Celebrating 15 Years

We can never forget 15 years ago, when our daughter, Sara, went through a bone marrow transplant for leukemia. She had been diagnosed with ALL leukemia the year before, just three months before graduating from high school. And then a year later needed to have a bone marrow transplant after a relapse. And this summer marks her 15 year anniversary for recovery! 

How amazing that the Washington County Relay for Life was held this year (for the first time) on the track field of the high school that she graduated from. And also so thankful that this year we were able to take part in the relay - usually we are gone at a SV student conference in Colorado this time of year, but this summer we are in the midst of our Sabbatical/Time Off.

Our hearts are filled with overflowing thanks to God ...

For the miracle of healing for Sara
Carrying her through her initial chemo treatment time in the months before her graduation
Graciously providing us with the perfect match for Sara's bone marrow transplant a year later
Each of our other five children so willingly going through the testing to find a match
And Carrie giving of her bone marrow without complaint, for her older sister

Family and friends who carried us through those weeks and months with their love and prayers
Material help in many ways - funds raised, meals brought over, housecleaning done
Love and care showered on us, tangible touches of God's love

The precious gift of Sara
Loving daughter, wife, and mom of two
Passing on care to others as a social worker at a nearby hospital

God's gracious mercy and love holding us through the difficult times of life
Healer of bodies, restorer of relationships, giver of all that is good
And worthy of all our love and devotion

And memories brought back, participating in the Relay for Life
Walking the caregiver lap
Sara walking the survivor lap
The white rose of thanks she gave to me - her survivor rose

Friends from high school days
Special t-shirts they made
Their gift of friendship for Sara through the years

The luminary bags lining the track field
Each with a name - honoring, remembering
Pausing in the busyness of life
Remembering, celebrating, and giving thanks

"God is our refuge and strength,

always ready to help in time of trouble."

(Psalm 46:1)

"It is good to give thanks to the Lord,

to sing praises to the Most High."

(Psalm 92:1)

(Counting 1000 Gifts in 2012 #520-544)

Linking up at: