The dictionary defines the word “Miracle” as “an effect or event manifesting or considered as a work of God.” To my friends, Tarisa and Jeff, the definition is one word “William”. Today is Will’s first birthday; his first birthday should have been January 7, 2009!
I clearly remember when Tarisa told me she was having a baby. We were at Jose’s Blue Sombrero and after I spent 30 or so minutes rambling on about nothing, Tarisa told me that she “had ice cream in the freezer”. That was a phrase that was used when we both worked at the MS Society. Whenever someone was expecting, they brought ice cream in for the office and the receptionist would announce “There’s ice cream in the freezer.” I was so excited for her and Jeff. If ever someone wanted to be a mom, it was her.
A couple months went by and then came the 19-week ultrasound. They found out they were having a boy and that there may be some complications. Tarisa had an incompetent cervix. At 20 weeks her water broke and she was sent to the hospital to see if anything could be done to stop the progression of labor. At 21 weeks, it sealed itself. Tarisa was sent home to be on bed rest. For 7 weeks she hung out on the couch as friends and relatives dropped by with gossip magazines, books, and pages for her to scrapbook. I paid her two visits during this time and expected to make many more. Then came the day I called and got no answer. The day I called, she was in labor with Will.
Will was born at 28 weeks and weighed in at 3lbs 10oz and was 17” long. He was a fighter from day one. Tarisa had received steroid injections during her pregnancy so though Will’s lungs were strong, he needed oxygen to assist with breathing. As with many premature babies, he had a small brain bleed. It would eventually heal itself and would leave no lasting impact on his development. Will spent 46 days in the NICU and was brought home on 12/5/07 just over a month before his actual due date. Fast forward ten months. Will weighed 20 pounds and was 29” long! Premature babies are measured by two ages the “actual age” which was his birth date and the “adjusted age” which would have been his due date. He has hit all the milestones for his adjusted age and has developed a sassy little attitude with his mommy. He knows what he shouldn’t do, and yet he does it anyway. Typical one-year old!
The birthday invitation for Will’s first birthday states “You can’t tell a hero by his size.” This, I know, is true. So to William Miller, Happy Birthday Mr. Miracle! Your friends and family can’t wait to see what you do next!
