Hello friends and family,

We are sorry that it has been so long since we have updated you. The period of October - January felt like 5 years and then January - May flew by in the blink of an eye!

Cormac is doing GREAT! He graduated from Braden River High School last week and will be heading off to college at Florida Atlantic University this fall! He completed all of his coursework at BRHS and even was able to obtain the highest level of Bright Futures Scholarship, which pays 100% of his college tuition. We are so very, very proud of him, not only for his achievements over 13 years of school, but also for his steadfastness and determination in recovering from his burns.

Cormac continues to heal. Since December, he has had three CO2 laser skin treatments, all done by Dr. VanVliet at Blake Hospital. The doctor alternates between his arms one session and his legs another session, giving 4-6 weeks for him to heal in between treatments. These are done outpatient, under general anesthesia. We learned that Cormac has a new allergy - to a skin cleanser that was used pre-op. But IV benadryl helped him bounce back from that surprise reaction. Dr. VanVliet also has obtained some new, advanced technology lasers. These lasers have a deeper penetration, which ultimately should help Cormac's skin heal very well, but the power of the laser leads to more discomfort during healing. One special laser should help remove the redness that remains on his donor sites on his thighs. This Thursday 5/23 is Cormac's next laser treatment, then Dr. V will decide if he will do another round this summer.

Cormac has enjoyed being back to all his normal activities. He attended Military Ball, Grad Night at Universal Studios and Prom. He joined Crunch gym so he can stay fit and increase muscle and strength. He swims in our pool and has gone to the beach a few times as well. He takes good care of his skin; he doesn't stay in the sun too long, wearing SPF clothing and hats and is diligent about sunscreen. He will continue to wear compression garments on his legs, arms and hands until at least October, giving his skin the best conditions for healing. He never complains about his skin care regimen, although it does take a bit of time and energy daily. He is casual about his garments and I think most people don't notice them at all.

Chris and I still look back on last fall with feelings of disbelief about how everything can change in one moment. We learned firsthand about the loving power of family, community and faith. We are still awed by the strength and calm of this young man, who has endured more than most people he will meet in his life. We look at things from a different perspective now - and he does too.

We are forever grateful for all who have reached out to us, parents & kids from Cormac's preschool and early days - Cub & Boy Scouts, middle & high school friends, to brand new friends, beloved family and our Peace Church family, and even people we have never met. You have all helped us heal. Your love is the best medicine.

We are grateful for Dr. VanVliet, who never stops investigating medical developments & never gives up helping his patients. Dr V and all who work for him are angels in our minds.

We are grateful for Cormac's promising future and hope he finds great friends as well as challenging and interesting courses at FAU. We pray that he finds a passion to pursue.

We ask for prayers for all the people who suffer permanently from burns - children especially. Families who have lost children to burns, like the Chesney family in FL whose teenage daughter Layne recently passed away 16 months after she suffered a devastating burn.

We ask for prayers of protection for Cormac as he leaves his hovering parents and heads out into the world.

We have so much love and gratitude for each one of you!
Eirinn and Chris