invitation to

work out, stand up, lift weights...

unless, as he says, you bribe him by food... or audience!

With people in the store, all you

have to do is say:

" Charb, they don't believe you can do it!"

He looks up at them and asks: "Do you want to see it?"

...The pics tell the story!

Thanks Shawn and Martina!

Back to Acadia swimming!

2009-04-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

It is kind of unreal

to put another update so quickly!

We have too much to show

at once, and nothing for a while!

But I thought it will be

interesting to show the improvements

Charb is making now,

after his injury had healed!

NB: Check the photo album, too!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

Hoping you all had a Great Easter!

Getting ready for Easter Bunny did not stop Charb
from exercising really hard!
He started to lift himself off the chair,

making it easier to move him around,

sit him on the sofa,

stand him by the sink
to do the dishes... ( Norma said I wish!)

or grab the walker trying to take a step...

Be ready for another visit from Ed....

and WALK two tiny steps!

2009-04-05T16:51:00.000-07:00

A lesson in Marshal Arts!

Passionate about Bodybuilding since young age,

working intesively to be himself "a lean fighting machine",

Charb is always fascinated by fit, strong, muscular people!

He loves Marshall Arts and Ed is his "above all fighter",

"absolutly phenominal"!

They met in the store long before the accident, and now

whenever Ed can spare sometime he visits Charb, inspires him,

" fires him up!" as Charb likes to say!

Our sincere thanks, Ed!

We wish you had more time, like every day sort of,

and Charb will soon be back on his feet,

"lean, mean, fighting machine!"

2009-03-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

Almost 2 months went by without a real update!
And yet so many things did happen!
But that is the story of our life, isn't it?
To wonder where the days, weeks, months all go
so fast! Very seldom we grab the present moment with two hands
and take advantage of every second! The rest of the time we cry
the time gone by, and project ourselves in the future!

Do I have an excuse now?
According to Charb, no, not at all!
"But Charb, you promised to start writing your own journal,
updating your own blog by yourself!
_ No, sorry man, I never did!"

I will be working on that part next few weeks,
since Charb is coming almost daily to the store!

He still spends some nights upstairs, some others
in his apartment next door, and enough hours in the store.
He loves coming there to meet customer and interact
with them... The few he still remember from before,
he talks to them for long periods and does not want
them to leave!
You hear them laughing to his sharp
remarks and lightning answers!
"God, he is getting so sharp!"

Sharp, he is!
I should sometime soon write few of his
funniest sayings!

So now, and after a long setback, we are trying again

to have the feet and legs moving! He lost a lot of strength

after the operation and the recovery period ( from Nov08

till the end of January 09).

Again we are dedicated to push him as hard

and as consistently as we can!

We know he will make it!

Charb showing Graham what he is up to!

" Charb, lets stand up, now
- Wait till a customer shows up!"
When he does and you ask him to stand again,
he wants to wait to show another customer!
"Preferably a girl" he says!

Charb is back swimming at
Acadia, thanks to Blair and Rhys
who help him swim
and walk in the pool, and to Justin
driving him back and forth!

Charb's 2 "heroes" visiting & helping him stand tall!

NOTE:
A million thanks to all of you who still check the blog
and write a note in the guestbook! I wish you leave
your email address so we can write back!
Special thanks to Dorcas! Yes, we will be waiting to
see you this summer!
And to Maggie Jacklone! We love to write back but we
have no address!

2009-03-04T08:18:00.000-08:00

February went by too quickly, with all the bad weather,
and Charb was stuck upstairs for most of the time.
"Stuck" may not be the word because
he was happy with people around him,
catering to all his needs 24/7...

He made couple appearances in the store
and was delighted to meet with customers and friends.

But sadly, his grandparents did leave to Calgary,
which created an emptiness in his long days!
They were around for hours and hours
talking to him, pushing him to get better,
promising him trips to everywhere,
and talking on the phone to people in
the four corners of the Globe!

And most of all,
gramma was cooking all the good stuff!
Oh! Yummy!
Especially her rice pudding, the Lebanese way,
something to die for! and Charb would push himself
to the extreme to get " just one more spoon of it!"

Charb trying to stand up with Norma's help
and Grandparents encouragement!

2009-01-31T17:12:00.000-08:00

Real world and fake one..

Charb is still living ( home)
in the apartment upstairs!
He is comfortable, and every one
is... Nice to be altogether under the
same roof!
Grandparents still here, and they are
spoiling him rotten!
But that is what Grandparents are for!

I wanted to post some photos from the olden
days, and some new ones; some in the
long road to recovery ( the stage at
which he is now);
and what triggered that was his defensive
even aggressive stance of dividing his life
not as BEFORE and AFTER,
but as Real World -before_
and Fake World- now-
where everything
and everybody
is a mere copy, a clone, of the real...

