Fathers and First-Borns

Jamie is often asked by dads of newly diagnosed boys…’was it hard not having the typical experiences with your first born?’

Jamie is so honest about it. So matter of fact with his answer. He doesn’t sugar coat it. Or dance around with his answers.

He’ll talk about pitching baseballs with his own father. For hours and hours. Day after day.

He will tell stories of jumping his bike, catching fish and camping.

He will go on and on about his old man being his best friend for so many years.

And he will admit that it hurt like hell when he realized his relationship with his own son many be different.

I remember watching Jamie climb in bed with Cooper after he’d fallen asleep and hold his little three-year-old body. After he’d tell me, ‘I just needed to feel him. I needed him to feel me too.’

Last night I watched Jamie coach Cooper while kicking the ball at home plate. Cooper danced. And twirled. And kicked the ball like a boss. He rested. And giggled. And asked for the phone to watch Barney.

We didn’t keep score. We just enjoyed ourselves as parents.

Tonight I watched Jamie lace up Sawyer’s skates and help him take the ice to practice at MN Wild practice arena. A pretty big deal.

And we clapped and cheered when he scored a goal.

I’ll tell you this.

Neither are less than. Neither relationship, nor sporting experience.

Dad’s and their sons. It’s a beautiful thing to watch.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.