August 10th, 2024.

1,051,200.63 minutes

17,520.011 hours

730 days

2 years

Two years since we had our last conversation with Marcus. Two years since we got to watch him play the game he loved so dearly. Two years since life was changed permanently. At times it’s felt like it’s been 10 years and at other times it’s felt like 10 minutes. Milestones have come and gone and you can’t help but think, “What if?” Eighteenth birthday, senior night in basketball, senior prom, high school graduation, potential college tours, and freshman year of college are among the plethora of experiences that have been taken away from us due to the tragedy.

These last two years have exposed us to just how difficult it can be to care for a loved one who is disabled. From battling with insurance, advocating for him with doctors and therapists, to waiting for procedures and surgeries and trying to make sure he has an adequate place to live, these two years have been a lesson in patience and perseverance. From our time at Alaska Regional to Shirley Ryan to Almost Home Kids and everywhere in between, there’s been a new-found appreciation for the nurses, CNAs, and primary care techs and all the work that they do on the front lines of healthcare.

As we look forward, Marcus has received stem cell treatment. The intricate details of that will be forthcoming. As we continue to maintain an apartment in Chicago, with rotating family caregivers, we remain committed to his recovery. Even while understanding that the Marcus we once had may never return, we will attempt to explore every avenue possible.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Team Marcus during this tragedy. Whether it be from prayer, donations, meals, or helping provide a distraction, you’ve helped us more than you can know.