beach summer days

Dear Friends,

Thank you for your continued faithfulness in supporting Isaiah. We have taken some long breaks this summer and Isaiah has enjoyed long, sunny and carefree days out on the beach. We just returned from our second and much anticipated beach vacation.

These hourless days have given each of us the time to rest from the intensity of our year. We are thankful for a break from our mental and emotional burdens.

Isaiah continues his treatment and his courageous, conquering disposition continues to carry him through the unpredictable challenges of treatment. His back is stable. His tummy still hurts often. His appetite goes up and down without pattern. He plays hard. He runs fast. He is sweet and loving.

super

Isaiah had appointments last Wednesday and today. His blood and liver are looking good. His back appears to be about the same. He's been complaining of stomach pain recently and isn't eating well, which we're just keeping a eye on. Overall his attitude is great.

Together we're memorizing parts of Psalm 138, which includes these words: When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted... and The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever - do not abandon the works of your hands.

Here's a good shot of Isaiah with his godfather and our dear friend, Steve.

great break

We are feeling very grateful for our recent family vacation. We enjoyed lots of unscheduled time which was a welcomed change. Isaiah felt good the whole time. He consistently played hard so he got tired. But, other than his daily 3-hour fast and oral chemo, he was free from the common reminders of his battle.

He's got doctor's appointments this and next Wednesday. We're also trying persistently, but so far unsuccessfully, to get in to see the orthopedic surgeon whose advice we need to know how to proceed with chemotherapy and steroids. Please pray we'll be able to meet with him soon. We've been trying to get an appointment for a couple months and feel time is critical.