Thirteen years and one day ago, when I saw a family raising a child with disabilities, I actually pitied them. Based on what I understood the ingredients of a happy life to be at that time, I could not imagine how a family, who had to spend an extraordinary amount of time caring for a special child and who could not engage in the physical activities that I loved doing with my family, could create happiness like I had with my "normal" family. I was not outspoken about my feelings. In fact, I never shared my thoughts with anyone. I truly respected families who made the "sacrifice" to raise special children, but did not want to do it myself.
On June 3, 2000, my life and my perspective changed. My son, Christopher was born premature weighing only 1 pound and three ounces. He spent 5 months in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit before being sent home with the expectation that he would soon die. Truthfully, it was a process that probably took months or years for my perspective to completely change.
Christopher defied medical expectations and chose to live. During the course of these past thirteen years, he has taught me and many others how to live and live happy. As I celebrated Christopher's birthday with our family today, I pondered on how my perspective has completely changed. I cannot imagine my life without Christopher. Now, I truly wish everyone had the opportunity to have a sweet child with disabilities like Christopher. Raising Christopher has enriched my life and brought joy beyond description. I LOVE YOU CHRISTOPHER! Happy Birthday my son.
On June 3, 2000, my life and my perspective changed. My son, Christopher was born premature weighing only 1 pound and three ounces. He spent 5 months in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit before being sent home with the expectation that he would soon die. Truthfully, it was a process that probably took months or years for my perspective to completely change.
Christopher defied medical expectations and chose to live. During the course of these past thirteen years, he has taught me and many others how to live and live happy. As I celebrated Christopher's birthday with our family today, I pondered on how my perspective has completely changed. I cannot imagine my life without Christopher. Now, I truly wish everyone had the opportunity to have a sweet child with disabilities like Christopher. Raising Christopher has enriched my life and brought joy beyond description. I LOVE YOU CHRISTOPHER! Happy Birthday my son.