Another big milestone...

We are celebrating another 5 year anniversary today. The most important one of all!! Luke's BFF Ryan was diagnosed 5 years ago today with stage IV Neuroblastoma.

I think that it is safe to say that was the worst day in our lives--we can still hardly comprehend how the Zavaleta's felt.

Ryan had a story with similarities to Rachels...Jill took him into the doctor several times trying to find out why he was so cranky, and having fevers. On the evening of the 15th we had a Christmas party at our house. As Jill and Ernie were leaving the phone rang for them...it was their baby sitter saying that Ryan wouldn't walk or stand...he seemed to be in pain. They rushed home. The next day was a Sunday. Jill was sent by the pediatrician to go down to Texas Children's for some tests. She called to get directions ...after I got off the phone with her I knew Ernie needed to go down and be there too. Sophie and Evan came over for the night--which was a real treat for Rachel and Jonah as they were their BFF's too and they had never had a sleepover.

So after having a tumor removed, 5 rounds of chemo(first started Christmas day I believe), 2 more high dose rounds with bone marrow rescues, 12 radiation sessions and 6 months of accutane...the waiting began. I know it has been hard between each set of scans to wait and pray that nothing would return.

Ryan is the product of a lot of prayers...from all over the world. He is the most amazing kid with the most amazing parents. We learned so much from them as they went through this terrible time. The most Christ-like people we know.

Making a 5 year mark is a big deal! We are so proud of you Ryan for your bravery and determination over the years. You are amazing. And I am always inspired by Jill and Ernie's patience and the love they show those who have such little problems compared to what they have been through.

We miss you so much and the lazy days working in our yards kids running back an forth between houses, movie nights, sitting at the bus stop, drives down to the hospital--and comparing new found faster routes through traffic to TCH. Those were the days! Hope you are celebrating in Chicago!