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Yesterday morning I was able to spend some quality time with Joseph. He was still asleep when I arrived, which gave me some time to catch up with his mom, Leslie. I haven't seen Joseph since our exhibit in May, and being that he is still so little I was wondering how he would take to me. At the moment his eyes had opened, I was hovering over his crib admiring him. Thankfully he looked up at me with those sweet eyes ,without worry as though no time had passed at all. He proceeded to communicate with me through sign language, showing me his little stuff animal puppy.
On August 28, 2012, Joseph had the trach in his throat removed. Leslie said it should take six months for the hole to completely close. This is another huge feat he has conquered. I still can not believe the leaps and bounds he has made in the short time I have known him. One should never underestimate these children, they are so strong and can handle more than we think they can. They deserve every medical opportunity available out there that could potentially enhance their lives. Anything is possible. Joseph is proof of that. I feel privileged to know him, and I am very excited to see how is life unfolds.
Joseph still feeds through a G tube and it will be a long time before the tube can be removed, but he has been able to start with little tastes of mashed potatoes, yogurt, and baby food. This is an amazing step for this little guy.
Shortly after coming home from surgery Joseph caught a cold. "A challenge to deal with, but he's doing good.", Leslie said.
He was in great spirits. I asked him what he was going to be for Halloween and Leslie said for him to show me. He put on his hat, letting me know he is going to be a pirate. Leslie told him to show me his pirate face and he did. He had his whole movement down pat; a sharp move of his arm and a 'one eye willie'. I posted his adorable pics on our Facebook page. Check it out.