Hunter's Movin' and Groovin'

Here's Hunter in his new digs. Everytime he is out and about within the huge parameters of our hospital room, he needs to be wearing his helmet. When his platelets are low he bruises and bleeds very easily - and we'd rather not add anything else to the list. Plus it's a little on the cool side. He looks like a little skater dude.



Slowly starting to stand on his own again!















Just in case he gets too close to the DVD Player.

A prayer from OPRAH

I've requested a prayer from Oprah and am hoping she sends us one!

We can politely swamp their email inbox with Hunter by logging onto
OPRAH'S site.

In the middle of the page there is another link that says Share your personal thoughts and stories - EMAIL OPRAH. Click on the link and fill out the easy form.

The first words in the big box should read:

A Prayer for Hunter Zen

And then whatever little personal note you want to leave with Hunter's website at the bottom.

www.healinghunter.blogspot.com

If and when you do this, send me a note so that I can keep track of how many submissions it takes to get a prayer and some more healing energy!!

XoXo

********************************


We love this little one so much and once you read about him, you will completely understand. Keep doing greatness Oprah and thank you for considering my request. Love and abundance to you and your loved ones,
Hunters 'Auntie', Corrin Phillips


I set an email to Oprah. This was the fist time I read your blog I didn't know you had one. And to be honest I didn't think I had the stomach to read it. As you know something really happens to you when you have kids. A strange vulnerability. You guys are so brave. And Hunter is so courageous. What a beautiful spirit. I am glad to hear he is in remission and pray round three goes smoothly. We love you guys and we are on the prayer patrol!!! All our love and prayers
Steph and Jeff


I sent a Prayer for Hunter to Oprahs email. Lenore, you are simply an inspiration, you're a brave soul and a WONDERFUL Mother. I think of the three of you every day! It would be very exciting to see someone like Oprah to raise the energy and group thoughts to Hunter's healing! Much love-
Matt


Hi Lenore. Here is what I posted for Oprah. A PRAYER FOR HUNTER ZEN
Our dear friends have been struggling with AML Leukemia. Their son Hunter Zen was diagnosed with this deadly disease at 14 months old. Never in my life have I seen two more positive people handling this situation than his parents Zen Todd and Lenore. Their story is inspirational to say the least. Here is their website. www.healinghunter.blogspot.com Good Luck! We love you guys & continue praying for you.
Tammi


Oh you bet I sent a prayer to oprah! Love to you and the whole clan!
Caryn


Did the Oprah thing, though I dont really understand how her prayer is heard any louder than ours. Good luck will come to those who work for it.
John and Leisa


It's a done deal.
Cindy


I have sent in the prayer request to Oprah and will pass along this e-mail to friends and family to make sure we get in all the requests that we can. I am so happy to hear that he is back home and I am sure it feels great for you both and of course for Hunter! That is so great that he took his first steps solo again. I will continue to send my prayers for him every night. I hope you guys enjoy your time home and thank you for keeping me posted! Many wishes and prayers!!!
Sarah


hi, I am one of Erin Hirsch's friends and on the e-mail chain for Healing Hunter.... I sent Oprah a request!! Warm wishes for happiness and health~
Tara


We put our request in. She is such an amazing woman, there's no doubt that she will say a prayer.--lotsa love,
Matt and Ann Marie


Hi honey - i sent my message today...and you know me, it was a bit longer and emotional than they want....ha! F#@k 'em. I love you! Give the little man a smooch for me and I'll see you this week. xoxox
J


I sent a message to Oprah and told her how much your spirit and strength moves me and that A Prayer for Hunter Zen from Oprah would move you guys. =)
Love you guys. Hope to see you again soon. Love
Jen


I told the big O to take care of you guys. She better listen. XO,
Chris


okay, I couldn't figure the Oprah thing out, but I went to your blog...nicely written...and looked at Hunter and sat and prayed for him myself. It's only a basic cable host prayer, but I hope it helps. Was really struck by how beautiful and soulful he is. He seems to be going through this with such courage. If Vivien was strapped in like he was for that MRI she would have been hysterical. It's like he's helping you guys out being so calm. I loved the toast at New years picture. You two are great that you see the good admist the bad. I really believe that he is going to beat all of this. love,
Daphne


I just sent a message to Oprah asking her to hold Hunters little hand and pray. Hugs, Molly


Done! Love to all of you,
Mary Kay


Just did mine! Much xoxoxoxoxo,
Tania


I sent a request to Oprah today!
Brenda


I just sent a message to Oprah. We had a great time with you guys. Hope to see you again soon.
Matt


Oprah has my note. Gotta love that lady.
Scotty


You guys don't know me but I follow your blog because I'm new to photography. I went thru a similar situation with my daughter 9 years ago. My daughter had to have a liver transplant. She is now 12 and doing fine. I know Hunter will pull through I have him in my prayers. If you ever need a pen pal just shoot me an e-mail. I also e-mailed Oprah to say a prayer for my little buddy Hunter. Thanks for sharing your story.
Levell


