Alex's pet scan went well and there has been significant improvements with his lymphoma. The cancer has shrunk, the mass is much smaller, and the oncologist agreed that radiation would not be necessary. His outcomes for healing, with or without it will be the same, and the risks associated with it are not necessary to take at this time.

This does mean that he will have to do chemotherapy for an extra four cycles, which is equivalent to two months of more time than the original four months he has to do. Because he has been tolerating it so well, we do feel that this is an acceptable and good option for him.

We were told that one of the chemo medication's that he takes is in an international shortage. They have allotted enough for his next couple cycles, but after that they will be switching the drugs that he is taking, so we don't know how they will affect him.

Alex asked about gathering with people, traveling somewhere by car to get some time away, or returning to more regular activities, and he was told very clearly that this is not possible. He still is supposed to stay out of group settings, try and avoid children as much as possible and was advised not to travel. Even though he doesn't feel bad right now, it's hard because he has no immune system to fight off sickness. We do recognize this and realize that it is important that he is as careful as can be. 

For now we are content with the fact that this won't be forever, the treatment is working, and we anticipate full healing from it.