More Good News!

Linda had her third MRI on Tuesday. The reason it was done so soon was because Duke is requesting a post radiation MRI before they will make a final decision about treatment for Linda. We heard from the neurosurgeon today - there is no growth in the tumor and the swelling is almost completely gone! We were told that the tumor is stable. While we would have preferred to hear that the tumor is dying fast, we are ecstatic that an aggressive tumor has been halted in its tracks. We had been told not to expect much from this MRI (so close to the last one), so we are quite happy with what we heard.

A couple of specific prayer requests - Linda is beginning to experience sharp arthritic type pain on occasion in her feet, ankles, and knees. This is likely from the steroids, which must be taken to keep the swelling down in the brain. Please pray about this new issue. Another effect of the steroids is a compromised immune system. Linda's numbers are really good, but they are a bit off. That is a small consideration, but worth praying about!

So, is it a miracle or not? Hey, we know that God is in complete control. The tumor is still there, but if you will recall, April was supposed to be very close to the end for Linda. We have prayed for God to remove the tumor while placing ourselves in His hands. The second best option is what appears to be happening now - arrested development of the tumor with the potential for its death (Linda wanted me to emphasize "death of THE TUMOR" - she very much still has her sense of humor) in the coming months. Keep praying! Thanks so much for all your prayers to this point and please say with us, "Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, Who daily bears our burdens." Psalm 68:19