Do It Myself Blog – Glenda Watson Hyatt

In support of bloggers uniting to Fight for Preemies, I’d like to introduce the one preemie who has stolen my heart:

Fifty years ago, an impatient baby boy entered the world seven weeks early. Much to everyone’s surprised, a second baby boy also joined the party. Sadly, one twin brother lived only a few short days before being called home.

The remaining twin, weighing 3lbs 3oz at birth, struggled to survive. He was a sick little boy, prone to catching every bug that crossed his path. His development was delayed and he was diagnosis with cerebral palsy some time prior to his second birthday.

Because of his frequent and lengthy illnesses, he missed much of Grade 1, forcing him to repeat the grade. The same fate occurred in Grade 2, further dashing his self-esteem and his love for school. He went through the motions of doing his school work, without being fully engaged by his teachers or fully accepted by his fellow classmates.

That was until Grade 11 when he discovered computers that changed the trajectory of his life. He discovered a world that he understood, that he could control and manipulate as he liked; a world where he belonged and could immerse himself for hours and days at a time, a world where only his geeky friends could follow him.

Computers became a part of him, literally; he lives and breathes computers. Computers and what he can make them do are his passion. The guy with no spatial ability is able to see any computer screen in his mind’s eyes. Watching him solve a friend’s or client’s technical issue is amazing – and inspiring!

Initially, this guy may seem slow in thought. But, if people are patient and allow him to talk at his own pace, they realize he is wise beyond his years. Once his words and thoughts start flowing, his ideas, insights and dreams come shining through. He says the sweetest thing with such sincerity that he melts your heart and bring a tear to your eyes – or, at least, that is what he does to mine.

Who is the preemie who has captured my heart? The man I am proud to call my husband Darrell Hyatt.

Borrowing the thought-provoking question from my friend Liz, I asked Darrell, “If you could tell the whole world something once, have them believe you and understand, what would you tell them?”

Darrell responded with:

When asked to answer this question, what came to mind was "believe in yourself". I know that is not necessarily an easy thing to do when others around you don’t believe you or say things which make you doubt yourself. You are the best judge of what you are capable of and can do.

When you are faced with the challenge look inside yourself and find that inner strength and belief in yourself; it will guide you to the solution. You may not have all the answers along the way but the answers will be there at the correct time. The more you believe in yourself, the stronger that belief will become and will carry you to greater heights.

With such insight, such wisdom, can you understand why this guy, who began life so small, has captured my heart?

Darrell, I love you.