10/17/2025
And just like that, my bestie is 8. Heās all tucked in bed and I am feeling some sort of way. When I was shopping for his gifts, I found myself browsing the aisles and ultimately ending up in the toddler aisle. All of his gifts say ā3+āā¦. In so many ways I feel like Iāve had a 3 year old for years. Cannon has never developed a full vocabulary, or learned how to do things like get dressed on his own. Cannon recognizes his name on paper, but he does not know how to spell or write his name. If you ask him to count, most likely the response will be ā1,2,8ā. But the thing is, Cannon is not defined by his ability to count or recognize letters. Cannon loves simple things like stuffed animals and Little People playsets, but again,those things do not define Cannon. Cannon is joy. Cannon is happiness. Cannon is a light in a world that truly needs a little more light. Cannon loves to give hugs, he loves to make people laugh, and he loves to live life to the fullest. He understands so much more than people realize, and though he may not have the words to express himself, he still has the ability to communicate, sometimes communication can be challenging but Cannon never loses his determination to get his message across - he will sign, he will use pictures, he will grab your phone and pull up something on the internet - he will do whatever it takes for you to understand him, and the patience he has is truly remarkable. I canāt even imagine how frustrating it must be to picture something in your head, and be able to recognize the word when someone else says it, but to not be able to say that word yourself. This boy challenges me, he makes me a better person and teaches me so much about life. He has renewed my faith, he has shown me the deepest love and he reminds me daily - there is always hope. Cannon Zachary, you have changed so many lives and I know you will continue to do so. As long as youāre here fighting, mommy will always be right beside you. You are my hero, and I love you BIG! Happy Birthday Bestie ššš