December 10, 2018

July 7, 2018

June 29

I have an annual reminder on my phone calendar on June 29 with the title, “Most awful day of my life.” Not that I need a reminder, as that date is etched in my memory, yet every year it serves as a constant companion of dread.
Scott and I have just returned from our 2nd annual “West Coast Family Tour.” We are especially grateful for the support and care from Ethan’s awesome team of nurses, who all kicked-in to high gear and gave us the time to spread our wings and connect with our extended families. As the years pass, we yearn to spend meaningful times together, and wish that we were all geographically closer.
Being out west as we led up to June 29 provided a brief reprieve from the sadness; however, the awareness of “the date” found us as we waited at the airport for our homebound flight.
Here we are at five years. As we often say in relation to how quickly our kids grow, or how fast each school year passes, I can’t say that these five years have flown by—we have felt the weight of every single day (that’s 1,825 days); in addition, we have also felt the love, the support, and the connections to so many magnificent people—family, friends, neighbors, community members, congregants, strangers. If I were to draw a Venn diagram it would show all these different circles, with the intersection at Ethan.
As heavy as our hearts have been, the amount of gratitude we feel toward everyone who has been a part of our story provides a counterbalance and continues to sustain us to this day. Early on in our first lengthy hospital stay, when the number of supporters was at an all-time high, we were gently encouraged to accept that this level of ongoing support was a fleeting event, a strange and wonderful phenomenon, and that we should prepare ourselves for when the well-wishers returned to their lives.
We’re still waiting.
The wave of Team Ethan has been a tsunami, and is as strong as ever, constantly clearing a path to allow us to remain upright. Granted, our needs today are far different than they were in those initial days, weeks, and months, but we know in our hearts that Team Ethan will continue to rise to the challenge.
We mark this date as an awareness of where we are, and how much we appreciate those who have been alongside us the entire way.

Five years later, we continue to go from strength to strength,
Alexia and Scott

June 22, 2018

Dear Ethan,

How do I even begin to express the emotions that have been pouring through my body, mind and soul this entire school year? Let me begin with a story:

When you were born, on July 19, 2000, we were so excited to welcome you into our growing family. Not long after (I’m not kidding here), I was asked on a number of occasions, “When will you start Ethan in kindergarten?” “Really?” I thought, while looking at my beautiful weeks-, and later, months-old baby. I never thought of your summer birthdate as providing such interesting dialogue. Your dad and I figured we would wait and see. See if you were ready to start a kindergarten program at the age of five and one month, or if you would benefit from waiting until you were six. Regardless, that was years away. Even as a toddler/preschooler, we were barraged with stories of what others had done with their children, and why we should follow the same path; start you “early,” wait an extra year—whatever was recommended was the absolute “best” plan, so we were told. As we had done with your older brother, Zakary, we poured into you our hopes and dreams for a future filled with wonder and exploration. Fast forward a few years and we discovered that, while you were quite inquisitive, you were also able to sit and listen well to your preschool teachers, and, by all accounts, ready to begin kindergarten in the fall of 2005. You thrived in school, loved learning and participating in everything that came your way, and were on track to be part of the Graduating Class of 2018…

Well, life changed. Drastically.

For the first few years after your injury, we were predominately focused on the rehabilitation part of your recovery. School took a place on the back burner. Whatever it would take to help you make the most gains possible, that’s where our attention remained. Nothing could sway us from giving you the best chance at coming back to us. However, your mounting medical challenges kept you returning to the hospital, for weeks, and sometimes months, at a time. Each hospitalization would hinder any positive gains, and, more often, would compound the growing list of challenges. All we could do was continue moving forward, keeping our eye on the goal of helping you achieve “more.” Eventually, the more whittled away. It’s ok if you remain wheelchair-bound, we reasoned, plenty of people lead successful lives without the use of their legs. The same reasoning was used when we thought of your use of your arms. And your ability to speak.

Slowly, painstakingly at times, the days, weeks, months and years passed, with increasing returns to the hospital, bringing us to late-summer 2017. A realization washed over us that this was supposed to be the start of your senior year of high school. That was not going to happen.

How could we make room in our hearts for all that you had missed out on and all that you would be missing from this school year (and beyond)? I can tell you this, it has not been a positive year for me, emotionally. I did not deal with any of it very well. I retreated from friends and social gatherings, I created a cocoon around myself, and I welcomed the quiet space to mourn it all. I “saw” you in every imaginable location; participating in sport teams, theater, show choir, even walking across the school parking lot with friends. Senior pictures, applying and being accepted to college, school dances, youth group events, plans for being a camp counselor, the list goes on and on. I kept a low profile on social media, as it was too painful to see what friends posted regarding their “seniors.”

Loveland High School graduation took place a few days ago. You were not there. Neither were we, nor our extended family. In fact, your dad and I secured extra nursing coverage and took a 24-hour leave from the city. As heartbreaking as missing out on this milestone with you was for us, your dad and I wish great things to all of the Graduating Class of 2018—push yourselves beyond your wildest dreams, find where your passions lie, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.

Our beautiful son, Ethan, you don’t need to worry about us. Do you remember that feeling when you would dive into a pool, and make the descent to the bottom? Once you reached the bottom you would tap out with your hand, turn your body around, and push off with your feet, heading up to the surface of the water. Your dad and I have reached this bottom, and we are making our way back. We have taken measures to strengthen our health, lift our spirits, and find the joy in the tiniest of things. We are emerging from this much-needed period of sadness. We love you and will always take care of you, assuring that you are able to reach as high as possible.

With love and strength, always and forever,
Mom and Dad

January 3, 2018

EIGHTH NIGHT FOR ETHAN, BATTLE OF THE SCHOOLS — REMARKS FROM ALEXIA AND SCOTT KADISH

Tonight is a milestone—tonight marks the fifth Eighth Night for Ethan. Prior to the first, we had written remarks, but Ethan’s body decided that the hospital was where we needed to be that night, instead of celebrating the last night of Chanukah with the community which had already done so much to support us.

Thanks to our oldest son, Zakary, those remarks were still delivered, and a beautiful tradition was started.

Fortunately, we are here tonight, as one family, celebrating a holiday that has come to mean so much more to us than just the Miracle of Lights.

When speaking about the story of Chanukah, many like to focus on the messages of “a light in the darkness,” or “hope where there was none,” or “the miracle of oil.” Although it plays second fiddle to these themes, friendship, and unity, play a tremendous role in the Chanukah tale. It takes a special kind of bond to fight together against a well-trained Greek army, and the bonds of friendship—the brotherhood of the Maccabees—won the day, just as much as Judah’s hammer.

Ethan is blessed to have his own band of Maccabees fighting with him tonight. This entire event was envisioned, organized, and executed by some of Ethan’s closest friends from his time at Yavneh/Rockwern Academy.
These friends created the “Battle of the Schools” to help raise money for Ethan’s continuous medical care, and our family is so grateful for all the time and effort they have put in to making this night so special. We are constantly amazed by the amount of love people display for Ethan—as well as for our family—and this outpouring from his friends has been a tremendous sight to behold. Perhaps a true light in the darkness, providing us with hope where there was none. And some may even say, a miracle.

Even though these friends will soon be going their separate ways as they venture off to college, we hope that their bonds will remain strong. It takes a special kind of friendship to band together to fight for a friend who needs their aid.

Thank you all for coming, thank you for your generous donations to help make Ethan’s care a little bit easier, and thank you to Ethan’s Maccabees.

January 3, 2018

Ethan’s friends and classmates from Rockwern Academy’s Kindergarten Class of 2018 organized and competed in the Eighth Night for Ethan Battle of the Schools. The entire community came together on the Eighth Night of Hanukkah, December 19, for a Hanukkah celebration featuring arts and crafts for younger kids, candle lighting, a song session and dessert.
You can still contribute to their campaign in honor of Ethan at the link below!

bit.ly/8thnightbattlepage

December 1, 2017

November 23, 2017
Hello everyone!
Our names are Daniel Shapiro and Zack Berger. We are seniors at Wyoming High School and Sycamore High School, respectively. Our friendship started at Rockwern Academy, formerly Yavneh Day School, in 2005. Rockwern/Yavneh sparked many lasting friendships for our classmates. Four and a half years ago, our fellow classmate, Ethan Kadish, was struck by lightning while at summer camp, resulting in traumatic brain damage. This tragic event has left Ethan and his family with extensive medical annual costs of over $100,000 after insurance.

Every year since Ethan’s accident, we have celebrated the 8th night of Hanukkah in honor of him with both a fundraiser and Hanukkah celebration. Please consider donating what you would spend on gifts for your family’s 8th night celebration to Help Hope Live in Ethan’s honor. This event and your donation are crucial for helping alleviate the Kadish’s financial burden.

As we are now seniors, our last year together before moving to the next chapter in our lives, we want to add a new element to this year’s events – a “Battle of the Schools.” With the goal of raising $40,000, each former Rockwern/Yavneh classmate will represent their respective high school and lead the fundraising efforts. For those able to donate but do not have an allegiance to one of the represented schools, please give to the Rockwern Academy team, because this is where our friendships started. Please consider donating today. For credit card donations, please visit www.helphopelive.org and search for Ethan Kadish, or bit.ly or call 800-642-8399. If you would prefer to write a check, make it out to “Help Hope Live”, write Ethan Kadish in the memo section, and mail it to Daniel Shapiro, 165 Wyoming Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH, 45215.

Also, please join us locally at Rockdale Temple on the 8th Night of Hanukkah, December 19th from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm for a Hanukkah celebration, arts and crafts for younger kids, candle lighting and dessert. There will be an opportunity to donate at the event. Even though this is a “Battle of the Schools,” we are all fighting for our friend Ethan.

Let the games begin!

Thanks in advance for your donation,

Daniel and Zack
#8thnightbattle

Donations made in honor of a specific individual, or in response to campaign solicitations, are restricted by region only and do not obligate Help Hope Live to allocate funds toward a specific individual, as the IRS would deem such donations to be private gifts, which are not tax deductible. Patients receive support according to their medical and financial need. Help Hope Live is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Information: 800.642.8399.

November 30, 2017

Calling all Cincinnati/Kentucky Team Ethan supporters:
In case you haven’t seen it, there is an upcoming Wifflemania tournament in support of Ethan on August 19. We would LOVE to see you at this great event, whether it is with your own organized team or as a volunteer.

Volunteer? YES, an event this size takes a lot of support! Can you give some of your time on August 19 to help make this tournament spectacular?

Please click on the link below to see all the volunteer opportunities:
signup.com

AND…it’s not too late to sign up for yourself or a team to participate in Team Ethan Wifflemania:
bit.ly

Hope to see you there,
Alexia and Scott

July 1, 2017

June 29, 2017

June 28, 2017

WCPO.com’s Lucy May and Emily K. Maxwell, wrote another beautifully compassionate story about our family.

www.wcpo.com

June 27, 2017

Ethan’s Future Health Care

NOTE: Please share this post broadly and contact your representatives in Congress. Each one of us has a voice, a story to share and a vote. This is our story…

Scared. Shocked. Angry. Confused.

We did not want this, We did not ask for this “opportunity;” we did not do anything wrong to deserve this AND we will not run from our obligations as parents to care for our child. However, we cannot afford to cover all of Ethan’s health care costs without help from a large community and our government.

What do Ethan’s future health care options look like?

Ethan will not have the opportunity to receive health care from his employer or pay the premiums for private insurance. Ethan’s significant disabilities will prevent him from finding employment and generating income. We hope we are proven wrong, as this is a very difficult reality to accept.

So, what are his future options?

While he is very fortunate today to be covered by a great employer-sponsored health care plan, thanks to Procter & Gamble, what happens when Ethan is no longer eligible for this insurance?

Remember, today Ethan’s health care costs exceed $1,000,000 per year and it takes three policies to provide for his needs (Private, Medicaid and BCMH). Even with these three policies, there is about $100,000 per year of costs not covered by any of them.

Ethan will age out of BCMH and private insurance.

What will happen if Medicaid is taken away from Ethan, too?

How will his future medical needs get paid for? Will we be placed in the position of having to make health care decisions for Ethan based on the cost? We already know we cannot afford to pay $1,000,000 per year (not even for one year). Ethan has already spent +380 days in the hospital over 4 years. Do we opt to not take him for urgent care at the hospital when private insurance and Medicaid are not available? For reference, ONE DAY in the hospital for Ethan costs $5,000-10,000, depending on his diagnosis and testing needs. If he ends up having surgery (Ethan has had 7 surgeries in the past 4 years), the costs are significantly higher and the hospitalization is longer.

We deal with a significant amount of uncertainty every day, just managing Ethan’s day-to-day care. We do not need the added stress of how to pay for Ethan’s basic medical care, or if our family will be forced into financial ruin.

We think you get the picture.

PLEASE talk with your U.S. Senators and House of Representative member about preserving Medicaid for those who truly need it.

Ethan needs it NOW and will be dependent on it in the FUTURE.

SPEAK UP.

We have and we are. We have talked with the offices of Congressman Wenstrup and Senator Portman, and have left messages with Congressman Chabot and Senator Brown.

Stay Strong,

Alexia and Scott

May 31, 2017

24 karat Anniversary

Twenty-four years ago, my amazingly talented sister, Suzanne, of blessed memory, sang me down the aisle to this beautiful song. With my mom on one side and my dad on the other, they escorted me to my beloved, and underneath the chuppah we created our first “home,” promising to love and protect each other. Through the years we have changed homes and cities, added furry friends, and opened our hearts to three children. We have balanced each other and remained in each other’s corner through some of life’s greatest joys and most harrowing challenges. Today we recommit ourselves and look ahead to the coming year. Because we are stronger together, we will stand by each other and continue to move forward.

Celebrating in an unconventional way, we traveled to The Ohio State University with Ethan today, to have modifications made on his wheelchair. Ethan was discharged from the hospital two weeks ago. Having made selected changes to his pain medications, the doctors hope the new combination will keep him comfortable and stable outside of the hospital. At this point we are appreciating each day at home, having all of our kids under the same roof. With comfort topping our list of desires for Ethan at this time, we hope the journey to Columbus will bring him closer to that goal.

To life and love, l’chaim,
Alexia and Scott

May 13, 2017

Ethan Update – A Flicker of Light at the End of the Tunnel

Ethan is finishing Day 11 of his most recent hospitalization. The severe pain has been successfully managed and he is weaning off the pain med combination that delivered the much-needed relief. As good as this news is, there are challenges still ahead before discharge. Ethan needs to prove he can receive nutrition and hydration through his GI System – typically not an easy task for him. The other challenge is more mental. Given we do not know exactly what caused Ethan’s severe pain event on April 27, we cannot be confident it will not return. Add this to a long list of potential issues that could send Ethan back to the hospital at any time. Not an easy way to live for Ethan or for us.
This will be a very busy week – Ethan will remain at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital until he demonstrates GI success, Alexia will pick up Zakary who is finishing his sophomore year at Washington University in St. Louis, and Scott and Elyse will try to have a typical/not-typical week at home. We will all juggle commitments at work, home and the hospital.
With so many unknowns, this current admission has been very challenging emotionally. Not understanding the source of Ethan’s severe pain is scary. It creates a lot of worry. As of today, Ethan has spent a total of 373 days in the hospital, and counting, since his injury on June 29, 2013…that’s 26.5%, a statistic that is unimaginable!
We hope the flicker of light we see grows stronger this week. We all need Ethan to get well and come home.

Alexia and Scott

May 6, 2017

Dear Team Ethan,

Nothing is normal anymore. Nothing seems to come natural or easy. We are tired. It has become very difficult to post updates on Ethan. Please know that all of your support is appreciated – your prayers, your love and your contributions to Help Hope Live.

It has been a long time since we have posted as we try to stay positive and forward thinking, however, the past three weeks have been incredibly difficult for our family and for Ethan.

Ethan has been in the hospital three times over the past three weeks. Each admission has been for unrelated reasons. But each admission is a challenge. The day or night begins with 4-6 hours of assessments in the Emergency Department followed by hours of settling into his new room within the hospital. Managing the discomfort is always a priority, but not always achievable. This current admission is due to severe pain and discomfort and managing the pain is more challenging than ever.

Ethan’s Medical Team is working to identify the source of his pain. Until more information is known, Ethan is receiving several different pain medications to keep him comfortable.

Please send Ethan strength and prayers (Reminder: his Hebrew name is Eitan Chaim ben Elisheva v’Shmuel).

Chazak – Stay Strong,
Alexia and Scott

March 15, 2017

March 15, 2017

March 6, 2017

Ethan Kadish: How a book about a rhino can help Loveland boy struck by lightning

‘It’s just … so heartwarming’

www.wcpo.com

January 18, 2017

The Cold Hard Facts

We are now almost 3.5 years post Ethan’s injury. We are enormously grateful for all of the love and support we receive from our family, our community and Team Ethan. We wish we could give each one of you a personal THANK YOU for all that you have done.

As we approach the 4th Annual Eighth Night for Ethan, we wanted to summarize why we keep pursuing these fundraising events – not by choice but by necessity.

Ethan is covered by three different health insurance policies (private insurance, Medicaid and a program for children in the state of Ohio). These three health insurance policies cover about 90% of Ethan’s care, the other 10% is paid by funds we raise through HelpHOPELive or from out-of-pocket payments.

For the past 3.5 years, Ethan’s cost of care has exceeded $1,000,000 per year. This is not a typo – more than one million dollars per year. We are very thankful to the amazing medical team that cares for Ethan – they do an amazing job. Over $100,000 per year of out-of-pocket expenses are needed to care for Ethan. This is where HelpHOPELive and Team Ethan make a huge impact. The fundraisers that are done on behalf of Ethan directly impact Ethan’s care. They give him access to therapies and care that are necessary.

All contributions to HelpHOPELive in honor of Ethan are tax deductible. Consider becoming a Team Ethan All-Star by signing up for reocurring contributions to Ethan’s campaign. No amount is too small.

www.bit.ly/8thnightforethan

Did you know…
$1,050 ($88 per month) = 30 hours of nursing care for 1 weekend of rest away from home.
$400 ($33 per month) = 2 therapy sessions per year. If you can afford $50 or $100 per month, it will make a lasting impact.
$275 ($23 per month) = 8 hours of nursing care per year.
$216 ($18 per month (Chai)) = A tremendous help.

Anyone who signs up for automatic monthly contributions will receive a car magnet to display your Team Ethan pride around town!

You can also mail your donation made payable to HelpHOPELive with In Honor of Ethan S Kadish on the memo line to Two Radnor Corp. Center, 100 Matsonford Rd., Radnor, PA 19087

We enjoy hearing from you at www.facebook.com/jointeamethan and www.jointeamethan.org. Please stay engaged with Team Ethan.

With strength and love – Happy Holidays,

Alexia and Scott Kadish
Loveland, Ohio

January 18, 2017

Ethan Kadish is a teenager from Loveland, Ohio who suffered a brain injury after he was struck by lightning nearly four years ago. Ethan has been participating in a myriad of therapies to help to help him re-establish basic functions within his brain, and recently began to answer simple yes/no questions by blinking his eyes.

Over $100,000 per year of out-of-pocket expenses are needed to care for Ethan. Please consider joining the worldwide community as we dedicate the Eighth Night of Hanukkah to Ethan. A tax-deductible donation to HelpHOPELive in honor of Ethan will help ensure that he gets the best care available so that he can keep making progress.

Any size donation is greatly appreciated.
Donate Here
bit.ly

On December 31st, the eighth night of Hanukkah, light a blue candle and dedicate your gift to Ethan to show your support.

Post your candle lighting photos with #8thNightForEthan to @JoinTeamEthan via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.

Happy Hanukkah
www.JoinTeamEthan.org

November 11, 2016

Congratulations Jacob! A friend of Ethan’s, who created the Yes/No communication device we shared with you last November, presented his creation at the TEDx Vienna Conference yesterday. We are thankful for Jacob’s energy and thoughtfulness and his courage to take the stage in Vienna to present his ideas to the attendees of the conference and the live-streaming audience.
We are proud to have Jacob on Team Ethan.
Enjoy the rest of your time touring Vienna with your family,
Alexia and Scott

November 8, 2016

For updates about Ethan and our family, follow our blog at www.jointeamethan.org

October 28, 2016

New Logo – Same Place – Same Great Care…Here We Go Again

On the evening of Saturday, October 15, Ethan and Scott headed to the Emergency Department (ED) at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) as Ethan presented the same GI issues he has presented in the past. Ethan’s last GI event which resulted in surgery was some 258 days ago.

After a flurry of tests, fluid replacement, x-rays and a CT scan, Ethan found his way into the PICU with a UTI and concern for a bowel obstruction (Ethan’s nemesis ever since his initial abdominal surgery in December 2013). Ethan is now on the GI Floor he has spent so much time on over the past +3 years for observation and rest. So, after a little more than a week as an in-patient at CCHMC, Ethan’s UTI has been resolved with antibiotics. However, his GI issues have not been resolved, so we wait; we wait for the conclusions of tests to determine if surgery is required or not; we wait to see if we have the strength to go through a 5th abdominal surgery – like we have a choice; we wait to see how long Ethan’s overall admission to the hospital is; we wait and we wait and we wait.

There have been so many changes to CCHMC since Ethan’s last admission in February 2016. There is a new logo, a new tag line, a new main entrance, a new parking garage entrance, and so much more. Change is in the air at CCHMC. What has not changed, is the incredible care Ethan continues to receive. Whether it is the ED, PICU or the GI Floor, Ethan has the best medical team around him day in and day out – for this we are thankful.

We are slowly reaching out to Team Ethan with help request. Thank you for your support and efforts to help Ethan and our family. You can also help by making a tax-deductible contribution to HelpHOPELive in honor of Ethan (www.bit.ly/hhl-jointeamethan). All funds raised go to help with Ethan’s uninsured/uncovered costs of care.

Trying to remain strong,

Alexia and Scott

August 19, 2016

View Lucy May’s interview with Alexia and Scott Kadish “Parents of Loveland teen struck by lightning find new hope on community trip to Israel” bit.ly

July 19, 2016

Our dear Ethan,
Today you turn 16 and we are exceptionally proud of the strength, courage and determination you show us every day. We see that all of your hard work during therapies is making an improvement in your comfort and progress toward recovery. This was not the path that you or we ever envisioned–yet you are paving the way and teaching us how to see the good in every day. We love you, and your brother and sister more than we can ever express. Mazel Tov on this milestone birthday. Here’s to the year ahead!
Love,
Mom and Dad

June 29, 2016

It’s been three years since Ethan was struck by lightning while at summer camp. WCPO reporters, Lucy May and Emily Maxwell spent a day with Ethan. Here’s is their brilliant story.

www.wcpo.com

June 22, 2016

We’re Back!

Dear Wonderful Team Ethan Community,

After spending approximately four months “off the radar” we are now back; refreshed (some days), energized (NOT) and ready to resume sharing our journey. Thank you to so many who have been finding ways to check on us, without directly checking on us. We have officially recharged our batteries and are no longer living our day-to-day life on “Low Power Mode”—reference to our last post on February 19, 2016. In the coming days and weeks, we will share more—there’s a lot to catch you all up on—and bring you up to speed on our lives and, most importantly, the progress Ethan is making in his recovery.

To my wonderful husband, Scott, who is the father “extraordinaire” of our three children, I thank you for your partnership in providing a solid foundation for Zakary, Ethan and Elyse. To all of the fathers in our lives, we send wishes for a fabulously relaxing day. We love you all and appreciate everything you do for us.

With continued strength,
Alexia and Scott

February 25, 2016

Surviving on Low Power Mode

I recently noticed a feature on my phone when the battery is getting very low. An icon pops up giving me the option of conserving energy by hitting the button “Low Power Mode.” This is a fitting analogy for our lives in the past couple of weeks (or months, or years). I found myself hitting this button several times in recent weeks, as I saw this as the best way to proceed through the monotonous days in the hospital. For the most part, Scott and I tackled this hospitalization by dividing days and nights. I spent the days, he spent the nights (even after his long days at work). When I would go home in the evenings, or for Scott, on the weekends, it was to spend some precious moments with Elyse, catch a few hours of much-needed sleep, get up and head back down to the hospital.

Overall, this hospitalization went more smoothly from a post-operative perspective, and we saw Ethan’s entire system respond and bounce back much faster than with previous surgeries. We caught up with some of our favorite hospital nurses, doctors, and support staff, and even high-fived ourselves for remaining calm, present and focused, even in the face of a fourth abdominal surgery. At the end of two weeks, we were well-prepared and ready to bring Ethan home to continue his healing.

And then the other shoe dropped.

Somewhere between hospital and home, while transferring Ethan into his wheelchair, his leg caught in a precarious position and he let out a tremendous scream. The pain and discomfort he expressed throughout that first night at home led us to believe that something bad had happened. An x-ray the next morning confirmed the unfortunate truth—Ethan had slightly fractured his femur, just above the knee. We came home with Ethan’s leg in a quasi-cast—hard on the bottom, surrounded in an ace bandage—which will remain in place for at least four weeks.

We are feeling one snowflake short of an avalanche.

And so we will remain, for the time being, on low power mode. The mounting pile of mail, the growing stacks of miscellaneous papers, clothes, returning phone calls, texts, emails, etc. will have to wait. These things will still be here when we resurface, and that is just fine with me. For those local friends who have answered the call for Lotsa Helping Hands, thank you. For those of you who keep our family in your thoughts and prayers, thank you. For those of you who take the time to read our updates, thank you.

Let’s hope for an early spring,

Alexia and Scott

February 18, 2016

Read our new update on Ethan’s post surgery recovery and our “room with a view” at bit.ly

February 4, 2016

It’s a #Groundhogday Surgery Update bit.ly

February 1, 2016

Feb. 1, Ethan Update bit.ly

December 15, 2015

Eighth Night for Ethan Remarks – December 13, 2015

Dear Family,

As we have shared many times, you all are our family. The journey we are on seems to have lasted a lifetime, but in reality, it is still in its infancy. We have experienced the lowest of lows and rebounded to experience many breakthroughs. All of which would not be possible without your support and the support of so many others around the country and even around the world. THANK YOU.

This journey continues to be a very humbling experience for our family. We have been touched by so much good that helps lift us each day and provides Ethan with so many extras that we believe are contributing to his rehabilitation and recovery. Ethan currently receives therapies from his school, Bobbie B Fairfax, the Perlman Center at Cincinnati Children’s, private therapy providers, consultants specializing in neurological reorganization, energy healing, and most recently, a doctor of osteopathic medicine helping us approach Ethan’s recovery from a whole body point of view. All of this, along with home nursing from a team of dedicated nurses, as well as specialized equipment and continued home modifications, has been possible with your support.

You would not believe the networks and touch points that have been created from all of the internet postings, Facebook sharing, the brilliant coverage from our local news affiliates, and discussions across our care teams. Ethan has visited the Carrick Brain Center in Atlanta, the Rehabilitation Institute in Chicago, the Myofascial Release Center in Philadelphia, and just in the past two weeks, we have been contacted by families with experiences in using adaptive equipment to communicate. One of the families has lived this experience for the past 30 years as they are caring for their son who was injured in a lightning strike in July 1985. We have found these connections to be powerful in identifying new leads to experts who might be able to help Ethan with his rehabilitation and recovery. Please continue to help us share Ethan’s story – you never know if the next reader may have another avenue to share with us or new ways for covering the ongoing cost of his care. Ethan continues to rack up medical expenses nearing $1 million a year, with over $150 thousand of uninsured/uncovered expenses. All of this is why your continued support is so very important to Ethan and our family.

While Ethan has had significant breakthroughs in recent weeks, 2015 was not a great year for him from a hospitalization standpoint. He was admitted to Children’s Hospital seven times in the past year, for a total of 80 days. Over the last two and a half years, he has spent over 300 days in the hospital – about one third of the time since his injury. He deserves a BIG BREAK!

At Chanukah, one of the miracles we celebrate is the idea of one small flask of oil, discovered untouched in the rubbles of the destroyed and desecrated temple. This one small flask that contained enough oil to burn for one night, we are told that it burned for eight nights. In early July 2013, Scott and I watched from afar—through live-streaming technology—in amazement as our wonderful community of Cincinnati united here at Rockdale Temple, for a special prayer service for our son, Ethan, who was fighting for his life at Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis. The gathering here that night was really no different from the flask of oil—except for this. While the oil from the days of old—bayamim hahem—burned brightly for eight nights, the light and the energy that reached us from that prayer service have continued to fill our hearts with love and support, two and a half years later. That is one of our Chanukah miracles that we continue celebrating tonight.

Please join with us in singing the Shechehyanu, a prayer of Thanksgiving to God, for sustaining us and allowing us to reach this moment.

Two years ago, as our Cincinnati community gathered for the first Eighth Night for Ethan, we were not in attendance. Rather, we were anxiously awaiting news from Ethan’s surgeon, as he had been taken for emergency abdominal surgery—one of many huge obstacles we have faced with Ethan since June 2013. Our oldest son, Zakary, delivered our remarks that evening. Those remarks included a future hope—that we still hold close to our heart— that someday Ethan would be able to participate in Eighth Night for Ethan—at a time when funds were no longer needed for his ongoing medical care, but rather Ethan would designate those funds to another worthy cause.

Tonight’s celebration would not have been possible without the efforts, devotion and love of a dedicated group of friends. Without sounding like an Academy Awards acceptance speech, we send a shout out to our rabbis, Rockdale staff, Eighth Night for Ethan committee, to our families, and to all of you who have come out to celebrate miracles big and small with us. We also send our tremendous gratitude to an unstoppable force, called Team Ethan—over 400 strong—who have rallied behind us and continue to push us forward. We would be remiss not to mention HelpHOPELive, an organization who’s HELP has been invaluable in bringing HOPE to Ethan’s LIFE.

We would like to conclude our remarks with a quote from Moshe Davis and Victor Ratner

A candle is a small thing.
But one candle can light another.
And see how its own light increases,
as a candle gives its flame to the other.
You are such a light.

Alexia and Scott Kadish

December 14, 2015

Our Hanukkah Hiccup

We’ve been told that Ethan has this uncanny ability to time his hospitalizations around holidays: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Chanukah, Passover, Birthdays, and Mother’s Day. I guess the odds are that when you spend more than 300 days in the hospital over 2 ½ years’ time, you’re bound to be in-patient over some holidays. This week’s holiday of Hanukkah is no different. Ethan was diagnosed with a UTI on Tuesday morning, and by Tuesday afternoon, his bowels decided to take a siesta. We know all too well that when his bowels go to sleep, then we need to head down with him to CCHMC. It’s a phenomenon that we have lovingly diagnosed as “Quiet Bowel Syndrome,” and the prescription is complete bowel rest, time and patience. Fortunately, we are seeing a much quicker turnaround than we have seen with all of his other hospitalizations for the same issue. His systems have woken up and we have begun feeding him through his G-Tube and we are watching for his tolerance. If all goes well, Ethan will be discharged sooner rather than later.

This Sunday is the 3rd annual Eighth Night for Ethan. A wonderful committee of great friends has worked tirelessly to put together a fundraising celebration for Ethan on the last night of Hanukkah. While our intention was to bring Ethan to this year’s event, we will have to wait and see if he is discharged from the hospital and if he’s strong enough to attend. Regardless, we will be there, and we look forward to seeing whoever is available to join us. We welcome you all, whether your traditions include Chanukah or not! Let’s light the last candles together, and thank God for the many miracles in our lives.

Happy Hanukkah and Shabbat Shalom!

Alexia and Scott

December 14, 2015

After watching the amazing breakthrough video of Ethan blinking his answers to his mom’s questions, Jacob Smilg, 13 immediately knew what he wanted to build for Ethan Kadish. Jacob got to work programming and wiring his @arduino and @adafruit LED board to craft an impressive Communication Yes/No Board for Ethan to use with his family and friends. Jacob is an 8th grader at Sycamore Jr. High School in Cincinnati, Ohio and a URJ-GUCI camper.
Visit www.jointeamethan.org to read more about this incredible gift for Ethan.

November 3, 2015

We are ecstatic to share this video update of Ethan, showing signs of understanding and communication. This is a game-changer, as it will open up more avenues of engaging with the world around him. Who knows where he will go from here?

youtu.be

Thank you to Team Ethan for your constant love and support. A more detailed update on Ethan is in the works; this latest development trumps anything I was writing!

Much love and strength,
Alexia and Scott

September 17, 2015

Last night during Ethan’s evening home PT exercises he broke his left humerus bone. Definitely not humorous. Ethan’s left upper arm (elbow to shoulder) is in a temporary splint for the next five days until he is seen again by the orthopedist to receive his cast. The discussion around the house is what color the cast should be. Elyse votes for purple/pink and Zak says orange/black.

This is not the break we were hoping for.

– Read the rest on our blog: www.jointeamethan.org

July 20, 2015

HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

We cannot believe you are 15 years old today. Wow.

Your focus, dedication and determination are impressive. You have taught us and many others so many valuble lessons over the past two years. THANK YOU.

We wish you another year of rehabilitation and successful therapies. We hope you are as pain free as possible and find comfort each day.

We are right by your side helping you reach your full potential. We will never give up. We will support you always.

Enjoy your special day.

Love,
Mom and Dad

June 29, 2015

Thank you, Lucy May, Emily Maxwell and WCPO, for sharing the story of our journey with the utmost respect and compassion.
bit.ly

June 29, 2015

HelpHOPELive has featured Ethan and our family in a very special blog post today. blog.helphopelive.org

June 29, 2015

A Day in the Life of Ethan…..

Wait until you get to the exciting part of his day…around 6:45PM. Sorry in advance for the long post, Ethan lives an active life some days.

THURSDAY, JUNE 18:
7AM – Lindsey, our night nurse, reports Ethan had a great night of sleep.

8AM – Caleb, our day nurse, arrives to take Ethan to his Summer School Program.

8:45AM – Ethan and Caleb head off on the bus.

12:15PM – Ethan and Caleb arrive home. Caleb reports that Ethan enjoyed a lazy day and slept through most of the morning.

5PM – Power at home goes out due to thunderstorms and heavy rain

5:45PM – Scott gets home and Ethan is still enjoying a lazy day. Maybe the change in weather, or all the rain, has made Ethan tired?

6PM – Scott sends a text to Lindsey, our night nurse, to expect lots of traffic and to warn that key intersections around us do not have working traffic lights due to the lack of power.

6:15PM – Scott gives Ethan his evening Prevacid and fills his feed bag with formula.

6:30PM – Scott and Alexia are looking forward to Thirsty Thursday at our local wine store – A Bottle or Two. Lindsey is scheduled to arrive at 7PM.

6:45PM – Feed pump alarms – No Flow. Not a good alarm to get when the feed bag was just filled. Scott (the Chemical Engineer) tries to advance water through the feeding tube – no luck. This is not a good sign, as it indicates a possible clog in the line.

6:50PM – Alexia calls his Medical Team (Complex Care). Ethan needs to go to the Emergency Department (ED) to get his tube replaced. If the tube cannot be replaced tonight then he will need an IV for maintenance fluids and will be admitted to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital (CCHMC) until the tube can be replaced.

7:05PM – Lindsey arrives and we share the exciting news with her.

7:15PM – Alexia comes up with a PLAN. Scott and Lindsey (she can accompany to the hospital up until he is admitted — at least it’s not a complete waste of a work night!) will take Ethan to the ED while Alexia and Zak join friends for dinner.

8:30PM – Arrive at CCHMC. Nice remodel of the ED waiting area.

8:45PM – Ethan gets a room in the ED.

9:30PM – Ethan heads to Radiology for X-rays to confirm his feeding tube placement. Tried to place a wire in his feeding tube to facilitate the replacement tonight. UNSUCCESSFUL.

10:30PM – Return to ED to understand next steps.

11PM – IV placed and maintenance fluids started. Not a good sign. Doctors talk about admitting him until the procedure can be done in the OR under anesthesia.

11:15PM – Ethan falls asleep.

FRIDAY, JUNE 19:
12:30AM – A room has been identified but it needs to be cleaned. Scott offers to go clean the room if it helps move the process along.

1:15AM – Room ready – yeah. Lindsey heads for home.

1:30AM – Ethan arrives at his room. Still asleep. It is very clean. NO bed.

1:40AM – Bed arrives.

1:45AM – Overnight Doctors go over meds.

2AM – Scott settles into the uncomfortable parent couch/bed to get some sleep.

5:15AM – The IV pump alarms. Low Battery. The nurse did not plug the pump into the electrical outlet when we arrived at 1:30AM. Bummer. Ethan slept through it – Scott did not!

9:15AM – Rounds. Working on a PLAN for today.

10:30AM – Ethan is an Add-On for the procedure to place a new GJ Tube in the OR under general anesthesia. This is hospital code for “You will wait a long time before having your procedure.” Our concerns are rising as Ethan’s GI system is slow to respond post anesthesia – but at this point there are no better options to replace his tube.

11:15AM – Bath Time. Might as well make good use of Ethan’s day.

12:30PM – Lunch for Scott. Ethan is still sleeping – strange. Why?

2:40PM – Ethan gets the green light to head down to the OR.

3:30PM – Ethan is wheeled into the OR for his GJ Tube replacement.

4:15PM – Scott talks with the Doctor who replaced Ethan’s GJ Tube. Now the fun begins. Ethan has to prove he can maintain his target feed rate of 120 ml/hr. Given the late afternoon procedure, Ethan will spend at least one more night in the hospital. Hoping he will be home for Father’s Day.

Shabbat Shalom to all and Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads out there.

Alexia and Scott

June 29, 2015

Reflections on Camp Drop-off 2015 – jointeamethan.org

May 12, 2015

Home! ’nuff said….

May 11, 2015

The Boomerang Effect – A Much Overdue Ethan Update. shar.es

June 1, 2015

Ethan has been readmitted to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center…. shar.es

April 2, 2015

Scattered….

That’s the feeling of the day/week/month. We spin in our own circles of work, therapies, doctor visits, school, extra-curricular stuff, etc. At the end of the day we often look to each other and say, “What happened?”

Working with Ethan is physically and mentally challenging and we eagerly collapse into bed each night. Yet we push forward and see that gradually there are some small, noticeable changes. The way that Ethan seems more present at times in conversations; the way he reacts during familiar times, like Shabbat; the more comfortable and tolerant he is during therapy sessions. While these are positive observances, we are all still waiting for…more.

Continue reading our update at www.jointeamethan.org

February 17, 2015

Home is the where the heart is. It’s also where Ethan is! And Scott, Alexia, Zakary, Elyse and Cincy. We are excited to be back together again after spending the last 29 days in the hospital. We are welcoming Shabbat as a family and enjoying the peace and wholeness it brings back into our lives.

Shabbat Shalom,
Alexia and Scott

February 2, 2015

Finding Strength in Stories, shar.es

January 20, 2015

We’ve posted an update on our blog page about Ethan’s surgical recovery at www.jointeamethan.org.

January 13, 2015

1/9/15
Dear Team Ethan:

Ethan came out of surgery beautifully and is resting comfortably. The doctors found and corrected a significant bowel obstruction which Ethan had developed, and he will continue his recovery in the ICU.

We felt your prayers.

Shabbat Shalom,
Alexia and Scott

January 13, 2015

1/8/15
Dear Team Ethan,

Please pray for Ethan.

Ethan developed abdominal issues and at 9:15 PM Ethan went into Operating Room for exploratory abdominal surgery.

Strengthen One Another,
Alexia and Scott

January 3, 2015

Dedicate Your Eighth Night to Ethan
written by Alexia and Scott Kadish
www.reformjudaism.org

January 3, 2015

Chanukah Takes on New Meaning for Family of Boy Struck by Lightning at Jewish Summer Camp
written by Adam Daley
www.goodnewsnetwork.org

December 14, 2014

Eighth Night for Ethan
Families are encouraged to donate to #HelpHOPELive in lieu of a gift exchange on the 8th night of Chanukah, December 23rd, and to light their eighth candle in Ethan’s honor.
Post your photos on Twitter with #8NE2 and Join Team Ethan on Facebook. Please watch and SHARE this video.
youtu.be

November 23, 2014

Thank you Team Ethan Philadelphia for all of your help for the past three weeks. jewishexponent.com

November 12, 2014

Visit us at www.jointeamethan.org for a new blog post on our adventures in Philadelphia.

October 20, 2014

Visit the Team Ethan booth at the Cincinnati Chocolate Festival on Sunday, October 19th at Xavier University’s Cintas Center from Noon to 5pm.

October 5, 2014

Visit the Team Ethan booth at the Cincinnati Chocolate Festival, located at Xavier University’s Cintas Center on October 19, from Noon – 5:00pm.

September 23, 2014

The 2nd Annual Home Run Derby in honor of Ethan is this Sunday, Sept. 28 behind Loveland Middle School at 12 Noon. This is a fun family event for all ages. Please join us!

September 9, 2014

Please join us this Friday, September 12th for Bites & Beverages with our good friend & Team Ethan supporter Penny Friedman as she presents her Fine Art Show at A. Maris Design, 2550 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati.
10% of each purchased piece will be donated to the Great Lakes Catastrophic Injury Fund at HelpHOPELive in honor of our son, Ethan Kadish.

August 22, 2014

We have posted an end of summer progress report on www.jointeamethan.org.

July 29, 2014

HAPPY BIRTHDAY – ETHAN!!
Your smile and laughter are infectious. We look forward to smiling and laughing with you all day long. Enjoy your special day. We LOVE YOU – Mom & Dad
jointeamethan.org

July 7, 2014

Thank you to all of the campers and staff at URJ Kutz Camp in Warwick, NY for donating towards Ethan’s campaign!

July 1, 2014

Ethan’s Story: The Power of Community: www.wcpo.com/ethankadish

June 11, 2014

..The Circle Game… on our blog, www.jointeamethan.org

June 8, 2014

Ani L’Dodi V’Dodi Li : on the blog www.jointeamethan.org

May 26, 2014

Help TEAM ETHAN make more connections. The power of multiplication. Can we turn 3,743 Likes into 7,484 Likes.. www.jointeamethan.org

May 20, 2014

Find some “JOY” at jointeamethan.org

May 20, 2014

Alexia Kadish wrote a beautiful essay for Mother’s Day. Please read it and share it with the mothers in your lives… www.wcpo.com

May 8, 2014

A very special envelope arrived from The White House a few weeks ago. Read about it on our blog at www.jointeamethan.org.

April 15, 2014

Thinking of the Kansas City Jewish Community
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kansas City Jewish Community and the Team Ethan family who live in KC or who have family or friends in the KC area.

April 7, 2014

Visit our blog to read about the latest updates about Ethan at www.jointeamethan.org

April 1, 2014

A little piece on abcnews.com about Ethan.
abcnews.go.com

March 31, 2014

Making Progress, Lots of Hope – Many Not Yets to Achieve
www.wcpo.com

March 25, 2014

Mazel Tov and Shabbat Shalom to the Lefton Family!
The #trimitzvah Weekend has arrived! Let’s all support Abby, Grace and Nathan with one final push for their #amazing three week long #fundraiser to #HelpHOPELive for Ethan! Just grab your friends and a ride over to Skyline Chili on Cornell Rd to eat in, drive-thru, or pick up a gift card for a fabulously fun meal and dine for #EthanKadish

www.jointeamethan.org

March 17, 2014

Please visit our blog site at jointeamethan.org for our latest entry with some exciting news…

March 6, 2014

It’s Skyline time!! Join Team Ethan to help raise funds to HelpHOPELive for Ethan Kadish while enjoying delicious food!! Starting today for the next two weeks…eat at Skyline on Cornell in Blue Ash…20% of your bill goes to help with Ethan’s medical care!! Get hungry…eat chili!!! #teamethan #trimitzvah#HelpHOPELive @jointeamethan

February 26, 2014

We are very #thankful for the #fundraisers that are being planned to #HelpHOPELive to help pay for Ethan’s medical related expenses that are uninsured. Every dollar counts and helps Ethan.

February 26, 2014

Here’s a recent news article about Ethan’s friends Asher & Nathan’s #5K4Ethan. www.theoaklandpress.com

February 20, 2014

How camp friends help each other, all year long! blogs.rj.org

February 26, 2014

Thank you to all who have purchased a chazak bracelet to help support Ethan Kadish and his ongoing medical costs.
The bracelets have shipped all over the United States from Florida to Maine, from Washington State to Southern California and many places in between and across the border into Canada.
In two months $7000 has been donated to HelpHOPELive from the sale of chazak bracelets! Thank you for your purchases! Please keep them coming as Ethan Kadish continues to need our support.
Amy Bennett
www.chazakbracelets.com

February 12, 2014

Just sat down with Ethan and the family to watch the live streaming of the concert in Cleveland. Thank you Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple and all those involved in tonight’s benefit concert!

February 12, 2014

Ethan’s older brother Zakary Kadish is his Brother’s Keeper.
www.jta.org

February 12, 2014

Live Streaming for the Kadish Chazak Cleveland Concert can be found at www.fairmounttemple.org on Sunday, February 9th at 7:30pm.

February 12, 2014

Will you be joining us in Cleveland on Feb. 9? www.clevelandjewishnews.com

February 12, 2014

Would you like to HELP TEAM ETHAN directly? We have a new tab on our www.jointeamethan.org home page. Please check it out.

January 25, 2014

Nice article about February 9 benefit concert in Cleveland:
solon.patch.com

January 4, 2014

Ethan Update ~ End of 2013

Determination gives you the resolve to keep going in spite of the roadblocks that lay before you.
Dennis Waitley

As we approach the end of 2013, we realize that Ethan and the rest of us are going through an ultra-marathon. The distance is far longer than it seems and it is difficult to distinguish between the mile markers. Most days feel as if we are taking two steps forward and one step backward, or two steps backward and one step forward. We struggle to measure progress some days and have lost track of how many days Ethan has been hospitalized in 2013 – about 6 months to-date. He is still recovering from his December 4 surgery; tomorrow will be four weeks since his readmission to the hospital. In addition to the major abdominal surgery, Ethan has had two fluid collections drained and has received several courses of antibiotics. The doctors are looking for him to be fever free, have negative fluid cultures, tolerate full feeds and be off of antibiotics before discharging him home. So, we continue to wait on Ethan Time for all of these objectives to be met. If all continues in this direction, Ethan may be discharged sometime around January 7. This means we will spend New Year’s Eve by Ethan’s side, ushering in the new calendar year. If you are so inclined, we welcome special New Year’s wishes to Ethan via the Team Ethan Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/jointeamethan) or the guestbook on our blog site www.jointeamethan.org.

Team Ethan remains as committed today as it was on day #1, which we so appreciate. This continues to strengthen us in more ways than we ever imagined and we will be forever grateful.

We wish everyone a healthy and happy New Year and we look forward to sharing news of Ethan’s return home. We are keeping our sights set in a forward direction, on a path that includes more milestones than pitfalls.

Staying strong as we turn the page in our calendar,
Alexia and Scott

January 4, 2014

URJ Goldman Union Camp Institute:

On December 7, we hosted an event to benefit Ethan Kadish and support the entire Kadish family. Here is a video containing the remarks made by Mark Covitz and Zakary Kadish prior to the benefit.

vimeo.com

December 10, 2013

A Tax Benefit for You, A Health Benefit for Ethan
As the holidays are almost upon us, please consider a tax-deductible end of year contribution to HelpHOPELive in honor of Ethan Kadish to help with medical bills.
www.bit.ly
www.jointeamethan.org

December 6, 2013

Eighth Night for Ethan Fundraiser Media Coverage

www.wcpo.com

December 6, 2013

Here is the first installment of Ethan’s Story from our friends at WCPO

www.wcpo.com

November 26, 2013

Day 145 – HOME
www.wcpo.com

November 18, 2013

Make Miracles Happen This Hanukah

urj.org

November 18, 2013

This video is about a new fundraiser that connects the 8th Night of Hanukkah and Ethan. Please consider giving up your 8th Night of Hanukkah for Ethan as he continues to fight for his life.

youtu.be

November 11, 2013

Team Ethan Indianapolis had a wonderful fundraiser. You can read the story here:
www.theindychannel.com

November 11, 2013

From Ethan’s friends in the Loveland City School District: news.cincinnati.com

October 16, 2013

Take a moment to join our Facebook page – “Join Team Ethan” on FB.
Thanks!

October 26, 2013

Wonderful article about the Home Run Derby:
news.cincinnati.com

October 15, 2013

Teen Hit By Lightning Slowly Improving
Updated: Tuesday, September 10 2013, 11:27 PM EDT
Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
www.local12.com