I was born on April 23, 1987, and I came to live with my mom and dad when I was just 17 months old. I used to live with another family, but they didn't want an energetic bundle of joy when they started their family. They thought I was too much trouble, and they didn't want me anymore, so I went to live with my new family. WOW, am I glad that I did!!

When I was almost 11 years old, my dad noticed that I did not see the food on the floor anymore. I was always cleaning the kitchen floor for Daddy when he cooked. So my parents took me to an eye specialist, and after some tests, the verdit was in! I WAS BLIND!! I have SARDS, Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration. Mommy cried. Daddy was sad. After a few weeks of bumping into things, I adjusted to the darkness, and it wasn't too bad anymore. Daddy built me some ramps so I could go into my back yard. HEY, SQUIRRELS, WATCH OUT, HERE I COME AGAIN!!

Just as I was adjusting to the blindness, my life changed again. In October, 1998, I developed Auto-Immune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA). I got very sick and almost died. My mom got me the best doggie specialist and he helped save my life. I am now in remission, and someday this nasty disease may come back, but I am ready for it!! My doctor said I am a FIGHTER!! I have friends all over the world that pray for me. I WON'T LET AIHA GET ME, (don't cry again, Mom).

Well, now it has been over a year, and I am a ONE year Survivor from AIHA, but would you believe it if I told you that I have had pancreatitis and colitis 4 times, almost didn't make it, but that great doctor I have AND my mom always pull me out of a crisis. I am here to celebrate another Chirstmas with my family. Yes, I am a FIGHTER, for sure. And Mom still gives the credit to that Big Doctor Up Above!! Lots of friends, all over the world, they pray for me....OK, Mom, stop the tears!!

Now, almost THREE years later, I am still here!! Getting old, but still SURVIVING! I have had pancreatitis now about NINE times, but here I am!