When my brother Jon was expecting his son, we were very anxious for his arrival. The plan was to name him Jake Milton, the Milton was my dad's middle name. On August 10, we got a phone call that evening that Jake was on the way, only it was too early. Way too early. Jake's due date was Thanksgiving. Yes, 4 months early. The first questions to come to my mind were: Will we still use my dad's name? What will happen to Jake?
Picture of my brother Jon, my dad Edwin Milton, and me
Jake Milton was born on August 10. He weighed 1 lb. and 11 oz. I remember his weight better than my own children's weights. He was the size of someone's hand. Obviously, he stayed in the NICU for a long while.
In October, my dad had a stroke. We knew it was near the end. My dad did not live with me, so we visited my dad. We also traveled to Texas to meet Jake. My mom and I had to "scrub in" in order to hold him. He was still so tiny. It was incredible. That same trip was when my Dad passed away. When we found out that Jake would be okay, it was okay for my dad to leave this world. Milton continued on.
Jake finally went home close to Thanksgiving. Many other medical procedures took place, and Jake has worn glasses as long as I can remember. He grew up with some special gifts, but he is the sweetest young man ever. He loves movies, and he loves his family. We are so blessed for the Milton to continue, and we are blessed with Jake in our lives.
This is Jake his senior year, so about three years ago. He looks so dapper!
Awwww! I am so glad Jake made it through, what a strong little guy he was. I love the picture, it brings out what a true miracle he was. Is that you holding him? And yes, he does look dapper!!! We have a Milton in our family too!
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