Here we are on day 3 of chemo. Josiah’s side effects are worse today. He is very tired, but he is forcing himself to go on walks. All the medications for side effects have side effects too, so they are continuing to find what works best for him. He is still so sweet and tough and strong and wanting to make sure I am OK. I love him so much and I am amazed by him and how hard he is willing to fight…and I know he is fighting for me and the kids. I can’t even put into words what that is like to watch…and we are only at the beginning of this.
Lincoln and I are not with him today. I woke up not feeling very good, so I am keeping my germs away and trying to get better as quick as I can so that I can be there with him. I know as awful as it is being away from him, it’s the best thing I can do for him right now. Thankfully, I was able to get a room in the Rossi House (a small hotel in the hospital for families with patients) today, so I don’t feel so far away. He is well taken care of and I’m thankful for that too. But I ache for him. My heart bleeds for him. Lincoln is teething and not sleeping well. I am feeling…weary, stretched, restless. But I know where my hope and my strength comes from. I know His mercies are new EVERY morning. I know that He will never leave us or forsake us. I KNOW He loves us with an everlasting love…and to top that off, underneath are His everlasting arms. I KNOW as we pass through deep waters, He is with us. And those precious promises are what will see us through.
Beautiful Things 
God bless you Jess & Josiah. Jess, I pray you will be feeling better tomorrow and that Lincoln will sleep tonight. Josiah, please know that you are brought before the Throne of Grace many, many times…..day and night.
Much love,
Stu & Judy
I’m praying for you all . . . and thankful that we do have a God that carries us through. I can hardly imagine what it is like going through all of this. PTL that Ava is doing fine now. Love in Christ, Lois
Jessica, Thanks for keeping us updated. When Laura found out you were in Iowa City, she asked if you need anything. Please let me or her know. She’d be happy to run an errand or bring you food. Her cell phone is 515-491-1399 just incase she could be helpful.
Vivian
Just wanted you two to know how much we love and miss you, but also how proud we are of the way you are handling this trial! We feel so helpless back here because we so desparately want to do something besides just praying, but isn’t that the most important thing we can do? Be assured all of us are praying for you several times a day with confidence that the God who somehow loves us more than we could love each other, will provide!…love Papa E
Thanks Jessica for sharing with us. We are so blessed to have your family in our church. I’ll be praying!
I was praying for yall on the way to church last night, and I had this incredible thought-from the Lord I’m sure, because I don’t have incredible thoughts on my own, only blonde moments =)
God has allowed this to happen to Josiah and you and your two precious children, because in ways bigger than any of us can see, He is yearning for more people to come running to His arms and accept His salvation. I believe that’s the ultimate purpose in everything He does. And what an incredible testimony that He has chosen Josiah for this. Josiah’s life, your life, Ava and Link’s lives are able to touch more people than perhaps me, if I were going through the same situation. You and Josiah’s testimony precedes you and God knows He can use your family to accomplish great things. Miracles are going to come from this. I absolutely believe that.
How powerful to be used by God in such a mighty way. He is with you, definitely. And I know He hurts with you. But there’s this bigger picture unfolding through your lives.
Love yall.
Jess…Thanks for sharing your heart everyday! Almighty Father, we’re praying specifically today that Jess will feel better soon so that she can be back by Josiah’s side! We’re also praying for poor Lincoln to adjust to his unfamiliar surroundings and make it through the aweful time of a baby’s life called teething. Also, may the next couple of days fly by so that Josiah, Jess and Lincoln can all be joined again as a family with Ava. Lord Jesus, may Josiah feel Your presence and grace every minute! Please comfort him as he is away from his family, strengthen him mentally, emotionally and physically as the chemo, medications and hospital time all start to take effect. Thank you Father! Amen
Josiah & Jess…we love you both so much! Hugs~
My heart and prayers are with you guys. Please tell Josiah all of us at work are sending him positive energy, and if any of us can do anything to help you out, just let us know! We’re here for all of you!
Jess;
I will keep praying for both of your strength. I did want to let you know that there is a GARBC church in Iowa City. I grew up going to it. They are used to having people at the hospital and would love to do anything for you they can. The pastors name is Tim Waldron and the church phone number is (319) 338-6762
Hope this might help.