Hello friends, family and loved ones!

I apologize for the lengthy delay in updating everyone on Oni.  Good news is that he is doing well! He has made a remarkable recovery from his brain surgery and his follow up MRI’s show that the tumor is stable. We have not made it back to St Jude’s due to my own health issues but will be there this time in May and  will have a better idea regarding the stability of his tumor.

In returning for his post-op check up, he held out hope that he could continue to play football.  We met with Dr. Jodi Smith, his neurosurgeon, whom we refer to as Wonder Woman.  He had devised a plan that he could keep playing football as a kicker.  He asked her “What is the safest position on the football field?” She did not pause a beat and said “The bench!” They proceeded to have a lengthy debate about the odds of a kicker sustaining a concussion. Finally she broke it down and told him that his skull has not even healed and it will take months. She also told him that his brain has undergone two brain surgeries, chemo, radiation and two concussions.  Another concussion could be life altering. 

So Oni has had to let go of his lifelong dream of playing for the NFL and giving up his primary passion in life…playing football. It totally broke my heart for him but again, Oni met this loss with acceptance and grace and was able to pivot. Something even a lot of adults struggle to do. He was given the opportunity to transition to be an Assistant Coach of the JV running backs. He is back to working out with the football team and giving it his all in Strength and Conditioning. 

And Oni who is an athlete to the core, he joined the track team. He said it has been a big transition.  He is not used to running so much!  They had their first official meet and Ken and I went with no expectations. I was so grateful that given all he has gone through that he even has the ability to participate. He was in the 4th Heat of the 100 Meter and he took off like a shot and there was no catching him! He won the race! Yet again, my son astounds me! How awesome is our God! I continue to marvel at how blessed we are! 

I hope that each and everyone of you feels the sunshine on your face this month and that the warm days ahead bring you joy and happiness. Thanks so much for being a part of our journey. Much love and many blessings, Kim