Graduation Day

Tim has one more diploma to add to his wall... CARO, Central Alabama Radiation Oncology. Today was his last radiation treatment (cue the Hallelujah Chorus).  Since March 17 he has taken 42 days of chemo pills and 30 days of radiation. While still feeling much better than the average side effects, the past 43 days has not gone with out fatigue, queasiness, lack of appetite and feeling "so-so" as Tim puts it. We are told that the radiation will continue to work long after treatments end so it takes time for the effects to become noticeable.
Tim will have no treatments for the next month (more Hallelujah Chorus) and on May 27 will have his first MRI post treatment.  We are told that this scan could possibly look worse due to swelling that the radiation can cause. He will continue to have scans every two months and hopefully each scan will show improvement. After the month off he will begin his second phase of the standard of care (SOC) which is double the dose of chemo for five straight days and off for the next 23.  This is commonly referred to as 5 and 23 which Tim will continue for at least six months.
We are so thankful for the great people that have daily provided care at CARO. We are (almost) sad to not see them every day. The pic is of Tim flanked by Gainor and Terry (Heather had the afternoon off) standing in front of the radiation machine and the table he is clamped down to.  SupportNow only allows one photo per post, but if you are interested in how he's clamped, text me.  I brought the mask home in case I feel the need to clamp Tim down!
While we are grateful for all the unbelievable technology provided, our confidence is not in this machine, or a mask, or nice employees or brilliant doctors.  Our hope and confidence is in the One who created all these things. And because we know and trust Him we have had a peace and calm since February 1. Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. 
Please continue to pray with us for the death of the remaining cancer cells, no new growth, regaining of strength (and a little weight) and especially for Sam and Nettie (who are not living with us each day and attending each appointment) that they would not have fear, but put their daily trust in Christ.