Happy November everyone!

Excited to share that in October, we were able to participate in the First Annual OsteoPETrosis Symposium, held in Philadelphia.  It was a great experience for my family and I believe, all that attended :)  We met many other families who have been affected by this disease and were each very touched by their stories of overcoming.  I hate that we have this ugly disease to deal with but I have to say, it has allowed me to meet some of the strongest people I know.  Nothing is insurmountable for them.  They truly, truly embellish what it means to overcome.

We had three doctors attend the patient symposium.  They were there to give us an update on research, as well as answer questions from families.  It was great, for once, to feel like our disease was IMPORTANT to someone, let alone an entire room of people who cared and 'got it'.

Hopefully, by the next symposium, we will have a non-profit established to provide support for families, help fund research efforts to eventually lead to a cure for ALL forms of this disease.  Our form, ADO II, may be considered 'benign' and 'asymptomatic' in many publications but I promise if you sit and listen to my family's history with this asymptomatic disease,  you will quickly see that unfortunately, that is not always the case.

Kaleb was a very lucky young man on September 16.  He was a passenger in a vehicle that rolled.  By the grace of God and a couple angels protecting him, he did not receive one broken bone.  Miraculous.  And now...a very, very thankful mom and dad.  For a boy who fractured two vertebrae and his pelvis, unbeknownst to all of us...we're amazed that he was able to walk away (well....wheel away), with only minor injuries.

Here's to a great remainder of 2013.  Sending healthy thoughts to each and every one of you.

Great year!!!! Enjoying the summer of 2013.

What a great year.  No other way to say it than...no major health issues....and lots of great accomplishments.  Kaleb became a all state triathlete in shot put, the 100meter and 400 meter wheelchair competitions.  He was able to go to Washington, DC in May to honor his uncle, a fallen police office from Alexandria, Virginia which was a trip of a lifetime.  And then in July, went for a 10 day trip to Costa Rica with his friend to visit his uncle, Nick.  Doesn't get much better than this!

Kaleb currently has his driving permit (no special adaptations needed).  He has taken the classes and is doing the driving portion now with the instructor.  Before we know it, he will be a full-fledged driver. 

So proud of this young man.  Despite the obstacles that OsteoPETrosis can bring,  he is an overcomer. I think of him every time I hear the new song by Mandisa (http://www.klove.com/music/artists/mandisa/songs/overcomer-lyrics.aspx).

We are excited to be planning our attendance at the first ever Patient Symposium in Philadelphia for those who suffer from all forms of OsteoPETrosis.  There is a doctor session the next day which I am so excited about to know that over 10 doctors will be gathering to discuss this horrible disease.  Cannot wait to get to meet people that I have 'known' for years on the internet...and finally see them in person.

Hugs to all those who suffer from OsteoPETrosis or know those that do  Prayers that one day we will have answers. Until then...carry on....and reach out to https://www.facebook.com/groups/osteopetrosis/

~Lori