A Note from Chris & an Update

 Hello friends. 

(A picture from when we finally were together for Christmas at nearly the end of January!) 

Let's start with a note with love from Chris: 

"Hello,

I had hoped to update you maybe once a week, but I have not been able to get some things to Brittney. We met with a radiation oncologist and the doctor was very thorough. He reviewed all the tests with me, then explained that whole brain radiation would not be an option. What a relief! Personally, I don't want whole brain radiation. We have had some set backs with an ER visit which was somewhat helpful. Dan's parents and brother Kevin put a shower in our downstairs bathroom and a ramp in the back to get in and out of the house with ease. I also have an appointment with Dr. Kier tomorrow."

(The beautiful shower addition to the downstairs!) 

This was sent to me last Wednesday, and I apologize that it took me this long to send it out. Allow me to update on what has happened since Thursday.

Chris went to visit a radiologist as the scans in early January showed little improvement from the chemo. Her oncologist referred her to hear out the radiologist, but we were all a little wary of Mom starting radiation again. She had radiation during her first treatments five years ago, and it did not go well. Mom's sister was able to bring her in for her appointment, and the radiologist did not recommend any radiation treatments.

Thursday mom met with her oncologist. She was presented with the option of trying another form of chemotherapy for three months, with no real guarantee of success but high chances for some really nasty side effects. Otherwise, her doctor said our other real option is to proceed with hospice care. Ultimately, Chris and Dan decided to proceed with hospice.

Of course, this is not the good news we were hoping for, but we are praying and asking God for peace and joy even now, and we ask that he will give us courage and strength as we continue to support and be with mom. We ask that you would pray with us, "Your kingdom come, Your will to be done."

fear not, for I am with you;

    be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.     shall be put to shame and confounded;
those who strive against you
    shall be as nothing and shall perish. You shall seek those who contend with you,
    but you shall not find them;
those who war against you
    shall be as nothing at all.

 For I, the Lord your God,
    hold your right hand;
it is I who say to you, “Fear not,
    I am the one who helps you.”

Isaiah 41:10-13