This will be a brief update to inform our friends and the many who are supporting us in love and prayer about the results of the scan today. The scan revealed that the tumors are still relatively stable--some have shrunk a little and some have grown a little. However, the tumor markers in Art's blood are increasing. We are still trying to understand the nature of tumor markers, even after the Doctor's explanation today. What we do know is that tumor markers indicate a level of cancer activity in the body. When Art was first diagnosed, these markers were very high and they reduced dramatically after initial treatment. However, they are beginning to climb again and the doctor feels strongly that we need to try and regain control of this.
Art will begin new treatment next week which will add a fourth chemotherapy to his regime. He will continue receiving treatment every other week for four cycles, at which time we will have another scan to determine if it's working. Unfortunately we know the side effects will most likely increase during this treatment phase.
We have to admit that this was not the news we were hoping for. But, we still have hope for healing and we are trying to remain optimistic.
We continue to covet your prayers for healing. We are thankful that there are different options for attacking this cancer. We are thankful that we have such wonderful medical facilities so close to home. We are thankful that we have all of you to share our news with, knowing you will pray and support us. We are thankful for the assurance that God is holding on to us through this.
We leave you with a couple of verses that mean so much to us. From Lamentations 3--"The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. They are new every morning. Great is your Faithfulness!"
And from Philippians 4: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Jesus Christ."
Praying for strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.
With much love,
Kris (and Art, Makenzie, Olivia and A.J.)
