Lily has won. Last year she won her battle and this year, she's winning the war:
She is clapping,
She is waving,
She is laughing,
She smiles all the time,
She is sitting up,
She is playing,
She is crawling,
She is exploring,
She adores her older sister,
She eats like a champ,
She feeds herself,
She sleeps well, and soundly
and she is starting to babble!
In short, she is doing miraculously well. My awe at her development never dissipates. Every day, I hold a miracle in my arms. And for that I feel so, so fortunate. More than ever, I'm confident that lily will be able to lead a normal life. She will walk, she will run, she will learn and she will communicate. And one day, she will be independent. As a father, that is all I can ask for - her chance to lead an independent and fulfilling life.
The past year has had harrowing moments. Moments of despair, uncertainty and unending worry. There have also been moments of joy and throughout, hope has prevailed.
And remember - hope matters.
One year ago, I did not know if lily would live to make it home. Six months ago, I did not know if lily would ever be able to crawl. One month ago, I did not know if she would start babbling or not. I hoped, but I didn't know. Lily is living proof that when hope is the only hook to hang your hat on - that's where you hang your hat! I guess you never really know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.
Hope matters.
Miracles exist.
And never, never, never give up.
Today, we put history behind us and look into the future having been through the storm and emerged. The ship is stronger for it. Thank you everyone for your support this past year. We wouldn't have been able to do it without you.
Happy First Birthday Lily!
