August 12, 2021 marked the official start of our journey with cancer.  

Two years later, August 12, 2023 is the day we brought Addyson home after increased symptoms and shunt revision.

The last week has been spent learning a new normal.  We are happy and grateful to be home.  Happy to be sleeping in our own beds, eating at our own kitchen table, and enjoying the nuances that come with quiet downtime at home.

Addyson sleeps about 15 hours a day, with the rest of her time spent trying to help around the house, watching tic tok, or spending time with her siblings.  Her ability to help around the house is becoming more difficult with each passing day.  Cleaning has been her thing.  She wants to help in the kitchen and clean up afterward, but her ability to support herself and move about is becoming more difficult.  At her core, she is a kind, conscientious soul who wants to do her part.  If she becomes frustrated at her current abilities, rarely do we see it.  It breaks my heart to see her deteriorate, but also warms my soul to see the compassionate, loving girl she is in her very soul.

Isaiah 43:1
But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord or created you.  O Israel, the one who formed you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.  I have called you by name, you are mine."

This is our journey, the journey we have been called to walk.  I look to God for strength, courage, and peace during this time.  I thank Him for the amazing young woman he created in Addyson, and the courageous people Hal, Blake and Lex are during this time as they support their sister.

I thank God for Rick.  He's done this once, now he's willingly, graciously and lovingly doing this again.  Who does that?  I can't imagine walking this walk without him.  I prayed for strength at the start of this journey, and God sent me Rick.  I wasn't looking for a man/human for strength, but God knew my heart needed Rick, and what a blessing he's been!  Not just for me, but for everyone. Rick says, "God gets the glory. I(Rick) can't do this without Him."

None of this is easy, but through His grace and mercy, we will get through this, we will survive, and we will glorify Him.

God Bless,
Renee