Exactly one year ago today, I woke up and faced the biggest fear I have ever faced. One year ago today, I took my son to the hospital so that a surgeon could remove the right half of his brain. As I look back on August 21, 2008, I can’t help but remember the agonizing 11 hours that my precious Aiden was in the operating room. My mind is flooded with memories of that day. At 6:00 am, I kissed Aiden goodbye not knowing if it might be the last time I’d ever get to kiss his sweet face. Not knowing if the child returned to me would be the same. I wondered if the surgery would be successful in stopping his seizures. I prayed that his future would somehow improve.
Today, August 21, 2009, I am happy to say that the surgery was a success. Not only were there no complications from the surgery, Aiden has been seizure free for a whole year. He has since learned to walk independently, feed himself with a spoon, drink from a straw, draw circles and walk up a flight of stairs. He is also learning how to swim! Before his surgery, Aiden could not speak. Today he says “hi”, “bye-bye”, “yeah”, “juice”, “chair”, “outside”, and frequently asks “whassat?” Let’s not forget his first four-letter word “sh*t”. He’ll show his belly if asked “where’s your belly?” and when he wants to be picked up he says “up”. One year ago, Aiden took 7 anti-seizure pills a day. Now he’s down to 2 a day. The year has been both challenging and rewarding. Despite being put through numerous tests, pokes, prods, procedures, observation, and therapies, he has kept his sweet, loving personality. He gives the best hugs, loves to snuggle and cuddle any chance he gets and now gives real kisses, complete with the kiss sound.
As I look forward to August 21, 2010, I know we will still face challenges but the rewards will just keep getting better. In the fall, Aiden will be going to a new school that will push him toward his full potential. Aiden will have new therapists and will be involved in some new programs. I can only be excited to see how far Aiden will go in the next year and the years to come.
I am so proud of my little man. Happy Anniversary, Aiden!
