Everything on x-ray looks great. There is even a difference in his ribcage, which gives the doctor reason to believe that Carter is breathing easier, too. He again told us that the operation went better than he had expected. Although not completely straight, by outward appearances, he looks pretty close. His lower back, which was untouched, looks great as well. 

Carter has started to ride his bike and is really enjoying it. His endurance is low, but he’ll get there. Therapy has to continue for at least 2 more months. He still can’t bend, lift, or twist, which is getting more challenging the better he feels. He wants to play catch and swing a bat so bad. Meanwhile, fishing has become his obsession. He is making me somewhat crazy with all the fish talk. Fortunately, we found a lake close by that he can ride his bike to. Now if he could just quit losing tackle and catch a fish. 

He is having a bone marrow biopsy done as I type this. Prayers for the days ahead would be appreciated. I am growing a little anxious regarding the results. Even in this, though, I can find reasons to be thankful. We found this doctor as a result of being placed on the hematology floor after spine surgery. This is not typically where spine patients are placed. Previously, we were being followed by a different hem/onc doctor, but this team seems to be a better fit.

They are specifically looking at/for marrow cellularity, morphology, leukemic changes, and genetic things specific to his marrow. Potentially other things too, but it is a lot to take in and comprehend. We will discuss more in depth at follow up clinic visits. I’m going to try not to worry and dive-in deep to something that is just a “what-if” at this point. I’d rather save my energy and time for learning about a specific diagnosis should he receive one. And, so, I’ll wait. I should have a CBC by the time I leave here, but other tests will take about a week. 

In all of this, we can really see the hand of the Lord and his direction of our paths. We are grateful and trusting Him for the future. His promises never fail.