Today is Rudy’s 5th Birthday! It is a bit mind-boggling to think about all the prayers and hopes, close calls and comebacks, all the tears of heartache and tears of joy, the disappointments and the celebrations, all the experiences and special family memories we’ve packed into these first 5 years of Rudy’s journey so far! Our family watched old Rudy’s Beat video clips on the Apple TV during dinner tonight as part of out celebration and it’s not only amazing to see how far Rudy has come but it’s also startling to see how much the big sibs have grown and matured! Oh my, they were all so young when Rudy joined us and now they are all so independent and articulate and, well, big!!
Each birthday Rudy has is a big deal but the milestone of him turning 5 seems particularly significant this year! We got so good over the years at taking life one day at a time that we really didn’t dare look too far into the future. And, now, here we are!! October 1, 2013!!! I wish I could say the day Rudy was born feels like it was just yesterday…but it doesn’t. 🙂 It has been a long marathon to get to this milestone birthday and, on some levels, the hard work is just beginning but as I watched Rudy at school today with a huge smile on his face and pointing to himself when his teachers and classmates sang “Happy Birthday” to him, I was overcome with gratitude for every step of this marathon…because every step whether crippled or strong has twisted and turned a path to today…and today was pretty sweet!
A big thank you to all who sent texts, FB messages, phone messages, cards and little gifts! He has been well-celebrated! Rudy’s life is full and rich and can be defined by the love that he gives and receives! We couldn’t ask for much more for any of our kids. Happy Birthday Super Rudy…our HLHS Warrior…goofy kid brother…inspiration…joy! You are 5! Woo Hoo!
And the boys gave Rudy a video greeting…Totes Presh!
Now it’s on to October 15th…Stoma Closure Day!!!!
Rudy's Beat 
Rudy, you are so special. You have brought joy to so many lives these past five years. We have shared some of the heartache but so enjoyed the milestones achieved with your family. You are a strong Geyling Gang!
Rudy, you are a special boy and a bundle of miracles, joy, laughs, tears and inspiration!! We all look forward with great anticipation to see how God chooses to use your unique life and amazing family as an example for all of us. I love you.
What a fun B-day!!! So fun to see Uncle Steve so happy and smiling…remember those years at the USO, Trish? So thankful for God’s faithfulness in it all!!!
Fun, fun, hope the little boy licked some mint ice cream !!!!
you are our special miracle boy !!!!
Happy Birthday from your Fan Club Rudy! 🙂
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RUDY!! Better late than never, right? You are so big now, and so much fun. Hope this is a really good year for you and your family. Give everyone a hug for me, okay??
Happy Big Five Birthday Rudy my boy!! It was great to see you eating ice cream with your mom and Olivia on State Street the other day…keep it up!!!
Happy 5th birthday, dear sweet Rudy! And what a great video your brothers made for you! They rocked it! Hugs to all of you!
Wow, 5 years and 2 days now! Big congrats to Rudy, and mom and dad!