My name is Marcus Shane Bachtel because Marcus is after my papaw Marcus Day Bachtel and Shane is after my daddy Kevin Shane. I was born on January 26, 2007 at Medical City in Dallas. When I was born I was not breathing very well on my own and I was not moving, so they had to intubate me immediately. Because of my sister Macy, my parents were having to relive the past and of course I was learning what it would feel like to be pricked by needles so they could draw blood, putting IV's in, have spinal taps done, be cut on for a muscle biopsy, a tracheotomy, and having my feeding tube in. As of right now, I have been through twenty-three tests, three surgeries, and will probably go through more in the future. I am on a ventilator twenty-four hours a day, fed through a feeding tube, and receive OT, PT and speech services at home 2 – 3 times a week. But of course I really like it when my papaw comes over and gives me a really good workout. My favorite things to do are to lie on my mommy’s chest, to play with my sister, to be held by my family, and when my family gives me tons of attention. I love it when my papaw comes over and sings and plays with me. Some of my improvements that I have made since I was born are that I can move my legs and arms a lot. I can move my head a little. I suck on my thumbs all of the time. I reach out and grab for my toys. I do cry sometimes, especially if I don’t feel good or when I am having my treatments bagged in. I smile and laugh a lot especially at my big sister Mady. I can sit up with little assistance. I have a lot more muscle tone in my trunk area. My mommy and daddy tell me everyday that I am a very special little boy, not only to them but also to tons of people all around the world. I want to thank you for all of the prayers that have been said for my healing and daily progress.  I would not be here if it was not for them and my Heavenly Father. I really do hope that one day that for everyone that has said a prayer for me will get to meet me in person and see how well I am progressing. Thank you for taking the time and looking at my website and leaving me and my family a message, my mommy reads to me and Mady every night the messages that are left everyday.