July 4th

This day is so emotional for me. Last year, I made a point of making a special memory with Tommy. He had come so far! The previous year, he was laying in a hospital bed recovering from open heart surgery. I was recovering from the fact we had been making funeral arrangements because we were not sure his body could tolerate the surgery and we could lose him. I watched the fireworks from his hospital room window and had my own special Independance Day. My son had lived through his surgery!

Last year was the first time Tommy would see fireworks. I was so excited! I could barely contain myself and could not wait until the sun went down. As soon as I hear them going off, I got Tommy into his stroller with all of his gear (suction machine, oxygen, emergency supplies) and he, Brandon and I went for a walk in search of a good spot to watch.

Brandon was thrilled and still talks about it all the time. Tommy was a bit underwhelmed. I was disappointed that he didn't ooh and aah (or in his case, wiggle his little body in excitement, clap and point). But, we were outside, enjoying the muggy July weather and watching fireworks. Not stuck in a hospital. It was the most amazing feeling! I don't think I will ever be able to watch fireworks again without crying.

I leave you with a photo, taken July 6, 2008. My sweet little guy finally had the upper body strength to balance on his horsey. Nine days later, he would be hospitalized and never come home again.