We try different approaches to the subject,
but he gets so angry, so agitated, so aggressive
we decided not to contradict him anymore.

Here are some of his own words:

There are more than 2 planet earth.
This is not the real one.
I know it's not.

Nothing is the same as my old planet.
I mean it, NOTHING.
-Do you think you have changed
because of your brain injury,
and the planet has stayed the same?

- You are dead wrong, Chicky-pee! (Laugh)
I can't wait to prove you wrong.

- How are you going to prove it to me?
- By bringing you into the real planet.
It's real. I'm telling you the truth.
If you care for me, you will listen.

-I do care, that is why I talk about the truth.
_ When it comes down to it, honey,
it ain't the truth!
Put it in your thick head:
You are a clone! Every thing is a clone.

_ What happens in the other world?
_ Things are funnier in a different way.
I feel more joy in the other world
because I know the people are real.

_So I am not real right now!what am I than?
- A fake human.A copy of the real one.

_ So everything before the accident is real
and everything after is fake?

_ Yes .
I have heard enough out of you!
I know you don't believe me,
but what I say is the truth!
Every thing is fake here.
Mom & dad are copies, clones.
They don't know that but I know.
...My real parents live in a different planet!

Check the Photo album for some new pics....

Happy New Year!

2009-01-09T17:58:00.000-08:00

Little late to post our best wishes to all,
engulfed as we were in bad weather...
and other activities! Better late than never,
they say!

Since he came "HOME" to the
upstairs apartment,
he was ".. so happy!"

Few friends visited him, and that
made his day!

...Than there was a party!
Thanks to our friends who came to play
and sing, Charb had a great fun!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

Here are few shots from that evening!

Merry Christmas to all...

2008-12-25T16:21:00.000-08:00

HOHOHO... MERRY CHRISTMAS every one!

Charb wishes you all the best for the Holiday Season!

Lots of presents, lots of parties and fun!

One of his wishes was finally granted:

to be HOME! Sweet home!

With a stair climber, operated by Justin,

under the watchful eye of AJ and Godfry,

he made it upstairs despite snow & ice!

Santa was getting tired!

but he refused to rest till the delivery was all done!

Well, Santa, so long! Till next year!

A warm welcome...

2008-12-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

It was amazing to see and to hear!

We knew he was excitedly waiting to see Jodo and Teta,

but it was a blast

when they walked in!

He was jubilating!

Yelling "Maroun Boslaya!.. Foufou"...

Hugging and kissing!

Laughing his gutts out!

Screaming!

And his body lifted almost up in the air!

Wow!

Never seing him like that before!

... Rita! They are here!

A long & painfull recovery...

2008-11-27T05:04:00.000-08:00

As you know, Charb had his tendon operated on
November 5th, 08.

After three days in the QEII

he came home.

Everyone had said it will be a painful recovery,

but no one said AGONIZINGLY painful!

For Charb NEVER complained about being in pain!

Those who
witnessed him dislocating his elbow at wrestling, or

his knee playing rugby, they know he does not quit!

Isn't his best saying :

Pain is temporary, Pride is for ever?

Well, this time pain was primordial!

Complaining was going on all day!

All Night!

Charb who "loves" to eat, stoped eating!
Stoped asking for a drink,

Chocolate milk, Please!

Interestingly alarming!

"Give me a knife!

I want to cut it off!

Cut it off!"

"ilaama shoo am toojahni!"

(meaning: Oh, God! how painful!"

On and on and on all the time!

Tylenol and morphine did one thing:

They helped to keep him awake all night!

All night calling for help, more medication, and

"Take me to the Hospital now!"

Mixing with them a lot of "f..." words

"sh..." words and the like!

One week after he went back to see his Surgeon,

who took the first cast out and was pleased to see

Charbel's foot coming better!

He put a new cast on, a christmassy one!!!

We were pleased too!

... Till we came home and the same scenario repeated.

And we were around him not able to do much,

helpless and hopeless!

Now, 4 weeks after, things are getting better!

Once a day, usually in the evening,

he starts to complain but his humour is back!

He laughs and make us laugh!

He can't wait to "take it off" and go back to

the store to meet people!

And he is impatiently waiting to see

Jodo and Teta (grand parents)

coming to visit!

In good mood, finally!

Littlle small for the big head, baby!

But good to see you smile!

Nov the 8th!

2008-11-08T05:35:00.000-08:00

Charbel's Birthday!

Family and few friends gathered

to cheer him up and wish him

the best! TO BE WALKING

by next Birthday!

Charb had tendon lengthening surgery

last Weds, Nov 5th...