This is great! I sent an email…hope it works out!!!
Katie


I just wanted to let you know that I sent Oprah an email. I sure hope Hunter is doing well. I think of your family often. Talk to you soon.
Helene


Hi Lenore, just zipped a message off to the big O for Hunter. So glad to see he's doing better!
Eileen


Done!
Tom


You dont know me. I got a link to your story from [b]ecker's blog. I have been following your story since. I just wanted to let you know that I sent a quick email to Oprah as you requested and I hope that your prayers are all answered.
Chasity


Dear guys! I've just emailed to Oprah. Good luck! We are praying for your precious baby and very happy he is doing better!
Julie, Elie's sister


Hey Guys! Just to let you know—I emailed Oprah. Hope you are doing well!
Brian

Hi Zen and Lenore, I just wanted to send you a note to let you know I am thinking about you and your little guy! I have been following his story and just looked at his updated blog (i too sent a message to the Big O) He is such a cute miracle! Thanks for your inspiration. I hope to attend an event soon!
Terran Lamp

Hunter Video - Getting a Cat Scan

Check out video of Hunter getting a cat scan. Late in the video you see pixelation which looks like radiation on the screen.

The Cat Scan Baby

Limbo

Day 15 of round two.

Things are going well. Hunter is responding to the second round appropriately. His blood count is still coming down and his immune system is almost at zero. He is completely vulnerable to infection but so far he has not been infected. Double "knock on wood" as we hunker down for a 3-4 week wait for his blood count to come back. Once the white cells get back to normal they will do another bone marrow test for Leukemia.

In the beginning of round two he was on the vomit comet but as the therapy program progressed he was able to "hold his lunch".

The best news is how physical he has become. He is getting so rambunctious that he is hard to manage. Even towing the IV station he can get completely across the bed before you can manage to grab him. This was clearly understood a couple days ago as he did a face first slider off the bed. We expected the worst yet he barely cried. What a tough son of a gun.

The next day his left arm (the pick arm) was red and swollen. We feared a broken bone but he displayed no pain. The doctors decided that the pick (the IV tube that was inserted in his vein all the way to his heart) was in his body too deep and that his heart was causing back pressure and thus a build up of fluid in his lower arm. They pulled the pick out 1.5 cm and the swelling went down in about an hour. I wish everything in life responded that quickly to action.

On the terror front - Hunter had another choking session that scared everyone. Lenore gave him his usual dose of oral medicines but for some reason he began to choke. He turned red and then blue before I could get out of the room to scream "Hunter is choking". Within seconds the entire nursing staff came rushing into the room. I gathered Hunter in my arms and violently pounded on his back. As the doctors poured into the room Hunter vomited and began to cry. What a relief - I almost wanted to pass out. The entire staff let out a collective sigh as they patted us on the back and tentatively left us in our startled condition.

Even with all the action - our current hospital status is "routine". We are just another family living in hospital limbo - hopeful for the best.

Round 2 of Chemo is Hard

Hunter is in remission but he is not out of the hospital nor is he out of danger. The ten day long second round started yesterday. It's already taking it's toll. One of the side effects of this round of chemo medicine is fever and nausea. Hunter has both. He is suffering again from 104 degree fevers and low energy. Late last night he vomited. He also gets eye drops every four hours during the therapy. They must burn like hell because he screams like a banshee.

It's tough seeing him go from getting better to getting sick all over again. We are certain it will pass - just not soon enough.

AML Diagnosis - TimeLine

October 5th - Normal Pediatrician Visit – Hunter is in perfect health. Measured in the 60th percentile for weight and well over the 100th percentile for height. There is minimal fanfare but we are the epitome of proud parents. He is immunized for Hepatitis A.

October 20th - Hunter takes his first 8 solo steps – He amazes us as he crosses the room without assistance from one parent to the other. These are Hunter’s first and last solo steps to date.

October 21st - Hunter wakes us up during the early morning screaming in obvious pain. We comfort him until Lenore finally gets him to sleep. He displays obvious pain in his stomach by curling his knees into his chest. It continued all day punctuated with a dull achy moans emanating from Hunter. We are concerned but not worried.

October 24th - Emergency Pediatrician Visit – While sleeping, Hunter’s moans escalate to wailing. The pediatrician thinks Hunter’s stomach pains might be indicating a gastro intestinal complication. She sends us to the Emergency Room to get a stomach x-ray. Honestly, I almost think she is over reacting but anything to put an end to his discomfort, By the time they were done Hunter had received a chest X-Ray, stomach ultra-sound, multiple blood tests and a diagnosis of the stomach flu with 101-degree fever. We are told to go home and hunker down because the flu can last longer than 10 days. It’s 10 PM.



October 31st - Halloween and Hunter is still sick.
(Over the course of the next few days Hunter seems to get better and then regress)

November 13th - Finally, it’s back to pediatrician. 101-degree fever. They prescribe a 3-day stool sample. We diligently deliver three big bags of pooh. They need to rule out bacteria and parasites.

November 16th - 101-degree fever.

November 17th - 101-degree fever.

November 18th - 101-degree fever.

