happy birthday, robbie!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MISTER!

when i was home in september, your mom shared a story that touched me so deeply. one night at dinner when you & your siblings were kids, your mom had you go around the table and say what you wanted to be when you grew up. as your brother and sisters each took turns sharing what they wanted to be, she noticed that you had left the table. she found you in your bedroom, sitting quietly, eyes still. when she asked what was wrong, you said you didn't think it was a question you could answer -- because of your cystic fibrosis. that day, your mom vowed she'd never let anyone treat you differently because of your disease. and when your mom told me that story, i went to your sister's room and sobbed.

and here you are. a grown-up. and growing still. despite that doctors thought there was a 50/50 chance you'd make it to 18, here you are, healthy at 24, and on your way to becoming pharmacist. you are so strong, and so brave, and you are the very best person i've ever, ever known. i love you so much. here's to growing old, but never growing up, together.