Going Home…

Little Banner Frum, born three months ago, is heading home after a liver transplant, a rare and complex procedure for a newborn.

His three-month hospital stay likely involved managing rejection risks and infections.

Going home is a major milestone, but his family will need to monitor medications, attend frequent check-ups and protect his immune system.

With proper care, Banner’s outlook is promising, like others who thrive post-transplant.

STORY IS HERE (WITH VIDEO)

An Earthquake In Tennessee?

A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Greenback, Tennessee, about 30 miles southwest of Knoxville, on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, at 9:04 a.m. EDT, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The quake, initially reported as 3.5 magnitude, was felt across the Southeast, including Atlanta, Georgia, and parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Kentucky, and Virginia.

Over 40,000 public reports were submitted to the USGS within the first hour, indicating light shaking but no significant damage or injuries. The quake occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 15 miles in the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone, one of the most active seismic areas in the Southeast.

There’s a 5% chance of a magnitude 4 or larger aftershock in the next week, and a 23% chance of a magnitude 3 or higher aftershock, though experts note these are unlikely to cause damage.

LINK IS HERE

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

Daily writing prompt
What does freedom mean to you?

Freedom is a word that carries different meanings for everyone, shaped by personal experiences, values and circumstances. To me, freedom is the ability to live authentically, make choices that align with my values and pursue a life of purpose without undue constraint. It’s not just about the absence of restrictions but the presence of opportunities to grow, create and connect with others meaningfully.

At its heart, freedom means being able to express who I am without fear of judgment or repression. This includes the freedom to share my thoughts, whether through writing, conversation, or creative pursuits. It’s about having a voice and knowing it can be heard, even if not everyone agrees. Self-expression also extends to how I choose to live—whether it’s through the career I pursue, the hobbies I embrace, or the relationships I nurture.

Another vital aspect of freedom is the power to make choices. This doesn’t mean having unlimited options but rather the ability to decide what’s best for me based on my circumstances and values. Whether it’s choosing a career path, deciding where to live, or even smaller daily decisions like what to read or how to spend my time, freedom lies in having agency over my life’s direction. With this comes responsibility, as every choice shapes my future and, often, impacts others.

Freedom isn’t absolute; it exists in balance with the freedoms of others. My ability to live freely shouldn’t come at the expense of someone else’s rights or well-being. This balance requires empathy, respect and a willingness to compromise. For example, I value the freedom to speak my mind, but I also recognize the importance of listening to others and fostering dialogue rather than conflict.

Finally, freedom to me is about growth. It’s the chance to learn, evolve and become a better version of myself. This means having access to knowledge, experiences and opportunities that challenge my perspectives while expanding my horizons. It’s about being free to fail, learn from mistakes and try again without being defined by setbacks.

It’s not just about breaking free from chains but about building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. While external factors like laws and societal norms play a role, true freedom starts within—by knowing who I am, what I value and how I want to contribute to the world. Ultimately, freedom is the space to live with purpose, connect with others and embrace the journey of becoming.