November 19th - Emergency Visit to the Pediatrician – 101-degree fever.
With all due respect they are clueless. It’s not their fault. Hunter is presenting his symptoms in an unusual way but what is certain is that it’s unusual that the flu would last this long. It’s also starting to get worrisome due to the lack of walking. We are told to go home and make sure we hydrate the little man.

We go home and as we walk in the door the pediatrician calls and suggests we check ourselves into the Emergency Room. It’s 5 PM on a Monday and we are less than thrilled, but we drive back to Emergency.
Another Chest X-Ray
Stomach X-Ray
Ultrasound
More Blood Tests
They don’t know what is wrong but they decide to give him a pre-emptive antibiotic shot in the leg. They discharge us at 6:30 AM the next day.

Avoid the Emergency Room on Mondays. It’s the busiest day of the week. Some how everybody manages to deal with the pain over the weekend.

November 21st - The next day we head back to the pediatrician.
They give Hunter another anti-biotic shot in the leg and send us home. We are really starting to get concerned. He is not walking, crawling, or getting better.

That evening our pediatrician calls to tell us that she can arrange for us to get a room at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. It’s Thanksgiving and we have family and friends visiting. I'm pulling my hair out. However, she convinces us that it's prudent. Honestly, she didn't have to do too much convincing.

To our great benefit she used to be the lead charge pediatrician at the CHLA during her residency. With her pull we were admitted with no wait. We were told stories about people waiting several days and up to weeks just to get their sick kid a room. We strolled right in like rock stars. Then we see our room. It's a crib/cage cramed into a corner of a tiny little room with three other patients. My bed is a fold out chair. Let the good times roll.

November 22nd - He gets another chest x-ray. Now he has a 104-degree fever.

November 23rd - The 104-degree fever continues. They take a CAT scan of his head, chest & stomach.





November 25th - Wake up, it’s a 2 AM spinal tap for Meningitis. The student doctor scheduled to perform the spinal tap gets a thorough vetting from me. In the nicest way possible I grill her experience. She mentions that she has done more than thirty. I instantly remember the lead guy telling me he had done more than 300! Unfortunately, he is not here now. I’m concerned and I sense inexperience and self-doubt. She is not fighting for the job and even begins to make excuses for possibly messing up. I ask if she wouldn’t mind us waiting until morning? After all, you are sticking a long, cold needle into the spine of my little boy. She agrees. I’m happy to wait until tomorrow during the day when the entire staff is present and alert. Lenore interjects and kindly vouches for the girl. They had a previous conversation. This girl had convinced Lenore of her competence. I always try to trust Lenore’s “antennas” so I stepped aside. As it turns out Lenore was right. The resident doctor performed a perfect spinal tap. When I say perfect I mean perfect. They test the spinal fluid and the more red blood cells in the fluid the more bleeding that was caused. Zero red blood cells were found in Hunter’s spinal fluid. This is called a Champagne Tap, due to the fact that it is so rare the lead doctor is supposed to buy a bottle of champagne for the person that performed the tap. This was her first and the lead guy still has yet to perform one. Well that’s cool, now please heal my boy!







November 26th - Echocardiogram of Heart – slight enlarged heart valve – but it could be nothing. Or it could be an infection.

November 27th - Hunter is dosed with radioactive isotopes and they perform a Bone Scan.
Two hours later we are informed that they found a “mass” in his left femur and two ribs. What is the mass and why is it in multiple locations? I don’t know much but I know when to be terrified.



Infection is possible but so far nothing has turned up positive for infection. Please let it be an infection. Please!
Another chest X-Ray
Two different super antibiotics are started to cover the possibility of bone infection.

November 28th - Hunter needs a bone marrow biopsy. They are going to puncture both hip joints to get the precious fluid. It requires Hunter to get his first Operating Room experience and full anesthesia. We are surprised and thrilled to learn that Hunter loves the “happy juice”.




Just before parent/son separation they give the patient a dose of something good because Hunter just starts laughing and smiling. It was such a relief to see him smile after more than two months of frowns and moaning – even if for just a second as they wheeled him down the scary corridor. All you can do is hope for the best. Hunter survives.



November 29th - A team of doctors ambush us as we get off the elevator. I immediately look for the ID badge. I recognize the title – Oncologist. My heart sinks as I realize the gravity of the situation. They inform us that Hunter doesn’t have Leukemia. However, they top that sentence with the news that he does have some mysterious cell that they are unable to identify. They subtly mention that It appears to be malignant. That is a not so subtle code for Cancer. Inside I’m thankful that it’s not Leukemia but silently my terror builds from my limited knowledge of horrific bone cancer statistics.

November 30th - Suddenly, we are thrown a change up. The entire Oncology team comes to requests a meeting. It’s impossible for me to accurately describe my apprehension and fear. As a life long adventure and extreme athlete I’ve faced many life-threatening moments, however I have never faced anything as horrific as learning the fate of my child. They tell us that after an exhaustive international consultation the team is 99% convinced that Hunter has AML Leukemia. Are you sure?

Hunter gets his second dose of full anesthesia for an MRI of his bone “mass”.

