March 28th marks the anniversary of the day Hank was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. That means it's been 2 years! I used to count the number of finger pokes, injections, and amounts of insulin we've used. Sadly that number has grown far too big and the evidence of the disease is pretty obviously seen in Hank's calloused fingers and scarred arms and belly. The disease, however, is not evident when you look at his face. He is a happy, well adjusted, athletic, funny kid who hasn't been limited one bit by his diagnosis. His strength, determination, and dedication is inspiring to everyone. How could I let this day go by without a celebration in honor of Hank? Rick was in town so it was even more special. I surprised Hank as he came down to the office to check his blood before lunch. Once he figured out he was getting checked out, he was stoked. As we pulled up to the house he was a little confused by all the cars in our driveway. His biggest supporters were waiting in the kitchen! We enjoyed a delicious chick-fil-a lunch and the kids ran wild outside. Hank was in heaven.
This picture truly warms my heart. There is no way Randy and I could do this without our family's incredible support. Hank has the best cousins in the world! They are his best friends.
Just when he thought the day couldn't get better, we presented him a little gift from Randy and I.
Two tickets to see his favorite musician, Bruno Mars, this summer!!
His reaction was priceless. I can't think of a more deserving kid!
The only stipulation of the tickets is he has to take me!! I seriously can't wait to experience his first concert.
Here is the card we gave Hank on this special day:
Hank--I can't believe it's been 2 years since we found out you had diabetes. Dad and I are so proud of the way you take care of yourself. We know just how tough and annoying this disease can be and the way you handle it all amazes me everyday. I'd say you deserve a party for putting up with all this stupid disease puts you through. We love you so much buddy. You are such a brave, strong, incredible boy!
Love Always Mom and Dad
3 comments:
I love the way this family celebrates strength in the face of adversity. You Griffins are an inspiration every day. Glad Hank had fun on his beeties-versary!
Okay, this post made me cry. I am so stinking proud of this kid! Hank is such a great example to me and my family. Talk about dealing with adversity and coming out on top. My kids could use some life lessons from him. I love the look on his face in the last picture. He is the sweetest kid ever and I'm grateful he is a part of our lives. Have fun at Bruno Mars! You both deserve it!!!
I truly can't believe it's been two years. Seems like 2 days and 2 lifetimes all at the same time. No one really knows all that these two years have meant for you guys-- but, what I do know is that you guys have take a less than ideal situation and have run with it! You NEVER let diabetes slow you down...and have taught Hank that he's an unstoppable boy no matter what he's dealt! You've taught me and so many people an incredible amount of lessons trough your incredible examples- and continue to do so every single day.
We were so glad to be a part of his celebration-- especially the part where we got to witness his genuine reaction to the tickets! So priceless. (The nuggs were an added bonus!)
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