Remaining Hopeful

         Four months ago Joe got his original diagnosis of stage IV renal cell carcinoma. Three months ago he had an open right nephrectomy that was closed with 31 staples.  Two months ago he had titanium rod inserted into the medulary cavity of his left femur. One month ago he began high dose interleukin therapy in order to promote an immune response in his body that would kill the cancer cells. During this therapy his liver and remaining kidney were in peril, with is bilirubin sky-rocketing and his entire body turning yellow. He had symptoms of the worse flu you could imagine; vomiting, diarrhea, fever, joint pain, whole body rash, itching, extreme fatigue, dizziness, skin burning/peeling, and these symptoms continued for about 4 solid weeks. Because of this he has lost more than 30 pounds, has to walk with a cane, and is in constant pain. We will know in 3 weeks if this treatment is working, and if it is hopefully he will do the treatment again. If it isn't the doctors will choose a different path for Joe; one of a few possible targeted therapy drugs that might slow down or even put on hold the progress of this type of cancer. 

      In the meantime, Joe has gone back to work. Joe has given the boys baths, cooked our dinner, helped with the house, and gone with us to the park. Joe is remaining a source of strength for our family. I am insisting that he rest and heal. He insists on balancing that resting and healing, with living and showing the boys that we fight, work, and never give up hope. His attitude keeps me from piling in a corner and crying my eyes out constantly. The fear of "what if" is almost overwhelming, but his hand reaches out and holds mine in the night and keeps me focused on right now instead of "what if" and I feel like everything might be okay. 

Joe and Parker yesterday at Riverview Park in Kingsport

A family picture at Riverview Park yesterday