Happy 2nd Birthday Gabrielle

Gabby, 

When you were born and we didn't know you had I-Cell, we wanted – more than anything – for you to pull through and get started with a very long and healthy life. 

In the months that followed, when we were coming to grips with your I-Cell and were absolutely devastated, we kept a part of ourselves from fully falling in love with you because we didn't want to fall too hard.

Now, despite all your ailments and medical needs, your larger-than-life personality has required us to love you like a healthy little girl. Like a 'normal' little girl. And boy do we ever. 

It used to bother me when people used to say, "You never know, miracles do occur," because we knew your illness is terminal. But, today, two years later – your second birthday(!), a day we never imagined would come – it's become very clear that you are our family's miracle.

You are so special, Gabrielle. You have filled us full up with more love and feeling and perspective than we were ever possible of holding before. Thank you.

We want you to be with us for as long as you can. And we love you so much.

Happy Birthday,

Love Mom and Dad.