He was in QEII till yesterday,

Nov 7th...

The surgery went well, but the pain

was horrible! And even though Charb does never

complain about pain, this one was untolarable!

He still in great suffering,

but never lost his sense of humour!

The cast served well for Get Well
and Birthday wishes!

And Charb's favorite saying:

Pain is temporary.

Pride is for ever.

Reflexions

2008-10-10T08:17:00.001-07:00

How do you feel about mom & dad?
My mom & dad are good, booooring, but good.

What about your recovery?
I see many years to come.
My recovery is extremely important

and needs to be done.

I plan to continue on doing it.

Go, ,Charb, go!
U can do it!
If anyone can do it, it's you!
(Thumbs up!)
Sweet, sweet in a heart beat

Thank you God for this wonderful gift u have given me!
(insight)
Please, make it stronger, dear God

I try and pray a lot...
We need God.
He gives us what we need in life.
What we love.
Like friends and family.

How is your sight, Charbie?
I see letters in blur,

but I am fine with that.
I don't like to read. Never did.
Maybe now, I would like to read ,
especially about a fun subject,
like sports, weight lifting or arts.

What do u think about honesty?
Honesty makes the world go round!
I need more time to think about it!
Write that down so I will remember

What is your first memory after the accident?
I have no idea.

What are the things you do through the week?
I have no idea!
I spend my time at home.
I go to the hospital to work on
my recovery.

What do you do?
Not a clue!

It's boring, boring!
I am bored out of my mind!

What would like to do?
Party.
I would like to party all week long.

What would like to do that is really meaningfull?
(Shrugs his shoulders, pauses..)
I would like to work in the Hospital for
whatever they need me for

More on Charb... by Charb!

2008-10-09T13:34:00.000-07:00

Lets say, well... Ellen is playing Socrates!
Ask a question, and another one, and
find the "truth" from one's own answers!

... Go ahaed, Ellen!

Charb, how are you feeling today?
I do not know how to tell you.
I feel sad and tired and unhappy and droopy...
What is going on in your head?
I don't know, sometimes I worry about the future.
I want to write "bah hum bug":
that means I am annoyed with life...

The world is a place where you feel everything,
love and hate
Love? is when you more than like a person,
when you would kill to be with ,
or destroy anything to get to! All for love.
Hate? When u don't like something at all,
when you just would destroy it, bring it down!
I feel like I could cry, cause I feel so lonely.

No girl in my life.

Friends aren't enough sometimes.
u need love to be happy
u love your friends in a different way.

Do u love yourself?
I don't think. Why should I?

It's not easy loving myself, cause I think I am a big time loser.

Cause it has been a very long time since I had a girl to hold and love...

My friends don't give in to every thing I say.
They don't believe what I tell them.
I can't remember what, though
( with a sarcastic laugh)!

My life seems OK. But I don't like where I am at.
It's so hard on me, so darn boring!

I like you, Ellen. I like Justin.
I like Anthony but I liked him more
before the accident,
because I don't do the same things
with him now, we even played with Lego (smile!)

I want to write about hot girls.
I'm really passionate about sexy ladies.

I need more people loving me.
I need a single hot young lady loving me

This makes me anxious.

I need to work on my recovery,
but it's boring, I need fun and excitement!

It's complicated.

It's such a slow process, too slow for me.

But I am still fighting!

Three years later...

2008-09-28T07:47:00.000-07:00

YES!
It has been 3 long years!
Lots of advances made, a lot more still to happen.
Whoever said it would be very slow was right.
Whoever thought it would be impossible was wrong...
"Despair" is rarely resurfacing.Tears are drying.
Ups and downs, bright moments and grim ones alternate all day long.
Laughs cascade more often, as we sit together and listen to him
with his fine sense of humor, and his sharp remarks!

Still, we need more and we need it now!

But what about him???

What does he think of exercises, people around him, his life and its meaning?

Well, lets listen to him, by his own words!

My life is sad,
one minute I'm winning a Championship,
the next I'm a big loser.

Define Loser: _ Someone who does not win anything!

If only I had something to inspire me!

Define Inspiration:_ The meaning behind winning a Championship.

I miss lifting weights, playing rugby and wrestling.
Maybe I can become a swimmer, but I'm not interested in that.

I like to watch TV. I want to play video games.

Everything seems so hard, if not impossible.

My brain injury makes me sad.
My recovery irritates me, I find it very boring, incredibly boring.

I can not think about the injury,
it's too much to pursue, to handle, to deal with.

I am sick of the people who help me daily!
they constantly repeat themselves.

I feel my anger very heavy, the heaviest part of my body.
Like a big heavy weight on my shoulders.

