Dear family and friends,

Today not only marks 7 months since Judson was set free from his suffering and ran into the arms of his loving Savior, but it also marks exactly one year since Judson’s first visit to the doctor. My concerns had begun to heighten after observing his increased stumbling and wobbly balance.

Dr. K, whom I still love and think is fabulous, assured me that it was probably just a virus that had affected Jud’s balance and things could be expected to clear up in a couple days. If not, I was directed to bring Jud in again. Dr. K also indicated that there are more serious things that can cause such symptoms, but since they are unlikely scenarios, he wanted to keep me from worrying about them at that juncture.

I was surprised that a virus could cause these types of symptoms, but I left his office with some relief. Unfortunately, but rightfully so, I quickly became concerned again as I saw things worsen over the weekend. The following Wednesday, June 13th, is when our lives began to be ripped apart.

It was exactly 5 months from the first doctor appointment to the day of Judson’s death. Looking back, it is hard to believe that his body deteriorated so rapidly, and yet those five months were the longest months of our lives. Judson suffered so severely-we are thankful that he is now whole!

However, we remain in deep pain, sorrow, and sadness.

We continue to profoundly grieve the loss of our Jud Bud. It remains a constant in our minds and hearts, affecting everything we do, say, and experience. We imagine that somewhere down the line we will grow in our ability to live with our loss, but for now and quite some time to come, I expect it will remain thick and heavy.

In our mourning, it has been important for us to find ways to honor Judson and find healing in our grief.

The City of Costa Mesa planted Jud’s sycamore tree and installed his bench at “Judson’s Park” this week. We are planning to have a small dedication ceremony for family and close friends that will include a ½ birthday memoriam-Jud would have been 3 ½ on the 24th of this month.

We are also thrilled to be just weeks away from launching Judson’s website. We will certainly keep everyone posted when this occurs!

Another recent transpiring includes plans to attend the Hunter’s Hope Symposium in July. It is a conference designed for the small community of families who have been affected by Krabbe disease. Jessie and I will be attending (unfortunately, Drake cannot go), along with Sarah and my parents. We look forward to connecting with other families who have walked a similar path.

Speaking of my parents, we are fortunate to have them staying on Balboa Island again for the month of June. It is a treat to have them close!

Lastly, we are ending the month of June with a trip to Standing Stone Ranch. Some friends of ours have a ministry to Christian leaders at their ranch in Colorado; they invited us to join them for a week. We are looking forward to this time of respite. Furthermore, on our drive through Arizona, we will have the opportunity to visit some of our new friends who have been significantly supporting us on this journey.

As we enter the anniversaries of our most difficult memories, we are grateful to all who have unceasingly walked this road with us. Your prayers on behalf of our family, especially now, are coveted more than you can imagine!!!

We want to run with endurance the path that is set before us. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Much love and gratitude,
Christina (on behalf of Drake too)