A Dream Come True

For as long as I can remember Gavin has loved football. He loves to watch it, he loves to share stats, he just can't get enough. His love for football has been a double edge sword. It's the very thing that makes him happy but also very sad. He's had countless therapy sessions sharing his sadness that he will never be able to play tackle football. He has begged and attempted to make deals with the cardiologist to give him a physical pass to play.

Fall is tough for us. Gavin watches his friends come to school every Friday in their jerseys and hears their stories of practices and games. He loves his friends, their biggest cheerleader, but he also struggles with wishing he could do what they do. I have spent many nights praying and seeking counsel on how to handle this situation. I always point out the positives and the fact that Gavin gets to play baseball (which was once a no go). I try to always point out his strengths! And above all I remind him what is truly important in life, his character and that he is a child of God!! At the same time, I am a girl and don't truly understand why football is such a big deal to him. I know he looks at how athletic/active his daddy is, he claps and yells for brother from the sidelines, he watches his grandpa ref college football and cheers for his NFL buddy Brandon. He is surrounded by football. 

Last week, Gavin got an exciting call. Coach T (4th grade football coach) called Gavin to ask if he would be an honorary player/assistant coach. He asked him to help hype the boys up at game time and come to every practice and event. Gavin began to shake and had a hard time getting out his words. I could tell he was on the verge of crying. Sure enough, as soon as he hung up with Coach, tears began to flow.

Tonight, Gavin was introduced to the team as an "honorary member" at their annual pool party. I am telling you these are some of the greatest kids around, they welcomed Gavin with open arms.

As a parent my heart is bursting with happiness for my son. I know he will take his role seriously, he is pumped. So thank you Steven, and thank you Amanda for this. You have no idea the impact and the joy you've brought to this little guys life! Lets go Bulldogs!!!