November 31st - We are informed that Hunter requires his first red blood cell transfusion. Three hours later the color returns to his cheeks and lips. His energy is optimistic – is that possible?



At 3 AM they perform the 2nd spinal tap to check for Leukemic cells in his spinal fluid. We clearly get the picture that it would be horrible to find Leukemia in his spine and brain. The concurrently inject his first dose of chemotherapy into his spine.

The 104-degree fever persists. (Actually he is much hotter. The temperature gauge only goes to 104 and Hunter is so terrifyingly hot that the skin on his back almost burns your hand to touch – I have never before felt a human body this hot to touch).

December 2rd - It’s back to the OR for a left femur bone biopsy. Originally they planned to have hunter in a full leg cast for 6 weeks but due to the fact that he wasn’t walking they opted for a full leg splint. It lasted 6 days before I took the law into my own hands. Hunter got the cast removed prior to the due date, much to the osteopath’s dismay. He lived.



December 6th - Today Hunter received his first intravenous round of chemotherapy. Again we had to suffer thru a unique and terrifying event. Hunter had a major allergic anaphylactic reaction to the first bone marrow annihilator. Not more than two minutes after the chemo drip started - Hunter started to violently choke. He immediately went from brown to red to the brightest red humanly possible. I scooped him up in my arms and pathetically began to pound on his back just in case he was chocking on something tangible. The shocked but prepared nurse screamed for Benedryle and it seemed like the entire nursing staff came to his rescue. Carts of supplies instantly rolled into our room and drugs were dispensed despite the strict protocol. Again, Hunter survived and to celebrate we high fived the nursing staff.

104-degreee fevers still persist.

He was infused with platelets (The part of your blood that causes clotting).

December 16th - Hunter finished round 1 of chemotherapy with no vomiting or mouth sores.

The 3rd spinal tap is performed to again check for Leukemia in the spine and brain fluid.

December 18th - It is determined that Hunter is skinny. No kidding. We are instructed to feed him fatty foods. Mayonnaise, butter, peanut butter, cheese, chocolate, condensed milk, etc are encouraged.

December 21st - Due to the fact that Hunter is still suffering from high fever and pain, another radioisotope bone scan is ordered. More lesions are found. It has spread from his left leg to his right, from two rib bones to multiple rib bones, to his upper right arm and most worrisome is the lesion in his spine. We are destroyed. I finally feel like it’s too much. I am truly devastated and I begin to feel like the inevitable is coming. Lenore and I find it nearly impossible to keep it together. The “Rabbi” comforts me as I blubber down the hallway. He’s a kindly orthodox counselor – I lovingly call him the Rabbi.






Hunter also gets another x-ray of his right leg and an ultrasound of the same.

December 25th - It’s a family Christmas in the Hospital.
Hunter is finally showing some normal signs of life. He rips into his presents, tearing the wrapping off of each like a seasoned Christmas veteran.
Another red blood cell transfusion.

More anesthesia for another MRI of his right leg.

January 2rd - It’s back to the OR for the 3rd time for another bone marrow hip biopsy. Is Hunter in remission?




Hunter crawled for first time in two months and stood in the crib for about 10 minutes!

January 3rd - HUNTER IS IN REMISSION
He has less than 5% Leukemic cells in his bone marrow. We are informed that we will not be going home between sessions. Hunter is doing so well that they are going to start round two of chemo right away.

January 4th - The second round of chemotherapy is started at 10:30 PM tonight. This level of therapy will last a total of 10 days with an expected 4-5 weeks of in hospital bone marrow recovery. Cheers to clean marrow!

Hunters Hair

Our great friend and celebrity hair stylist - Mateo of Argyle Salon and Spa - made a hospital call to give Hunter his first Mohawk. Hunter lost most of his hair on the sides and everything on the back of his head so we turned him "punk".








The nurse said that in all the years she has been doing this line of work, Hunter is the first baby she has ever seen that didn't cry during the obligatory cancer cut. The nurses love Hunter almost as much as we do.

Hunter is in Remission!!!!

Hunter went into the operating room this morning and had a bone marrow biopsy on both hips.

We just got the news - not more than a few hours later - Hunter's bone marrow has been tested and it's clean. He has less than 5% Leukemic cells in his bone marrow and that means he is 100% in remission. We are so thankful that he is responding to the "therapy". It was chemo, now that it's working, it's therapy. Yessss sir.

He'll start round two of - therapy - as soon as his blood fully recovers. Maybe as soon as late next week.

In the meantime we don't get the luxury of returning home while he is recovering. They are treating him as if he has the bone infection. Even though I don't think the bone lesions were infection the doctors think it's prudent to leave him on antibiotics. I'm not exactly sure but it's intense - something like 4 more weeks. That should carry us well into his recovery from the second dose of therapy.

Three cheers for modern therapy!


Our celebratory toast on New Year's Eve with our little exhausted Superman in the background.

Energy & Prayers From Around the World

The famous quote……..

"Anything is possible. You can be told that you have a 90-percent chance or a 50-percent chance or a 1-percent chance, but you have to believe, and you have to fight."
Lance Armstrong


These thoughts and prayers are making an amazing difference as we heal Hunter. They are greatly appreciated and we will remember them forever.

From CALIFORNIA

I just wanted to say that on behalf of Sophaleena and myself that we found it a privilege to be with you two last night. The courage and dignity in which both of you have held yourselves during such a trying time is so admirable, and operates on a level that we have never seen. I know that there is not much we can do from our end except lend our support, love, and good energy. So, stay strong and keep up the positive vibrations. We will see this through!!!
Love, Ira and Sophaleena

"I just wanted to say that you guys are amazing. You both have inspired me on so many levels through-out the years, and it never ends. Thank You for existing".
Cher

No matter what we promise to be praying for you through this Christmas...
Your story and attitudes are inspirational and I am so impressed with the way that you are choosing to move through this. My heart breaks for you. I am sitting here with tears running uncontrollably out of my eyes and I am not a crier. I will be praying for you and your family, not just as an after thought or a quick flash prayer. I will be begging on my knees for you and your little boy. For his comfort and peace, his health, his care and that he will be a warrior through this.
The Wilcox Family

Tears come often to his parents as well as all who know and love this family but are quickly changed to smiles as we have all decided that the best medicine is to pray, think positive, support each other and bring Hunter out of this in good health. We Know That We Can Do This With Enough Love and Prayers!!!
There is a long road ahead as Hunter has just begun his 6-month journey of chemotherapy treatments... So please keep him in your hearts & prayers. For those who'll pray, No Prayer is Too Big:-) !!!! And keep 'em comin'!! Please pass this on to those who you know will do the same!!! Thank you, God Bless & Merry Christmas!
The Hirsch's

God Is going to bless you always. You have a strong boy with lots of love. stay strong!!
Wendolyn

Thank you for having so much spirit and courage to give friends like us an update nearly every day on your blog. We are thinking of you EVERY DAY, and we pray for healing and health for Hunter. He is the CUTEST and BRAVEST boy I've ever seen!
Matt

Hunter is such an amazing little boy...all of you have touched our lives in such a special, positive way. Everyday we anxiously await e-mails giving us updates on Hunters progress. Thank you for making us a part of your family and taking the time to keep us informed. All of you are in our prayers daily. We cheer on his progress and thank God that Hunter is so loved.
Lotsa love, Matt and Ann Marie

We've been thinking about you, Lenore and sweet Hunter so much recently. I've been following the website and our prayers are with you. My mother is praying in Buffalo everyday too. I'm going to send you an invitation to Amelia's birthday party. I told her about Hunter and we've planned a donation box for Hunter for her party. The prayers continue and the consciousness of all involved will shower him and you with love and strength.
Love,Mary Kay

Joel and I send you three our heartfelt prayers and blessings. We will be with you in spirit always… wishing you peace and good health and special hugs and kisses to Hunter for a speedy recovery…
Love,Judy and Joel and Katy and Davy……xxxxoooo

I'm so glad he had a better day! The three of you are amazing together, and you're all going to get
through this. We are thinking of you A LOT. Michelle is a Buddhist, and she is chanting up a storm.
Matt and Michelle

I think about the two of you and your beautiful son all of the time.
My husband and I are keeping him in our prayers for health and good healing.
Please keep me posted.
Love, Gianna

Positive thoughts in your direction. Peace,
Dave

God bless you all.
Paul

You all are nearly constantly on my mind and always in my heart. I love you dearly and wish you healing of the purest form as you and Hunter continue your battle. Stay your best. I shall continue to send my healing vibrations of love from where I am. Peace & Blessings always,
Lou

Lenore had mentioned that Hunter has to have blood transfusions every once in a while. If you want to use any of my blood, let me know. I am B+ and also CMV negative. And lastly, I have to tell you, I had a good feeling leaving the hospital. I had and still have the feeling he is going to be fine in the end. I don't know why, I just have that feeling. Maybe it was Lenore being so positive, or maybe it is the hospital he is in.
Keep me posted. And let us know if you need or want anything.
Tom (and Nic and Pepper)

How tragic and heartbreaking, Patrick and I will say many prayers for them…. I would love to be a part of a prayer circle if you start one via email for them….
Linda

My heart goes out to you and your son and I know that God just would not take Hunter away from such amazing loving parents that you two have shown to be. I am so so, so sorry to hear this news. Please know that we are here in whatever way we can be for you,
Becky

I so admire how you are handling this and sharing it all in such a touching and educational way. All of our good thoughts are with you here at BBA and Hunter will flourish and prosper in life because of your loving and persistent fight. :)
Denice

Zen and Lenore and Hunter, I was deeply saddened to hear this news. You are all in our thoughts and our prayers. Leukemia can be overcome. I know someone who was told he has no chance to live and now, they cannot even find a trace of him ever having it, ever. We are praying for you.
Yvette and Shant

Zen, Sorry to hear the terrible news about your son Hunter. Wishing you guys all the best for the treatment and recovery. We have Hunter in our thoughts. Anything we can do to help please do not hesitate to contact me. Take Care. Peace
Ajay

I will be sending my prayers.
Sara

I'm away for the holidays but not a day has passed that you aren't in my thoughts and prayers. I don't know if you are religious at all (I'm not so much) but during my treatment I used to call a prayer hotline. It really gave me peace of mind. All you do is call and they'll ask what you would like to pray about. They will say a prayer to you over the phone and then will keep praying for the next 30 days. I used to call them on the days of my treatments or when I was feeling really helpless. I had no idea how much it would help. They really make you feel like there is something bigger out there guiding you every step of the way. Anyway, I hope you and Zen and Hunter are hanging tough! I love the blog. Love,
Christine

Norma and I hope spirits are high - we have been keeping up with Hunters blog and continue to pray for Hunter's recovery, our thoughts are always with you guys...
Javier & Norma

HANG IN THERE GUYS! THERE ARE TONS OF US AND WE ARE THINKING ABOUT YOUR LITTLE BOY AND YOU!
Elie

I was on your blog earlier this week and I read about your son. My heart is absolutely bleeding for your family right now - I can not begin to image the pain you must be in. I just want to know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you and your family or any questions - I am not only a photographer but I am also a nurse and I have amazing resources. God Bless!
Thanks for sharing - my continued prayers are with you. Undergoing chemo myself - I know it is tough and I am glad to know he is tolerating it well.
Patrice

He looks fabulous! What a stud! He doesn't look sick! His smile made my day. Hang in there...keep the hope! Prayer and hope works miracles! Much love,
Joanne

I always knew you had a beautiful heart and it was certainly on display at the sake tasting. I am sorry that heart is being tested. I think of Hunter every day and see him whole and healthy.
Daphne

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Keep that positive energy and keep him laughing :)
Matt and Ann Marie

I wanted to tell you and Lenore that my prayers go out to you for Hunter in hopes that he gets better. My deepest wishes to you both.
Brian

We have not met, but we are also parents of a one year old. Our heart breaks for you. We are praying for you and sweet baby Hunter.
Chrissy & Aaron Florence

Hunter is a strong soul and we are pulling for him every day!! Go Hunter GO!!! Xo
Molly & Clay

We were honored to be there, happy to see you guys, and make a pray for the little man every night. Hugs and kisses to Hunter and love and prayers to you and Zen. Please let us know if there is ANYTHING we can do.XOXO,
Mendy and Stuart

You are all in our prayers……
Bob & Gail & Family

Got the link to your site from Becker's Blog. Wanted to let you know that our hearts and thoughts are with you as you face the days ahead. Cancer changes your life forever...it is so hard to adjust to the new normal your life will become.
Shannon

My heart goes out to all of you. I will pray for Hunter to get well soon, and for you to have the strength to get through all of this. Lots of love and blessings,
Frank

hi guys. i miss you and love you all. hi hunter!!!
mateo

This is my first time visiting your blog and I was saddened to see you're going through such a difficult time. Keep faith! He's young and resilient, he'll pull through! Keeping you & your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Annonymous

Best wishes for Hunter from over here at Brad Buckman Photography.
Brad, Val & Jess

How beautiful, Hunter is an ANGEL He will make miracles as he is a miracle in life! We will all pray for him.... Love you both,
Flora and Russell

I just got word about Hunter…you guys must be out of your minds with worry. I want you to know that the three of you are in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything you guys need, please don’t hesitate to call. I have heard that Children’s Hospital has amazing doctors and staff, I am glad that he is there and is getting the best care possible. My heart brakes for you guys…I can’t even imagine what you guys are going through right now. Please let us know if there is ANYTHING we can do. We are praying for you guys,
Nick & Brenda

hey zen, i was bummed that you couldn't make it the other night, but then i just read your blog. i am so sorry to hear about hunter. i will keep him in my thoughts and prayers and if there is anything i can do, please do not hesitate to call. God bless,
[ b ]

It was good to see you both in such good spirits considering all that you have & still endure. I'm continuously praying for you. And I sent Mariko a "Thank You" card on your behalf, she knows you appreciate everything. Lots of love and prayer,
Laura

I just heard the news about your little boy. My heart so aches with you. Lois filled me in on the details and I know he is on chemo already. Thank god they diagnosed him. These are difficult times, by my prayers are with you. I am sending prayers your way and lots of love and support to you and your husband.
Have a blessed holiday season
Keren

My thoughts and prayers are with you three right now. My Respect & Gratitude,
Dana

Our positive thoughts and prayers are with you guys. xoxo,
Jenni, Jason & Julian

I'm saying a prayer for Hunter. I'll check in with you some time later to see how he's doing.
Take care of yourselves and that beautiful baby.
Jamie

I’m so sorry to hear of this news, and I wish Hunter and your family all the strength to recover from this hardship. Please do not put me as a priority, and concentrate on your son and his wellbeing. I will certainly keep all of you in my thoughts and hope for a speedy recovery. But the fact that you have taken the time to email me is a testament to your professionalism. Best regards,
Cathy

