Some FUN

Update: 

We are now outpatient!!! Yay! We are staying at the Children's Inn. During the week, we have to go back to the hospital for radiation which lasts a couple hours, but we do not have to stay there. Such an answer to prayer! 

But anyway, besides all the medical stuff we have had some fun in Bethesda too.

El striking a pose in his new shirt.

Elliott's fun acupuncture experience.

One of the first times Elliott layed on his back. 

Showing off his radiation markings. 

Cuddling with both red and white blood cells. 

We are currently doing well, in good spirits, and excited for the recent progress. Please continue praying, though, as there are still a lot of "what ifs" down the road!

General Update

In the past two days Elliott and I have received a massive amount of intense information. While there are many questions still to be had, we would like to present some of the information that we found out.

A few nights ago Elliott got an MRI of his spine to make sure he was all set  for radiation. The results were unexpected. The tumor in his pelvis is rather large which we knew, but what we didn't know is this tumor is pressing on both the femoral and sciatic nerves, as well as his rectum and bladder. The most concerning part is, they also found two spots on the spine impinging the spinal cord. Without radiation or some other form of treatment there is nothing stopping the tumor from affecting the spinal cord in a more serious manner.

So after we found out about the spine tumors, our 10 day radiation plan, turned into a 15 day radiation plan that we started this afternoon. They extended it so they can get the pelvis tumor as well as the spine tumors. The purpose of this radiation would be for pain relief in pelvis, leg, and rectum and decrease potential adverse effects related to the spinal cord.

As with any form of treatment, radiation presents its own list of potential side effects. But we will choose not to worry about them unless they come to be.

On a positive note, Elliott's pain seems to be under control most of the time. He still seems to still have trouble standing and walking but can sleep pain free. Also we found a couple from Michigan who is willing to house anyone who comes to see us. They are about five minutes away, and are members at a near by church. 

So you can pray for these things...
1. That this radiation would work in relieving Elliott's nerve pain and killing some tumor.
2.That this radiation would not cause further damage to Elliott's pelvis, and after he will be able to walk and get around easily.
3. That the Lord continues to fill us with strength, patience, and perseverance as this road does not seem easy and the suffering seems great.
4. That Elliott's side effects from radiation will be nonexistent or minimal.
5. That after all of this Elliott will be able to get his T-Cells, and they will be effective in also fighting his tumors.

Thank you so very much for your continued prayers, support, and love!
Love,
The Orrs