It's been almost a year (about 10 months) since Joseph received his bone marrow transplant. The process of renewing his bone marrow and blood capacity is a long process. Although he has grafted the bone marrow 99% (literally the highest percentage graft), it essentially reset his immune system. So much so that he has been receiving all his immunizations again, as if he were a newborn baby! I like to imagine that they also measure his length, the circumference of his head, what growth percentile he is in and then give Karla a sheet of what Joseph should be doing developmentally at this age. Ha ha! Because his immune system is redeveloping itself Joseph has spent the last year cautiously doing anything in public. So count yourself blessed if you've had a chance to see him in person. I was finally able to see my little brother again in almost a year; it was great to be back from deployment and spend time with him and my parents. Joseph picked me and Ellie up from the airport so we could make sure Ellie got checked in ok for her second semester at Loyola. We made a grocery run for her and also spent the night chatting with our Aunt Sue who always share stories of the Mock/Newkirk family heritage. Then we headed down to Imperial Beach so that we'd be able to celebrate Dad's 75th birthday! Joseph and I soaked up the sun, walked the pier, went on runs together and played soccer and tennis. Joseph is just now beginning to build his physical fitness and exercise is still tough, but thank God that he is starting to develop his strength. Joseph mentioned how good it felt for his soul to be able to exercise and play sports. We took Dad to the movies for his birthday and then out to dinner with our cousin, Amber, and nephew, Aaron. These times together are cherished particularly when we all have been apart for so long. Joseph and Karla are looking forward to the one year mark of Joseph's bone marrow transplant in the hopes that he will be healthy enough to do even more. Thank you for your prayers. Please pray for Joseph's continued improvement, that he continues to stay healthy and develop his strength, and that he can one day be considered cured of leukemia. And pray a prayer of thanksgiving for the progress that has been made from one year ago until now.