I hate that I can not keep thoughts in my head.

I hate the fact that I rarely see my friends, and when I do
I can't remember seeing them.

I feel like a different person.
More confident in some ways, like talking to people.
I am not sure why, I think it's because I'm lonely.

I feel my life getting better ever so slowly!

It will change! I feel it, on the outside right here (lifting his hand
over his heart and chest).
It's hard to explain.

All you people out there:
LIVE STRONG
FIGHT HARD
NEVER STOP BELIEVING.

This was Charbel's sort of "confession" recorded & written by Ellen

few days ago...

In his exercise room, getting ready for action!

Hanging out with Justin!

Happy to see an old friend!

Slide out of the wheelchair, in
the rear of his van!

Eating "shawarma" and loving it!

September 08 BREAKTHROUGH...

2008-09-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Charb had finally made it to the swimming pool at Acadia,

thanks to The SMILE program! & and the good volonteers!

He does enjoye going there a lot!

More of August!

2008-09-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

Charb meets Dorcas!
It has been over a year since she promised to take him out for a Burger!

Dorkas, Megan & Bill with us around Charb...

After a long wait, he is taking it seriously!

All you can eat & drink, man!

Thank you, Dorcas! It was nice meeting you!
Hopefully next time around we can make "grape leaves!"

Rainy August!

2008-09-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

August 2008 was the worst month in years! Weather wise!
It rained every day... by the buckets! or as Sam slick says: It rained
cats and dogs!

Still, we managed to do some activities and met a lot of people!

We went to Acadia... and had a swim!

We met Cynthia, the OT...

And best of all, we had a BBQ party!

Bill Brown, Anthony Wood and Ellen
played music...

Other's waited for food...

Some even tried to steal my burger!

.. or my drinks!

Fortunatly, Jhonny and Megan were there to help me!

See more by clicking Photo Album!... Enjoy!

July's improvements... and more!

2008-08-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Here is Charb with Godfry, proudly wearing the new jersey

and planning the future of the
Rugby team, The Machine!

He is able to wheel himself around, but preferes not to do it!

Except when going to the kitchen!

Meeting with Doctor S. Walling, the Neurosurgeon who took

care of him in QEII... amd who is amazed of Charb beating all

medical expectations!

Surprised and "sooooo... happy" to see Charb,

nurses from the 7th floor greet him with disbelief!

(He spent 4 month there, one operation after another,

ended up opening his eyes, then left to Windsor Hospital...)

More of June's fun!

2008-07-30T21:27:00.000-07:00

Graduation day at KES...

Charb meets some old friends!

Some of June activities...

2008-07-30T21:07:00.001-07:00

Since his accident, Charb did not have a good dentist checkup.

Finally, he got to see one. He was put to sleep! It took more than 5 hours to

fix over 15 cavities! Poor Charb! No food for couple days!

He liked Grand Pre... but did not care for the documentary!

" I hope you did not pay for the tickets!" he said!

Ellen is leaving! She will be working with Charb

occasionally!

Justin is now the "Body Guard!"

Watch out!

2008-07-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

Charb picking cherries...

with the help of Chantal...

and dad!

After the joy of picking,
than eating cherries....

comes the punishment:
Brushing his teeth!

The funniest home video!...

2008-06-09T19:43:00.000-07:00

... This was suppose to be done in... well, May!
Blame the delay on me!

Anyway, here is the story:

Norma's friend, Wanda, invited us for a BBQ.
Charb was very excited to get out and have a BBQ at Wanda's. He kept saying:
"When are we going? We gonna be late!"

Finally we get to Wanda's and out of the van, Norma gives Charb a bottle of wine and tells him to hold it tight and not brake it!
I start wheeling him to the front door, but Wanda said it would be easier from the pool side, since we are having the BBQ there...
Here was Toni leading us and jokingly I asked if he wants us to go "over" the swimming pool that was still covered! " No, no, there is room on the side!"

Actually, there was room for two wheelchairs till... you hit the steps!

Here was Norma walking to my left, Toni in front, myself pushing Charb, all talking and
laughing....

All of a sudden, the wheelchair starts tilting toward the pool!
I was stunned and kept pulling, not knowing why it is sliding!
I stepped firmer! to hold better.... and was in the pool, the chair coming down on me!

with Charb coming down, the eyes wide open, the mouth wide open,
the face expressing surprise, fear, stupefaction,

Me in the water on my knees up to my neck, Charb still coming face down, mouth open!
With my left hand I tried to keep the chair up, with my right hand trying to hold his head above
water!

Norma screams and grabs the left wheels!
Toni, realising the situation, jumps down in the water to help!

