This is Susan’s brother (the original Scully) again. I just finished reading your book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. I never realized how painfully difficult your recovery was, although I did follow it at a distance back then. I never realized the severity or complexity of the multiple, major corrective surgeries that were required to straighten your spine. One point becomes very clear. You are one stubborn person when it comes to clinging to hope.

Your book offers hope to anyone facing a life-changing event. You are blessed to have been surrounded by wonderful friends, family and a community that cares about you. Others facing difficult odds will find solace in your book. I still shake my head in amazement when I reflect on all you have accomplished. Your story of recovery is both miraculous and inspirational.

One last point. I agree with you. Your brother Stephen will have to play himself in the movie.

Cheers.

-tim

Tim Bohdan, PMP®
Associate Partner
IBM-Certified Executive Project Manager
IBM Global Business Services
Office: +1 832-295-4829
Mobile: +1 832-689-8237 (preferred)
email: tbohdan@us.ibm.com

This is Susan’s brother writing you [note: my sister Susan Bohdan was a swim teammate of Haley’s and was on the bus during the accident]. I pre-ordered your book. I can’t wait to read it. Although I have high expectations for the book, nothing can supplant the experience of living through those moments in real time. I remember receiving a call from my sobbing mother in the middle of that infamous night. My mom spent the next twenty minutes describing the accident and wailed about two swimmers dying. Because she made no mention of Susan’s name, I had assumed the worst and started mentally planning to attend my sister’s funeral. When my mom finally mentioned that Susan had just spoken to her, I realized that my sister was still alive. The acceptance of Susan’s death followed by an “oops, I forgot to mention” moment is the closest thing I’ve experienced to a death in my immediate family. I remember getting really angry at my mom for keeping me so cruelly uninformed for twenty minutes.

I occasionally use that signpost in my life to reflect on everything that has happened in my life since the accident. I also think about what my sister Susan has done since. I wonder in amazement at everything she has accomplished. Certainly your comeback story has been inspirational. I lived vicariously through every step of your recovery. The high moments were joyful and inspiring; the lows ones were truly sobering.

I hope your book sells well. I expect to see you on TV promoting it soon. I still think your movie should be called “Haley” starring Julia Roberts.

Cheers.

-tim

Tim Bohdan, PMP®
Associate Partner
IBM-Certified Executive Project Manager
IBM Global Business Services

Congratulations Haley - I love you and I am so proud of you as a person, friend and especially sister!!