Stable

Radiation at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia wrapped up on Tuesday and we made what is hopefully our last trip North for treatment. We've spent the intervening five days enjoying the weather and comfort of home. Raina put on a few pounds in Philly, possibly due to the cheesesteaks, which makes the chemo starting at the end of the month feel a little more manageable. All in all, we are emotionally at the highest point we've been since diagnosis.

MRIs taken during radiation indicate a tiny amount of tumor shrinkage, most likely attributable to residual effect from the last round of chemo. We do not expect to start seeing results until about six weeks after the end of radiation and may see benefits out as far as nine months. Between this and the three rounds of chemo planned next, we need to see the remaining disease essentially disappear. It is unclear how likely this is, though we are doing our best to remain optimistic as we begin the next stage in this battle.

Round four of chemotherapy will begin at the end of July. The docs estimate she will wrap up the sixth and final round by the end of October. While it seems unwise to wish away time given the circumstances, we will be grateful when Raina no longer has to endure these treatments.