Miracle Boy

No one could tie a tighter knot if they tried. Except this wasn't yarn, a string or a piece of rope. It was an umbilical cord. I remember glancing at it just moments after our son was born. The doctor was saying, " This just doesn't happen. This is a miracle. This is a "miracle boy."

"Michael" is 16 today (named after his dad). The reason why I bring up "today" is because it's the 16th anniversary of his surgery (July 12, 1994). He was five months old then and was suffering from the condition referred to as: "Craniosynostosis," an abnormal forming of the brain due to a premature closing of the skull. It showed itself in that Michael had a cone-shaped head.

The days leading up to the surgery were a challenge. Of course, in the back of our heads (my wife and I) were thoughts of fear, "Why us?" questions and more. Beyond that, Michael got sick so the surgery had to be postponed. (It was supposed to take place in June.) We had to continue to lean on faith, friends and family.

And I guess what I really wanted to say is I'm thankful. Michael is sitting in the chair early this morning (as he likes to do) watching his favorite: "Star Wars - The Clone Wars" while I (his dad) reflect on how glad I am to have him. (Is that a tear welling up in my eye?)

What are you thankful for today?

(flickr image by katiedee)