Charb's head plunges in the water, mouth still wide open!
I felt a sharp pain in my spine, remembering all the professionals warnings about Charb choking if he gets his head down in deep water!
Just few second for that, and the mind brings millions of images and possibilities,
none of them tranquilizing!

... But all efforts from the three of us, and a bit of luck!
we pushed the chair and Charb (buckled up on it) back on the track!
And here comes Charb emerging from the water, soaked to the bones,
lifting his right hand with the bottle of wine intact!

From a scary and tragic moment, to hysterical laughs!

And, as soon as Charb could talk, he said:
"It would have being the funniest home video if some one had taped it!"
And laughs to cascade!
Now, all soaked, we had to convince Charb of going back home to change!
"But what about the BBQ? No, no, I'd rather stay!"

It was a very quick visit! From the van, to pool, back to the van! Less than 5 minutes!
Who can stop Norma from laughing?

It was Charb's first pool party in almost three years!

Well, an hour later Wanda and Toni brought the food to our house, and Charb had all he could eat!

An early Spring this year!

2008-05-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

Since we are having a relatively nice weather,
Charb has enjoyed the outdoors quite a bit so far!

He went to watch rugby games 5 times already!

The first was at Avon View, playing against KES!
The other 4 at KES, where sister Chantal is playing in the Girls unbeatable(!) team!

Because he loved the game and "thrilled" to play it, he wants to watch all the games, waiting

anxiously to see Godfry and James playing the big ... "bang", so he can wear the new jersey!

(Refer to photo album).

With Jordan & Brett!

Giving Dad an explanation on how to score....

The most beautiful Apple tree on blossom....

By the house and the Lilac...

Relaxing in the shade, surrounded by colorful tulips...

Charbel "springs"... into spring!

2008-05-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry!We did not update for a while!

But we got something to show you: Improvements in sitting and positioning!

The next 2 videos show Charb working out to sit without help!

Except Ellen's encouragement!

Click and see for yourself!

It is not of any exaggeration: We can not skip a day! One single day with no exercise seems

to set us back for a week! Charb "despises" the routine, but it has to be done!

Once a week, lately, Ellen takes him out for lunch!

Enough incentive to keep Charb trying harder!

On May the 18th Norma and Chantal took Charb to watch "Iron Man".

He did enjoy it, and he had lunch at SuissChalet! It was "fan-tas-tic!", he commented!

Charb and the Wood Clan...

2008-05-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

"Anthony is my best friend!" says Charb!

In fact Anthony does not miss an occasion to stop by and

tease , or challenge ... or invite Charb to listen

to him playing music and singing!

"Anthony! You make me jealous", he calls!

Charb sipping his juice before coming to the store!

Discussing "good movies" to watch with the Woods!

Note:
Check the Photo album for a video with Charb exercising his feet!
Also photos when James and Godfrey brought him a rugby jersey!

In a sequence of little steps...

2008-04-10T21:24:00.001-07:00

If only my left foot would listen!!!
Well, the left side still weak, arm and leg, hand and foot, but no one is giving up!
Charb is always trying very hard, it leaves him exhausted!
Small price for getting back walking!

In a continous effort to bring Charb walking, Ellen keeps pushing him to do more! by himself!

The easy steps when he is assisted become a real struggle if he is not! The more challenging tasks are bringing new improvements, not a whole lot yet, but it is a start!

Check more videos in the Photo Gallery!

Charb, the store... and Customer Service!

2008-04-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

(With M. Zimmer in the store).

When Charb was transferred to Windsor Hospital in Feb/06, and once we started bringing him home for few hours every day, I rolled him to the store and zizaged around the movies section, the chips racks, the pop coolers, the meat showcase, the scoop icecream unit and talked to him about the time he was working in the store and the regular customers he use to serve...

He was not resposive at all as yet, and while remembering the time he was working or just going through the store built "like a tank" (as some regulars teased about him), needless to write about heart broken and tears shed!!!

Dec 06 was a good month! Charb not only showed signs ( thumb up & down), he started "talking"!
And kept improving! Meeting our regular customers, hearing their voices and names, must have brought more of the past to him... Over time, he not only wants to come to the store, he doesn't want to leave!He is excited about meeting people and socializing!

(M. Brown & R. Cottenden)

(With L. Blue)

He likes to ask about names, professions, what they are buying... He "may suggest something" or give advice! He gets a good laugh with them and asks them to stay longer ( especially the ladies!)

Sometimes he even asks personal questions about their life... their love affairs, their marriage... and so on!

( Hilarious session wit G. Redden)

(Charb is sweating around T Richard!)

If someone is in a hurry and does not respond to his call, he gets desappointed: "I was going to talk to him/ her!"

(Serious discussion wit uncle Bill!)

