News Postings is our version of a BLOG and will address topics under multiple categories including: Reflections, News, Events, Christopherisms and others we may add in the future.  These categories are intended to give you a glimpse into our life as we deal with the diagnosis of ALS.  We invite you to click on comments and give your feedback which will appear on the site.  The comments you make may spark further discussion and are greatly encouraged.  If you don't want your comment public, just send us an email instead.   Thank you for being here!

It has been quite a while since we have posted anything because life has been a little hectic around here.  Let me catch you up on the most recent happenings.

Jennifer's father, Bob, had a lung transplant about 5 1/2 years ago.  He and Jennifer's mom, Bettie, live in Las Vegas.  They return to Denver, where the transplant was performed, for checkups every 6 months.  This was supposed to be a routine visit.

It turns out, Bob has been in chronic rejection since sometime in 2003.  This means that his lung volume capacity has been steadily decreasing as his body slowly rejects the new lung.  Drug therapy was recommended to stabilize the rejection.  This involved a 5 day stay in the hospital and then two more weeks to recover.  Jennifer's parents stayed with us during this time.  Another test was done to see if the proceedure was successful.  Thank God it was and Bob and Bettie were able to return to their home in Las Vegas.  He is doing well considering he is at 38% lung volume capacity and that is an improvement from where he was.

During this time, Jennifer has been able to reconnect with her brother, John, after 6 years of no communication.  A lot has changed for both of them since then and they have found much in common.  Faith, being at the top of the list.  A great story all around.

Last weekend we attended a wedding in Goodland, KS where Jennifer was the Matron of Honor and Christopher was the Ring Bearer.  Congratulations to Bryan and Misti as they head on their honeymoon today. 

Three hours is a long time in a car for me, but I used the air cushion from my electric wheelchair to ease the ride.  These type of events are getting more taxing on me as it is difficult to sit or stand for long periods of time without the ability to lay down and rest.  At the reception, Jennifer was up at the head table and Christopher and I had sat at another table.  We had a great time.  We talked about how to introduce himself to a girl, whether he was going to dance, etc.  As usual it was all worth it, but I did skip out early on the reception as my body was exhausted.  I left about 7:30.  Jennifer and Christopher stayed after 10:00.  Christopher had so much fun dancing and "performing," I really wish I could have stayed to see it.  During our dinner conversation, we noticed a very cute girl to which Christopher referred to as a "hotty".  He thought she was probably about 9 years old and as it turned out he was absolutely correct.  Her name is Mackenzie and she was a junior bridesmaid.  They danced most of the night.  He also had some great conversation with a girl named Alex.  I'm so proud of him.

Christopher has started in Colorado Children's Chorale, Prep Choir.  The Tour Choir with kids 11 to 14 years of age travel internationally, alla Vienna Boys Choir.  It was a privilege to be chosen to participate as he had to audition without us present with the song "America the Beautiful."  He said he only used two of his voices to sing the song.  They were looking for voice range and personality. Jennifer and I knew he had the personality covered!  Over 300 kids auditioned with only about 100 selected.  Way to go Christopher.  His first performance will be at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in Denver on December 4th, entitled "Christmas with the Childrens Chorale."  Please visit www.childrenschorale.org for dates and tickets if interested.  I know he would be thrilled to have an entourage.

Tonight, I am heading to the Bronco game against Kansas City with one of my great friends and fraternity brother, Keith.  It's been a long time since I've been to a game so it's a bonus that it is Monday Night Football, against KC and with wonderful company.

There about ten other titles I have going for postings mostly about past events and I hope to get them out shortly.  Please know that we appreciate your support and thank you so much for taking the time to read these postings and the many replies we receive.  They are so encouraging and keep us motivated!