Hi friends and family

Our dear friends Amanda and Velmer, and their son Vaughn - who had a heart transplant at 9 months old and bravely beat cancer at age 3, are currently at Stanford Hospital with Vaughn (9 years old), who was diagnosed last week with lymphoma.

When cancer was first mentioned, Amanda shared with me, “Jenny, I don’t know if I have the strength to fight cancer again.” She has endured years of medical trauma and PTSD from advocating for Vaughn and spending so much time away from her family during his past treatments.

On an everyday basis, Velmer stays home full-time caring for their boys, while Amanda works nights as a nurse and is the sole provider for their family. The weight they carry is immense - managing a household and keeping life normal for two high energy boys while keep your other child alive and also providing financially.

On Monday, Vaughn underwent bone marrow testing to better understand the cancer and next steps. They are awaiting the results.

Yesterday, Vaughn was given his first chemo treatment. After just 2 ml, his body started reacting and they had to stop. They will try again today with a different treatment.

Adding to this heartbreak, Amanda’s mom sadly passed away on the same day they were given Vaughn’s diagnosis. The grief and exhaustion they’re carrying, friends, is very real and raw.

Please pray for them. Pray for Vaughn. Pray that God’s presence would be tangible and sustaining, and that they would feel held and strengthened by Him through this storm.

If you feel led to come alongside them through meals or gift cards, please let me know. If you are able to give financially to help soften the burden, please give through GoFundMe. All funds will be distributed to Velmer and Amanda.

Thank you, friends