Thank you to all of you for your many prayers, words of support and encouragement. Jim has been overwhelmed by the level of care and concern each of you have demonstrated to him at this time. Suffice it to say, he has also been blessed with a wealth of knowledge, suggestions and ideas for complimentary approaches to resolve brain cancer.
As most of you are aware, three weeks ago Jim received a treatment at the Huntsman Cancer Institute which has been very effective in dealing with brain cancer. This treatment, called stereotactic radiation, delivers a high dose of area-specific radiation to the cancer lesions in the brain. Following the treatment, the monitoring protocol requires Jim to have an MRI of the brain every two months. This monitoring is very important, as there is a 50% or higher chance that new brain tumors will arise. Just as an aside, melanoma loves to take residence in the brain because brain tissue is highly vascular. So, while we remain prayerful, hopeful and optimistic, we are also prepared for the journey.
Since the procedure, Jim has stabilized in several regards. He has experienced improvement in his coordination, strength, physical stamina and energy levels. He is sleeping for longer periods through the night. Socially, he is expressing his normal characteristics of enthusiasm, goofiness and laughter. Ultimately, he is more himself than he has been in the last month and a half. We are extremely thankful for this season of improvement and pray it continues.
Jim's dedication, discipline and consistency will serve him well as he continues to conquer the cancer. If you were to walk in his shoes, you would be amazed by the amount of nutritional regimens that need to happen every couple hours. Beyond the actions he is already taking, he continues to read books and swallow information that may impact his case. This is entirely characteristic of the man he has always been, but again, it suits him very well in times like this. Maintaining the mental strength and ambition to continue learning, growing and adapting is a very important life skill.
As you continue praying for Jim, please pray for wisdom in how he treats his body, effectiveness of the radiation and other complimentary care measures he has taken, mental clarity in the office and home and full recovery of his left extremities (arm, hand, and leg) which have had reduced strength and responsiveness compared to the right side.
Love to all of you and thank you for your continued support at this time. To those of you who have sent Jim letters and books, or have visited him in person or on the phone, thank you for reaching out and demonstrating your care and concern for him. Blessings.
