Taking Ownership

Mando reviewing his blood work with Dr. Maria, his favorite oncologist.

Of the multitude of things that have surprised me much one stands out above them all as most unexpected

It was NOT Mando's ability to endure pain. Mando has known nothing but pain ever since the day he was born. It is quite normal for him.While I can not bear to see him in pain he can not bear the same of me. His endurance keeps my tears at bay and that makes him happy. At least I suspect that is how it works.

Likewise, it is NOT how Mando inspires others. Mando has also had this gift since he was a wee babe. His inspiration has something to do with his energy, his eyes, his smile, his essence. It's just Mando. It's nothing new.

No, what truly SURPRISES me is how Mando has taken ownership of his condition. Mando takes his chemotherapy on his own. He sets his alarm for his doses, He manages his fasting. Mando tells me when it is time to order refills. Mando also asks all of his doctors' relevant questions. Mando continually deepens his understanding of how his body works and how it could work better.

Given Mando's brain injury and developmental delay that might surprise anyone.  Mando puts 110% of himself into everything he does. He gives more than he has. He does it of his own free will. He is self-motivated.

Mando is not self-taught, however.  That's where we come in.

 As Mando continues to learn about his  various conditions we manage to teach him an ever expanding pool of knowledge without once having to use using the  C WORD,

OH NO,  NOT THAT  C WORD. That's my favorite word. We use that all the time.

The OTHER C WORD,  the SIX LETTER C WORD...NOT COOKIE, BUT THAT'S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!