May has been the most difficult month thus far, & we’re SO happy it’s behind us! It started with Tom’s emergency hospitalization for cerebral edema and continued with many of the negative side effects associated with the chemo.

We both did the best we could to just keep our heads above water this month!

We took our first trip via plane since diagnosis. We flew to Michigan to see Emily & Zach & family, & then drove to Western Pennsylvania for Memorial Day Weekend. We loved being with our dearly beloved family! However, the trip was very difficult for Tom. Being out of his familiar surroundings was confusing and disconcerting for him. Praise the Lord for our grandchildren who are a continuous source of joy for us!

Navigating the airport with Tom in a wheelchair & a carry-on medical device and supplies was interesting. But all in all, we made it through ok.

Emily had made reservations for us to stay at a lovely resort in Pennsylvania just five minutes from Fort Necessity. We all enjoyed the visitor’s center and a re-enactment at the Fort! Then we made our way to Nemacolin (named for the last Delaware Indian Chief) where we stayed at the Chateau. We enjoyed our time there, though Tom was confused at times and found it difficult to fully appreciate all of our beautiful surroundings. Regardless, we loved being in a luxurious (and cooler) setting with our loved ones! And Emily, Zach & kids were able to explore nearby historic sites.

This coming week will bring another trip back to MDA for Tom’s fourth round of chemo.

Tom has suffered from many of the negative side effects of this high-dose chemo, and we would be most thankful for your prayers for him.

We’ll be interested in the neuro-oncologist’s assessment and recommendations based on the new MRI Friday at noon. Hopefully, those results will give us more information and some peace of mind.

We have several trips planned for future months and we’ve had to discuss how realistic they are in light of Tom’s changed status in functioning. We’re praying for guidance and clarity, and would be grateful for your prayers, as well.

We anticipate that this pattern of ups and downs will continue. We trust in God’s grace and faithfulness and loving kindness, and are most appreciative of your prayers for us.