And the verdict is.....

Well, after two weeks of scans, blood work, x-rays, etc. and then a week off for Christmas, we have FINALLY heard back from Dr. Lewis at MD Anderson. The good news...the cancer has not metastized (spread) to anywhere else in Derek's body. The other news...it is still there, in the leg, nearly the size that it was when it was removed. We are not shocked, as we have been told by numerous doctors that there was no way that the surgeon was able to get it all, especially with the knowledge that he had to "shave it off the artery". It is now 6x8 cm. It is still on the artery. The goal of the doctors is to use the radiation and chemotherapy to shrink the size of the tumor, away from the artery and then to surgically remove it...again. Our next step is to go back to Houston for consultation. We do not know when that appointment is set for, yet, they will call us and tell us.

Tonight we are a bit weary. We are both ("all" says Hannah, "because it is not just you and Daddy.") just ready for this to be a memory. We are usually so upbeat and positive, and I know that we will be again. We just need some time to process this new information, and most importantly to pray. I know there is some very valuable lessons being learned in the midst of this all and we will be better for it, all of us (because it is not just me and Daddy!) After all, He makes all things work together for our good:)

Thanks for listening (reading hehe) and most especially, praying:)
Misty