Two years ago, on November 24th, we got the results of Oliver's genetic testing at an appointment at Duke. What many - including us - had suspected was confirmed: Oliver had Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
A few short months later another family got the same confirmation for their 3-month-old son, Mackinley. Ollie's doctors became lil' Mack's doctors, too. We met
Mackinley and his family shortly before his g-tube surgery.
 |
| April and Mackinley with Bekka and Ollie |
 |
| (Mack was very chatty. Ollie listened very patiently.) |
Neil and I became friends with his parents, Brian and April. Our lives paralleled each others for a while. Ollie and Mackinley were the first two children to enroll in the clinical trial at Duke. And shortly after Oliver died, April and Mackinley came to visit us at our home:
 |
| Lil' Mack - 7 months old |
Today, November 24th, 2010, our paths have crossed again. I don't think it's coincidence that on this day that is so etched in our minds Mackinley earned his angel wings. I think it's Oliver's way of welcoming his friend to heaven.
I can see them now - running, skipping, jumping, playing - free of the shackles of SMA. And even as I shed tears, I find comfort as I envision lil' Mack and Ollie chatting away.
Posts
I don't really know what to say. But I want you to know I stopped by. I'm sad that another little boy passed away. I'm happy that he and your son, and the other little boys - Jonas and Dante - are finally free of SMA.
ReplyDeleteJust as each of these little ones enriched our lives here on earth, heaven is definitely a sweeter place with the arrival of Ollie, Mack, Jonas and Dante.
ReplyDeleteWe love you all and are praying for you!