Saturday, September 13, 2008

Good News

Loved Ones,

We received an email from Ray's doctor regarding a test he had last week. The test measures the presence of tumor antigens in Ray's blood. It is imprecise, but offers an indication of the chemo's impact.

When we began this journey, this test measured almost 3000. It dropped to under 700 at the time of Ray's last scan. Wednesday it measured under 50.

This was exciting news for us! Especially today, when we were feeling a little crazy for being here!

We do not know exactly how the tumor test will relate to the progress that will be shown on the scan. We are praying that the cancer will be gone and that the scan will be clean. Though this would not end our battle, it would be an incredible sign of progress. One we hope would make potential future treatments possible and clear.

We know that God is the author of our progress and future. We believe that the healing we have seen in Ray is because of God's power and your prayers. And, we believe God's complete healing may occur at any time -- maybe even now. So we pray for discernment and faith for us and our doctors as we interpret Ray's progress.

Last. We did not get even a raindrop here in Austin. We are closely monitoring the MD Anderson weather line to determine whether or not it will be open Monday. It looks promising, dependent on the city's water supply.

Thus, we pray for God's wisdom and discernment as to how best to work out the logistics for the trip -- when to go, what route, whether or not to bring our kids, etc.

We will do our best to keep you updated, while recognizing that power/internet access may not be available. Once we see the doctor and have tests (all scheduled for Monday) it will be until Thursday before we meet with him again so we won't know the results unti l then.

We cherish your prayers.

"I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" Jeremiah 32:27

not alone and not afraid --

kristin and ray