Dot and Eggrolls

Yesterday was a very successful birthday party for Dhon. I am grateful that I get another birthday to celebrate with Dhon and that he is very aware of what is going around and that he has lots of loved ones. But I won’t lie it is tough not to ponder Dhon situation. He would be celebrating his birthday’s differently if he was more able bodied. He would be able to have more comms on what he wants to do, who to invite, what to eat etc. We did our best to tailor the day according to his wants but we can never fully be sure if we got it right.

I do believe that we got the food right. Dot and Eggrolls. Which to Dhon and I it means a lot more than food. Dot which is a cultural dish of Laos allows Dhon and our family to connect with our roots. Combined with our traditional egg rolls in which the family recipe has been passed down for generations. That is truly a dynamic duo. Both dishes are never to be served among an individual or even a small group. They represent community and family. I remember all the times Dhon would have friends over and we would just share conversations over these foods. Though Dhon was not able to eat these food normally, a blended version still brought him much joy.

I am learning more and more to meet Dhon where he is at and not dwell so much on the past or what could have been his future. Easier said then done but I am praying for growth in this area.

Dhon has many people in his Nebraska community that loves him so well and that brings joy to our family’s life. I cannot ask much more. I am excited to celebrate his birthday with friends and family in the days to come. Be on the look out for our next newsletter, I hope to highlight some of his rehab and outings this month.