Luke was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in April of 2023. After nine intense months of chemotherapy, his cancer metastasized. On July 21, 2024, Luke left his earthly home for his heavenly one and is now cancer and pain-free; how quickly our lives can change!

Luke’s story began in a season of excitement and momentum. After developing a love for golf, he experienced early success, earning all-conference honors and narrowly missing qualification for the state tournament. Entering his second season, he was hopeful that his continued dedication would lead to even greater results.

In the middle of that season, everything changed. What began as soreness in his left arm quickly intensified, prompting an orthopedic visit. From that moment, events moved rapidly. X-rays raised further concern, and what normally takes weeks of waiting was expedited to just days. An MRI, insurance approvals, and a specialist consultation all came together quickly, revealing something far more serious than expected. 

Luke was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. The news was delivered with clarity and compassion, giving space for processing while also providing a path forward through treatment. In just over a month, Luke underwent extensive medical procedures, including multiple scans, a biopsy, port placement, and his first round of chemotherapy.

Before treatment, his pain had become severe and constant. Chemotherapy brought its

own challenges, including intense nausea and a difficult hospital stay lasting nearly a

week. After enduring numerous medications and procedures, he was finally able to return home to the comfort of family, familiar surroundings, and support.

Throughout this journey, the emotional and spiritual weight has been just as real as the

physical challenges. The experience has revealed a deep human desire for control and the natural pull toward fear and “what if” thinking. Yet, amid uncertainty, the focus has shifted to something more grounded: faith.

Rather than trying to navigate the entire road ahead, the prayer became help us to take the next step by faith. Luke’s journey is not just a medical battle, but a spiritual one, marked by perseverance, support, and a growing dependence on faith in the face of the unknown.

After nine months of chemotherapy and a shoulder replacement, Luke’s next scan showed his cancer had spread to his lungs and elsewhere. We were heartbroken. 

With no further chemotherapy possible, we considered other options, since pediatric bone cancer treatments had remained unchanged for decades. Although there was a short period when other medications briefly slowed the cancer's growth, it soon progressed rapidly again. 

Faced with a difficult decision, Luke chose to spend his remaining time with loved ones. On July 21, 2024, he went home to his Savior, leaving a legacy of enduring faith and love that inspires us even in our grief.