Author Archives: carolyncustisjames
ARDEN UPDATE #18: Bye Bye Spica Cast!
The latest shorter Spica cast (now above the knee on both legs vs down to the ankle on the problem side) has made a huge difference for Arden. For Avery too. The Anchorage heatwave notwithstanding, they’ve loved playing together outdoors. … Continue reading
ARDEN UPDATE #17: Fun in the Summer Sun
Warm summer days in Anchorage (yes, even in Alaska) are giving Arden and Avery plenty of opportunities to play outdoors, and they are making the most of it. Arden is pressing the limits of the extra mobility her new Spica … Continue reading
Calling all Phillies Phans!
Far be it from me to turn down an invitation to a MLB baseball game. Below is the invitation to a Phillies game that Frank sent out to Missio Seminary community, families, and friends. I’m definitely going to this one! … Continue reading
ARDEN UPDATE #16: A New and Improved Spica
Dr. Blumberg’s progress report following Arden’s recasting on Tuesday, June 11, could not have been better! He said “her hip looks great” and he is “pleased.” He also said the care of Arden’s cast and skin was “some of the … Continue reading
ARDEN UPDATE #15: Recasting in Seattle
After an unexpected delay of two-weeks, Arden’s recasting is rescheduled for Tuesday, June 11. Seattle Children’s Hospital (SCH) has resolved the air quality problems that forced the closure of their operating rooms and delayed Arden’s recasting. Once again they are … Continue reading
ARDEN UPDATE #14: May Milestones and Modified Plans
The month of May brought two significant milestones for Arden. On May 17 she reached the eagerly-awaited glorious milestone of her 5th birthday! That same day, she graduated from preschool—Class of 2019! She is continuing to do well, despite the … Continue reading
Something to ponder . . .
Sometimes Twitter delivers. This twitter thread written by Jonathan Martin (@theboyonthebike) connected with me this past Sunday morning. I’m in Alaska helping my daughter with Arden’s care. Jonathan’s words touched a deep chord with me. They were all I got … Continue reading
Ground Hog Day!
Saturday morning my iPhone alarm woke me up at 6am–exactly as it did the day before. I was at home in Sellersville, and my life was eerily on repeat… I went through the same morning ritual. Showered, put on the … Continue reading
ARDEN UPDATE #13: All Through the Night
Keep watch dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, sooth the suffering, pity … Continue reading
ARDEN UPDATE #12: So far so good!
Just received the good news that Arden’s follow-up X-rays taken last Thursday in Anchorage show everything looks great! Dr. Blumberg, Arden’s surgeon at Seattle Children’s Hospital, told Alli to “Keep doing what you’re doing.” We are thanking God for this … Continue reading










