First steps!!!

This past Wednesday, Jacob proudly put on his new prosthetic leg and walked for the first time since June 8 – over 9 months ago. To try put into words how amazing this moment was is impossible to describe, but it was by far the happiest moment since Jacobs cancer diagnosis. Jacob walked up and down the parallel bars several times, after being told he would likely only be able to handle a couple steps.

The determination and strength this boy displays all the time is truly remarkable. I was absolutely bursting with pride and happiness watching him be able to take his first steps. When I started this blog around Jacobs diagnosis, I called it “Every Step” – not knowing at the time how significant the name would actually be for Jacobs journey. When we went to the doctor back in early June over the concern of the mass in jacobs leg, en route for the initial X-ray of Jacobs femur I took his hand and held it as we were driving. I said to Jacob ” every step Jacob – every single step, no matter what happens, no matter what this means, or what we may find out – I will be with you, every step.”

Looking back on the last 9 months, and reflecting on those initial words to Jacob having a deep gut feeling that something was terribly wrong, watching as he lost any ability to use his leg, going through the amputation and recovery, all the harsh chemo, dealing with Evan and Noah struggling mentally, and now watching Jacob take his first steps again with 2 legs, I can see clearly how we’ve been carried every step. Our gracious and caring and merciful Father has most definitely been holding and carrying our family as we walk this very trying road. The evidence of answered prayers and strength and peace and acceptance being provided for us through these prayers is so very apparent to us. Reflecting on what I said to Jacob in the van on the way to the X-ray, I can confidently say I have done what I promised him so far. I have been with Jacob for every single day in the hospital, every physio, every blood test, every clinic appointment, while Ray continues to manage the farm and the 3 younger boys. There have been countless people helping us walk this road, helping us every step as well. Meals and childcare, visits, house cleaning, caring for pets, watching the barns, providing much needed coffee….. I could go on, but the point is that Every Step, every single step there has been people and things in place to help carry this burden with us, which we are thankful for daily.

Round 15 is finished, and went fairly typically for Jacob receiving methotrexate. Round 16 should begin next Thursday if his kidneys are doing okay. Tuesday Jacob has physio and an appointment at the prosthetist – he will be able to use his leg a second time and hopefully be allowed to take it to the hospital for his physio session. Wednesday is a full day of kidney testing, and if all looks okay then chemo can begin the following day.

Currently, we are attending the War Amps Conference at the Sheraton Airport hotel for the next 3 days. The first session begins shortly, so I’ll leave it at this for now.