14 years ago I was pregnant. I was only 28 weeks gestational.
14 years ago I was put in the hospital to keep my blood pressure down.
14 years ago I had the best OBGYN that anyone could ever have, and she was a Christian.
14 years ago I was only a Senior in college.
I was married.
He only worked in the Student Union.
We lived in an old apartment with green shag carpet.
14 years ago I did not know about premature babies, like I do now.
God blessed me with limited knowledge, to keep me from freaking out.
14 years ago I had to call my parents and tell them to drop everything, drive the two hours because I was not sure if my baby was going to be ok.
14 years ago my OBGYN looked at me and said I can save your baby better outside the womb, than I can inside.
14 years ago I had an emergency C-section.
Gave birth to a 3 lb baby, who did not even have the ability to expand and contract his lungs.
14 years ago I freaked out on the table because I could not hear my baby crying, Mom was in the room, and the Dr had to put me out further to keep me calm.
14 years ago Mom saw that my baby was not breathing with all the nurses over him, one nurse said “Doctor what should we do?” Then suddenly 14 years ago, his tiny little leg shot straight up, and the room erupted in cheers.
14 years ago I believe God breathed life into my son.

I was going to drop out of college right then and there. I did not care I was only 4 months away from graduating.
14 years ago my OBGYN said, “I insist you go and finish your studies while your baby is getting better.”
I went to class after recovering, went straight to the hospital to care for my baby and study for finals.
My baby was fighting to keep weight on, we cheered for every ounce. We were praying for no permanent damage.
I finally took my finals.

5 weeks after my baby was born, and my finals were just completed, we brought our premature son home.
14 years ago I had a college professor call me the day after, and explained I got a D on my final. He wanted to know if I wanted to take it over, due to the circumstances I was under. I asked him if I would still get my diploma. And he said, “Yes.” Then I replied, “I am a Mom now, just give me the diploma.”
Life was unbelievably hard; I still to this day do not know how I survived. God truly carried hubby and I.
But if anyone does not believe in miracles, I just point to 14 years ago when I know without a doubt God literally breathed life into my son. I tell my son everyday, “God has a special plan for your life.”

Son, I can not wait to see how God moves in your life in the next 14 years. You are entering some of the most fun years of your life, but also the scariest. I may not be with you always to guide you, but God is there is every step of the way. My prayer is that we do the best we can as parents, but also know when to step back and know God is in control. We are proud of you. Love you, Mom & Dad

(I am publishing this a day early because we will be having tons of fun festivities tomorrow)