Chemo #9 - Dan's Guest Blog

Hi everyone.  This is Dan.  Simone has temporarily relinquished the reigns of the blog this week and handed them over to me, which could prove to be an utter catastrophe.  I'll try to stick to her guidance and all should go well.  We've had a good week this week leading up to Elliot's 9th chemo treatment.  His moods and energy levels are up and down as usual, but all in all he is a really amazing and sweet little boy in wake of his cancer and treatments.  I'm continually amazed at his resiliency and adaptability.  Last weekend we went to a local Christmas tree farm to find a tree.  We had differing versions of 'the perfect' tree.  (Elliot's is in his hand if you look closely)

We didn't end up with either, but it all worked out and we had a nice time.  The kids took their turns discussing the upcoming Christmas with Santa and enjoyed some hot cider and cookies.

We also spent part of last weekend with Simone's side of the family to celebrate Thanksgiving and an early Christmas.  It was great to be with family.  The kids love their cousins, aunts and uncles, and grandparents dearly...and we do too!

As we met with the pediatric oncologist this week we got more clarity on the next steps to be taken.  Next week (Elliot's 10th chemo treatment) will be his final round before surgery.  This will give him a couple weeks to strengthen his immune system in preparation.  He will have the next CT scan shortly after Christmas day with the likelihood of surgery during the week after Christmas.  Once the tumor is removed and tested for the type of cancer, we will have a much better idea as to the schedule for radiation and further chemo treatments during the following months.  Both Simone and I are anticipating the removal of the tumor with both excitement and angst.  We want it out, but understand the invasiveness of the surgery and uncertainty of all that is to follow.  We do our best to maintain a positive outlook as the numbers are certainly in Elliot's favor. 

For those of you who have been diligently praying, thank you! Please pray for the upcoming CT scan and surgery. Poor Elliot has already been through so much and has handled it all with stride. Please pray that he continues to do so. Also, after the surgery, the doctors will finally be able to test the tumor and know the exact kind of Wilms tumor with which we are dealing. It can either be favorable, which is what we want, or unfavorable, which would likely require a more aggressive approach during the second half of chemo and during radiation. This weighs on our minds a great deal. Your prayers are so much appreciated.

I have much to be thankful for as I reflect on the past couple of months through a new lens.  I have an amazing spouse and life partner.  She's sincere, inspiring, and loving.  Those who know her know this.  I am lucky.  Julia and Elliot are my life.  Family, friends, coworkers, and anonymous folks have been supportive in ways unimaginable.  My thanks cannot express my deep sincerity!  As we travel to Mayo weekly, we meet parents and children that place our situation into perspective.  I am so thankful for where we are, what we know, and what we have.