" Harold, you are a great man!...

I need a drink. Can you buy me

five chocolate milk?"

Harold always teases him about his physical performance!

Out to Halifax! Happy Easter!

2008-03-25T08:49:00.000-07:00

It was a wish!

It became reality!

Charb wanted to go visit his cousins and aunty Leyla!
The last time he stoped there was on Tuesday, September 27/ 2005! He spent an hour with Guy, than headed to Dartmouth, and from there to Windsor. The accident happened on the way home, that night!

Since he "woke up" over a year ago, Charb asked million times to go to aunt Leyla's house! We all wished he could! But there was not lift to handle him, no ramp to push his wheelchair in, no accomodations for him....

Lately, he was getting more insistant in going there. "I wish you could walk", I would say. And Charb never failed to say " Yes, I can walk! Help me get off my chair!"

Well, as I mentioned before, we attempted to help him walk. He still weak and needs more time. But the will is present, so it is a matter of time and hard work!

Charb spent all morning asking what time are we going, " I can not wait anylonger, lets go now!"

We left around 1 o'clock... They were waiting for us! as excited as Charb was! Guy and Joe, Ellen and Gerald took care of lifting his chair up the stairs and fitting him into the narrow doors! For sure under the watchfull eyes of Norma and the incontations of Aunty Leyla!

Once inside the Hallellua and laughs cascaded! For the next few hours, Charb was so excited, so agitated and hyper, he was remembering the olden days, staying at Leyla's and playing games all night long with Joe and friends! " Joe, tell Ellen about that!" he was saying!

We all enjoyed Leyla's turkey and Norma's ham. Charb had plenty in his plate! ( Remember, he can chew! He can eat real food now!) But he refused to have a beer or aglass of wine! (We weren't serious about it!!!)

When it came time to leave, Charb, the old Charb, the one who does not listen anymore once his mind is set, "refused" to leave! " I am staying here! Mom and Dad, you can go, I am not coming with you!" For more than an hour, we all tryed to explain why he can not stay; are you kidding? "I am not leaving!" That was his answer!

He refused to put on his jacket and hat, he pushed away his blankets, he wouldn't let anyone fasten his seatbelt.... On and on and on...

After very generous promises of plenty of chocolate milk and all exotic fruits, he calmed a bit .... and sadly for all, especially Aunty Leyla, we drove back home!

... "When I walk, can I go there and stay with Joe and Guy?" That was the topic of the whole drive from Halifax to Windsor!

You sure can, sonny!

(Click on a picture to enlarge it).

Outing...

2008-03-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

Charb has been going out few times the last couple monhts! He enjoys it greatly!

And he can EAT real food now!

Home Rehab!

2008-03-18T20:38:00.000-07:00

Charb does exrcises in a daily basis. Sometimes unhappily. He started to rebuff, calling those daily routines "extremely boring!"

Norma, Ellen and myself we keep challenging him to give 110%...

AJ still comes 2 or 3 times for massages.

And for physio, Wanda Donnelle ( who actually retired from work!) agreed to offer her long time acquired knowledge and skills!

Every Thursday, Troy Harvey (Windsor Physiotherapy) adds his skills and touches to help Charb regain his motor skills.

Thank you guys!

Watching wrestling and having a BBQ!

2008-03-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

Charb was very excited about going watching wrestling!

AJ, Ellen and Gerald took him to the arena, but he quickly despised it calling it "fake" and insisted in going to Ellen's house! There, they had a BBQ... and Charb ate a whole TBONE

topped with fries and salad!

Sorry for the picture! It was the "best" one of a series taken by Ellen!

An exciting visit!

2008-03-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

First time in since last August 2007!

Robert and Doug came for a visit and Charb was thrilled to see them! Robert talked to Charb about recovery and asked him to do few moves. He was very responding and stayed in good mood!

Moving around a bit better ...

2008-03-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

Now Charb is trying (with assistance!) to move from the bed to the mat, from the chair to the couch...

... Early on, I came to see him at the appartment in the evening. He was in his wheelchair. As I walked in, he said :"Dad, help me go on the couch."

--Are you sure?"

-- Absolutly!"

--Hang on tight to my shoulders, I said, "and llllllllets doooooo it!"

Helped, he pulled himself off the chair and, in mid air, started to slide! I started yelling for help to keep him from falling! Chantal grabbed his bum, Rachel pushed the chair under him... We were all screaming, but, confused, Charb never said a word! Still, we ended sprawled down on the floor, with Charb on top of me! Scared to have broken his knees or ankles, I did not feel anything but fear and cofusion! Luckily he was unharmed! Now, the girls unleashed their laughs, the scene MUST have being unreal! " Good thing Norma was not here to witness this!" they said.

