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Robert Dan Headstream Jr.
Hello, let me introduce myself my name is Robert Dan Headstream Jr. I was born July 28, 1973, in Dallas,
Texas. When growing up, I attended school in Conyers, Georgia and throughout my years living there I was
very active in a number of sports. I participated in the following sports: soccer, baseball, basketball
and track. After graduating from high school, I moved to Newnan. I went to a technical school but was
unable to finish due to my disability challenges. Hopefully, I may one day return back to school.
My disability which is a form of Muscular Dystrophy called Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy. My disease causes
the following issues: weakness in arms, and legs. Also, this disease can cause problems with the internal
organs such as the lungs and the heart. One of the traits which has been noticed by medical doctors and
neurologist is the narrowing of the face around the temples and the length of the upper and lower
extremities. Also another symptom of this disease is the need for longer periods of sleep to feel
fully rested.
The physical challenges of having the disease Myotonic Muscular dystrophy is the progressive weakening of
the muscles of the body and some organs in the body. Some of the main challenges, I have with this disease
is walking without help which is why I have to use leg-feet orthotic braces to walk. The braces help me
walk by pushing my feet forward and giving my legs support because of the progressive weakness in my
lower extremities. Some of the other physical challenges I face is having trouble seating in low level
chairs and other kinds of furniture. If I sit in lower level furniture the only way I can get up is by
help from others by grasping me by my waist and lifting me upward. I also need assistance with bathing
and help somewhat with getting dressed. Annually, my heart condition is reviewed to identify possible
complications.
Now I would like to tell you how I became a resident of the Wishes 4 Me Foundation, Inc. While I was
living with my mother as my disease was progressively worsening, I needed more help with things such as :
bathing, dressing, etc.... So my mother contacted Peggy Hood, the director of the Muscular Dystrophy
Association of the Atlanta area. Mrs. Hood told my mother about an organization which assist individuals
with disabilities. My mother contacted the Ms. Lynn Robinette to find out more about how they could
help me. So after their conversation, we visited their men's home (Steve's Home) in Lawrenceville, GA.
After visiting the Steve's Home a couple of times, Ms. Lynn Robinette asked me If this was a place which
I could benefit from and I told her "Yes, It would." April 2010, I moved in Steve's Home. I
am enjoying my new life in Lawrenceville. I am experiencing a more productive and Blessed life.
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Rob has been such a positive resident. Transitions are usually hard for most new residents. We have been
very impressed Rob's ability to be such a positive influence with our residents. Rob volunteers weekly at
a local nursing home and assisted living facility. Rob also is involved in weekly activities and church
services at First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville. He has become an active member of the church
as well. He donated blood at the blood drives held at the church. Rob has developed many relationships
since moving to Lawrenceville. He is well liked and respected by many people.
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