Family, Friends, and Good Memories

Last week may have been quiet on the medical front, but it was loud in all the ways that matter most. It was good for my soul. It was a week filled with laughter, hugs, and the kind of moments that make life worth living. I got out of the house, out into the world, and reconnected with people I love and hadn’t seen in far too long.

A Week Worth Living

While there were no scans or bloodwork to share, I’m still moving forward with treatment, and believing it will work. Each day, I take my Zinc and Ivermectin with Methylene Blue compounded in. Also, three times a week, I take pharmacist-grade Fenbendazole. I soak in morning sun whenever possible and continue my high-dose IV Vitamin C infusions twice a week. Then there is Magnesium, Vitamin D, and more. Progress isn’t always visible on paper, but I know every step matters.

The Old Victorian Project

It also felt good to finish a long-term project. In 2022, my wife and I bought a Victorian home built in 1900, a place with more charm than some people I know. Over the past year, with the help of my son, skilled tradespeople, and plenty of sweat equity, we turned it from a renovation project into a rental success story. The front unit has been a mid-term rental for a year, covering costs and just a little extra. As of August 1, the back unit is finally complete and rented — and for the first time, it’s turning a profit. See Our Old House Renovation to watch the videos. https://ouroldhouserenovation.com/

Reconnecting with the Past

This week brought back so many memories. I caught up with old friends from high school, including football teammates and neighbors from my childhood, as well as past colleagues. We swapped “remember when” stories and shared encouragement. Some of those conversations came with donations toward my medical bills — generosity that humbles me more than I can say.

A Visit from My Nephew Nick

One of the biggest blessings was a visit from my nephew Nick. He’s the son of my late brother Alan, who passed in 2004. Nick made the long drive from Texas to Minnesota, and seeing him brought back vivid memories of growing up with my brothers. Nick and my son Gregory hit it off instantly, and we had a great time together. Watching Nick set goals for his future gave me hope for his path ahead. It was hard to say goodbye when he left.

Family Gatherings & Fun Times

We spent time at my mom’s house with cousins I hadn’t seen in years, looking through old photos, laughing at the hairstyles, clothes, and cars of decades past. My brother Mike and his wife were there, along with my aunt and cousin, always smiling and supportive. Those family moments mean everything.

We also made time for simple joys, the Dakota County Fair, a movie, dinners out, and even a few rounds of video games. It was a break from the stress of treatments and bills, and it reminded me how much those moments matter. Every night, I slept well from all the walking, and I’m making a commitment to keep moving, daily walks, maybe even back to the gym.

Special Moments with Jeremy

I also had some special time with my younger son, Jeremy, who has special needs. He moved into a group home last December, which was bittersweet for all of us. This week, we went to his orthotic appointment, listened to his favorite songs in the car, and grabbed his go-to McDonald’s lunch. He recently started a day program and is thriving — active, happy, and well cared for. That brings me so much peace.

Looking Ahead

As I head into this new week, I know there will be appointments, infusions, therapy for my damaged voice, and the reality of being unemployed. But last week reminded me that joy and connection are powerful medicine. Your prayers, love, and encouragement fuel my strength to keep going — to keep fighting — and to keep living as fully as I can.

Thank you for walking this journey with me.
God bless you,
Wayne