Today is Kevin’s 22nd birthday. It’s a gross understatement to say we’re all happy that Kevin can celebrate his birthday this year. We’re thrilled beyond belief. To be quite frank, there were times in January, February and March when we weren’t sure if Kevin would be able to celebrate another birthday. Of course, none of us are ever 100% sure if we’ll celebrate another birthday, but looking forward to our next birthday is something that we twenty-somethings take for granted. When the reality of our mortality stares us down so intensely, birthdays seem to be much larger milestones. So, the fact that Kevin has gotten out of bed, is sitting in a wheelchair at the table and will eat Texas Sheet Cake (the birthday cake Mom has made for us since we were kids) on his birthday is extremely impressive. Combined with his current upward trend of improvement, this day is truly a cause for celebration!
Above is a picture of the birthday cards we’ve received from friends and family around the world. Thank you so much to everyone for sending them! We have yet to give him the cards and presents—he’s still working on breakfast—but tomorrow I will report how he liked seeing all of your support.
It’s a typical grey, foggy and cold summer day in Aptos, but we will try our best to make the atmosphere as warm and celebratory as possible. Just a few months ago, Kevin couldn’t sit up, speak, eat, drink, and could barely move any part of his body. Now, his movement and abilities have improved so much that his unique mannerisms are returning. There are moments when I look at him out of the corner of my eye and see the real Kevin—the healthy Kevin. There are moments when a “yeah” escapes from his mouth with completely normal inflection and his true tone of voice. We have a million of these accomplishments to celebrate today, and we’ll celebrate them the best we can. Thank you to everyone for sending in birthday cards or postcards. We really appreciate you all sending in a physical showing of your support! Happy 22nd Birthday Kevin!
8 comments:
Happy Birthday Kevin! Love, Grandma and Grandpa
Happy Birthday Kevin! I hope you and your entire family have a wonderful day. As Stacy said so beautifully, as always, you do have so much to celebrate. All the tremendous work you've done, with the unending support and love of your family, has accomplished so much. Its certainly a day to celebrate! I'm smiling thinking of you opening all those cards and enjoying Carolyn's birthday cake. Enjoy!
Much love,
Cindy
Dear Kevin
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! You are in our hearts and minds everyday! We are sending you faith,hope and love on your special day!
Enjoy your birthday cake....it is going to be delicious Yummmmm. Stay strong and keep up the good work!
Much love, Chris and Vickie
Thinking of you all today!
Much Love, Susan and Ed
Dear Kevin,
I was in Yosemite and had a dream about your family, everyone was WELL!
Wishing you decades of healthy birthdays!
Jan Hodges
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEVIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May your day be as special as you are and may your heart and soul be full of all the love that comes your way today and every day. We celebrate this day with you and are sending you a giant birthday hug.
With love
Toni and Steve Runyon
Didn't get to send you a card but thinking of you and your wonderful family.
Love from,
Jeannie, Dave, Amy and Dan Merrill
Happy Birthday Kevin! You should be proud of the incredible progress you've made. As always – and especially today – our thoughts and prayers are with you – and your continued improvement. Tons of love from your SoCal team!
Scott, Tania, Matt, Graham and Noelle
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