Little Lucia: Times have changed

Last Monday Jason's grandpa passed away peacefully at the age of 89. Paul "Bud" or as family called him "Poppy" Dawkins was great and will be missed. Poppy was always so loving and caring towards his grandchildren, as was his late wife June. They both LOVED holding, cuddling, and visiting with their great granddaughters, seven in all! When Lucia was born and had her differences and challenges- feeding tube, oxygen, untypical baby strength, apparent vision and hearing difficulties etc, it was hard for Poppy to comprehend. He loved Lucia, no doubt, but you could tell that he was worried about her road ahead. He would ask many questions. We would explain she was happy, and "no she can't see well but yes, she knows who we are", and the one question he asked almost every single time, with a concern for our answer, "Will she be able to walk?". We usually answered with a positive "maybe" or "we're not sure, but it's ok". He didn't really understand it all and he had a heavy heart for Lucia, and maybe for us. One of the last visits Jason had with Poppy was when he took Lucia to watch the football game at his house. When they got home I was asking how he was, and I also asked if he asked his usual walking question. Jason said he was doing ok, couldn't really hear, slowing down, and this time, in response to Poppy's question he answered with a "probably not". We will never give up on Lubird walking but if it's not meant to be, it's ok. We feel we'll be pleasantly surprised and ecstatic if she does walk or exceeds expectations! I often wondered why Poppy seemed so unable to understand Lucia's condition. I know he just wanted the best for his grandchildren, Jason, and of course his great grandchildren, Lucia, but I also think it is because times have changed. Thank God times have changed!
When Poppy grew up, kids like Lu probably didn't have much of a chance due to lack of today's medical help. In his years growing up, and throughout much of his life, kids like Lu were possibly institutionalized, and if not that they were kept out of public. It is so unimaginable to think of that situation. Probably just over 40 years ago and definitely up to 89 years ago, that was how it was for many and still is in places around the world. Wow.
Poppy, you were a loving person and grandfather to our Lubird and our Scout and you lived a full life of 89 years! I think Jason answering his question this time with a nonchalant "Probably not.", just about a week before he passed, he may have been able to realize that it truly was ok. She would be our forever baby, walking, wheelchair or in our arms.. Love is really all you need. He would always say with his ear to ear smile, "look at that baby". "Look at the beautiful baby." We know she is beautiful and we can't look at her enough. We love you Poppy, I'm sure you now understand.