Today, something incredible happened. In the middle of Miss Dana’s therapy room, surrounded by encouraging voices and tiny determined steps, my 13-month-old son stood assisted — tall and steady — with the help of his SMO orthotics.

Today, Liam put on his first pair of SMO orthotics and shoes — boy oh boy did he fight it! By the end of the day, he succumbed this moment happened! 

It may have lasted only seconds, but in those seconds, the world stopped. Months of effort, tears, and hope all rose to the surface in one single, wobbly, beautiful moment.

For those of you who’ve followed our journey, you know this hasn’t been easy. From the moment we started intensive therapy camp, we dreamed of milestones like this — even though they felt far away. Watching him work so hard day after day, to develop strength, balance, and confidence, has been both heart-wrenching and awe-inspiring.

These orthotics are more than just braces — they’re tiny tools to independence. And today, with their help and the unwavering support of his therapy team, my son showed us all what resilience looks like.

I'm overwhelmed with gratitude — for his therapists, for our family’s support system, and for every little sign of progress that leads to days like this. It reminds me that every small win is actually a huge victory.

We still have a long way to go. But today? Today we celebrate standing tall — literally and figuratively. And we keep moving forward, one hopeful step at a time.

He showed us what he can do in a few seconds today, we are praying for what he can do for a few minutes tomorrow, and we’re hopeful to see what comes in the future.