‘Happy birthday to me, Happy birthday to me’

On Tuesday I celebrated my 23rd birthday, but I didn’t celebrate alone. My father-in-law Tim, and my brother Little Johnny, also share this special day with me as well. I’ve noticed over the years that people complain the older they get, for me, I’ll try to never let that happen.

In January of ‘07 I was diagnosed with gallstone pancreatitis or acute pancreatitis. That’s where a gallstone shuts of the duct of your pancreas (pancreas produces your insulin).

The doctors told my mother that I had less than 50% chance of surviving. After numerous doctors, feeding tubes, breathing equipment and three different hospitals, I was finally able to come home at the end of January.

Life hit me hard when I realized that I almost didn’t make it to my 21st birthday. It’s hard to describe to others the emotions you feel when your life was almost taken from you.

It’s been two years and two more birthdays since, and every morning when I wake up, I thank the Lord for another beautiful day and for allowing me to witness it. And every year that I get to blow out the candles on a birthday cake, I make a wish that I’ll get to do the same thing one more year.

So on your next birthday, be glad that you are another year older. Don’t worry about a number, be grateful that you got another chance to celebrate your life!

Column was published February 12, 2009 in the Citizen Voice & Times