Good afternoon everyone!
We were able to meet with Dr. Chan today to discuss Randy's radiation treatment in more detail. It was a long appointment, but very informative. We were able to go over all of the risks and side effects of radiation and get Randy all set for his treatment. They did another CAT Scan that they will use along with Randy's most recent MRI to make the plan for radiation. They also made a "mask" of Randy's face that he will wear each time he goes for radiation - it is designed to keep his head/face perfectly still for precise treatment...he can take it home with him when he is done with treatment :-)
We did find out that Randy will get the remainder of his staples taken out on Friday, March 20th...he can't wait! Then on Monday, March 23rd, Randy will have his first radiation treatment. He will have treatment Monday-Thursday the first week, Tuesday-Friday the following week and then daily (M-F) for the remaining weeks (until the first week in May). He will not be able to drive during this time (makes sense...he still has very limited range of motion in his neck...and they are radiating his brain so they want to be safe with side effects).
Along with this we also learned that Randy will continue to have in home physical therapy for another 3 weeks or so (3 days a week) and then outpatient physical therapy at a different site for 4 more weeks (3 days a week)...do I get a chauffer's license after all of this?????
Please be praying with us that Randy will have minimal or even no side effects to his radiation treatment. The most common side effects would be loss of hair in the radiated region, tanning or reddening of the skin in the area treated, fatigue (usually around week 3 or 4), possible swelling in his brain, and/or possible side effects with his pituitary glands. They believe that his pituitary glands will be okay because they really aren't doing a whole brain radiation so that is good. If he does have swelling in his brain he will be put back on a steroid medication. We obviously are praying that this does not happen. Randy's blood sugars tend to spike with this type of medication (as found out in the hospital) and it would lead to monitoring blood sugar levels, following an ADA diet, and possible insulin. Finally, we are asking that people continue to pray that this tumor does not return in any way shape or form and that the radiation does not cause any time of secondary cancer. We believe that God is preforming complete healing in Randy's body are looking forward to living a long and healthy life together. While any tumor of the brain is "technically" considered to be a form of cancer, Randy's results are promising (benign and the majority of the tumor removed) - God is SO GOOD and has given us a tremendous amount of faith and strength as we go through this journey...we can only hope that you are encouraged also as you walk this journey with us.
Thank you again for all of your support, prayers and kindness. We feel so humbled to be a part of such a tremendous family and group of friends. The outpouring of love is overwhelming. We know that we have a long road ahead of us, but we also know that with the support that we have in each of you along with the strength and faith we have in God - we will come out victorious...GOODBYE TUMOR - FOREVER!!!!
Have a great Wednesday everyone....we will be in touch with more updates and photo's soon.
Love,
Rachel (and Randy)
Spinach Vegetable Dip Recipe
2 days ago
2 comments:
I read this and thought it would encourage you and Randy also. Many times we don't know they "whys" of life but we do know the source of hope, joy, peace, strength that can be with us not matter the unexpected "pothole" that crosses our journey.
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
(Philippians 4:13, NIV)
Ever hit a pothole while driving? It's jarring, unexpected and
usually makes you feel annoyed as you wonder what damage might have
been done to your tires or suspension. In the same way, life will
have those jarring moments that worry you. And, like potholes, they
seem to come out of nowhere.
From his prison cell, the Apostle Paul wrote how he'd "learned to
be content whatever the circumstances" he faced. (Philippians 4:11)
His secret? He knew that anything could be accomplished as Christ
empowered him. That truth gave him an optimism, based in faith,
even when he found himself behind bars. What about you? Rich or
poor, well or sick, fed or hungry - or somewhere in between - you
can be content today, filled with peace of mind, as you recognize
the unlimited ability of the One who lives within you and trust in
Him.
Reading: Ephesians 3:16-21
Dad and I love you so much and as parents surely want the best of everything in life. We also know that when things happen, our faith in Jesus our saviour, is the best and he is always with us. Our family has seen the power of God in the miracles and in the many friends and family that have and are giving such wonderful support in so many loving ways.
Love Mom & Dad
thanks mom and dad...we love you so much - you have given of yourselves in tremendous ways that have forever impacted our family and in particular our little boy.
love you
rachel
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