We just went through our first radiation appointment. Jarrod is now glowing and we can channel in different radio stations. HA! He feels fine but the doctor said he really won't feel the side effects for about a week or two which I think is great since he only is going for 5 weeks. Our pastor set up a volunteer driver schedule for us through the men's ministry at church and was able to get a ride for him for everyday. We're so thankful for that! Saves us money since we'll be paying co-pay for each day that he goes in for radiation. Also saves me from having to load the two munchkins in the car for just a 5 minute procedure.
Jarrod is continuing to progress wonderfully. He has been using the cane and is doing very well on it. He's also been walking around the house more without anything at all. Our rehab group has really been encouraging him to be more independent. They even tell me to stop doing certain things for him and let him do it. It has really built up confidence in him which is helping him do a lot more. He does the dishes everyday, planted a small garden, makes lunch, changes diapers, helps pick up Hannah's messes, and other things here and there. The rehab group is also helping him learn to problem solve, especially with the girls. They want him to get to the point where he can take care of the girls for a couple hours without me. He's doing really well. He could take care of Hannah with a breeze. Amariah is a little more work but he's figuring it out. He puts her in the single stroller to "carry" her around. Another goal they have for him is to walk with the cane a full mile without rest. He's doing about a half mile right now. A couple weeks ago we met his physical therapist and occupational therapist at an outdoor mall. They wanted him to practice doing things like walking, crossing streets, carry his food tray, take Hannah around by holding her hand and the cane, etc. He accomplished all! He even took Hannah on the carousel AND squeezed those grasshopper legs of his into a kiddie train with her. It was lots of fun and even more fun to watch. He's doing great.
The radiation MIGHT make him a bit tired and MIGHT slow him down in his progress but it's not a guaranteed thing. It might have no effect on him whatsoever. Be praying for that. There are some people who have been against the radiation. It's been a little discouraging. We're nervous about it enough as it is. Knowing though that it decreases the chance of the tumor coming back by FIFTY percent helps us to feel more confident in our decision. It's not as if he had the tumor in his hand or foot. It was in his SPINAL CORD. The spinal cord deals with his entire body. It's not something where we can say "Oh well. Let's schedule another surgery." We feel at peace with doing the radiation. We're doing the best that we can, prayerfully making the best decisions that we can, and the rest is up to God. Our lives are in His hands. We wouldn't have it any other way.
We're so thankful for those of you that have continued to stand by us. We appreciate the prayers, the financial blessings, the encouragement, and everything else. We love you!
