CaringBridge

We are pleased to inform you that Joseph’s brain tumor has stopped growing. His most recent MRI showed a small amount of shrinkage. Though it is not yet fully gone, it can now be considered stable. During his doctor's visit last week, his radiation oncologist could not stop smiling. We don’t need to come back for follow up for 12 months!

Right around this time two short years ago, when Joseph was finishing radiation, he was in the toughest fight of his life. As you can see in the pictures, he is doing so much better now. We were told several months ago that he may have to be on steroids for the rest of his life. We are happy to report that he is not even taking so much as an aspirin and is completely off all medications!

The most common remedy lately seems to be an ice pack to treat an occasional bloody lip or bruised head from his frequent falling. Some of you might know that in addition to the balance centers of his brain, the emotional areas were also impacted by radiation. As a parent, you never want to see your child crying. Strangely, seeing him not being able to cry might even be worse. 

On New Years Eve he happened to take a spill as we were leaving the home of our dear friends. We all rushed around him to console Joe, and much to our surprise we saw two streams of tears dripping down his face. While they were not tears of joy for him, as circumstances would have it, they were for us. 

In addition to his challenge of not crying and balance deficits, his vision is the other main area that we are waiting to see fully restored. We believe in the power of prayer and the one to whom we pray. The triune God of the Bible. 

We cannot thank you enough for your continued support and especially those who pray to Jesus on Joseph’s behalf. 

If you’re not in the habit of praying to Jesus, I would invite you to consider it. Invite Holy Spirit to help you and he will guide your words. End it with “In Jesus name, Amen” It is so powerful. 

For those that have prayed, we hope that you will continue to lift Joseph up in prayer. We are in a season of rest and reprieve from the rigors of the fight. There may be future battles ahead of us but we are most certainly enjoying this time and our hearts are filled with gratitude. Join us in giving thanks for His provisions big and small, during the highs and the lows. 

Philippians 4:6

In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 

Nate and Marcie