Round 10 & Next Phase
Oct 18, 2023
Ben went in for the 10th Round of chemo yesterday. After a small reaction during his round 9 infusion, we were thankful that round 10 has been uneventful so far. He will continue to rest today and tomorrow until the chemo bag is removed tomorrow afternoon.
After a LOT of discussions with his medical team we do have more clarity on his overall prognosis and have some next steps.
Huge answers to prayer so far:
The tumor in his colon is not measurable! This is a miracle, it truly is!
He has responded to chemotherapy incredibly well! Considering his oncologist has given him the maximum amounts and he has essentially been able to live “normal” in his off weeks; it is amazing! We are grateful that we have had a ton of normalcy throughout these 2 week cycles.
The lesions in his liver have decreased drastically. Each of the four lesions have decreased by 70-80%! This progress is great!
Next steps include:
He will have his last round of chemo (at its current capacity) on Tuesday, Oct. 31.
He will have the month of November OFF from all treatment. A welcome reprieve and chance for he and I to catch our breath before heading into this next phase.
The first liver surgery is scheduled for the beginning of December. Because there are lesions in both lobes of the liver, it needs to be tackled in phases. Phase 1: liver surgery #1; remove 2 smaller lesions and implant a pump that will release chemotherapy directly to the liver. He will then be on a different chemo regimen for about 3 months to reduce the largest lesion that remains. In March, new scans and imaging would be done on everything; the colon and liver. Phase 2: liver surgery #2; hopefully remove all remaining lesions around April 2024.
While it feels comforting to know that we have clarity in these next steps it is overwhelming to see how long this road still is.
When you pray for us please pray:
That Ben’s body continues to receive miracles! We have seen healing that can only be attributed to prayer and God’s healing hand; and we are expectant for more.
Pray for both of our attitudes to remain positive and for a spirit of perseverance and endurance.
I’m reminded of Phillipians 1:3 as I write today; “I thank my God everytime I think of you.” I am forever grateful ❤️