Oh The Places You'll Go!

About fifteen minutes ago by husband and oldest son pulled out of driveway to begin their three hour journey to Boston. Their final destination is Fenway Park as they scored two tickets to the Winter Classic. For my husband, being a former hockey player himself, this is very exciting. For my 5 year old son, as a new hockey player, he has no idea what he is in for. However, for the two of them together, this is a journey that 5 years ago we never would have guessed could possibly be a reality.

When my oldest son was born, we were told that there was a strong likelihood that he had Down Syndrome due to a heart defect that they had discovered. When that diagnosis was confirmed we were shocked. Neither my husband nor myself had ever known anyone with Down Syndrome so while we were trying to bond with our first child, we were also trying to educate ourselves as to what Down Syndrome would mean to our parenting, his medical needs, and our daily life. On one hand, things got very complicated very quickly. We began meeting with therapists and cardiologists while monitoring his weight gain and developmental milestones. One the other hand, things also got very simple. The world came down to what was best for our son, his routine and his happiness.

As we looked to his future we did not know where it would take him, or us. Not that long ago the doctors who delivered him would have recommended we put him in an institution. But now, he was thriving and learning and growing beautifully. He was perfect in our eyes, as every child is to their parents, but we still didn't know how things would play out. Would he be able to go to "regular school"? Would he have friends? Would he be able to play sports or maybe a musical instrument? We just didn't know.

Well, fast forward 5 years, and here we are. Our son is thriving in kindergarten with plenty of friends. He is independent in so many ways. And to our amazement he has begun his first "real sport". Hockey. The same sport my husband played and loved for years. He joined this incredible league for children with special needs and is now loving the sport as much as his father.

A few weeks ago, the head of our son's hockey league announced that the Bruins had given his team 20 tickets to go to the Winter Classic. To top that off, my husband and son would be getting two of the tickets. What an incredible experience for them to share!

So off they went in the car packed with cookies, fleece and plenty of mitten warmers. It amazes me to think back 5 years ago to how frightened we were compared to now and how much joy and excitement he brings to our lives. The places he has taken us and will continue to take us...what a trip!

Be Glad and Happy New Year!