Josiah is 13 years old with a servant’s heart and a kind spirit. He’s a big brother, a YouTuber, and an eighth-grader who plans on studying engineering. He loves his family, friends, and school. Even now he is working on a community project to support parents of children with cancer. Josiah was diagnosed with lymphoma in February 2023. So, instead of looking forward to graduating eighth grade with his friends, he’s looking at a long list of doctor’s appointments. Instead of anxious excitement over his first day of high school, Josiah will be anxiously awaiting the results of his latest lab test. It’s not what any parent wants for their child but, they are strong, and they will fight. Many people have come alongside the Lorenzen family in this fight, but the journey is only beginning.
Eric and Amy are thankful for you, and the many people who have already helped them through the early weeks of Josiah’s chemotherapy. You have helped with prayer and meals and gift cards and babysitting his younger brother. They feel blessed by your caring and friendship. Some others have asked if the family can still use help. The answer is yes, they can.
The reality is that chemotherapy is a marathon and not a sprint. The initial phase goes for 6 months and then is followed by another year of maintenance phase that still includes monthly chemo. Amy longs to be at her son's side but has already exhausted all her sick time for the school year. The strain of missing important appointments and not being home full-time to care for her son is taking its toll on her, but any additional days off will cost the family dearly. Eric has spent far more days as a caretaker than as a writer, so his aggressive publishing schedule for the year is in shambles.
There have been many unexpected costs for the family, including extra gas, food, special clothing, medical equipment, and even a new bed because Josiah became too weak to climb into his loft bed. For those who want to join in helping the Lorenzen family during this difficult time, please consider a donation. For those who have already donated, please don’t feel pressured to give more. We do ask that you remember them continually in your prayers. We are determined to help Josiah win this fight and to see him have a joyous future.
Organizer and beneficiary
Rena Allee
Organizer
Yucaipa, CA
Eric Lorenzen
Beneficiary

