Last night was a wake up to the realities of hospital stays that no brochure ever prepares you for. Both of us, for the first time, attempted to sleep in Owen's room. To say it was uncomfortable would be an understatement. The notion that parents must stay overnight without proper accommodations is something that needs addressing. The cold linoleum floor was Dad's bed for the night until the night nurse, bless her heart, managed to swap out the chair for something slightly more sleepable. Mom took the new chair, and Dad gratefully collapsed onto the bed for the rest of the night.

Morning came with a visit from Owen's oncologists. They're pleased with how he's responding to the treatment. Whispers of a possible discharge began to circulate, and although nothing's confirmed, the very thought felt like a breath of fresh air.

Breakfast was a milestone of its own. Owen, our little trooper, was all smiles for eggs, bacon, and french toast. He devoured most of it, claiming victory over his appetite. But victory was short-lived; the medications took their toll, and he lost his breakfast. It broke our hearts to see him struggle like that.                    

The day brought a peculiar challenge - Owen needed to poop, a task made Herculean by the side effects of his meds. It's been six days. The nurses, armed with laxatives, had been preparing for this moment, and so had we, hoping against hope that the playroom would provide the right environment for success. Despite his best efforts and the distraction of toys and new friends, it just wasn't happening.                    

Then, as if by magic, amidst the distractions of a new tablet and headphones, success! The event was so monumental that the nurses celebrated with us. It might seem small, but in our world, it was a parade-worthy victory.

The evening brought clarity and more whispers of discharge. The night doctor explained that removing Owen's IV was a test to see how he manages on his own. Tomorrow's labs will tell us more about what's next, possibly even a discharge by Thursday.

Every day is a mix of highs and lows, but today, despite everything, felt like a step forward. Owen's resilience, his small victories, and the moments of joy amidst the challenges keep us going. Here's to hoping for more good news and to the strength of our little warrior. We're in this together, every step of the way.

— Owen’s Parents