Today we went to your neurology appointment at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, and stepping through those doors always brings back memories. It was months after your birth before we ever heard you utter a sound. Of course, having a tube down your throat tends to make speaking a challenge for anyone. Still, we operated exclusively on faith that you felt our presence when we were with you because it was very difficult for you to acknowledge us visually, verbally, or otherwise.
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| From this... |
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| To this! |
On the ninth floor this morning, you had a blast just spending time in the waiting room in your chair reading a book with Mommy and me. You are so engaging and giggly. After they called us back to the waiting room, we played on the examination table crinkling the paper - which is always a big hit. And when Dr. Pina finally made it back to our room, you did something quite unusual: when he went to check you out, you reached out for him and hugged him. It was one of the sweetest things I have ever witnessed, and it certainly seemed to pleasantly surprise Dr. Pina. He couldn't stop talking about how "sweet" and "adorable" and "what a cool little guy!" you are. I agree with him wholeheartedly.
The contrast between your ability to engage during your first few weeks and months versus today is astounding considering all the challenges you have faced. And even more than just engaging, you are able to communicate love on a level that a large number of adults have serious difficulty with. Your gifts are unique, and I pray that you continue to embrace and mature in that unique ability to love others and brighten everyone's day with your delightful laughter.
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