Back in the saddle in Boston

After Emmett's October MRI and LP it took the doctors quite a while to finally come to us with their recommendation.  It was 3 three weeks before we got initial word from them, and four weeks before we finally were able to get on the phone with Dr. Chi.  And then the neurosurgeon she wanted us to talk to was out of the country until 11/13; so we arranged to travel to Boston and meet with him on that date.  Emmett had another MRI on 11/12 to give him a clear picture of where things stand.

Emmett's spot has grown by a factor of 2.5 since his early October MRI.  It's now measuring ~25 mm in diameter.  The neurosurgeon (Ed Smith) is still calling it small.  He reviewed the risks of surgery with us.  His opinion was to only do surgery if having it removed improves the prognosis; otherwise, just do radiation and other therapy.

There have been other discussions with doctors and a few ups and downs since we met with Dr. Smith on Tuesday, and maybe at some point I'll add those details, but for now let me just say that Emmett is scheduled surgery on Monday, 11/19.  Needless to say, we are anxious about this surgery.  This is the first time Emmett's had a surgery to remove tumor in his brain...in essence, this is Emmett's first true brain surgery.

We will be praying for Emmett and for his surgeon -- and for an overall blessing of divine protection and guidance as we move forward in faith.