April 24, 2022

Dear Leiland,

                Wow!!!! Your 16 today, I can’t believe it!!As I am writing you this letter the day you were born and the days that followed are playing in my mind like a movie. You know the story; we have talked about it so many times. But just a short recap, you were sooooo tiny when I first saw you and cried when I saw you hooked up to all those monitors, lines and breathing tubes. I never could have imagined that day what an amazing young man you would become.

                I have to say I am in awe of the young man that you are becoming. You have such a kind heart and gentle spirit. You make me laugh and others around you smile. You are such a light in a world full of darkness. You are an amazing big brother to your siblings especially TJ. I appreciate all the things that you do to help out around the house. How you are trying new things to be independent. To think the doctors didn’t think you would be able to do half of the stuff you are doing now. Boy, have you proven them wrong!

                Leiland, my son, I am so proud of all that you have accomplished and the things that you want to do. You will be able to do them one day, it just may take a little longer to accomplish but I have faith that you will do it. God has amazing plans for you son, I just know it. You will teach people that kids can have strokes and that not all disabilities look the same. YOU WILL DO GREAT THINGS; I know it in my soul. Just know that I will ALWAYS be by your side and support you the best that I can. Keep up the amazing job that you are doing by just being YOU and know that I am so proud to be your mom.

                                                                                                                                                Love always,

                                                                                                                                                                Mom

HAPPY 16^TH BIRTHDAY LEILAND!!!!