Scans

Jordan has his routine scans tomorrow. We appreciate your prayers.

Kyle

For those of you have been reading this blog for a long time, you may remember Kyle. He was a little boy who was going through radiation at the same time as Jordan. He died this past Saturday. Kyle was an amazing little boy who made a huge impression on Brent, my sister Julie (who came to radiation with us), and I. He made the most of every moment. When he had to wear an eye patch because of the way the tumor affected his eyes, he came in a pirate costume to match. Since he had to navigate the hard, windy halls of UW hospital everyday, he wore his Heelies, so he could whip around the corners. And on the weekends, when most kids would be exhausted and sick, he tore down the mountain on his skis and scored the most goals on his soccer team. He inspired me each day we were there, and was the only thing I missed when radiation was over. I have also thought of his mom a lot since that time, as she came in each day with a smile acting as if they were coming to some social get together. I knew she was crying inside, but Kyle didn't. She is one of the bravest people I've met since this whole thing began. We were blessed to have known Kyle and grieve with his family in their loss of such an incredible little boy.

The Cancer Club

Yesterday was Jenna's memorial. Chris and Michele, her parents, did an amazing job of honoring their daughter's life. I listened to stories of events from her life and wished I could have been there. Jenna will be missed so much.

Sitting in the service I looked around and saw many familiar faces. They were at all corners of the church. The cancer club, I call it. Parents who have lost a child and the others of us who fear it everyday. They came in their deepest pain, from far away, and some were there who didn't even know them very well, but were there to support Chris and Michele.

Everyday, I wish I could escape this club of fear and watching those I care about suffer, but yesterday I felt honored to be a part of the group. They are a group of inspirational parents who have sacrificed everything for their children, who have reached deep for strength to endure each day, and who have demonstrated amazing love in their darkest times. For their children, and for each other. We have been bonded together in the most horrific of circumstances, but I am a better person because I know them.

Jenna

Thursday, sweet little Jenna went to Heaven. Jenna was an extraordinary, beautiful, joyful little girl. She was able to make everyone she knew feel special and was a very good friend to Jordan, bringing him comfort when no one else could. We are so glad she has a new body and no more tears or suffering, but we are heartbroken with her family. We will miss you Jenna. Till we meet again.

Cousin Ben

I always said through this whole terrible cancer journey that this kind of experience brings out the best and the worst in people. Sometimes it is the worst, but usually it has been the best as we have tried to hold on to hope, give grace, and love one another. It is has been true in our children as well.

Yesterday, we attended the memorial service for cousin Ben. It was beautiful. As I talked to my cousin Kristen, I said I sometimes hesitated from sharing stories about Ben, because most of the time we spent with him was at the hospital when things were the most difficult for everyone. But we both agreed that many of those times brought out the best in him too. I remember going to visit, and seeing all his cars lined up perfectly. He asked Jordan if he wanted to play, and said nothing as Jordan messed up his perfect display, proceeding to dump the precious cars on the floor. I remember several times, him coming into our room and saying right away with no prompt from his parents and despite how terrible he was feeling..."how's Jordan doing, Becky?" Even at 2, he was thinking of the feelings of others.

The Bible says, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." Romans 8:18. That is hard to believe considering the things we have experienced the last couple years. But, as we say good bye to sweet little Ben, we can't wait to see him again in glory.

Clear Scans

Clear scans today! Thanks for your prayers.

Update

Today, Becky took Jordan in for a scheduled appt. concerning his kidney function and the understanding was that things were holding up. We are going to continue to monitor his kidney, but at this point no surgery or significant procedure will need to be done. Tomorrow, Jordan (Friday) has his scan check and we are grateful for the continued prayers. Merry Christmas and enjoy the snow!