We get to celebrate this week. Like take a deep breath, moment we've been waiting for celebrate. A moment that 3 years ago I didn't think would ever come. This week will be the first time in Brenden's life that he has gone an entire year with ZERO surgeries, ZERO overnight hospital stays, ZERO trips to the ER. To some, it's no big deal. To us, it's everything. Brenden's first two years, he endured 8 surgeries, over 50 nights in the hospital, over 100 trips to UVA for appointments, tests, and everything in between. This year so far, only 4 trips to UVA for routine appointments.

We have finally been able to just enjoy him as our child and for moments, forget about SB. Focus on him being a 3 year old instead of a diagnosis. This past year has been filled with so many victories that have not gone uncelebrated. Pulling up to stand, using his walker all by himself, getting in and out of chairs by himself. So many things we were told he wouldn't do, he's conquered. He's a superstar with the preschool thing. He's a ladies man and I hear about it everyday. I pull up to pick him up from school and no joke, he's surrounded by swarms of teachers, aides, parents and kids, all eyes on him as he's showing them his party dance.

This kid is my hero. He's the reason I'm training my butt off in 100 degree temps as I train for a marathon. He's my inspiration to do better, go further, and never give up. He's touching lives and in so many ways redefiniing Spina Bifida.

So what are we doing to celebrate, you ask....well Brenden said he wants to go to Bob Evans.....I'm trying to convince him of someplace else :)