Clay’s Story

Site created on June 7, 2015

Back in late January, Clay took a spill onto his left hip while skiing. Didn't look too bad, and he didn't really complain of any pain...until a few days later. We thought that he'd just pulled a muscle or bruised something. On and off over the next few weeks he'd have some pain and need some Motrin to help out. As the weeks progressed, there didn't seem to be an improvement, even with regular chiropractic visits and "RICE." On April 4th, as we completed the long drive from Mexico -- the culmination of a wonderful week serving God -- his hip really started to give him some pain. This started a couple weeks of more intense pain that kept him from resting well at night. We decided that it was time to see the doctor. Weeks later, and what seems to be every test known to man, Clay has been diagnosed as having Ewing's Sarcoma. It is affecting his left hip bone, tumor behind the hip bone, a nodule in the lungs, and possibly involving his L-2 vertebrae. Our God is a big God and we know that he is with us on this journey. We choose to praise Him in all things...even this. 

Newest Update

485

Journal entry by Katy Smotherman —

485 days...485 days since the last dose of chemotherapy trial drug, Ganitumab...at the end of January ‘18 it will be two years since the last dose of serious chemotherapy...on March 7th ‘18 (Clay’s 22nd birthday) it will be two years since the last dose of radiation.

We continue to praise God for His miraculous healing of Clay. Today we just got the “STILL ALL CLEAR” from his doctors and staff at Kaiser! It couldn’t be a more wonderful Christmas gift. It was a joy today to all go back to the pediatric oncology clinic and hug many of the precious individuals that were an integral part of our lives for 16 months. What a joy to walk back in with a happy, healthy, vibrant 21-year-old. 

Clay graduated from Sierra College back in May of this year with an AA in Automotive Technology and was hired by Von Housen Mercedes in Rocklin. He is enjoying working and learning...and, driving amazing cars doesn’t hurt too much either. ;)

I’m having difficulty putting thoughts into words...suffice it to say, gratefulness at God’s unmerited favor towards us is paramount in my mind right now. Thank you to each of you as you were a part of the framework that supported our family through this dark valley and know how much we love and appreciate you!

Merry Christmas from our family to you!
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