This week was a major milestone in Jake’s recovery as he officially graduated from cardiac rehab! He was able to double the distance he walked during his walk test. While we are sad to say goodbye to the phenomenal staff at OSF Cardiac rehab, we are filled with pride and gratitude for his progress.

As his cardiac rehab ends, he isn’t slowing down. Jake’s hard work with occupational and speech therapy is also showing. He is down to just one OT appt every 6 weeks and one speech appt a month. He also has just two more weeks of driving therapy (for the stroke) before completing that too.

The milestones aren’t just physical. He has successfully completed his junior year of high school with an incredible 3.53 GPA! He also just wrapped up his very first trip since transplant, traveling in June to visit his Grandpa in Florida. It was amazing to see him in the pool full of energy and without turning blue.

These milestones are even sweeter because Jake has started focusing on how to use his experiences to bless others. He collected (and continues to collect) toys for his birthday to donate to the children’s hospital. He wants to bring joy to other kids currently walking difficult paths.

To top it all off, we received a wonderful report from his latest labs which showed that his liver is stable and his current medication regimen is working. Seeing his transformation is breathtaking. He has a newfound confidence and a vibrant energy to match his sense of humor. We used to worry about keeping up with his medical needs, but these days, we’re just trying to keep up with him!

Thank you for your continued love, prayers, and support. Jake is conquering every hurdle and we are incredibly proud and so grateful to everyone who has been a part of Jake’s second chance at life! God is so good!!