Happy May! It’s hard to believe that we are already thinking about summer, but the heat is headed our way and the lovely cicadas here in Middle Tennessee confirm that it’s around the corner.

It’s been a minute since the last update, which is not necessarily a bad thing. I am a believer in the “no news is good news” approach to things. So, for some news…

RJ had an MRI a few weeks back and, from what the doctors have shared, the tumors all appear to be stable, and in fact there appears to be a slight decrease in what we have come to refer to as Karen, the original tumor. His lymphocyte levels are still low, too low to continue with the clinical trial, but as soon as they return to normal, he will return to Washington University to restart the drug trial. There have been challenges with sodium regulation, but RJ’s care team is on top of things and making sure he is closely monitored to reduce any associated risk.

In the meantime, RJ is continuing with Avastin and has his fourth IV infusion today (infusions are every other Wednesday). He is also continuing with weekly physical therapy to help with mobility and is doing very well. His customized wheelchair finally arrived, and he has been able to get out and about which is always good for the spirit!

The visits have continued and are greatly appreciated! All of the girls (Heidi, Michelle, and Jennifer) have been able to visit the last several weeks, and Addison attended not one, but two proms! Bob and Rita, Opa and Yaya, remain a constant pillar of strength and support. We ask for continued prayers and wishes for strength, tumor shrinkage, increased mobility, all things… Ultimately, RJ has had such a positive spirit through all of these challenges, and we just want to support that spirit in any way that we can!