This morning Jakob had his chemo port removed. We received the green light from his doctor this week after a clean x-ray and exam. He has been off chemo and cancer-free for 1 year, so goodbye port! He's home today feeling a little sore, but happy to have arrived at this day. As are we all. 

Walking out of Arkansas Children's Hospital this morning and into the bright sunshine I felt such intense gratitude. For life. For Jakob. For science and medicine. For doctors and nurses. For family and friends--near and far--that would text, email, or call. For those of you reading this.

I have changed. In addition to Jakob's cancer and recovery, even more life-changing events taught me humility and tenderness and compassion. For others, yes, but also for myself. Because you know what? We ALL suffer. You don't have to have cancer to be hurting, scared, or anxious. I am happy for this outcome, of course, but I know hurt will return again in some form or another. It always does, for all of us. I've learned to accept that very natural fact of life and not fear that disappointment, but live in this moment instead. It's all I need. It's all any of us really need.

One more thing...please remember to continue to support families that are affected by childhood cancer. Although we have come so far, there's much work to do. One of Jakob's friend's, Elijah Talley, continues to fight his battle like a real warrior. Please visit his page here and consider helping in any way you can: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elijahtalley

Forgive me for my philosophical ramblings. Just know I appreciate and love you all. I mean that. Every one of you that reads this. Thank you.
Blessings,
Mike