Nicole's story is representative of the importance of a supportive family and community play. “I think it's important to have a team of people, working to support you,” says Kim. “It's not weakness if you can't do it alone.” For a while, Kim bore the brunt of the responsibilities in caring for Jack solo, but has learned that true resilience lies within those around you. She reached out, and found strength in numbers. And in love.     

 

One of the most crucial people in her life is her husband, Jerry, who has taken on an active role in Jack's life. Jerry sports his leather biker-wear as he and Jack get ready for a motorcycle ride. Jack throws on his own leather jacket, something that some of his classmates at school are certainly jealous about. His unmistakable, wide grin grows as the sound of ignition roars in the garage and echoes throughout the whole neighborhood. “Weasels!” yells Jack emphatically, referring to the motorcycle organization he and Jerry both belong to.

 

“It took him two years to feel comfortable on the bike,” says Jerry. “Getting his feet fixed allowed him to sit properly.” They have been going on rides frequently as of late, through the scenic Santa Monica Mountains of southern California in preparation for an annual long-distance ride to northern Arizona with the Weasels, camping with friends along the way. Jerry’s influence on Jack is noticeable, although Jerry stresses how greatly Jack has affected him too. “From Jack specifically, what I've learned is exactly what the definition of courage is. What it really means to be courageous in the face of knowing you're different. Jack doesn't recognize that as a limitation. He's motivated to win. He's motivated to do what anybody else can do, regardless of what his body can do.” Jerry and Kim’s decisions as parents have made quite an impact on Jack and Nicole, reinforcing that the source of their freedom is their collective support and encouragement of one another. “It's good to have the network of support,” says Kim. “I think we have it a lot easier than some other families in the sense that we are very connected to the community.”

 

Jack lifts himself slowly onto the back of Jerry's Harley. He slides his helmet on and adjusts his tinted safety glasses. The road opens in front of them. In the reflection of his visor is Kim, smiling herself, right before her two outlaws roar off into the distance. “Jack has taught me that even under the worst of circumstances, there's still a reason to laugh,” she says. Ultimately, she is still at the center of Jack's universe, bottom-lining the care he receives, making sure health insurance covers the enormous cost of Jack’s therapy, and just being mom. “He has taught me so much. No matter how strong I've been, he's got all the strength.” She is motivated time and time again by Jack's playful, charming, and warm sensibilities in the face of his own mortality. “I hope Jack lives a really happy life. One day I hope there is a cure for this disease, but even if there isn't, I just hope that he can do what he wants to do, change the world, and be who he is.”