Happy Purim!
Nathaniel has started to vocalize on his own. It's very hard for him to coordinate breathing, opening his mouth, and passing the air by his vocal chords. Now that he has started to vocalize, his body movements are a bit more animated. It's like he is looking for a way to express himself. He seems to understand everything, he just has to learn the best way to let us know what he wants and needs. He's still working on swallowing. He was dejected that the swallowing test didn't go well and it's hard for him to get in the mood again. Still, he is working on mouth and tongue movements , which are needed for eating and talking.
So much progress, Baruch HaSh'm! We keep praying for his full recovery!
Please, G-d, may Nathaniel's ability to vocalize, breathe, and swallow grow progressively more coordinated and, ultimately, automated. Each of these functions, it seems, are among our daily hidden miracles of life. Davening for Nathaniel's continued steady progress is so profoundly linked to the firm belief that Hashem is always there, guiding, directing, pulling the strings while giving Nathaniel the strength and determination to push forward. Miracle layered upon miracle!
It is with such fondness we remember having spent Purim at you home 3 years ago before this terrible tragedy struck. It is so wonderful to see the progress Nathaniel is making B'H!
Nathaniel works so hard on things that we all take for granted. He must be so frustrated. I am davening for him every day that he has great progress with his ability to swallow, eat, and speak. He doesn't know what an inspiration he is to others. I am truly sorry for all of his struggles. I just know that Hashem has more miracles in store for him.