--No one mentions any of this to her! Never! Agreed?"

A crucial problem faced us now: How to get Charb back in his chair or bed without the lift, wich happened to be in the adjascent room?

The flying carpet!!!

We slid the carpet from the other room, flipped Charb onto it, and dragged them both under the lift. Successfully, we put him back in the chair... He was as amused as I was anxious, and laughed with his sisters and made jokes about me being so amusingly frightened!

Lucky for us, every thing went OK, and Charb was unharmed... because few minutes later Noma asked me : "So... How was the ride?"

--What ride?"

--The Flying Carpet ride!!"

How did she know so fast? ... I still wonder!

More visits and excitement!

2008-03-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

How exciting to see you guys!
Charb is always happy to see his friends!

Would it be for talking, playing cards or watching movies!
(Arm wrestling and thumb war, too!)

A small step forward!

2008-03-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, 3 months since the last update!

Well, we waited for something new, different, shocking!

For an improvement we all hope to happen, despite the situation or the medical denial!

We wanted to talk not only about the daily routine, but about a big step ahead!

And here we are now thinking it had happened, this shocking event!

Still little shy... a baby step! But it won't stop there! Because Charb is very decided to walk "upstairs to my room!", and we are very stubbornly working to get him there!!

On February the 15th, with little help from Ellen and Dad, Charb stood up! on 2 feet!

and oh God! made 3 steps! What a moment!

Baby steps, they were! but two and a half yrs after his accident!

Helped and supported, yes, he was! he still moved his feet after two and a half yrs!

In no time, the incident reached Vancouver, LA, Texas, France, Lebanon! The phone was ringing uninterrupted for a day!... I wish our lives were nothing but happy moments and good news!

So excited they were, that Norma took pics so dark you can hardly see, and Chantal taped a movie side ways, you would need to flip your screen to watch!

(Photo: Charb is getting ready to stand and try few steps! His seating has improved a lot!)

Happy Holidays to All!

2007-12-18T17:59:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that a whole month has passed since our last update! Time certainly is quickly passing us by. Charbel's routine has been basically the same as always with little, but important improvements from the month before.

The two main areas of Charbel's progress this month have been in eating and vision. Charbel's control of his mouth and tongue has been steadily improving - so much so that he can now eat solid food! This is a HUGE deal to us and him because he has been on mashed up and liquid foods since he started eating last year. He can now bite and chew! An awesome improvement for Charb who has been able to enjoy real food, finally! A couple weeks ago Charbel, Chantal, Mom and Rachel went out to A&W and Charb ate a hamburger - the whole thing, all by himself and he enjoyed every minute of it! He has since been eating a variety of food, from rice and beans, to eggs, and cake.

Charb's vision has also shown signs of improvement this month. He is able to see smaller letters now, and read short words. The fact that he can read is a very exciting development! His vision is not perfect and he sometimes mixes up his letters because he doesn't always see the full form of the letter clearly, but usually he can read short words, and he can see the letters and spell out longer words. He has a long way to go before he's back to seeing normally, but he has shown tremendous development in this area and we are very hopeful that he will be able to fully re-develop his vision. Reading was never one of Charb's favourite things to do, and he's just happy that he can read movie titles to pick out which DVD to watch!

We had a lot of fun decorating the Christmas tree together and you can check out the pictures in the Photo Album.

Last year at Christmas Charbel began to talk and we were blessed with the miracle of his recovery. Since Charb started talking we have spent so much time laughing and enjoying our time together - we laugh more now than we ever did! We are very blessed to have been given the chance to be a family again after such a devastating accident.

Christmas is a time of miracles and also a time to think of those in need. Our condolences go out to the Smith family for the loss of their son Brandon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Jared during this difficult time. May God bless you and help Jared recover from his injuries.

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope that the New Year brings love and peace in your lives.

Charbel's Birthday Party a Great Success!

2007-11-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out last Saturday to wish Charb a happy birthday, we had a great time! It was wonderful to see all of you there and catch up on what's new with everyone.

What a difference a year makes, last year at Charbel's party in November he still wasn't talking, this time he was laughing and joking and chatting with all his friends!

We hope to see you all again around Chrismas time, feel free to stop in any time you are in town, Charb loves the company and reminiscing about the good old days.

Check out the photo album for pictures of the party!

Charbel's Birthday Invitation!

2007-10-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

" To all my friends
You are invited to my Birthday
Nov10/07
Please show up... with lots of gifts
CR"
Yes, Nov 10th instead of 8th, since it is a long weekend and on Saturday you may have more time! Please do not miss out! Most of you came last year when Charb was starting to " come back"... A year later it will be interesting to see his reaction to your gathering! We appreciate your enthusiasm and commitment! Hope to see you all, between 2pm and 7pm!
Thanks.

