Thank You

Back to back days in November are important to me. November 10th is not only the birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps which I proudly served in the late 1970’s but also my first child’s birthday.

Thirty six years later, she gave birth to my amazing grandson Hayes. Thank you.

On November 11th, we observe Veterans Day along with Australia and Britain. My company does a wonderful job with recognizing the importance of veterans, whether they came from a battlefield or a support role for the warriors. Thank you.

Also, my beloved father-in-law passed on November 11th, nineteen years ago. His caring daughter has been my loving wife for 44 years. Thank you. 

For all of the November’s in my life, God has had faith in me and loved me and my family. Thank you.

We Duchenne families sometimes lose sight of our blessings because the dreadful, fatal disease is, well, a dream killer. But dreams can progress day to day, week to week, and month to month without our looking ahead to the end of a youngster’s shortened life.

Hayes, you are terrific. You have given, and continue to give, great joy and happiness to our family. And, wow, you are so smart. Our discussions about celestial bodies never cease to amaze me. Your spirit uplifts mine. Thank you.

Let’s all find reasons to give thanks during these times when gratitude may not be the first emotion we feel each day.  

Kindly yours,

Papa in Tennessee