As I look back sixteen years, I can’t help but thank God for how much He has done for me. I especially thank God for my parents who decided to keep me, instead of aborting me. To all my family, friends, classmates and church members, thank you for encouraging me when I was down, and spending time with me when I was recovering from my craniofacial surgeries.

I can’t imagine what was going through my family’s mind when the doctors said that I had no chance to live. Not only was my life in question, but my mom’s life was in danger too. I’m very thankful for my Pastor V.P. Abraham for encouraging mom and dad after they got the doctor’s first report. I would not be here if he did not share the Word that God gave from Jeremiah 18. Hope your birthday was great, too, Pastor! (We have the same birthday July 27).

A BIG BLUE shoutout to The McCallie School, where I will continue as a sophomore this year. I am thankful for the opportunity to attend and be a part of an amazing class. I will never forget Westview Elementary and the Siskin Children’s Institute for their help in shaping me to be the person I am today. I remember what my third grade teacher, Mrs Watts, told me as I was preparing for my eye surgery years ago. I was trying to prepare her for the way I would look after I recovered from my eye surgery. She told me, “Philip, it doesn’t matter what you look like on the outside. What matters is your heart and what’s on the inside.” She was so wise!

With the help of God and many thousands of family, friends, medical and educational supporters, I am still here at age sixteen!! Thank you for all the love and birthday wishes!

When you think about September, I hope you remember that it’s Craniofacial Acceptance Month. In honor of all our patients, we are holding a 5Krun4Love! The exciting race is on Saturday, September 10,2016 at 8am at the Tennessee Riverpark. You can register online at www.5krun4love.com. Would you run this race in honor of Bhuvan or in honor of me? I hope to see you at the race!