UPDATE – May 19 – May 20, 2006

Emily was asked to participate in Wilmington’s Relay for Life this weekend. (Click Here to See Photos) She shared the honor of cutting the ribbon for the Survivor’s Walk with her friend, Sarah Price. She, Sarah and several other children led the first walk around Ashley High School’s track. Emily was encouraged by cheers and clapping from the many team participants that attended the event. She walked two laps without much assistance from Mom and Dad. She was determined to do it by herself. Also there to cheer her on were her Grandmommie and Granddaddy Weeks, Ms. Jane and Mr. Stan (Godparents), her physical therapist (Janet Harbeck), her classmates from Noah’s Ark, church family, and friends from Parsley Elementary. It was a very memorable night, one full of emotion, especially joy! Our thanks to the Relay for Life Committee for an outstanding job in organizing the fundraiser for cancer research, and Ms. Frances Weller for her compassion, prayers, and acknowledgment of Emily’s will to live. We were so thankful to participate in this year’s event! We also appreciate the many luminaries given in Emily’s honor. We pray that this is the first of many Relays we’ll participate in with Emily! As if that wasn’t enough excitement, Emily graduated from her Kindergarten preschool Saturday afternoon. She wore a Carolina Blue cap and gown, which confirmed we chose the right school! Ha! She was very proud and received a noticeable “extra” applause as she was handed her diploma. Susan Banta and David Butts joined our family in celebrating the accomplishment along with Grandparents and Godparents. The evening concluding with dinner at one of her favorite restaurants, La Costa. Emily began her latest round of chemotherapy Friday evening. She is tolerating it well, and her blood work has not indicated any problems thus far. She is a real trooper! Emily will continue with physical and speech therapy for the summer. She has a new bathing suit and can’t wait to get it on the beach! She has regained enough strength and stamina to resume riding her bike. She’s made alot of progress in regaining energy levels, and with that, seems to be more motivated to participate in physical activities like running and tackling her big brother (who graciously allows her to knock him down!). Big brother Jake still has about 2 1/2 more weeks of school. Can’t believe the end of the school year is here! Everyday is a gift, and with everyday, we are thankful that God has brought us this far. We pray that He continues to give us strength, courage and the miracle of healing. Thanks to all who continue to check up on Emily. Emily and Jake are our daily reminders of God’s love and grace.