An example to follow...

If you read my other blog than you know that my dad has recently been diagnosed with Colon Cancer has been in and out of the hospital several times. He was given a colostomy bag in the hospital and told that it would be a permanent situation. Upon coming home and trying to live life normally we discovered that the colostomy bag was too small and he needed to be fit for one that would fit him. Because it was too small there were many challenges that came along with it. It was very frustrating for my dad to have to deal with this learning curve.

Now I know you are saying I thought this blog is about your son, why are you using this forum to tell us about your dad? Here is why...

My family has always been so supportive when my Chameleon has had challenges that we have had to overcome. They understand that it has not been an easy road for us and try to be there for us in any way that they can, even if all that they can do is give us words of encouragement. My family is great at supporting and encouraging each other in a crisis or emergency situation. My Aunt Beanie has been one of those family members that has a big heart for my son and what we go through. She often sends me messages to let me know that the family is supporting us with prayer.

Several weeks ago we were in Florida (where the family lives) trying to help out where and when we could. My Aunt explained to me that my dad was having a rough day with the colostomy bag and was getting very discouraged. She told me that she explained to my dad that if his grandson could do it so could he. She told him that he should look to my son as his role model during this situation. It is very sweet to think that my son's way of life could be an encouragement, especially at a very difficult time in his grandfather's life.

I told my son that my Aunt had told his "Grump" to look to him as a role model. His 9 year old response was this... "Um... I don't think that is such a good idea mom. He really shouldn't be running and climbing trees and stuff right now." I love it! It is the Chameleon part of him that made him think only of his "normal" abilities rather than the differences that he and "Grump" now share with each other and no one else.