Well it is with much higher spirits that I write this update . . . not that the situation has changed . . . just that the Holy Spirit and time have been at work in me.  With both come perspective!  

Ethan has regrouped quickly, given the less-than-encouraging news a few weeks ago.  As it has been since the start of this journey, Ethan's ability to be positive and brave has allowed the rest of our family to function from a place of hope rather than despair.  

We are moving forward with a new chemo schedule (not terrible, actually, but a few months longer.)   I have felt strengthened by recalling a conversation I had with an old college friend of mine several weeks ago.  He has a son in the Army and I asked him how he handled it when his son was deployed (20 y/o; in Afghanistan).  He looked at me, smiled and said, "I know that God is sovereign."  He went on to say that it's probably a good thing that his son has a curfew and a base restriction; he would worry more if he weren't in the Army!! :)  I can't tell you how many times I've reflected on that conversation in the past 2 weeks.

Specific prayer needs:  

1.  No more mouth sores, please!  He had a really bad mouth ulcer all week and it has been really painful.  It's finally resolving, but it was a reminder of how blessed he has been to not have had any up to this point.  He really could only eat smoothies with a spoon; even sucking through a straw hurt, let alone chewing anything!

2.  Next admission (methotrexate) on May 9th: that he would be discharged in 5 days instead of 6.  It gets to feel so long to be inpatient.

3.  Side effects:  that he will not suffer longterm side effects from any of these chemo drugs.  Some can be significant.

4.  School:  so far, so good, but we have a lot of English and Spanish to complete before Mt Calvary closes for the summer!!  

Thank you all for your prayers and support.  They never go unnoticed!

Love,