Dear friends, Charissa here reporting from Austin, TX. On May the 2nd, we celebrated Amy's 63rd birthday! While this birthday looked vastly different from the 62 that came before, there was at least cake (a much anticipated event for someone with restricted sugar intake.)

Amy had her 8th round of chemo on Monday the 6th and we anticipate continuing as scheduled--her numbers look great, her cancer antigens remain in the normal range, she is maintaining her weight, and her side effects are still tolerable. There may only be 4 more rounds to go (yay!) but they are likely to become increasingly difficult as the chemo drugs further compound. We pray Amy will remain on track and feeling well.

Now, she may not like this, but I would like to take a moment to relay how immensely proud I am of my mother. Amy has been immersed in the presence of God in a way I cannot describe. She exudes joy and peace in the midst of what is surely the most difficult challenge she has faced (and hopefully will face.) I have heard nary a complaint from this woman even on her most miserable days. Amy not only crushes her recovery every day, but also makes space for God to use her circumstance for his glory. She is a remarkable woman with even more remarkable faith--but you already knew that, I'm sure.

As always, I am truly amazed by the community surrounding Amy and John, both here an afar, and we consider ourselves blessed to know you all. Thank you for loving our family.

Please pray:

+ Amy will gain weight.

+ Amy's cancer antigens will be reduced to zero.

+ Amy's side effects will continue to be tolerable.

+ Amy's treatment will remain on track.