Autism Awareness

Lots of you already know, but we haven’t really ‘put it out there’ yet, that Eli was diagnosed this past fall with high functioning autism - also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  He is considered to be on the spectrum mainly due to communication delays and sensory issues.  He struggles with fine motor skills, transitions, maintaining eye contact, and sleeping among other things.  But I think the most noticeable thing

Clinical Trial and Family Update

About a month ago now, Carey stopped the clinical trial drug.  It was making him too sick, and it became very difficult for him to live the life that he wants to live.  It was an incredibly tough decision that came after lots of time, prayer, tears, counsel and mixed emotions. 

Merry Christmas

A few days ago we celebrated Eli’s fourth birthday.  It was a busy and chaotic day, but it was so much fun.  It made me so happy to see him so happy.  Lots of his friends came over to play, family is in town, he opened all kinds of fun gifts, and he ate tons of sugar!  Pure joy. 

Clinical Trial Update

I apologize for not putting out an update in a while – life has been busy!  But we just received the report from Carey’s latest scans and things are moving along well.  He’s been participating in the clinical trial now for about six weeks and there has been little to no change... stable!  The targeted therapy is doing exactly what it’s supposed to: stop the cancer in it’s tracks and keep it at bay for as long as possible.

Clinical Trial

Most of you all have probably heard the results from Carey’s latest scans.  The cancer has spread to his lungs and lymph nodes so he now qualifies to enter a clinical trial.  We are thankful that the timing worked out just right that he can participate in this trial before it filled up because it’s a targeted therapy drug – which is something we were hoping for. 

One Year

We’re approaching the one-year anniversary of Carey’s diagnosis.  His primary tumor was seen for the first time on scans August 6th.    

Everything about those first few weeks is a messy blur.  But I do remember two specific moments very clearly. 

Family Vacation

We managed to survive our first road trip as a family of four!  Someone should of warned us how exhausting 'vacationing' would be with two crazy little boys =)

Our two day drive took us on up to the BEAUTIFUL Silver Lake in Traverse City, MI.  We had some nice, relaxing family time, and also enjoyed a few days with our beloved friends

A New Path

If you’ve been following Carey’s progress in the last month or two than you already know that the chemo has come with some scary side effects lately. He’s been admitted to the hospital several times.  It’s reached a point where it’s simply too dangerous for him to continue receiving this chemo treatment.