“Our miracle and joy”: AJ Allmendinger’s wife pens a heartfelt note for son Aero’s milestone following craniosynostosis surgery

NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger’s wife Tara Allmendinger shared a special post on social media to celebrate their son Aero James' one-year "Cranioanniversary." Aero was diagnosed with Sagittal Craniosynostosis, a condition where parts of the skull fuse too early.

He had surgery at just three months old to fix the condition. Tara, who has been sharing updates on Aero's recovery since the beginning, talked about the tough surgery and thanked the doctors, her family, and others who helped Aero, in a post on Instagram.

"From the moment we heard the diagnosis to the day we handed him over to the skilled hands of his surgical team, to the countless appointments and moments of worry—every step was worth it to see him thriving today...We are inspired daily by this little warrior who teaches us what it means to face challenges with courage and joy," Tara wrote.

Tara also started a community, "P.U.R.P.L.E. Ribbon Project," last year that helps other families with children battling the condition.

"To other families navigating their craniosynostosis journey: You are not alone. There’s a beautiful community of support out here, and I’d love to connect with you. 💜👉 @p.u.r.p.l.e._ribbon_project Happy Cranioanniversary, Aero! You are our miracle and joy; we are so proud of you," she added.

Meanwhile, Allmendinger is set to race full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series next year. Allmendinger, who reached the Championship Four in the Xfinity Series and finished third in points this year, will drive Kaulig Racing's No. 16 in 2025.

The 43-year-old drove the car in 2023 and also raced in 16 Cup Series races this year.

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"Aero has graduated from his helmet from Cranial Technologies" - AJ Allmendinger’s wife Tara shared an update on Aero's recovery

AJ Allmendinger and his wife, Tara, the Mrs. North Carolina America 2021, have been married for five years. Their first son, Aero, was born in September 2023.

Tara previously wrote about Aero's graduation from the cranial helmet. Aero had to wear a helmet that helped shape his head for normal brain growth for several months after his surgery. Earlier this month, Tara updated that his treatment was over and he no longer had to wear the helmet.

"He did it! It’s official: Aero has graduated from his @docband helmet from Cranial Technologies. We are so grateful for all the care and support we’ve received...Aero was born with Saggital Craniosynostosis and had to undergo an endoscopic strip craniectomy—basically, surgery to remove a fused suture on the top of his skull," she wrote.

Aero's condition is a type of craniosynostosis that occurs in 1 out of 2,500 births. Early treatment can help babies live a full and healthy life.