Sunday, October 5, 2025
I don’t know what got into this kid in the last 12 hours, but FIGHT is the only word that comes to mind. Brennen showed us things today we’ve been dreaming about. His movement and grip strength on the left side have increased, and for the first time they sat him up he tolerated it for about 8 minutes. He even moved his legs at the knees.
The spark really showed when he started responding more clearly. He blinked to answer questions, squeezed hands, and while FaceTiming his friend Wrigley, he reached up, took the phone, and held it to his face. When Wrigley told him “I love you,” Brennen mumbled back not once, but twice “I love you too.”
Later, I asked him to count my fingers by blinking, and he nailed it. Then, while standing at his side, he reached out with both arms, pulled me in, and gave me the biggest hug I’ve had from him in a long time.
“He tried to talk with me and Sarah we thought he said “bad pain,” but he was actually saying “have to pee.” That’s progress only he could deliver with a smile.”
When I asked if he wanted to talk to Wrigley again, he blinked once for yes. This time, after the call ended, he reached up with his right hand and waved goodbye. As I left for the night, filled with emotions and joy, he reached out again, hugged me tight, and mouthed, “I love you.”
Tonight, for the first time in a week, I walked out of the hospital with joy instead of worry. I don’t know what God has planned for this kid, but it’s something huge. He’s blown away every nurse and doctor with his progress today. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings, and the day after that, and the day after that.
That’s all for now.
Love you, kid. I’m so damn proud of you.
~ Dad