On August 24th, 2013, the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Jacksonville Jaguars 31 to 24 in the pre season. It was also the day I was admitted to the hospital to induce labor. We had 2 reasons to be excited that day! Not only was the team we love starting off on the right foot, we were going to meet our baby girl! I remember watching the game on TV, Jay wearing his football jersey and the Doctor's face shield, goofing off at the foot of the bed in a receiver stance.
Because Jaylyn's issues were not known until after she was born, labor was induced slowly, and she was born the next day. In hind sight, it was very much like watching an Eagles game. We had so much anticipation for a win! We had such high expectations for a perfect "season".
Of course as Eagles fans, that doesnt always seem to be the case. The ups and downs much like a roller coaster ride. It very much parallels Jaylyn's life and the challenges she faces daily.
Yet despite those challenges, she presses on. Like a determined athlete, she pushes herself to find a way to succeed and achieve. Jaylyn was dealt a life of many challenges and she has risen to each and every one and being a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles has played a huge part in that. Jaylyn is non verbal. She doesnt even say "Mommy" or "Daddy", BUT she does say "Eagles"! Every game, Jaylyn can be seen clapping and saying "Yay Eagles"! Jaylyn has significant physical limitations and was not expected to walk, yet her first attempt at taking steps independently was initiated by her hearing the Philadelphia Eagles fight song.
So although Eagles fans typically have a bad reputation, and we often hear trash talk about encouraging Jaylyn's love of football and the Eagles, we are proud of our little Eagles fan! She is an under dog, just like the team we love. If only the Make a Wish Foundation could grant a super bowl win...
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