Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Happy Birthday to my Baby

15 years ago today, my youngest was born. Shortly after birth he was whisked away into NICU. Nathan was born with a hole in his heart, one kidney and a bowel obstruction. Hours later I was allowed to see him for a few moments. 
The next day I held him and we began our bonding. Surrounded by other babies born with problems and worried parents, we spent the next week. The nursing staff, volunteers and doctors at Saginaw Covenant were amazing! 

Within the first year, Nathan suffered seizures and couldn't speak for years.



Despite not being able to talk, teachers believed he was intelligent and proved they were right.




While keeping up with his older brothers, he thrived on baseball and football. The physical activity proved to be good for him.

Coaches worked with his strengths, building his confidence. Soon the insecure little boy was replaced.

With a special pad, Nate easily plays football. At a young age, he noticed other players with the same pad. A brotherhood of players with single kidneys formed.


I've watched my Little Tiger overcome any challenge he faced to become the athlete and top student he is. After years of speech therapy, he speaks fluently (almost too much) without any distortion. His grades have him rated as #1 in his class. He hopes to attend the Naval Academy with the goal of becoming a pilot. His ultimate dream is to be Top Gun.

Nate loves to travel, hang out with friends, play with his cat and drive his brothers crazy.


Special thanks to the medical staff, teachers and coaches who guided us on this journey.



Happy Birthday!

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