Nineteen years ago today I had a very special date. The date was with my favorite doctor in the world, and it was to take place at the nearby hospital. The doc was going to induce labor so my second son could be born.
When I checked into the hospital at about 5am I knew I was having a baby. I knew the baby would be a boy. That was the extent of my knowledge. That and the fact that I wasn’t thrilled I wasn’t able to have a cup of coffee.
A Pitocin drip was started a short while later. Having been that route with my first son, I expected things to take quite a while. Fortunately for everyone, that wasn’t the case. My little love was born at 4:20 pm.
The moments surrounding my son’s birth and us being informed were busy. Yet one thing I remember was that despite some health concerns we were concerned about, I wasn’t afraid that he has Down syndrome. I never have been.
We had a lot of learning to do after my second son was born. Learning about him, Down syndrome, and ourselves. I have never once wondered “why me”. I have at times wondered “why him”.
Early in life we faced some isues, some dealing with health and others dealing with education. At times it felt like I had to fight for every single thing and that every single day was a battle. In those early days my Mom was my largest source of support. I worked out of the house full-time back then. When I had to work and couldn’t attend a meeting because my boss wouldn’t permit it, she stood in for me. The school district grew to dread meeting with her, and rightfully so. We owe so much to her, but that’s another story.
Not one day has gone by that I haven’t been grateful that I am lucky to be his Mom. He has made me a better person. He inspires me, and makes me proud. My love is selfless, kind, loving, generous, compassionate and caring. He always tries his best, for himself and others. I cannot imagine a day without his smile, laugh and love.
Happy 19th birthday little man. Mommy loves you always and forever.
I know I’ve read snipits of things about your son over the years and he sounds like an amazing young man! I hope he has a wonderful birthday!
He looks like a great kid and it is so great to see you have fun together. Happy birthday and many more
I hope he has an amazing birthday! 19 years! It’s amazing how fast time flies. You turn around one day, and they’ve grown up.
Happy birthday to him! They will always be your little ones no matter how old they get
Aww I love this! Happy 19th birthday to him! I can’t believe how much he’s grown up!!!
So sweet! Such an amazing young man! Happy birthday!
I remember well the day. I remember wanting so much to hold him so tiny, so fragile. In the weeks and months that followed I learned a lot–Down begins at the moment of conception and there is no cure, there are different forms, CPR, advocating–but I never had to learn how to love him. From the moment I saw him I knew love.
Happy birthday to your son! He is a blessing to you. Such an awesome young man and with a loving, supportive mom like you, he is going to do great things.