Over the last few days Caleb's care team has adjusted the next steps forward. Yesterday we learned that it was decided a biopsy and an MRI will be done at the same appointment. This will allow Caleb to undergo general anesthesia only once to accomplish both procedures. Now the biopsy will be a core sample, possibly taken from multiple locations. The MRI will give the doctors more information about how Caleb's liver is doing. 

The core biopsy will be guided in real time using ultra sound and CAT scan during the same appointment as the MRI. This means many schedules need to be coordinated to accomplish all these things together. Please pray that communication regarding this appointment is clear and it will be scheduled soon without complications. 

In this case a core sample is about 70% likely to gather enough tissue to make a diagnosis. If possible, multiple cores will be taken to improve the sample quality. Please pray that this is successful.

How are Joe and Rene feeling?

Joe: “Obviously there are times of sadness, uncertainty, confusion, and mental fatigue. But for the most part, I am grateful that I have been able to attend all Caleb's appointments, help Rene at home, and spend time with my family. I'm more grateful for the time I have with Caleb. The time I have with all my family feels more special. So far I feel mostly “stable.” All things considered I am doing very well.”

Rene: “I am tired both physically and emotionally. Caleb is now home all day and needs more support than usual. I am sad that he is not able to enjoy all the things he used to do, but I am also happy for all the things he can still enjoy at home. I am very thankful for all the people in our community who care for us.”