Hey Zen - I am so sorry about hunter. He is in our thoughts and prayers everyday… This must be so hard for you both and your families. Please let us know if he gets any better. Sincerely,
Rochel

My thoughts are with you and your family and I have been sending you guys some really good energy!!!!
I can’t wait to meet you!
Sarah

Hi Lenore--Thanks for filling me in. With some patience, the doctors will find the cause--Keep the faith and give Hunter a big ol' hug from me. He's got a wonderful spirit about him and he'll get through this. I know it must break your heart to see him suffer. I'm thinking good thoughts for you!
Dorie

Zen, We will pray that your son is healed and that the Lord will strengthen and comfort you through this time. Wyman and I have both won battles against cancer and are here to tell you that the Lord hears prayers and can heal your son. We will let our family know so they will pray for your family also.
Wyman

ALL of us at Here Comes The Guide, want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this stressful time. Best Wishes,
Lisa, Meredith, Denise, Jennifer, Jan, Jolene, Allison, Sharon and Julia

Nicola here, Tom's wife. We both are thinking of you three so much - and you are in our thoughts and prayers every day. If there is anything that we can do, run an errand or bring you food, please
ask us. I can't imagine how stressful and scary all of this is for you. Squeeze little Hunter from us - Pepper sends special hugs and kisses. And just know that you are surrounded by energy from all of us who love you guys and are pulling for some good news VERY soon. Love,
Nic, Tom and Pepper xoxoxoxo

You are in our thoughts and prayers, and we wish you the best of luck. Please keep us posted on Hunter's situation. Love,
Rob and Crystal

We love you and send you love and healing energy every day and extra for your family too! Xxxooo
Tom, Monique, Olivia & Anton

Hey Todd... Elif and I pray every night that Hunter gets better soon. It sounds like he's responding the treatment. Big hugs and we'll come by this week to check in.
Todd

Hi Zen! I just wanted to just write you a quick note to let you know I am thinking about you and your family. I made a post on my blog about Healing Hunter and I hope you do not mind that I grabbed one of the photos from your site for it. Please let me know is you decided to do anymore fundraisers. I am sure the expenses are unbelievable. I would love to help in any way that I can. I sent a small donation on to the foundation for you. I will keep checkin the blog to check on Hunters progress. My prayers are with you and your family! You are such a strong positive person that I know you will beat this and it will be a blessing in the end. Please do not hesitate to ask for anything!
Sara

I am so very sorry to hear that your little one is hurting...
You have our deepest well wishes, thoughts & prayers. We will be down in a couple weeks and if you guys are still around would love to see you and give you a hug in person. best,
Noelle & Dan

Not a day goes by that I don't think of all of you. All the postings were read during our holidays away and with everything we had, we sent it your way. Thoughts, energy, prayers.. The Christmas Santa looked amazing and it was with happy tears in our eyes we watched Hunter open presents. I'm so glad they allow a Santa through the ward!
I'm glad to read the compassionate letters from everyone! We are all on your side cheering Hunter through this crazy tough obstacle.
These Mamas arms are also wrapped around your boy. Every moment, everyday.
Love, Molly

We are thinking about you all and are in our prayers. Thanks for the updates...you guys are super parents and Hunter is a trooper.
It's all going to work out!
Roy, Yeni, Ricardo y Rafael




OREGON

I sent out a love request to a bunch of friends…So there a lot of people around the world sending Hunter love and prayers. I also added a candle to my shrine for him: one for me, one for Glenn, one for everyone else and one for Hunter. He is in good hands. We love you.
Corrin C. Phillips

On this Christmas Day I find myself thinking of you and sending you all the positive energy I can tap into. Our love to the three of you,
Marilyn and Frank

Just praying for you all and Hunter. Love,
Jessica

I am so sorry for you guys we are thinking very positive thoughts for you all. I wish I could do something to help. I hope your families are able to be there with you both. I really am at a loss for words but I wanted to write something. I know there is nothing I can do all the way here in Portland but if there is anything even if you need to just talk at three in the morning call me. I am glad you left Hunter with no other alternative then to keep fighting. He has two parents who are very driven and strong and only something like this could stop either of you. Take care you guys all my love too the three of you.
Jenn

To Hunter's fine parents, I believe every child is a precious gift. We often do not know why we deserve this gift or what the future may hold but we humbly realize that children live in the present and help us remember to enjoy each and every moment that passes. Please thank Hunter for giving me a moment to reflected on my wonderful kids and that I wish very much for his health to return.Sincerely,

Tom

I am thinking about the three of you constantly It is good to hear you have so much support there. I check your blog daily and can not stop the tears. The photos of Hunter are so beautiful you would never guess by looking at them that there is anything wrong at all. Take care and give that little sweetie a hug from us.
Love Jennifer, Olliver , Loren

We are so sorry for all that you are going through. You and Hunter are constantly in our prayers. I so wish that this was just a bad dream. Please do not hesitate to call on us for anything - and we truly mean anything. We love you and are here to be of any support we can.
Cody, Jessica & Jack




