New steps

We met with Ramsy's oncologist on Friday to get the results of last week's MRI.  The doctor said that the tumor is still active, although it is not significantly bigger than it was in November, only slightly bigger.  This indicates that the current treatment plan is not effective, so we will be switching treatments and, therefore, getting a new oncologist. 

The new doctor was there to assess Ramsy's status- how much his speech and movement are affected, and a couple of other symptoms.  He discussed several treatment plans with us, including trying a clinical trial drug, staying on the same drug but on a different dosage and schedule, and possible surgery.  When Ramsy initially met with the neurosurgeon here in November, the surgeon was concerned about potentially causing significant damage to Ramsy's communication or mobility.  At that time, the tumor was only having a rather small effect on both those areas; however, now that it is significantly impacting those areas, surgery to remove some of the tumor may be an option.

We are waiting to receive more information on these three treatment options- on Monday or Tuesday we should hear back from the new oncologist- before we make a decision.  We would appreciate prayers for wisdom for us and each of the doctors involved in the decision process!  Ramsy is happy for this opportunity, as he felt frustrated with the limited results of the 5-on, 23-off plan he has followed for the last three months.

One cool thing, however: we realized last week that he can actually move his right arm sometimes.  He has managed several times to bend it to a 90-degree angle, which he has not been able to do since January or February.  His energy has also been good for the last couple of weeks, so we are encouraged that somehow, there has been a little improvement.

Many people have asked about the flood situation here.  As far as anyone can tell, the water is not supposed to come over the railroad tracks which are about half a block south of us.  There has been much sandbagging here in Oakville, including on the one street that is south of the tracks, and lots of people are nervous about their homes.  We will wait and see what happens.