October 13th, 2025

I know it’s been a while since I updated this blog. No news is good news, right?! In some ways even the act of updating this blog brings me back to places and feelings that seem in the past. We are living a somewhat “normal” life now and going through our days like a regular family. My kids have been fighting often and exhausting me like kids do— and although I am overwhelmed most days, I can see it as a gift. The fact that Oliver is now a full-on toddler who has tantrums and throws things and hits his brother— the normal progression of life as it should be lived— is a blessing that I try not to take for granted.

Oliver has been doing so well! He is going to UNC once a month now and went to his appointment last Thursday. He knows the routine of the parking garage, bridge, elevators, etc.. and typically runs or jumps the whole way there. His bloodwork has all come back looking great. We tested him for certain markers to make sure his body’s immunity is improving, and it is looking amazing. He has been able to drop two medicines so he only has to take one medicine which he will likely be on for the next couple years. All dietary restrictions have been dropped, and we are hoping his social life will also open up a little now, but we aren’t sure what it’ll look like for now.

We were invited to a Hurricane’s game at clinic on Thursday and were able to take all the kids to a Saturday night game. The Staal Family Foundation (https://www.staalfoundation.org), made up of the four Staal brothers who play or used to play in the NHL, has a box they generously donate to kids fighting cancer. Our kids had the time of their lives! They had so much fun and were chanting, “Let’s Go Canes!” for days after.

Our boy is so strong and doing so well! Thank you for your continued prayers and support. Here are some long overdue pictures: