"I know there is someone else in this fire with me."

Markus, age 20

Born medically complex and fragile. Feeling perfectly fine one day and then, BAM, serious complications strike. Hostile invaders threaten. Discouragement lurks in the shadows-and once again, a war is waged within Markus's own body.

Intense health struggles have dominated Markus's life of twenty years-and thus his family's as well. Together they tell their story.

I have heard two statements over and over, and most days, I do not have a clear-cut, decisive answer. "Call if you need anything," usually leaves me completely tongue-tied. "How can I help?" makes my mind feel like it is immediately an empty, blank void. It is both humbling and wonderful when others want to help. We need help, lots of help, more than I will ever admit.

Deb Bachman, Mom

"This is a story that nobody asks to be in, but it's a story of strength and faith against incredible odds, and it's full of heroes."

Larry Bond, Author