Currently, we are just finishing up a round of brain chemo in Houston, and will head back home after almost 3 weeks of chemo, scans, tests and waiting on results.
Some updates:
Treatments: Even though it was a July 4th holiday weekend, the doctor didn’t want to wait until our appointment on Monday to share the good news- Denis’ scans showed areas of complete response throughout his body and partial response of the brain and spine. This was incredibly relieving as we could enjoy and celebrate this 1st milestone with Ella, my parents and a few friends through this past weekend. We are still on course for having a stem cell transplant and continuing all the chemotherapies, but the direction looks hopeful for the future.
Finances: We have raised more than half of the needed amount with the generosity of so many people! We are so grateful! Some people have reached out about giving larger amounts, and we have set up a Zelle account through my dad (Joseph John), for those who might want to give directly. Please scan the QR code or input his number - ((956) 252-3092). We will continue using this website to collect support as well.
Our family: Though this has been far from normal, we are starting to settle into some normalcy and a rhythm of treatments, side effects, and prioritizing rest and healing. Some days, this looks like me trying to find a quiet room to see my patients, introducing the World Cup to Ella and enjoying the sheer excitement she has during the games or experimenting with making the perfect brown butter chocolate chip cookies. For Denis, it means staying attuned to the subtle changes and responses of his body so he can get ahead of some of the more dramatic and painful side effects, dreaming of the foods he will eat when he has a little more freedom, or, when he’s feeling good, roping me into playing Mario Kart and other games! Denis also mentions how, in this time when life has slowed down in an ironic way, he is being forced (in a good way) to figure out and understand the subtle movements and changes of his heart and mind, so that he doesn’t miss out on some of the great lessons being taught through every event - including the small, boring and repetitive ones.
We are now more than three months in, and during this time, so much has come to the surface for both of us—about our life, our marriage, and our purpose. Whatever life looks like moving forward, these days have irrevocably changed us. It may take more time for all of this to be fully articulated, but we are holding it close and sharing it with those around us. We feel deeply loved and cared for, even in the most difficult moments. Thank you again for journeying with us!
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