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Poem from Benji, Age 1 By: Benji's Mom My name is Benji and I'm one year old Younger than most around here I'm told. My brain likes to pretend and make signals go astray:    …it's hard to get my breath on some days,    …my heart is a clock that goes fast and slow,    …and I think my thermostats fell down a hole.    …my skin gets all funny with ridges and hives,    …and my tummy doesn't work or receive the right vives. It seems like my body is simply a game affected by simple things, even the rain. I'm connected to tubes that hang on a pole, It's my only connection that stays fully whole. I can't suck or chew, cuz swallowing is out, Food enters my tummy by 2 " tubey " spouts. The oxygen tube runs up my nose All because my genes won't properly pose. I know I'm still here 'cause I'm big and strong, …and my family and friends have prayed all along. The doctors and nurses at Hopkins agree That we're the special ones you and me. So don't be afraid, we tiny ones too Are victims of things that also affect you. Keep your chin up and eyes toward the sun Because remember, God holds us special ones right in his palm.