Scan Update, Treatment Change, & Another Move

Thank you for taking time again to read another update of our journey. We had another round of scans Friday (4/12). Considering how much better Clay has been feeling, we were very hopeful that the scans would internally reflect the same level of progress that we have seen externally the last couple months. The scans showed that there was slight shrinkage in the kidney tumor. It also showed that the brain tumor that he had treated in January was gone, but unfortunately, another new spot has appeared in his brain in the last few months. Though we were thankful that the cancer had not spread into any other organs, we were disappointed and surprised that there wasn't better results. This was the first time since he's started treatment that he's been able to have immunotherapy without any breaks. We obviously long for scans to show that this cancer is gone or drastically improving. That day was discouraging and Clay felt the weariness of it all, but the next morning we woke up and felt the Lord renewing us and giving us the strength we need to continue on this journey He has laid before us. During our appointment with Clay's oncologist, he explained that he believes we have gotten the most out of our current line of treatment and suggested a change of course. In the next week, Clay will begin a new treatment plan that has only become available in the last six months. This one has been shown in many of the initial cases to treat the brain and bones more effectively, so this is what we are praying will happen. It is bizarre to me that this wasn't even available when he was diagnosed 11 months ago. We realize that the cancer research feild is changing rapidly, and we are so very thankful for that. Again, we are thankful that Clay has felt so well the last couple of months. We have enjoyed hikes and Eli's baseball season starting and were in awe as we watched the eclipse together. This weekend Clay and I are taking a trip to St. Louis to catch a game and concert. This will be our first trip without kids in 3.5 years. We are looking forward to squeezing in as much fun in three days as we possibly can! We have asked for prayer about housing the last couple of updates, and the Lord has once again provided for us in a way that only He can. So next month we will be moving back to North Little Rock! As we try to make decisions about how to move forward, I have so often felt paralyzed in decision making because of all of the unknowns, but God is so rich in mercy and has made it perfectly clear exactly where we are supposed to go every step of the way. We are thankful He is leading us to a place where we have family, friends, and are already familiar with how to do life as a family there. However, we will miss our current set up as well, as it has been such a blessing and has brought us much peace and rest the last few months. Prayer Requests: -That the new treatment plan would be effective and have minimal side effects.Specifically that it will stop new spots from appearing in his brain -For our trip this weekend and both sets of grandparents/Aunt Cheri as girls and boys are being split between them. We don't take it for granted how blessed we are to have both sets of parents who are willing and able to help us so much in this season. -Peace for the kids and strength for us as we prepare to make another transition. Ready, break!