Charbel writing his Invitation!

2007-10-12T18:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!

2007-10-06T04:32:00.000-07:00

Two years after the tragic accident, Charb is working hard to regain range of motion, strength and mobility. It is a very long, slow and exhausting process, but no one is giving up!
I posted some photos of Charb workout with Ellen and friends, you can check them out!

Finally, Charb is having a taste of "real" food! With friend Adam, Charb and Norma visited "Amou Farid", Fred's Pizza! First time Charb goes out for lunch... but not the last! Guys watch out! After two years long hunger, well...

In another occasion, Charb had a great time at a small gathering of Lebanese friends in Habbards. We came all to celebrate Abouna's 40th Anniversary into priesthood! Everything was perfect, from the good weather to the Mass outdoors, to the banquet… and Charb was jubilant!
He wanted to stay with his friends and Abouna overnight! “ I refuse to go!’ he kept saying. Unfortunately, we had to bring him back home.
Lets hope that by next year he could be able to go back, walk on the beach, climb the rocks and stay overnight like he did many times years ago!
You can check some photos of that happy day!

2nd Anniversary of Charbel’s Accident

2007-09-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

September 27th 2006 will forever remain the most tragic day of our lives, but two years later, we are blessed to be able to say that Charbel has made remarkable progress and continues to improve.

This past year Charbel has gone from a minimally conscious state, unable to do anything other than open his eyes, to being fully aware, speaking and full of life! Throughout the first 14 months after his accident we heard again and again that he would never wake up. We heard that his little movements were simply coincidence and that there was no sighn of functioning brain activity. But we believed in Charbel – we never gave up hope. Deep down, all of us knew that he was fighting to come back, deep down we all knew that if anyone could do it, it would be Charbel – so we waited for a sign.

That sign came in early November when Charbel started deliberately turning his head to familiar sounds and smiling at mom and dad. That month, the changes were so rapid it was unbelievable. From simply smiling to clearly understanding what he was hearing and following directions, Charbel progressed enough to prove to everyone that he was indeed awake and aware of his surroundings. The biggest miracle of all was just after Christmas when Charbel said his first word 15 months! It came out as a whisper, but as the months progressed, he is now talking in full sentences and has a full vocabulary. He still has trouble with his tongue movement but even this has improved in the past month and his pronunciation is better than ever.

In the last couple of weeks Charbel has taken many steps forward on his long road to recovery. He has become more animated and full of life, spend 5 minutes with him and I guarantee he’ll have you laughing and having a great time. He’s constantly making jokes, participating in family conversations, and watching television (especially sports). And that’s in his free time. Charbel’s days are filled with physical and mental exercises to help him recovery all that he lost during the accident.

Physically he continues to improve – especially his core muscles which were incredibly weak before. He can now sit on his own and hold himself up for a few minutes at a time. He can roll over on his own when placed on a mat and can bend and lift his legs.

Charbel’s vision has improved incredibly over the past couple of months. He can clearly make out faces and objects and has begun to be able to see smaller images such as details in pictures and large letters and numbers.

Verbally Charbel has full command of both Arabic and English – in fact he speaks more Arabic than he ever did before in his life. His tongue movements have improved and his speaking is much clearer than before. He is also taking the initiative to engage in conversation more than before and he rarely spends days without talking as he used to only three or four months ago.

Eating continues to pose a challenge for Charbel. He has come a long way from the feeding tube that kept him alive for over a year, but continues to be able to only eat mushy foods. He has trouble with chewing, although this is improving slowly, which makes it difficult for him to eat solid foods. He has made progress in his ability to bite however, so you have to be very careful what you place in front of him – guaranteed he’ll snatch it up and take a bite! His appetite has never changed – he’s always hungry and still loves to eat!

Charbel has made so much progress in the past few months that it’s difficult even to imagine the way he was before. Those memories will always be deeply ingrained in us but we have chosen to focus on the positive and focus on the second chance at life that we have all been given. Charbel’s accident has taught us so much about ourselves, about life, and about the importance of family. His sheer willingness to live has taught us to never take for granted all of the blessings we have in our lives. Whenever I feel like I am having a bad day or something has be down, I just think about Charbel and all of the struggles he has gone through and my difficulties seem small. He is truly an inspiration to us all and he has brought such happiness back into our lives. We are very blessed to have him in our lives.

Two years later, on the anniversary of Charbel’s accident, we are celebrating all that we have been through together and all that he has overcome. We are so thankful for all that we have been given and for those who have helped us through these difficult times.

Today we are celebrating the miracles that allowed us to be a family again.