Today/this week brings many difficult memories to mind. A year ago, none of Peter’s caregivers could promise us that he would survive, much less make a full recovery. A year later, Peter is back to a normal teenage life – a living example of God’s grace. For those of us who see Peter every day, it is sometimes difficult to maintain perspective – to realize how truly extraordinary his recovery has been. He has made significant achievements with respect to the physical and cognitive challenges he was faced with after his brain infection. He successfully completed all of his physical, occupational, and speech therapy requirements at Gillette in early January. And as of late February/early March, he has been cleared to return to full participation in sports/physical activities. Peter has had some additional difficulties with sinus infections though. After experiencing multiple sinus infections since the end of December (and four rounds of progressively stronger antibiotics), a CT scan of his sinuses still showed evidence of infection. In light of his health history, his ENT physician recommended surgery to enlarge the openings to his sinuses, repair his deviated septum, and remove his adenoids. He had this procedure performed at Children’s Hospital last Thursday and is recovering well. We are hopeful that he will be less susceptible to sinus infections in the future. As we reflect over the past year, we feel the need to express our gratitude again for all of you that have supported him (and our family). Peter’s recovery is truly an example that all things are possible with prayer and the love and support of family and friends. Our entire family is incredibly grateful to be a part of such a caring community. "To be grateful is to recognize the Love of God in everything He has given us - and He has given us everything. Every breath we draw is a gift of His love, every moment of existence is a grace, for it brings with it immense graces from Him. Gratitude therefore takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God. For the grateful person knows that God is good, not by hearsay but by experience. And that is what makes all the difference." ~Thomas Merton