For his parents

After losing a child it must be hard even to look your spouse in the eye, don't you think? And how tired must Dante's parents be? After a year driving hours back and forth to the hospital each week, or even each day, for blood, platelets, tests and treatments. After spending their holidays, and many weeks and months before that, in tiny box-shaped room on uncomfortable hospital pull-out beds to give your dying son and his older siblings the best Christmas you can manage under the circumstances? Then to have to make the drive home after Dante died with an empty car seat in the back seat? It's just too much to even imagine enduring.

His parents have handled themselves with more grace than I could muster with even a splinter in my foot. His dad posted a message today, about the last moments of his son's life that were inspiring as well as heartbreaking (if anyone would like the link to read it, please email me and I will be happy to share it).

Now the group we created to support Dante and his family are pooling our funds together one more time to try to give his parents time away, somewhere far away, to reconnect and rest. I'm not soliciting money, but I though that some of you who have been impacted by their story might like to contribute to the cause. If ever I dip one toe into their shoes in my imagination (where it is very hard for me to go) I know that this could be the single most important gift we ever give them.

If anyone would like to contribute, the Paypal address is "helpfordante@live.com". Thank you.

On glorious wings

Dante earned his angel wings this morning at 8:33 a.m. In my heart I see him now up in a blue sky, with a strong little body and wide, laughing eyes, flying kites with his big brother John.

We all will miss you so, sweet boy.

Please keep his Mama and Daddy in your thoughts and prayers today. Their grief must be unbearable.

Make a wish for good weather!

I know everyone dreams of a white Christmas, but please join me in begging the Universe for clear skies and dry roads in the days immediately afterwards. If the weather cooperates, Dawn and her family may be going to meet Dante! So I'm putting in my request now for a safe trip for my friend and her family. I'll be sending along big hugs for Dante and his Mama and Daddy, too.

Still praying for a miracle

Dante's mom sent out a message last night saying that his final cancer treatment was unsuccessful. The neuroblastoma has returned and there is nothing more they can do. She just wants him home to enjoy his family for Christmas without pain. Please send your good thoughts and prayers to this family that they will have the Christmas they need and deserve.