Hi friends and family,

Dad had an appointment at Northwestern for his 6 week follow up MRI on Wednesday, 3/13. Due to the growth shown on the January MRI they decided to do an MRI in 6 weeks instead of 8 weeks.  His regular neuro-oncologist was out of the country so we met with one of his colleagues to review and discuss the MRI imaging. Sadly, there's more tumor growth from the 1/22/24 MRI despite trying one cycle of the new chemotherapy. Dad has been showing more symptoms as a direct result of the tumor growth including behavioral changes, loss of coordination, and ability to focus. To hopefully combat these symptoms he has been taking a steroid to help with the swelling at the moment. So far mom believes it has been helping so fingers crossed that continues. 

Today we were able to connect (via televisit) with his regular Northwestern neuro-oncologist and confirm next treatment options. Both doctors believe the best next steps are to continue a second round of the chemotherapy in conjunction with a targeted therapy called Avastin. Avastin should help similar to the steroid to minimize symptoms dad has been having. It is a tumor- starving therapy that is suppose to prevent the growth of new blood vessels (blood vessels that feed the tumors). This type of therapy will be via infusion so he will have to go somewhere around Peoria to have this done once every 3 weeks (at least for now). There are risks to adding on this new treatments so please say some prayers that he continues to tolerate both treatments well with minimal side effects AND that we can see some tumor reduction. Dad is still continuing his PT once/twice a week and OT and speech once a week. I'm so proud of his determination and commitment to staying active even when I know he can't be feeling his best. He's one tough cookie to say the least!!  

This is definitely not the news we were expecting or hoping for. Dad remains positive and mom remains hopeful and we are praying for complete healing. Mom been an amazing caregiver since the beginning and remains by his side 24/7. 

Thank you all for showing up in the many ways by bringing over meals, picking me up from the airport, offering to come "hang out" with dad so mom could step away for an hour, sending dad cards, and raising our spirits when they are low. Navigating the cancer world is heart breaking and overwhelming so it is reassuring to know we have wonderful people in our lives. THANK YOU x100000!

Ashley