dear gage

today is a big day for you.  today you'll get your heart fixed.

when we came to hug you last night you looked so handsome in your new pj's and were all smiles.  your usual self.  as we left i choked back a tear.  not because i was sad, that's not it at all, i am glad that you'll be your best self soon and feel good.  my tear was one just like the time i said goodbye to my own sweet baby the night before i was to bring his sister into his life.  it was that feeling of "he has no idea what is about to happen to him."  you have no idea but you're trusting that your good mommy and daddy will always make the best choices for you until you're ready to make your own.  they love you so.

as i explained to your oldest cousin the what and why's of your predicament,  his first question was "do all babies have holes in their hearts?" the answer to that question is no.  gage is special as are all babies but gage has a unique story to tell already from his short four months on this earth and not all babies are quite as exciting.

gage, since you can't tell your story, i'm going to help your mommy and daddy tell it for you.  you see, i like to talk and tell people things.  i'm happy to be your voice for now while you're dear parents tend to your every need.  they won't have the energy or the time to document this important life event though i imagine they might like to pop in and say a few things every now and then.

for now, i'll help your sweet parents filter all of the love, well wishes and empathetic thoughts they receive from the wonderful people in their lives.

very soon i'll be headed up to the children's hospital to wait with them and wish well your way.

i'll be back soon to tell the world how your day has gone.

until then, good luck little buddy!

love,

auntie