We Got the Juice

This morning is one for the books.

I had two very life-changing phone calls which have allowed me to be so appreciative of all I have.

Phone call number one was from Shriner's Hospital in Salt Lake City. I turned in an application a couple of weeks ago for therapy and orthopedic services for Deak. I wasn't really sure he'd qualify, but I have been so frustrated with the amount of services given to Deak through the state, that I thought it was worth a shot. Shriner's offers services to people, not based on income level like most other options, but based off the child's need. The woman who called me this morning called to let me know that Deak was preliminarily accepted and wanted to know which Doctors we would like. Shriner's offers FREE physical, occupational, speech (to cleft palate children), and sensory motor therapy - and it is the best in Utah period. Once Deak is evaluated there, they will determine what services he needs and he will be given these services for life. I cried with Joy.

Phone call number two was from the pharmaceutical company who Deak's doctor requested we go through for his Growth Hormone Treatment. The woman who I spoke with there let me know that Deakon's claim had been denied by our insurance agency (no surprise there, it usually has to go through an appeal or two) - BUT... they have a FREE program which will provide us with four months of growth hormone treatment until they sort out our insurance claim. NO reimbursement necessary. Basically, Deak will get to start juicing next week. I cried with Joy again.

When I thought my day couldn't get any better, my cute little Deakon decided to up the anty by attempting to crawl. He started this a few days ago...He actually gets up on all fours and moves his knees all by himself. He kind-of nose dives forward, but he is getting it. I sat and watched him in awe for a minute, just so amazed at how much harder he has to work, and how okay with it he is. He understands his plan is a little different and not only accepts it...he is happy. I wish I could capture the joy I feel when I see him push and try and fight against all odds...and win. I wish I could allow others to feel what I feel when I see him drink from a straw, or hold a cup, or comb his hair. To paraphrase a quote from the video 99 Balloons (click only if tissues are near), " The joy I feel for my son's accomplishment of living this month (he was diagnosed with Trisomy 18) I can imagine only compares to the joy a mother might feel the day her son graduates from Harvard or becomes President." And it truly does - and I get to feel that every day. It feels as if life has purpose, as if small issues don't matter, and it feels as if I get a glimpse of the joy I will feel when I leave this earth. Although I have had my share of pain, as we all have, I still don't feel deserving of the joy my children bring into my life. I am not sure I will ever feel adequate enough to have Deakon here, but I can promise the gratitude in my heart will never leave.

I just feel so blessed.