From Marcie:

The immunotherapy trials at Seattle, Houston and St. Jude’s are very similar. Wesley is on the waiting list at all three hospitals. To be considered for any of the trials, we would need to address the growths on his spine. Therefore, we are moving forward with spinal radiation treatments. This will be Wesley’s third round of radiation. This round will only treat the spine and not his brain. His radiation oncologist, lovingly referred to as Dr. Photon, is more comfortable with this option after seeing the results from his most recent MRI. The hope it to get ahead of the growths on his spine – they are not compressing on the spinal fluid column and we need to keep it that way. 

His first day of treatment will be on Thursday. For the time being, he will not be taking his oral targeted therapy medication to reduce toxicity levels. He is back on a course of steroids. We have been seeing a few improvements to his speech, swallowing and movement. 

He has responded well to radiation in the past. The biggest concern currently is the sedation process. His medications are increasing his blood pressure and he has a lingering cough from the flu. The anesthesiologist is comfortable moving forward and will stop the process immediately if any concerns arise while he is being sedated. 

Please pray for: 

Continued safety and effectiveness through the radiation treatments. 

An opportunity for us to get into one of the immunotherapy trials. 

Restored mobility so Wesley can return to school and play with his friends. 

If you know anyone at Seattle, Houston or St. Jude’s please beg them to pull some strings for Wes.