GUNNER RETURNS TO KENTUCKY!

L-R: Garlynn, age 5 and brother Gunner, age 7

Earlier this afternoon, I was blessed to spend almost three hours sitting on the floor with Gunner as he enjoyed a bowl of chicken noodle soup, took his meds and we watched The History Channel. We discussed his new pet Frog and he showed me photos of his puppies back home in Benton, Kentucky. I earned some laughs with my impersonation of a conversation the dogs were probably having as we looked on at their photograph; this was my kooky impression of two girl puppies discussing their excitement over Gunner returning home. We both giggled. Gus and I loaded my small Honda SUV with suitcases and a friend of ours arrived with her lovely children to help us pack more items into her car to as we eventually headed to the airport. We were met there by her husband--both just amazing and gracious people --and Gunner met his pilot as two ramp workers unloaded our vehicles. And so with a sense of jubilation at returning home, this wonderful little boy and his parents whom I love and care about, are winging their way home this afternoon. They will receive a huge welcome from their small home town that has grown to embrace them with Love and Supportiveness all these months.

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While in Arizona, Gunner's story was featured on at least two television newscasts, and a ramp worker at the airport who recognized Gunner from the one of those broadcasts, picked me up in an airport vehicle so I could be taken out onto the tarmac to wave a "So long, for now" to my friends. As the plane passed by, I stood and waved and saw Gunner's small hand waving back excitedly through the window of the plane back at me. God Bless his sweet soul. They are heading home to their community where familiarity is a comfort and loving people are waiting to greet them with open and loving hearts.

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In the days ahead, treatment options and evaluations will be discussed with expert physicians. But for the next 72 hours, it will be a time for The Gillespie Family to return to a routine that was interrupted months ago. Children from his elementary school will be excited to see their dear friend home along with Gunner's teachers. I can bet you anything that Gunner's 5 year-old sister Garlynn will be smiling ear-to-ear as she attends Kindergarten class on Monday. She has her brother back. They are such a sweet team, those two. This is part of Gus and Janna's journey and it continues.

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Please keep Gus and Janna in your thoughts and prayers as they decompress from the non-stop demands of doctor and hospital visits, awaiting test results, attending consultations and simply enduring the humanity of Life in their devotion to help their son heal and be well. This is now their time to have the peace and silence to rest and rejuvenate their souls and their energy as they mark their next steps.

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Let me just close by acknowledging your many cards and letters that have arrived. Janna has read aloud your messages of Love and Support. She and Gus are deeply touched! Your thoughts, your prayers and meditations that have poured forth over the Internet have been received. I will be updating you from time to time on new fund raisers being scheduled to help Gunner with his continuing medical expenses. Love Is A Great Power! Safe journey, dear friends! See you shortly!

Michael

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My Complete Website is: www.michaelmanning.tv