I know that September is Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month and that we just celebrated World Duchenne Awareness Day, but today I want to celebrate the unrecognized superhero in our story.  Today’s post is going to be about Cole.  Cole’s birthday is coming up on Monday and I wanted to draw some attention to him.

Cole is an amazing brother to Cade.  In a year when he should be gaining more freedom and starting his journey to figure out what he wants to do in life, he has the added responsibility of helping care for his brother.  The fact is that while Cade may be the one with DMD, he is not the only one who feels the effects of DMD.  We feel it as a family and that includes Cole.

When most other older brothers would just be annoyed that their little brother was following them around, Cole also has to slow down to help Cade with stairs or a walk that ends up being to far for him.  Cade loves and adores Cole and wants to do everything that Cole does.  Sometimes this means that not only does Cade get to tag along but that Cole has to push Cade in his wheelchair and make sure not to leave him stranded somewhere.

Cole also has to do most of the manual chores at the house because Cade isn’t capable.  Cade still has chores, but they are different than Cole’s.  And sometimes when you are a kid and already struggle with having to do chores, you become irritated that your little brother doesn’t have to do the same chores as you.

But I want you to know Cole that we see your unconditional love for your brother.  We see you slow down and help him out.  We see you take on a burden that most don’t have to bear until adulthood.  We know that you are becoming a great Christian young man.  We see the great example you set for Cade.

But most of all, we want you to know that we see YOU!  Remember to keep chasing after God with your whole heart.  Remember to dream and reach for the stars.  Remember to keep pursuing your goals.  Always, always remember we see you and love you very much!

Blessings.  Lynnette