James left this physical world on March 23rd, 2013 -- we were able to have nearly 11 years of unconditional love with an amazing little person. James was born May 9th, 2013, 10 lbs 10 oz (2 weeks early)! From the very beginning, our little buddy brought smiles and laughter into our lives, taking a special interest in sports, stories, music, and outdoor adventures like battles and airsoft guns - especially with his big brother Jack, his soul-mate and best friend for eternity.

In 2005 we noticed that James was growing a bit faster and stronger than perhaps he should and went in for consultations with UW Hospital. James was diagnosed with McCune Albright Syndrome, a rare endocrine disorder that while difficult, was considered manageable and not immediately life threatening. Unfortunately, after treatment for McCune Albright for many years, in February 2012 we discovered that the real issue plaguing James' hormonal system was never McCune Albright but instead Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma, an extremely aggressive cancer that when found in later stages (his was Stage 4 at discovery) is considered fatal.

Once we learned of James' prognosis -- and surgery and chemotherapy -- we were determined to be a 'miracle case' where the child miraculously heals. Sadly, James' body was tired. Through our journey, however, we experienced a level of love and joy that we'd never experienced before. All things love became clear; each moment of time and each singular event were reduced to component parts through mindful experiences and awareness. James taught us that life is short, it is to be enjoyed, and that no matter what happens or everything 'is gonna be alright' ... as long as you give and receive love.

The Prayer of Saint Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is darkeness, light;

Where there is sadness, joy;

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much

seek to be consoled as to console;

To be understood as to understand;

To be loved, as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

and, it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.