ATLANTA — Hope is on the horizon for Michael.

After undergoing significant lung surgery just four days ago, this courageous 12-year-old is experiencing a welcome relief. The post-surgery period has not been easy, marked by a sudden fever, an accelerated heartbeat, and intense pain that could topple even the strongest adults.

However, Tuesday morning ushered in a wave of optimism. Michael has been removed from oxygen support and is diligently working to restore his lung capacity. True to his spirited nature, he even managed to spend some time in the hospital’s kids’ zone, spreading his infectious positivity.

Currently, Michael is receiving three different antibiotics, with his last dose set for Tuesday afternoon. If everything progresses smoothly, he might be heading home as soon as Wednesday.

For his family, that word, home, carries enormous weight.

Michael’s journey has been one of remarkable resilience. He’s thrown out the first pitch at a Braves game and found comfort in Blanche, his emotional-support dog who has stayed by his side through countless difficult moments.

He’s fought through relapse, endured a leg amputation, and conquered physical therapy while still cracking jokes with nurses. He even found a way to dominate arcade basketball on one leg.

On Monday, he wrapped up his fourth round of chemotherapy. Despite nausea, phantom pain, and long hospital days, he keeps showing up with that same spark.

Michael has two rounds of chemotherapy left. His family is asking for continued prayers for strength, endurance, and complete healing.

He’s a fighter, but he’s also just a kid who wants to feel like a kid again. And today, for the first time in a while, it feels like he’s getting closer.