Haley’s Giggle

Dear everyone:

Hello! Sorry i’ve been away, but I’ve been busy, but i wanted to catch you all up. I’m happy to say, I’ve been healthy enough to stay away from hospitals. So healthy, that next month my mediport comes out!! And aside from blood tests here and there, and intense physical therapy with fabulous PT Jaye, I’ve been a fairly normal kid. I just realized that, though I’ve only surveyed the bellies of my classmates and family members, I’m likely the only one with a feeding tube.  I kinda like it, but mom says, if all goes well, it should come out this year. that’s a good thing, i know, since most kids on feeding tubes lose the hunger sensation, urge to eat, want or appetite, and chewing and swallowing mechanisms start atrophying. and for me, it wasn’t even harder. i didn’t want to eat anything. i mean, everything tastes like chicken, and i hate chicken! but i still eat my way through matzo ball soup, and have expanded my nut repertoire from peanut butter to actual peanuts, and even cashews. and i’ve stayed on the growth chart. and with all my nut-induced energy, i can finally jump and lift one foot off the ground without holding on or falling over. i still have walking issues, and digestive bugs that are bugging me, but hooray! i’m getting there!

 in honor of my donor this holiday season, along with bestest big sister in the world anna, i donated lots of toys and clothes. and in honor of me being strong enough to help someone less strong, i helped paint a disadvantaged community center.

i hope y’all have wonderful holiday celebrations.and brendan, if you’re reading this, or your parents are reading this to you, i know what you’re going through. literally. but my money’s on you. here’s hoping a new year of strength and giggles to everyone!

love, haley