August 2019

50+ nights away from home, 25+ flights, 3 infusions, multiple blood draws and a few tears. This summer has been a challenge for our family. I started a new position supporting families through organ donation. The orientation and on-boarding process has kept me away from home and traveling from June through August. It has shown me that my wife is so strong, and my children still do not do their chores.

Kate’s last appointment was in July, and it showed us her scleroderma is not stopped, but is slowed. We were told some of what we chocked up to sun sensitivity is actually a rash from her scleroderma. Other issues are also potentially associated and enough for us to make sure we keep an eye on things. The added symptoms have done more to bring Kate to realize this is life long and ask questions that leave all of us in tears.

An added challenge for us, is that Becky’s health is not holding up. She has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, which is a degenerative, autoimmune arthritis. This diagnosis has been difficult to come by and has also not been easy. Becky has been through a couple of medications, and is currently getting infusions that take quite the toll on her. We had to make the tough decision to stop photographing weddings for the time being as a result. She wouldn’t dare give up the rest of the photography she does, however.

This summer has worn us out, but we are so grateful for my completion of CPE and my new position. Becky has been asked to be an elder in our Church and Micah was able to go to Whitworth’s Camp Metamorphosis. Camp Spalding and friends have consumed Kate’s time. Through the challenges, the pain and medications, we are constantly amazed by the strength and compassion of our children. Now, if we could only get them to do their chores.