The Templeton’s Story – Overview Written by Cynthia Templeton in 2012.

Cynthia is the mother of Darren, age 18 when he sustained a C5 spinal cord injury after diving into shallow water at the Jersey Shore, off the family boat, on July 23, 2004.

Thank you for having an interest in our story. I hope that some of what I share can be helpful to others facing a similar journey in this new, challenging and sometimes frightening world of spinal cord injury (SCI).

Please keep in mind that this is only our story, and is not meant, by any means, to be a definitive, authoritative guide to SCI. Another’s story may be totally different, and that is completely understandable. No two stories and situations are alike. What happened to us may or may not have happened to someone else. What worked for us may or may not help someone else.

I have written about these topics for a few reasons. First, I enjoy writing. Second, I have found writing about these experiences to be a kind of healing process, helping me recall what happened, what we did, and what I’ve learned. Third, and the reason most of you are reading this right now, is to help others who have found themselves or a loved one or a friend facing spinal cord injury. What can I do? What do I need to do? Who can help? I hope some of my writings can help you in some way, and is my way of “paying it forward.”

Be sure to read the section entitled “One Family’s Personal Story of a Spinal Cord Injury” in the Family Corner section, which is a compilation of e-mails sent out as things were happening with Darren’s injury and care.