MARC ANDRE BELLIVEAU UPDATE                                                    May 22nd, 2006“There are an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 spinal cord injuries every year in the United States.” Earlier this month, Marc was transported from Vancouver to Quebec City. Although still hospitalized one month since his accident, it was sure he would soon be released to a rehabilitation center. Marc spent a little over one month in two different hospitals before his release to rehab. Once in rehab, Marc began to lead his own life again. Although still weak from his injury and his hospital stay, he was slowly gaining more comfort in his wheelchair. He continues to stretch and exercise his legs daily but tires easily. As Marc continues his progress, so does his freedom. Marc’s latest highlight was spending Sunday night (5/21) with his family at his own home with no complications. Marc experienced a warm and tearful welcoming by his family as it was the first time he’d been to the family home in several months. Although his visit was short, he grew into the comfort of his friends and family. Marc reported he spent some time singing with his guitar to his family and friends in the backyard while home.  The family has begun to anticipate his arrival home for good. The process of planning and designing the home to accommodate Marc’s arrival has begun. The family is also planning to have Marc’s car modified soon so he’ll be free to travel to visit friends with the use of hand controls. This is the first step in getting Marc back on his own and Stand Strong Again will be there working with the family to help fund these modifications with the donations received to date.  Marc will maintain his strict rehabilitation schedule and strive for the day that he’s back home with his family and friends full time. Marc has remained as passionate as ever with his music. He’s currently working on completing an album from his live show in Jackson Hole, which will soon be available for purchase at: standstrongagain.org.  Stand Strong Again is excited to announce its first ever benefit concert, arranged by TGR, on June 3rd in Owen Bircher Park, Wilson, Wyoming. We encourage everyone to come and participate in our biggest fund raiser to date. All proceeds of the admission, raffle and Stand Strong MAB merchandise will go to the foundation to further support Marc’s ambition to Stand Strong Again. Marc will not be able to attend but would like to thank everyone again for their support. He swears he will get to the emails soon.  We encourage everyone to keep sending e-mails of support to Marc at: marc@standstrongagain. As always, donations are welcome at Marc’s foundation: http://www.standstrongagain.org. Check out the site for additional details on Marc, merchandise and next event nearest you.