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Help for Family In Need is Positively Milwaukee

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WEST ALLIS - Last summer, life changed forever for the Wood family of West Allis. But their story is one of pain, survival, and the kindness of strangers.

Their lives were seriously rocked after 17-year-old Trevor was injured at school. His mom Jennifer Wood describes the fateful day. "He was trying to slide down a banister a couple stories up and when he tried to slide he lost his balance. He fell over backwards and fell a little over 20 feet.

Trevor ended up hospitalized and in a coma. The family did not know if their popular music loving teen would make it.

Jennifer Wood reflects, "When something like that happens it kind of changes your perspective on things, so it's tough."

Trevor survived, but suffered a traumatic brain injury. That meant he needed a special home. The cost to renovate, more than $50,000.

Then, the kindness of strangers. Trevor's dad, Mark Wood, describes some of the work done by caring volunteers. He points out, "They completely demolished from the front door, all the way back."

Mark Wood shows off some of the work done by a volunteer team that donated time and money to make the home accessible.

About 50 people and 10 local businesses helped out. "Variety, The Children's Charity of Wisconsin" lined up the contractors.

Executive Director Gerise Laspisa put the pieces together. She points out, "Its life changing. It really is a rewarding feeling to have been a part of it all. I'm so happy that I reached out to find there were resources."

A key resource was a team from Tri-North Builders. Thomas Thayer is President and CEO. He is proud of his crew. He notes, "They all stepped forward and they really gave the extra effort to make this successful. And it turned out very nice. We were able to match the trim and blend it in really well with the house."

Tri-North donated time, supplies and money. Crews also built a seventy foot ramp leading into the home, making it easier for Trevor to enter. Trevor also got a new bedroom and new bathroom.

The changes to the home, made it possible for Trevor to come home. And mom says when he left the hospital, his progress soared. Jennifer Wood smiles as she describes the changes. "He started to move his head more. He started to speak; he's been moving his arm. He's just recently been able to lift up his arm and take his own glasses off. "

Ultimately, the construction crew nailed an important need. Now the family has the tools it needs to face new challenges, and the foundation to give Trevor the love and support he deserves.

About the volunteers, Trevor's father Mark Wood sums it up aptly. "They're amazing people what they've done for us. The generosity and caring they've shown since they came into our lives is just amazing."

 

Next Article in Positively Milwaukee: Locks of Love is Positively Milwaukee

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