2024: Logan’s Year of Growth and Triumph
One year ago today, we packed up the car and hit the road, heading to Atlanta for what would become a life-changing chapter in Logan’s story. We didn’t know exactly what to expect—just that we were walking into the unknown with a lot of hope, determination, and a little bit of nervous energy. It felt like such a big step, but we knew deep down that it was the right one.
Those weeks at CHOA – Marcus Autism Center were intense, emotional, and filled with hard work, but they were also full of moments that reminded me why we took this leap in the first place. Watching Logan face every challenge head-on, seeing his confidence grow, and witnessing those first signs of progress—it was all worth it.
Looking back now, I can honestly say that what Logan accomplished during his feeding therapy was nothing short of miraculous. It wasn’t just about learning to eat by mouth; it was about discovering his strength, his resilience, and his ability to tackle what once felt impossible. That journey was a turning point for him, and for all of us. It’s a chapter in his story I will never forget.

Logan’s Achievements: Defying Expectations
When we arrived in Atlanta, Logan was 100% tube-fed. For years, this had been his reality, and while it kept him healthy, we knew deep down that he was capable of more. Our goal was simple: to help Logan take his first steps toward eating by mouth, even if it was just a small improvement. What we didn’t know at the time was that Logan wasn’t just going to meet this goal—he was going to soar past it.
By the time we left Atlanta, Logan had achieved something that felt monumental. After years of relying completely on his feeding tube, Logan was eating 50% by mouth. It was more than we could have hoped for in such a short time, and seeing him accomplish this was nothing short of incredible. It was the result of his hard work, the dedication of the team at CHOA – Marcus Autism Center, and a testament to the strength and determination that Logan has shown time and time again.
But Logan’s journey didn’t stop when we left Atlanta. If anything, it was just the beginning. He came home and kept pushing forward, putting in the effort every day to build on the progress he had made. And then, in September, he reached the milestone we had dreamed of for so long: Logan began eating 100% by mouth! This incredible achievement wasn’t without its challenges—there have been a few hiccups along the way—but Logan has continued to thrive, proving over and over again how strong and capable he is.
This milestone isn’t just about eating; it’s about independence, growth, and resilience. It’s a reflection of the amazing work Logan has done and the unwavering support he’s had from the incredible team at CHOA and everyone who has believed in him along the way.
Those months in Atlanta weren’t just about feeding therapy. They were about growth on every level—emotional, developmental, and personal. Logan learned so much about himself during that time, and as a family, we learned so much about him. Our temporary home in Atlanta became a place of stability and comfort during such a transformative chapter, and the kindness of the community reminded us we were never alone in this journey.
Atlanta will always hold a special place in our hearts. It was a turning point not just in Logan’s feeding journey but in his overall development. It was where he showed the world, and himself, just how far he could go with hard work, determination, and the love and support of those around him. This chapter in Logan’s story is one we will carry with us forever, a reminder of how far he’s come and how much he can achieve.


A Year of Growth Through Communication and ABA Therapy
Logan’s progress didn’t stop when we returned home. The program in Atlanta was based on ABA therapy, and it worked so well for Logan that we knew we had to continue it when we got back. After some searching, we found an amazing local team to provide ABA services, and it’s been such a key part of his growth this year.
Logan has made incredible strides in building skills that help him become more independent and communicate with the world around him. Through ABA, he’s taken on tasks that once felt overwhelming. From following multi-step instructions to handling daily routines more independently, Logan has really stepped up. Things like brushing his teeth, getting dressed, or transitioning between activities are becoming smoother, and it’s incredible to see him take pride in doing things on his own.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how much he’s learned to cope with challenges. Moments that used to feel completely overwhelming for him are now met with more confidence and calm. Whether it’s dealing with sensory overload or managing unexpected changes, Logan has developed strategies that help him adapt. These tools have made such a difference—not just for him but for all of us—and they’re opening up so many new possibilities for him to engage more actively with the world.
His communication has also taken off in ways I couldn’t have dreamed of. Logan’s language development has been such a bright spot this year. Hearing him use his words to share his feelings, tell us what he wants, or just show his personality has been nothing short of amazing. Every word he says feels like a victory. Watching him chat with us, light up when he gets his point across, or even just call out “Mom!”—it’s hard to put into words how much those moments mean.
At home, Logan’s curiosity and love for learning are impossible to miss. He dives headfirst into sensory play, fine motor activities, and imaginative games with so much excitement. Whether he’s solving a puzzle, exploring new textures, or pretending to be a superhero, he’s constantly growing and thriving. These little moments are such a reminder of how much potential he has and how far he’s come.
What’s really amazing is how it’s all coming together—his independence, his communication, his curiosity—and helping him build a life where he can thrive. This isn’t just about hitting milestones. It’s about seeing him gain the tools and confidence to live fully and connect with the world in his own way. Watching him grow this year has been such a gift, and I can’t wait to see where he goes next.

Gratitude for Logan’s Resilience
Logan’s achievements this year are nothing short of remarkable—a true testament to his resilience, unwavering spirit, and incredible determination. From the challenges of feeding therapy in Atlanta to mastering new skills in ABA and beyond, Logan has shown us that progress isn’t always linear, but it is always possible. Every obstacle he’s faced has been met with courage and grit, and his ability to push through even the hardest moments is nothing less than inspiring.
As I reflect on this year, my heart is filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the milestones Logan has reached, for the moments that once seemed out of reach but are now part of our everyday lives, and for the lessons he continues to teach us about strength, perseverance, and hope. Each of Logan’s accomplishments reminds me that even the smallest steps forward can lead to incredible transformations.
Logan’s journey this year has been filled with tiny miracles—some we celebrated in big, joyful moments, and others that quietly changed our lives in the most profound ways. From hearing him use new words to watching him eat a meal completely on his own, each milestone has been a reminder of how far he’s come and how much he can achieve. His progress isn’t just about meeting goals; it’s about breaking barriers, discovering his potential, and proving that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
As we look ahead to 2025, I’m filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to support Logan in everything he sets out to do. One year ago, we began this journey with hope in our hearts and uncertainty in our minds. Today, we’re celebrating a year of triumphs, growth, and miracles.
Here’s to Logan and the incredible things still to come. I couldn’t be prouder of him and the person he is becoming, and I can’t wait to see where his journey takes him next. Cheers to the bright future ahead and to all the tiny miracles waiting to unfold!
