Dad's Corner

Hello all. I wanted to start by saying that Lori and I are overwhelmed by the numerous well wishes and positive thoughts that have come our way from friends, family and many, many people we have never met, but know our story from someone who does know us. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

As many of you have read, our journey has been filled with a host of emotions ranging from fear and sadness to hope and joy......sometimes all in the same day. I don't know much, but I have learned this: the fighting spirit in those little ones has changed my perspective on so many levels. The first couple weeks it seemed like every time I entered the hospital from 3rd Ave and made my way down the corridor toward the elevator to take me to the 5th floor, I would develop a lump in my throat.....and it would stick with me until the ride to work the next morning. I suppose it was that feeling of helplessness I got from peering into the incubator of my baby girl and baby boy knowing there was absolutely nothing I could do except hope and wait for news from people who know more about preemie newborns than I do. Lori and I  listened to the advice of professionals and friends (thank you Driver family!) and declared we would remain upbeat and positive, tackling any and all potential scenarios head on. There is always a chance of delays or limitations with premature children, but we don't care. We are lucky enough to have these two gifts and we will devote our lives to them no matter what. I do know this.....there have been times I have been looking at one of them and have been overcome with a crazy emotion I have never felt before and then I catch myself smiling and then I want to cry.... I can't begin to explain it, but I know any parent reading this probably knows what I'm talking about.

When we made the decision to become parents, we took on the responsibility to be the main influence in that person's life and, lo and behold, there were two of them! Sure, the circumstances surrounding their arrival aren't ideal or traditional but at this point, I wouldn't trade it for anything. Some weeks ago, when their survival was in question, Lori and I talked pretty openly about what we were experiencing and we declared to each other that we would vow to be thankful for every day we get with them. We truly are grateful every time we set foot in the Nicu and get to spend time with our babies. We are cherishing and celebrating every achievement, no matter how small......  I know some of that will dissipate with time, but at this moment it's what feels right. It's been 46 days and I can't ever remember feeling as much worth in this world as I do now.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my deepest gratitude to the incredible medical staff at St. Joe's. Their professionalism, courtesy, knowledge and caring has been a difference maker. There simply isn't any way to ever show them how truly grateful we are. They have been straightforward and honest, delivered on every promise and talked us off the ledge a couple times. Thank you, thank you.

Our families and friends have shown us such great support and love. These children are blessed to have grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbors, and friends who love them so much. I can't wait for the first family BBQ....I already have my shirt picked out!

I wanted to extend extra thanks to three special people......my sweet, sweet girl Harper Karly. You make my heart flutter when I see you. Thank you. My handsome, brave boy Robinson Matthew. You are named after two great men. Thank you. My beautiful wife Lori, the strongest person I have ever met. Thank you.

The four of us, the four of us, the four of us.......