September often gives me pause. I feel a responsibility to raise my voice, to emphasize the devastating nature of cancer and it's  enduring impact. Many of you know my sweet spot in more in the background, but this disease typically doesn't allow for that.  

As the time creeps away from the initial diagnosis days I find myself trying to remember some of the details that I thought were etching in my brain forever.  I think this is a positive sign.  Nonetheless, we continue to maintain regular visits with several doctors, a necessity to manage treatment side effects and keep an eye on any potential secondary cancers. Cooper has even managed to find a way to earn some income through study appointments lately! 😉

Our recent appointments brought good news:

- In January, Cooper had successful cataract surgery, and he's now looking sharp in his glasses.
- March marked the start of his "limitless meds" in Neurology, and they're doing wonders.
- April's MRI showed no evidence of disease.
- August's Audiology results were stable with no further hearing loss.
- Endocrinology revealed Cooper is growing 4 inches per year, so growth hormones aren't needed.
- The long Neuropsychology appointment in August, which he got paid for, was part of a study comparing proton and photon radiation effects.

Looking ahead:

- September has a routine Ophthalmology follow-up.
- December brings another MRI that always keeps us on edge.
- Cardiology will assess treatment-related heart issues.
- And in Neurology, they'll review how the "limitless" pill is working and address any cognition concerns.

Now, switching gears to our regular life updates: Cooper just started junior high, and initially, it was a bit of a whirlwind with the fast-paced classes and all the moving around. We quickly realized that having a structured routine works wonders for him, and we've assembled quite the team of support to help build an education plan that allows him make strides in school.  

Cooper's newest thing is golf, and it's turning out to be a fantastic fit for him. We gave baseball a shot, but let's just say having high-speed balls coming at him wasn't the best match for his slower processing speed. So, he joined a golf league this summer and is enjoying going with pretty regularly with Ripley.  He even is trying to team up with his buddy to start a school golf team.  

Now, let's talk about Gracie's latest adventures. She's in her sophomore year, and it seems like she's really hitting her stride. She's tapping into her creative side with a studio art class, sharpening her Spanish-speaking skills, and finding some classes genuinely intriguing.  

On top of that, she's on the school's JV Volleyball team, after playing in a club over the summer.  She plays the middle blocker/server and even trying out a few other positions too. It looks like she has found her sport.  Outside of school and sports, she's working at a local bagel store, with quite a few of her friends and has been raking in the dough (pun intended)😄

I hope this message brings you all in good health and cheers to a cancer free future!