A Letter from Dad: Josh

Dear Miles,

Before you were born, we faced some pretty life-changing news: we found out that you had Down Syndrome. 

We didn’t know how to receive this news at first. When we found out we were having a baby, we thought we’d receive another bundle of “joy”; but now we wondered if, instead, we were being handed something else. Perhaps a bundle of uncertainty and stress. Of uncharted territory. Of expensive medical bills and trips to the doctor’s appointments. Of a lifetime of protecting you from the eyes of those who didn’t understand you, but judged you for being “different”.

Fortunately, when we received a basket from Jack’s Basket, all of that changed. They told us you were so much more than just joy; you were a blessing. A gift. Something, and someone, to be celebrated.

Right off the bat, simply by existing, you introduced us to some pretty amazing people. You invited us into a brand new world. You quickly showed us just how much light and love you were capable of spreading.

I also knew immediately that you were one tough cookie. As a baby, you went through more medical treatments in a few short months than I could imagine undergoing myself as an adult, over any length of time.

A memory that will always stick with me was your first month in the NICU. Our family got COVID and had to stay away for an entire week. We video-called you daily, but that first day back with you in person, wow, you should’ve seen those wide eyes you had for your mom! You wouldn’t take your eyes off her. It was almost as if you were trying to say, “You better not leave me like that again, mom!”

When we finally got to bring you home, it was such an amazing moment to see your older siblings get to meet you and hold you. That moment of being united as a family was just so sweet.

While you may not be with us here on Earth anymore, you gave me so, SO much, in the 3 months you were here.

You gave me perspective. You taught me that I’d do absolutely anything for my children, no matter who they are or what circumstances they’re facing. You made me a more compassionate dad. 

I cannot WAIT to see you again soon, Miles.

I miss you, and I love you so much,

Dad