I have a best friend, who has BEEN my best friend since we were 10, so over 40 years. I learned earlier today, that her grandson has been diagnosed with cancer, (Lymphoma) His name is Alex, and he's 3. He's a very sweet little boy.

I know my friend is devastated, and I can only imagine what an emotional roller-coaster she is on, especially since I know how it feels now, to be a grandmother.

I would appreciate any good thoughts or prayers you can project out West - he's being treated at Doernbeckers Children's Hospital in Portland.

I'm a member of Kiwanis International, and here in Oregon, we are very involved with Doernbeckers, since Kiwanis is all about children. 20 years ago, the success rate at Doernbeckers was about 20%...today it is something like 97%, amazing.

I told my dear friend that her grandson could not be in better hands. But I know that lots of good vibes and prayers will help also, and I know I can count on my friends here.

Thanks - Joni

God, look especially today on little sweet Alex and his friends and relatives. Help them to love and trust you, and give them wisdom and understanding concerning your plans for them.

I'll certainly pray for Alex and his loved ones.

I'll be thinking about your friend and little Alex and his family as they go through this, Joni.
I had the privilege of reading the original email, via you, from Alex's Mum, and I have to say she sounds like a very strong and positive woman. Alex is certainly surounded by a loving family. I wish them all well.

Thank you for the e-mail, Giz. My hopes and wishes are with you and your family and your friend at this time.

The diagnosis was truly dreaded until about ten years ago. But since then, there have been real treatment breakthroughs, I've been told.

Will you be able to visit the little chap? Loving visitors make a big difference, especially with children. Just smiles, eye contact, a little play -- soft toys, maybe -- I have seen a little bit of extra attention, not too tiring of course, make a big difference in a little sick kiddie's outlook.

After all, the whole point about the placebo effect is that the patient feels he is being given care. And it really works.

Thank you my friends - the best thoughts are the good ones, and I know they help.

Babs - Although I haven't seen the child's dad since HE was a child, since they're only 2 hours away from me, I've seriously considered just GOING...arranging it thru Gale, so they'd know when I was coming.

I know how important it is to just have supportive people around...and I love this child's grandmother, and have for 40 years, so consider this child almost like my own grandchild.

I'm certain that his mom and dad wouldn't mind a visit...and as it turns out...

My mom's cousin passed away this week, he was 103 years old. My mom called me today to let me know that there will be a service on 11/22 in Portland. At first I said that I wouldn't necessarily feel a need to go, since I had only met Cousin Lee once...but now, think there could be another reason to go to Portland.

I know my mom wouldn't mind making a stop at Doernbeckers...

Well, I won't be going to Portland next weekend, but did find an absolutely LOVEABLE teddy bear, who is probably as big as Alex and made from that super soft and cushy stuff. So I'm going to send that, and it should probably arrive the same day he gets home this coming week.

Also, Alex's mom has started a blog HERE so family and friends can keep tabs on the progress. She's posting every day, and everyone is welcome to join the "Cheering Section".

Thank you all for your prayers and support.

Joni