Day +612: Getting His Due

Today is day +612 for Max and I just couldn't wait to share the events of this weekend with all of you! Max is getting some very special treatment and it's so exciting that I wanted you all to know and have something to smile about.

Last night, very last minute, we were invited to attend the Miami University hockey game versus Notre Dame. Children's Hospital is working with Miami on a promotion called Swoop's Scoop. Another family was supposed to attend the event but, got sick so, our Champion's Manager at the Hospital called to see if we were available. It was an amazingly cool evening for all of us, to say the least - especially for Max. The Swoop's Scoop program put all of us on the big screen and talked briefly about Max's story, making him the special guest of the game! The look on Max's face was priceless. I could see how proud he was of himself and how honored he felt. Matt's sister Sarah's husband, Ryan was at the game and was able to get a video of it. You can check it out at the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqWQJUEltqY&hd=1 After being on the big screen, Max was approached by many people and given high-fives or pats on the back. Many people told him they were so glad that he was feeling better and able to be at the game! It really made him feel special. And we all loved the game, even though the Redhawks lost.

Right now as I type, the boys and Matt are special guests at the Cincinnati Reds-fest this afternoon! They are going to have some private time with some of the players and get autographs, etc. They both had their mohawks spiked way up in hopes of meeting Johnny Gomes (famous for his hairdo) and were extremely excited! I'll let you know more about this event soon.

My heart is just so full of joy seeing the kids be able to take part in these special events and enjoy them again. Max is finally getting his due. He is a little hero and deserves to know that! For so long, he patiently and happily underwent procedure after procedure, hospital stay after hospital stay, medicine after medicine, traumatic experience after traumatic experience and all without being able to see his friends or leave his hospital room or house! We are beyond grateful for his health right now and for the opportunity for him to enjoy life to its fullest like this!!!

Thank you to all of you that continue to support Max and the rest of us and to Cincinnati Children's Hospital for giving us these amazing memories....

More soon...

Peace and love,
Kristi (and Matt, Our Hero Max, Alex, Ellee and Spud)