The morning dawned with a sense of quiet determination. Despite the restrictions placed upon Owen, including the daunting reality of not being able to eat until after his operation at 1pm, his spirits were unexpectedly high. This wasn't just any day; it was another day that promised progress, a step closer to healing.

Owen's initial moment of distress at the realization of being unable to eat was fleeting. Notably, the absence of Dexamethasone from his system altered his usual insatiable appetite, making the wait for his post-operation meal more bearable.

As preparations for the journey to Portland began, the warmth and unity of our family shone through. Owen found joy and distraction in the simplest things—his toys, those tangible expressions of love from friends and family who have rallied around us through this journey. Their kindness has been a beacon of hope, illuminating the path through the darkest times.

The drive to the hospital was more than just a physical transition; it was filled with moments of connection and discovery. Owen's curiosity, newfound conversational skills, and keen observations transformed a routine drive into a journey of exploration. Each question he posed and each observation he made was a reminder of how far he has come, not just in his battle against Leukemia but in his personal growth. The improvement in his speech and his ability to articulate thoughts clearly was a beacon of progress, shining through the remnants of what we now understand to have been a fog clouding his abilities.

Reflecting on the time before Owen's diagnosis, the pieces of a puzzle we couldn't entirely solve now fit together, revealing a clearer picture. Once dismissed as phases, the challenges in communication were signs of a more profound struggle from his undiagnosed Leukemia. This realization brings with it a mixture of emotions—gratitude for our progress and a solemn acknowledgment of the journey ahead.

The operation, a procedure that has become a familiar part of our routine, was met with a calm resolve. Owen's bravery, his willingness to face what comes with a sense of trust and courage, is nothing short of inspiring. As Owen drifted into sleep, the moment of parting was a poignant reminder of the trust we place in those who care for him, the silent prayers whispered for his safe return.

The operation's success, the removal of the PICC line, and the successful administration of spinal fluid chemotherapy were milestones met with expected relief and gratitude. The sight of Owen, awake and smiling at the sight of his Mom and Dad, ready to embark on the journey home, was a moment of pure joy, a testament to his indomitable spirit.

As we look towards tomorrow, our hearts are filled with a simple yet profound hope—to find moments of peace and rest. The whirlwind of the past few days, the journeys back and forth to Portland, have taken their toll, and our heartfelt desire is the promise of a day to be together as a family, to embrace the quiet and the ordinary.

The introduction of a new medication, Mercaptopurine, marks the next step in Owen's treatment—a potential key to unlocking the path to fully curing Owen. As we navigate the complexities of this treatment, our hope is for minimal side effects and maximum efficacy, for days filled with more smiles than tears and for moments that remind us of the strength found in love and family.

Tomorrow, we embrace the promise of rest, the hope for healing, and the continued journey toward Owen's bright future.