Today (Thursday) can only be described with one word: explosive. The cumulative effect of a week's worth of laxatives finally caught up with Owen, leading to an experience that was as chaotic as it sounds, leaving Owen, Mom, and Grandma Myrna physically drained and emotionally frazzled.

The fallout required us to change Owen's pants and pull-ups not once, not twice, but three times, and give him two baths. It marked his first ordinary bath in a week, a minor milestone that brought us a sliver of normalcy and joy.

Despite the day's explosions, Owen's appetite was insatiable — eating two cheese pizzas, hotdog, and more — a side effect of his chemotherapy. 

A highlight of our day was a visit from Ingrid Lowry, a dear friend from Grandma Myrna's high school years. She swept into the hospital room like Merry Poppins, bearing gifts of games, snacks, and a writing tablet for Owen.                    

Amidst it all, we've been given a beacon of hope: the news of our discharge tomorrow following Owen's lumbar chemotherapy session. We'll be transitioning to a hotel close to the hospital for the remainder of his induction phase, a new chapter that feels both daunting and relieving.

With the impending departure looming, Grandma Myrna has already started the logistical ballet of moving our belongings back to the car. Meanwhile, attempts to nourish ourselves were repeatedly sidelined by the necessary interruptions from the medical team, making sure we were adequately overwhelmed with information.

One of those interruptions was the pharmacist's outline of Owen's at-home medication schedule and the expectations for the rest of his induction period. The stark warning that a fever of 100.4°F would necessitate readmission loomed over our relief about the discharge, a reminder of Owen's delicate immune system.

Mom spent the entire day by Owen's side, catching moments of sleep only when Owen managed to drift off.                    

The day ended on a high note when Dad returned from Eugene around 8pm, his arrival sparking a burst of energy in Owen as they danced to Raffi songs until sleep finally claimed him.

As we settle down for the night, we cling to the hope and love extended by everyone who has supported Owen. Our journey is far from concluded, but today, despite its trials, it has moved us one step nearer to normalcy.

— Owen’s Parents