Hi, my name is Cole Pulkrabek and I was born November 28th 2002.  I had a bit of a rough start, but I bounced back really quick, and went home right as scheduled.  My mom and dad say that I was the best baby, and hit all of my milestones right on schedule.  When I was about 18 months old my mom noticed that I wasn't progressing in my gross motor skills anymore.  I wasn't starting to run, or climb stairs and I couldn't squat down and play like other toddlers.  She mentioned it to my pediatrician and she agreed that something might not be right, she referred us to a Dr. who specializes in physical medicine.  She tested me for Muscular Dystrophy and that came back negative.  She wasn't sure what might be wrong, so she sent us to a Neurologist at the Mayo clinic, they tested me for Spinal Muscular Atrophy and it came back positive.  The Dr. at Mayo confirmed that I had SMA type III.  To read more about SMA click on the SMA Facts button.   I will be 4 in a few weeks and I am really looking forward to my birthday!  I have had a really busy year travelling to Salt Lake City and have also had some fun going to Disney with my family as well!  I am doing really well, this summer was so much better than last year, I can walk on the grass and gravel and smimming is so much easier too!  I got to go to a special camp this summer where they did all my therapy, it was such a fun time, I still ask to go almost every week!  I go to pre-school twice a week and I really, really love it!  I even got to start riding the bus home last week, which is sooo fun!  I love all things Sesame Street still and the highlight of my summer was going to Sesame Street Live, we even ran into my buddy Jack there!  I suppose I should also mention that I am now a big brother!!  It has been a big change getting used to my sister Maya!  She is so loud and needs lots of attention from Mommy, but she sure is cute and loves to watch me play!!    I had a great Halloween and am looking forward to my birthday and Christmas!  I will try to update you all again soon!!  Love, Cole!