TENNESSEE

I can only say that I am praying and I have an incredible prayer group that I will pass on the information about Hunter. I think of you often and wish I could be one of those people who could be right there for you. You are such a darling. We have a Suzie's Espresso in our Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and when I work there I am amazed at the strength of the parents and the children! They have hope just as you and it's amazing what strength, hope, faith and love can do. So keep up the good work! I wish I could do more but just know that there is a very strong group of people here in Tennessee, KY, and West VA and down to Florida who will join in the prayer team for Hunter. With Love,
Lisa and Michael

Hey you guys!! I just wanted to drop a line and say we have had you in our thoughts and prayers and I am so happy to hear that everything is going positively for Hunter. I can't imagine how hard this must have been on you but just know there are people out who care and are praying for Hunter!! Sending much love from memphis TN.
Billie, Betise and Violette Worley!!




FLORIDA

You and Lenore are so special and I know that you are just what the little guy needs to get through all of this. You are all in my thoughts and prayers all the time. My every thought will be with you guys this week and I hope that even though times are tough right now, you can enjoy the time spent with each other during the holidays. I will be praying for a good week for the little guy. Know that you are loved- TONS! Miss U,
Cindy




GEORGIA

Know that I will be praying for Hunters complete recovery every day and I will also be praying that God gives you and Zen the strength to handle this!
Jenny

My thoughts and prayers are with you both & Hunter as you go through this time. I will be rooting for a Christmas Miracle. Love,
Hak

Ever since I read your message I have not been able to get him and your family out of my mind. My very strong thoghts are with you. He's a beautiful little boy and if he is anything like you he will definitely win this battle. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do for you and your family. Love,
Helene

Lenore - Thanks for keeping everyone in the know. I think of you and wonder what point of the roller coaster you are riding at the moment. I look forward to the day you can look back on all of this and return to the dust bunnies and laundry as everyday living. But, you, as always, bring joy to each day. Keep it up and know that you've got a cluster of prayers in Atlanta, GA. The three of you are in my daily prayers. You're amazing! Hang in there,
Jill (Moore) Bochniak




NEW YORK

Your incredible bravery and spirit is absolutely inspiring! My heart is with you and you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong, take care of each other, and have a very blessed holiday! Best wishes,
Michael Venzor

I wanted you to know that you, Zen and Hunter are in my and Connie's thoughts. He has such incredible spirit in his eyes not to mention the little munchkin is so lucky to have such positive parents. I know that such wonderful energy will help Hunter kick this thing in the butt! Know that we are sending all of our positive healing vibes as well. I know this is a tough time, so please let me know if Connie and I can do anything for you guys on the east coast! Much love and all of our best healing thoughts!
Mike & Connie

Were still thinking & praying for you guys all the time. When I told Tisha about Hunter, she told her son, Nene. He had a basketball game that night and he told her he played his best game ever. Nene told her he kept thinking about Hunter and it made him so mad. Kiss Hunter for us & squeeze him tight. Love You,
Lulu

Zen and Lenore, We think of you almost every minute of every day. Your love for Hunter and each other will get you through this. Hunter, You’re Spirited, your Strong and you’re a Survivor. We Love you and there is nothing stronger then Grandpa praying for you!
Grandma & Grandpa

I am praying for Hunter. I Love you. Please give Hunter a kiss and a caress from aunt Cheryl - I will be there next month to give him more myself. Take care of yourselves too. LOVE,
Aunt Cheryl

I am sending my healing thoughts and prayers your way. I hope you have a joyful holiday and even though we never know why these things happen in our lives, there is always a greater good or some kind of positive meaning that can be pulled out. Please take care!
Jill




LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

Thats great news! Take care and tell hunter he has a buddy in las vegas praying for him.
Levell




ARIZONA

Dear Todd, Lenore and yes, sweet little Hunter. We send our gift along with our healing energy to help keep you healing. Hunter, your smiles are so warm and happy. How lucky your parents are to have you. Grandma Thawley keeps us on progress. Best to all in love and friendship.
Don & Shirlee Lower




TEXAS

Our prayers are with you and Hunter. We pray that you find the best treatment for his illness and that you are able to remain strong during this tough time. You are both great parents and we know that everything will be ok. If there is anything we can do please let us know. With all of our Love and support,
Matt & Jen




AUSTRALIA

We love you guys and would have loved the pleasure of only three hours with you. Wish we were there. Can not wait to get a ride on with you back in USA.
John and Leisa

Mate, so sorry to hear that shitty news. That's just incredibly saddening, and even more so for such a tiny little being. It must have been tough trying to get it diagnosed, and after all that time finding out that it was AML Leukemia. I will be keeping you all in mind, and especially at times of meditation for absent healing.
I hope everything else is going very well for you to help alleviate the burden. and so the focus can be on Hunter. I will call you soon. I miss you too mate. Take care,
Rhian

All my friends and family have been asking me to wish you guys the best of luck. I know it doesn’t mean much but just a little not to try to put a smile on your face that there are a lot of people who really wish Hunter and you guys the best. Please keep us posted!
Roy