It’s been a while since we posted, but now is a good time for an update. The last few weeks for Jonah have consisted of a lot of rest, medications, lab and doctor visits.  Slowly, but surely, he continues to get stronger. He is pushing himself daily with walks and stretching and we are all very proud of him!

 

This week, he started to drive again and took Jake to basketball practice. Sometimes, its all the little things we take for granted, isn't it? 

 

The week before Thanksgiving, we had a scare and that's the reason we did not post. Some of the pain in Jonah's legs (similar to when he was first diagnosed) came back. Jonah's doctor was very kind and moved his MRI up by two weeks. We were panic stricken and we continued to get more afraid as the days went on. We were grateful to have the MRI BEFORE Thanksgiving. The MRI came back clear. We think the pain was always there, but being masked by some of the pain medication Jonah was taking during Round 5 of chemotherapy. He is also moving a lot more and after being (mostly) stationary for 5 months, his muscles need to be strengthened again.

 

We read an article that helps with living with the fear of recurrence. Our family will have to face this for a long time. But, we are coming up with a plan to help with the fears when they enter our minds. 

 

On Thursday, Jonah had his 7th spinal tap. This looks in the CSF (or fluid in the spinal column) for bad cells. We found out today that his CSF is clear! There is an acronym in the oncology world N.E.D. or No Evidence of Disease and these are the letters we have prayed for morning, noon and night. We will see Jonah's doctor on Wednesday to get the official confirmation of N.E.D., but the numbers we have seen are good. They are negative for tumor markers/malignancy. This was the best news we have ever received in our lives!

 

(We might even begin the discussion about having Jonah's port removed.)

 

We are so grateful and thankful for your support and prayers.  Jonah still has a long road ahead of him to become Jonah 2.1, but we will help him get there.

 

I have included a picture of Jonah from 10 minutes ago.

 

With much love, 

Team Jonah #JDStrong

 

PS A little shout-out to the Trojans and the Trojan Moms! Jonah's friends' caring, support, kindness, rides and most of all friendship have truly been the BEST medicine.