Stronger (31 page)

Playing one of my donated guitars at Spaulding. I couldn’t hear the notes very well because of damage to my inner ears, but look at the signatures!
(Photo courtesy of Jenn Joyce Maybury)

My physical therapist, Michelle Kerr, works on my right leg during a session at Spaulding. Believe me: It usually wasn’t this gentle.
(Photo courtesy of Jenn Joyce Maybury)

One of Erin’s favorite photos: the two of us with her best friends, Remy and Michele. This was taken in Michele’s room at Spaulding, about three weeks after the bombing.
(Photo courtesy of Remy Lawler)

Mom and me.
(Photo courtesy of Jenn Joyce Maybury)

Erin’s family and friends, including Remy and Michele, at the Portsmouth Half Marathon in Maine. It was tough being in the crowd, but we did it for Erin.
(Photo courtesy of Gail Goodson)

My childhood idol, Pedro Martinez, demonstrates how he grips a changeup, while Erin and Carlos’s wife Mel look on. He surprised me on the field at Fenway before my first pitch on May 28, 2013.
(Credit: Josh Haner/The
New York Times
/Redux)

Relaxing with my E. a few innings later. I wouldn’t have been there without her.
(Photo courtesy of Jenn Joyce Maybury)

Game 2 of the World Series at Fenway with two great friends I made during my recovery: Tim Rohan and Katlyn (Kat) Townsend. Sorry the Mets didn’t make it, Tim. Maybe next decade.
(Photo courtesy of Katlyn Townsend)

James Taylor took the time to really talk to me at his rehearsal before the One Fund concert. A truly caring dude.
(Credit: Josh Haner/The
New York Times
/Redux)

With Mom, Aunt Jenn, and Kevin “Heavy Kevy” Horst during my first visit to the Costco where I worked.
(Photo courtesy of Jenn Joyce Maybury)

Erin, Kat, and me with Brian Williams after my only national television interview in July 2013.
(Photo courtesy of Katlyn Townsend)

Carlos Arredondo and three generations of Jeffs: me, my dad Big Jeff, and my great-uncle Jeff.
(Photo courtesy of Terri Wright Bauman)