It has been quite a journey thus far, but I'm already starting to forget about how hard August through October really was.  We have come so far already and there are days now where I'll open my eyes and it won't be the first thing I think of. 

To follow up on some information from my last post, Kev did not end up going to Beth Isreal in Boston due to last minute insurance coverage issues.  It appears that this option is off the table at this point since the experimental cancer vaccine would've needed a specific number of cancer cells.  Which brings me to the next part of my update which is:  KEV IS HAVING A REMARKABLE RESPONSE TO CHEMOTHERAPY!  So, even though he no longer qualifies for the vaccine trial in Boston (he doesn't have enough cancer cells!), we are so thankful that Kev has earned an "A" in chemo response.  If you see Kev, give him a high five and tell him he is a rockstar. 

The new treatment plan is as follows:  An additional 2 rounds of chemo.  This will bring his total to 6 rounds.  He started round 5 today.  Four is the typical number, but research shows the more chemo you can tolerate, the better!  Kev will have his first autologous stem cell transplant in March and his second, most likely, in the fall. 

There was very good news today following his routine blood draw.  For the first time in almost 2 years, Kev's white blood cell count was in the normal range without the assistance of medicine.  This means his bone marrow is beginning to do its job normally again.  Praise God.

Perspective is a funny thing, and devastation has many faces.  The events of Friday's tragedy undoubtedly gave many of you perspective, as tragedy has a way of wiping away the things that we once felt were so important.  But let me tell you, what our family is enduring seems "easy" compared to what those victim's families are having to suffer, and will have to suffer, for the rest of their lives.  Jesus, only you can give the peace that surpasses our understanding.  This tragedy isn't too big for You.  Holy spirit catch the tears and fill those suffering with your presence. 
Thank you, God, for this amazing healing you're doing in Kevin's body.  We give you all the praise for each and every cancer cell that is killed.  Thank you for the wisdom of the doctors and medical staff.  Thank you for the means we have for which to pay these medical bills.  Thank you for the birth of Jesus.  Amen.

Merry Christmas everyone!  You are all in our hearts and minds, may peace be with you.

Kristin