Started

After our 2 1/2 week pre-qualifying events, Jonah started his marathon yesterday afternoon.  He received his first doses of chemo yesterday afternoon.  One of the drugs used is a doozy, so we'll spend the next 2-3 days washing it out of his system before the rest of the cycle completes.  If all goes according to plan, we'll be heading to Rehab Institute of Chicago (RIC) early to mid next week.

A dear friend encouraged me to share some of the less serious moments, because our days are not only filled with heavy hard things, but also with milestone achievements and fun.  First of all, the other kids have been showered with love from everyone.  They have had playdates at our house, at other people's houses, visits to Six Flags, Millennium Park, Lake Michigan beaches, the aquarium, Build-a-Bear, the Lego store, Navy Pier and on and on.  In addition to all that fun, they've enjoyed the 12th floor at the hospital which is the family fun floor.  12 has the front of a real fire engine to play in, video games, play areas, White Sox players, Wheaton football players, therapy dogs and more fun visitors.  Certainly they miss the regular rhythm of live together, but on the whole they're having a good time.  Jonah himself is doing really well with all of this therapies, and with assistance will sit at the edge of the bed for good periods of time.  He has had great success on the tilt table and has a special stroller-like chair that allows him to be wheeled around the hospital.  With the help of the chair, he too was able to go to 12 and see the therapy dogs, which was right up his alley.

Another bright spot has been all of your smiling faces and support.  The texts, calls, emails, cards, gifts and visits will be cherished in our hearts forever.  When we needed it, y'all showed up.  That in itself is no small thing.  We may not be timely in our responses, but it's not because we don't appreciate the support.  Every effort is encouraging and appreciated.  Thank you for being here with us, to help us remember the fun.