The hitter comes out of the dugout with a methodical and confident walk to the plate. His clean, crisp uniform is hanging loosely, but proudly, on his thinner than usual body. At first glance, the pitcher thinks that he may be an easy out. But the guy on the mound has no idea of the heart and the passion that the hitter has. In fact, he has no idea what the guy in the batter’s box had to do to even jump back into the lineup.

The hitter digs his back foot in first and the front foot lands comfortably. His shoes are polished but yet well-worn. The catcher notices that these shoes have seen many a game. As the hitter grips the bat, he is looking for one pitch to hit. He whispers to himself, “Look for a fast ball that I can drive.” Stance…concentration…rhythm…. Clearly No. 28 is not a rookie.

The game begins. Today is his day.

As one sits in the stands and watches this incredible game unfold, know that it is going to have a few grueling innings. But, No. 28 has filled the stadium with more supporters than one could ever count. The visiting team has no fans, no one cheering it on and no chance to win this game.

This much we know. The first 28 days are going to be a nail biter. Twenty eight days from today will be the first bone marrow biopsy that will confirm the Car T-Cell infusion was a success. No early signs from the dugout will give any indication of that expected triumph. Even daily counts won’t determine the outcome. The official scorekeeper will keep you as informed as possible to avoid errors.

The pitcher is winding up and the hitter is still quietly rocking in motion before he starts his load….

Stay tuned for the pitch-by-pitch in the days to follow.

Samples of 7 days of prayers shared with us

• 

• 

• 

• 

•