RESPITE.  This has been the word echoing throughout my entire being for months on end as I have craved some relief - some small lessening, a short break - from grief and trial and difficulty. If you've asked how you can be praying for us at all during this time, you've probably heard me say this word. My soul has called out to God at a loss for any words other than, "Please have mercy. Please allow us some respite."

Over the last several months, Jason has been having seizures, had two unexpected hospital stays, and had an MRI that alerted the doctors to two new spots in his brain and one in his spine. We waited anxiously for another MRI in August to give us a clearer picture of what was happening and our hearts faltered and despaired in the waiting and fatigue. Finally, a chance to meet with the neuro-oncologist, and since then, things started to unravel - in a GOOD way!

Jason was put on anti-seizure medication, which so far has eliminated his falling spells and significantly diminished the instances of seizures. RESPITE. And all the neuro-oncologist had to tell us was that the new spots in Jason's brain and spine had all either disappeared or significantly shrunk! RESPITE. The spots apparently might have been swollen blood vessels, scar tissue, brain trauma, a shadow in the scan... nobody is sure, but the plan is to just continue on with MRIs every three months and keep an eye on those areas along with everything else! RESPITE finally.

In the wake of these close calls, Jason has decided he'd like to try to start working a little bit again. With him being steadier on his feet, and getting help through acupuncture, massage, medication, etc. to keep his nerve pain under control, he feels that establishing a routine and purpose rooted in work he is passionate about can only aid in his recovery at this point. We are hopeful that doors will open to enable this transition to go smoothly for him.

We are both so grateful at how you all have shown up for us again and again over these last several months. There have been so many things - big and small - that have touched our hearts and eased our burdens. Our fireplace mantle is covered with cards and notes you have sent, hand delivered, and left on our doorstep. You've blessed us immeasurably by providing meals and contributing to our GoFundMe account. We are so thankful for you!

Many of you have asked again recently how you can be supporting us. With Jason planning to start working again, I need to get back into his office to get it ready for him to use with clients again - and also finish everything that was put on pause abruptly when he got his diagnosis. So I'm wondering if anyone has time to come down for a work day to help me? I need help cleaning, installing curtain rods/hanging curtains, finishing painting trim around windows, setting up a small shelf, etc. If you are able and interested in helping (and local, obviously!), could you please reach out to me in the next few days?

With gratitude ~

Camille